If gun-free zones are a bad idea

[wolfriverjoe 1,523]

SkyDekker

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And basic rules (like keep it pointed in a safe direction at all times) aren't enforced

Is there a truly safe direction at a busy show in a hall with concrete floors?

Yes.

Even slightly up will point the muzzle above everyone there. Admittedly, if the gun was to go off, the bullet could penetrate the wall and go on to hurt someone.

And bullets that hit a hard surface at a steep angle generally shatter. The fragments still pose a hazard, but no where near that of an intact bullet. Shallow angle impacts will ricochet, but those don't "reflect", they follow the surface they hit. Again, that would not be good, but having a bullet hit someone in the foot or ankle is quite preferable to the head or chest.

"There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy

"~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo

[SkyDekker 1,465]

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Even slightly up will point the muzzle above everyone there.

In order to get the muzzle to point up, isn't it going to cross paths with people in a busy area?

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but having a bullet hit someone in the foot or ankle is quite preferable to the head or chest

I wouldn't consider getting hit by a bullet anywhere, or getting hit by a fragment anywhere as "safe".

[rehmwa 2]

SkyDekker

I wouldn't consider getting hit by a bullet anywhere, or getting hit by a fragment anywhere as "safe".

This is speaker's corner, mister.

considering some anti-gunners' attitudes, you would be considered a traitor, or at least a compromiser. We need work here to raise that game another notch to extreme positions for or against.

the goal is to consider just the fact of 'seeing' a gun, or even a drawing of a gun to being 'unsafe'. Then conniption fits, heart attacks, insensitivity, and fierce legislative action occurs.

Conversely, you may also argue the position that you have the right to unlock your car door next to an orphanage by firing bullets.

...
Driving is a one dimensional activity - a monkey can do it - being proud of your driving abilities is like being proud of being able to put on pants

[SkyDekker 1,465]

Somebody please think of the car doors.

[wolfriverjoe 1,523]

SkyDekker

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Even slightly up will point the muzzle above everyone there.

In order to get the muzzle to point up, isn't it going to cross paths with people in a busy area?

***but having a bullet hit someone in the foot or ankle is quite preferable to the head or chest

I wouldn't consider getting hit by a bullet anywhere, or getting hit by a fragment anywhere as "safe".

1 - Briefly, yes. Not ideal, but certainly preferable to pointing it directly at someone and leaving it pointed that way.

2 - Nor would I.

Which is why the organizers of the shows insist on "empty and safety tied".

"There are NO situations which do not call for a French Maid outfit." Lucky McSwervy

"~ya don't GET old by being weak & stupid!" - Airtwardo

[SkyDekker 1,465]

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1 - Briefly, yes. Not ideal, but certainly preferable to pointing it directly at someone and leaving it pointed that way.

2 - Nor would I.

Which is why the organizers of the shows insist on "empty and safety tied".

Agreed, which was my point originally. Even with "perfect training" it is nearly impossible to be truly safe at a busy show, hence the requirement for "empty and safety tied". Makes sense to me.

[wmw999 2,600]

Is this the right time to ask for a trigger warning?

Wendy P.

There is nothing more dangerous than breaking a basic safety rule and getting away with it. It removes fear of the consequences and builds false confidence. (tbrown)