Forum Overview :: Biohazard: Code Veronica :: Senor Barborito MetaFilter Post

[quote name="Senor Barborito MetaFilter Post"]All firearms addressed in the ban are semi-automatic firearms, that is, firearms that fire one shot each time the trigger is pulled, without the user reloading by operating a bolt or lever. Neither the AWB nor its expiration affects the legal status of fully-automatic firearms, which can fire more than one round with a single trigger-pull; these have been illegal except by special permit since 1934. That link then goes on to define what the Assault Weapons Ban DID cover, which were mostly cosmetic issues and medium/high-capacity magazines. As Tenuki indicates (and this is what wikipedia means by 'special permit') - in certain states civilians who obtain a class III dealer's license (which costs $1000/year) may purchase fully-automatic weapons manufactured prior to 1986. There's a $200 fee per item, and you more or less waive your fourth amendment rights against search completely. As to the debate regarding what constitutes an assault rifle - what history tells us and what the government legislation tells are, as usual, at odds. I highly suggest you read up on the Wikipedia Sturmgewehr article, as it quite accurately captures the development of the assault rifle, and the strategic reasons for its creation. posted by Ryvar at 2:57 AM PST on November 22 [/quote]