The Second Amendment
Early in my active duty service I qualified expert on both the M-1 Service Rifle and the .45 caliber Automatic Pistol. Throughout my career in the Submarine Force I was asked to be expert with other weapons.
The Submarine I commanded, USS Benjamin Franklin, fired much larger 72", 5.83 caliber, single shot, muzzle loading, smooth bore weapons. The very few times I was able to fire these immense weapons on a practice range, we were on target!
Our Second Amendment is based in a common law concept of the right of self-defense. This amendment was added to our Constitution in recognition of the propensity of governments to take things away from citizens by administrative process. It is in exactly the same vein as other elements of our Constitution intended to limit the intrusive power of government over our daily lives.
I fully support the right of citizens to keep and bear arms. I believe this amendment is unequivocal and clear. Those who would cloud the discussion, for instance with discussions of a militia, are seeking to circumvent the Constitution's language.
This amendment is located in what we refer to as 'The Bill of Rights.' I find it extraordinary that there is discussion seeking to somehow use the words regarding a “well regulated Militia” to change the clear intent of safeguarding a right of the people.
I believe the Constitution was quite clear to its drafters: Law abiding citizens who choose to own and use firearms shall not be hampered by government.