[RShaw]

Don, Vlim- Yes, the fact that in the US it is considered a basic right to be able to own firearms is an incredible blessing! While these two terms (firearm / blessing) seem to contradict each other, in my mind they fit rather well.

Instrument of self protection...... collecting wonderful marvels of engineering.....hours of target shooting or hunting in the outdoors..... sharing a common interest / passion with the subsequent social contacts and friends which would otherwise probably not happen.... all wrapped up in one single object? Where else can one find such a thing?

The shooting enthusiasts here in the Netherlands are a close knit group... and feel strongly about the right to "practise a hobby" without being penalized for the wrong actions of a few. In this way, shooting and gun ownership are viewed here as a right rather than a priviledge.. in my opinion.