On Weapons

A friend has posted yet another rant about guns. Given the Orlando shooting, I can't blame him too much.

But he, as usual, is letting his prejudices and assumptions suggest measures that aren't workable in the real world.

Just for the heck of it, let's consider the "perfect" defensive weapon. The ubiquitous "stunner" from many a science fiction novel.

Basic characteristics seem to be: you point it at the target, fire, and they pass out. Some have off center hits "putting to sleep" the affected portion of the body.

Side effects are none, or maybe a bad headache when you wake up. It's not dangerous to use on kids or elderly/infirm people.

Sounds great, right? You can shoot first and ask questions later. "Stun 'em all. We'll sort them out at the station." etc.

Except....

Picture a rapist or mugger with one. How about a burgler.

Now picture someone stunning the driver of a car? A semi. Or the pilot of a plane?

Or Stun someone you hate and cut their throat. Etc.

So much for "safe" and "non-lethal".

In short, it is not *possible* to have a weapon that can't be misused. Ditto for any *tool*.

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