Help me understand , why is semi automatic in a rifle so important to gun owners here?

[CTyankee]

284. Well, my right to work for election of my state legislature to pass stricter gun laws is

usurped when guns can be more easily obtained by a shooter just by going over state lines. I am for federal legislation that would expand my right to be democratically represented to make laws in my own state.

Where do you get the strange idea that only authoritarian societies have strict gun control? It is laughable when you can easily be directed to the constitutional democracies around the world that enjoy social justice AND freedom at the same time they restrict guns. Hell, I was just reading here on a DU thread about how we are below many countries in PRESS freedom and quite a few of them were among the most progressive in social services and education, such as Scandinavian nations. I can only imagine what a citizen there would think of your remark. Perhaps a shaking of their head, after they stopped laughing.

And where do we get the notion that the 2nd A as interpreted by the Heller decision is a good bulwark against tyranny? Do we have ANY idea what it is like to be in the grip of real tyranny, to fight, suffer and die in a major conflict in our own society? Well, guess what, the nations of western Europe knew that all too well during WW2. Now wouldn't you think they'd be passing their own versions of the 2nd A if it is such a "bulwark"? Are they all stupid, and we're so smart, especially since many of people here mouthing off about "protecting our liberty" don't know what the hell they are talking about?

And while we are on Heller, take a look at the voting record of those justices in the majority. A good, close look. Are they consistent, strong supporters of the principles so dear to the hearts of Progressives here at DU? Or are they authoritarians on other issues and we can go down the list: a woman's right to choose, racial equality, strong environmental policy, all First Amendment freedoms and please feel free to fill in here. Take that look and then get back to me what that tells you about these justices. Just for fun, you could also look at the voting record of the justices who voted AGAINST the Heller interpretation. See how they rank on the "authoritarian" scale!