Secret Slave Class...thanks for your comments. You said pretty-much what I was thinking, on each of your points. I was going to make a similarly stated post last night, but I was tired & hit the rack. Better you comment than me anyway, given your expertise is in weaponry/security/______ (forgive me if I left something out).
I had previously mentioned the Air Marshalls who ride on our aircraft. In chatting with them, as well as other law enforcement professionals, and current/former military types, the subject of those wannabee 'Rambos' has come up. Yes, those fat, beer gutted, bubbas. The same ones who somehow think that the mere possesion of a MIL spec weapon (or at least the semi-auto version) SUDDENLY MAKES THEM MACHO.
In the aviation world, I've run across the well-heeled business professional, who, despite being a newly liscened private pilot, with no advanced ratings, decides to buy they fastest turbo-charged, Beechcraft lawn-dart they can find. Along with that, they'll usually get the cool leather jacket, Ray Ban sunglasses, and a really big, but totally useless Breitling wrist-watch. They're just like the wannabee Rambos, who think that just by possessing a MIL-SPEC weapon, that they are somehow in the same league as the Rangers, Marines, SEALs, ect. Anyway, in the aviation world, we call 'em 'Wannabee Chuck-Yeagers,' and they're often the ones you hear about on the 6 o'clock news, after having smashed their shiney Beechcraft into the side of a hill, at night, in the fog.
Some on these posts have cited Switzerland, as an example of a country with high rates of gun ownership. It's true, they do. In fact, it's part of their 'citizen soldier' ethos. In their version of a National Guard, many of them do possess MIL SPEC weapons at their homes/residences. But, they do receive training..not just a one time dog & pony show, but regular, regimented, and rigorous training on operation, maintenance, and SECURING of said weapon and ammo. Along with this training would likely come a large dose of national pride, warrior discipline and HUMILITY. I personally think this is a good model, though I doubt many in the NRA would go for that sort of regulation. And I'm quite sure that some of the fat, obnoxious, bubbas out there would not be able to pass such training in the first place.
As for Krav Maga...excellent idea. I'm a bit old fashioned myself, as I like regular boxing. It's a style that allows the 'little guy' a chance. It can also be used in tight, crowded spaces, especially if you can get in some body-shots to the solar plexus of your opponent. Downside is, it doesn't teach grappling techniques.
One last thought...I saw an image, a few months ago, of a guy in a Walmart or Target store. He had his AR-15 slung on, but it wasn't even slung properly. The strap went across his chest, and the weapon was just sorta hanging off his back, pointing at the dairy aisle. Also, he was leaned forward, using his free hands to purchase a pack of beef jerky, and totally oblivious to his surroundings. Anyone, with any modicum of martial arts training, or not, could've easily disarmed this hillbilly and shot him (or anyone else in the store) to pieces.
With freedom comes responsibility. Or, to quote Honest Abe:
In times like the present, men should utter nothing for which they would not willingly be responsible through time and eternity."
— Abraham Lincoln
December 1, 1862 Message to Congress
