Speaking of compromises...here's my thought experiment on firearms. [View all]
1) A license to own firearms. It would have multiple levels.
A) Any manually operated long gun. Said license would be no more difficult to obtain than the current ATF instant background check.
B) Handguns. License would require a similar background check, as well as a training course. Details to be hashed out. Would allow legal concealed carry nationwide.
C) Semiautomatic long guns. Background check, separate training course.
D) Full auto. More extensive background check and training course.
2) Note that the above includes universal background checks.
3) Also registration.
In return:
1) All licenses would have explicit guarantees as to reasonable cost and not having unreasonable training requirements. Licenses can be combined, each renewable every 5 years.
2) Repeal of the NFA, with SBRs and full autos treated as above. No background check for suppressors other than requiring license A or higher.
3) All magazine and "assault weapons" restrictions repealed.
l would point out that I can currently obtain everything listed (with the exception of NFA items) in most states with far less paperwork under current law than I could under this proposal. For that matter, I can still (and have) obtained NFA items should I be willing to put up with the red tape.
Any takers?