[m21sniper]

If we agree that the militia is the group of free men of a certain age who can be called upon to defend the country and their communities, then who regulates them?

The president, the governer, and in some cases the county sheriff.

Is it permissible to regulate them by restricting the use of their arms?

Obviously, NO.

Further, US law clearly states that those reporting for duty when called for service in the ungregulated militia appear for service with arms and ammunition "of common military type", provided by themselves. In fact, the exact "to bring list" is codified in US law. Do a search on a legal site.

A final rule of stautory interpretation is to read the statute (yes I know this is part of the constitution, the rules are the same) to avoid absurd results. Do you think the founding fathers really meant that there could be no restriction at all on the right to bear arms?

Many of them stated flatly that no restrictions shoudl exist in their writings, and virtually all of them were decidedly pro-gun individuals.

Does that mean no restrictions on owning them or is it permissible to put reasonable time, place and manner restrictions on where you can carry them?

That clearly contradicts the 'right to keep and BEAR arms" part of the amendment. Of course they've regulated that and we haven't revolted, so obviously, yes, they can regulate such things.

Do you think the founding fathers meant "no restrictions" literally, in which case fully automatic 50 cals are as protected as a hunting rifle?

A .50 cal is perfectly legal to own, and the purpose of the 2nd amendment is totally unrelated to the issue of hunting. It is CLEARLY an issue of defense, both individual and collective. It's not about shooting bambi.

That 12 year olds can carry Mac 10s? I mean outside the hood.

You go into some of the rural states and 12 year olds prowl the woods hunting with MUCH more dangerous weapons- major caliber bolt action hunting rifles and shotguns.

It's the kids in the hood that are the problem, not their age or the ordnance.

I think the founding fathers meant for us to debate these issues. I think they wanted push back from the masses, attempts at regulation from the elites, and a healthy debate in the process. [/B]

The term "the people" is universally applied and accepted to legally mean "the whole body of the people of the United States."

ΜΟΛΩΝ ΛΑΒΕ