ThIS IS WHY YOU NEVER GIVE MONEY TO THE NRA--BUMPFIRE STOCK BAN SIGNED

[Kutnupe14]

So, what do we do? Like Rooster, I continually see posts that say "the NRA sucks. Join the GOA." Then, there's the posts from NRA supporters, "the GOA does nothing. The NRA is all we have." Do we all join the NRA, then try to, over many years, vote out the people who don't support the entire 2A? Does everyone jump the NRA ship and try to get the GOA up to the same amount of income? I'm not being argumentative. I really would like to know your thoughts on this. You always have insightful criticisms of the NRA. You don't call names or belittle the pro-NRA posters.

If the NRA supports your particular POV, then by all means, join. There was a time when the NRA was devoted solely to the 2A. Those days have passed, and now they are political body that caters completely to right-wing ideologies. Believe it or not, there are a lot of people with left-wing ideologies that are are just as strong supporters of the 2A as anybody. So while, undoubtedly, the right identifies more with the NRA there are still a sizable portion of the population that they exclude.

The NRA should move more to the center, and at the very least admit their past foolish actions. They have no problem letting people know that they helped start some of the first Black gun clubs in America. They actually pride themselves on it, but they don't ever talk abut how they shafted California and helped essentially turned it into the anti-2A bastion it is today. The NRA could go a LONG way if they started a legitimate outreach program to crime ridden communities.... but they don't really do that. Why?

Truth be told the people who actually need guns, aren't you nor I, but people in that live in the worst neighborhoods in America. And in many cases the people that live in these places don't have the ability to protect themselves, nor do they have a competent understanding of the Second Amendment, and the freedoms they are denied. The NRA should be trying to change that.

 

[GodFearinGunTotin]

If the NRA supports your particular POV, then by all means, join. There was a time when the NRA was devoted solely to the 2A. Those days have passed, and now they are political body that caters completely to right-wing ideologies. Believe it or not, there are a lot of people with left-wing ideologies that are are just as strong supporters of the 2A as anybody. So while, undoubtedly, the right identifies more with the NRA there are still a sizable portion of the population that they exclude.

The NRA should move more to the center, and at the very least admit their past foolish actions. They have no problem letting people know that they helped start some of the first Black gun clubs in America. They actually pride themselves on it, but they don't ever talk abut how they shafted California and helped essentially turned it into the anti-2A bastion it is today. The NRA could go a LONG way if they started a legitimate outreach program to crime ridden communities.... but they don't really do that. Why?

Truth be told the people who actually need guns, aren't you nor I, but people in that live in the worst neighborhoods in America. And in many cases the people that live in these places don't have the ability to protect themselves, nor do they have a competent understanding of the Second Amendment, and the freedoms they are denied. The NRA should be trying to change that.

Are you a member of any of the 2A organizations? Local, regional, or national? If so, sell me on joining it/them.

 

[ArcadiaGP]

Vote in the NRA board elections and try to get the best and fiercest 2A supporters on the board.

NRA has the most grass root support by mostly voters. I have nothing bad to say about GOA or 2AF, they are on my side. It is funny to me that many GOA members have disdain for us, but I cannot help what someone else thinks.

That's really about all that can be done. The NRA has a lot of backwards views, but unfortunately they're the "best we've got" out there. Like anyone else, I'm sure they can also be manipulated and convinced to give up some 2A. They're a political organization these days, and being pro-2A isn't at the top of their list.

It's all about public opinion these days. Giving something up (bumpstocks) was going to happen regardless. Someone like Trump needed to do it to keep whatever political capital he has. Or offer it as a trade for something else.

Sucks for us. No matter how much money you give to the NRA, it won't guarantee your 2A.

 

[dusty88]

Truth be told the people who actually need guns, aren't you nor I, but people in that live in the worst neighborhoods in America. And in many cases the people that live in these places don't have the ability to protect themselves, nor do they have a competent understanding of the Second Amendment, and the freedoms they are denied. The NRA should be trying to change that.

That's a very good idea. I wonder how you would implement it though. As individuals, we can help people get to basic gun classes. For example, here in Indy the Revere's Riders teaches a free introductory handgun class. I've referred a couple of people there and donated. The Friends of NRA is also a sponsor of these free classes.

But broadly getting involved? Is it not true that a high percentage of people in the worst neighborhoods have a conviction that prevents them from owning a gun? How do you deal with that, as well as the increased likelihood of the gun being stolen because it's not easy to secure your home or your gun when you are poor.

 

[Kutnupe14]

Are you a member of any of the 2A organizations? Local, regional, or national? If so, sell me on joining it/them.

No... but admittedly, I have sent money to the NRA a LONG time ago (in my 20s). I'm fairly particular about organizations that I will officially become a member of. I have become pretty much jaded on many groups that seem to say one thing, but do another.

 

[1775usmarine]

Truth be told the people who actually need guns, aren't you nor I, but people in that live in the worst neighborhoods in America. And in many cases the people that live in these places don't have the ability to protect themselves, nor do they have a competent understanding of the Second Amendment, and the freedoms they are denied. The NRA should be trying to change that.

So how do you get past the liberal leadership that keeps a stranglehold on those people living in those bad neighborhoods and does what they can to shut down such words as freedom and self sufficiency.

 

[Kutnupe14]

So how do you get past the liberal leadership that keeps a stranglehold on those people living in those bad neighborhoods and does what they can to shut down such words as freedom and self sufficiency.

There's no liberal stranglehold on information. But if you aren't providing information to the ignorant, you can't expect anything to change.

 

[bwframe]

Sounds like someone wants the NRA to do what Obama and the other lib/socialist politicians of these worst neighborhoods should have done?

 

[1775usmarine]

There's no liberal stranglehold on information. But if you aren't providing information to the ignorant, you can't expect anything to change.

But when you're preached a certain thing(s) since birth and fail to wake up and start your own research you keep following the carrot. So its easier for that person holding the carrot to spin you how they want even when a better meal is provided no strings attached.

I use to think like many of the younger end of my millennial generation. I thought someone else will take of me after school, a job would be handed to me, I would make 65k off the bat, Pro Choice, I thought I was going to have it easy in life. After I graduated HS in 04 I went into the Corps and my whole outlook on life changed. I realized I had to be self sufficient, things weren't just going to be handed to me,and I needed to have a plan when my time was up. I therefore became more conservative on issues which seems to be the case in those who wake up from the spoon feeding you get as a kid and while in school.

 

[CraigAPS]

If the NRA supports your particular POV, then by all means, join. There was a time when the NRA was devoted solely to the 2A. Those days have passed, and now they are political body that caters completely to right-wing ideologies. Believe it or not, there are a lot of people with left-wing ideologies that are are just as strong supporters of the 2A as anybody. So while, undoubtedly, the right identifies more with the NRA there are still a sizable portion of the population that they exclude.

The NRA should move more to the center, and at the very least admit their past foolish actions. They have no problem letting people know that they helped start some of the first Black gun clubs in America. They actually pride themselves on it, but they don't ever talk abut how they shafted California and helped essentially turned it into the anti-2A bastion it is today. The NRA could go a LONG way if they started a legitimate outreach program to crime ridden communities.... but they don't really do that. Why?

Truth be told the people who actually need guns, aren't you nor I, but people in that live in the worst neighborhoods in America. And in many cases the people that live in these places don't have the ability to protect themselves, nor do they have a competent understanding of the Second Amendment, and the freedoms they are denied. The NRA should be trying to change that.

Honestly, I agree with all of this. The fact that the NRA is obviously right-minded is what gives me pause. I'm very much a centrist. My feelings coincide with both the right and left, depending on the particular issue. I was very put off by the commercials I'd see with the very divisive rhetoric (like Loesch's "They" video). I want someone who would focus on just 2A issues and not try to pander to their membership's other political views who are very right-leaning, at least it seems like many are. The current vilification of gun owners in general and the NRA and its members in particular, along with the fantastic job that Loesch did at CNN's televised circus, she did relatively well given the antagonistic position she was placed, and a few of the overtly strong pro-2A videos they released following Parkland, had really got me sold on joining up.

However, the last week or two, I keep seeing advertising banners on YouTube and websites that say "Fight now or lose your rights." While I understand the thoughts and feelings behind it, I simply cannot STAND fear-mongering. That's what it is. It's this type of thing that the anti-gunners do ("If it saves just one child," etc.). Fear-mongering is also the thing that makes well-intentioned gun owners into "Chicken Littles" crying "They're coming to take our guns!" I do feel that we all need to do what we can to help protect the entire 2A. But, I don't know if I want to back a group that wants to divide the country and lowers itself to reductio ad absurdum arguments and scare tactics. I'm torn.

 

[Kutnupe14]

But when you're preached a certain thing(s) since birth and fail to wake up and start your own research you keep following the carrot. So its easier for that person holding the carrot to spin you how they want even when a better meal is provided no strings attached.

I use to think like many of the younger end of my millennial generation. I thought someone else will take of me after school, a job would be handed to me, I would make 65k off the bat, Pro Choice, I thought I was going to have it easy in life. After I graduated HS in 04 I went into the Corps and my whole outlook on life changed. I realized I had to be self sufficient, things weren't just going to be handed to me,and I needed to have a plan when my time was up. I therefore became more conservative on issues which seems to be the case in those who wake up from the spoon feeding you get as a kid and while in school.

Not only is this presumptive, but it defaults to the "why try" excuse. If you were like to many of your generation, and changed, why are you so willing to deny someone else the possibility of that ability?

 

[1775usmarine]

Not only is this presumptive, but it defaults to the "why try" excuse. If you were like to many of your generation, and changed, why are you so willing to deny someone else the possibility of that ability?

I want people to be self sufficient and to think for themselves. The problem is you have had this going on for decades and people seem to think through manipulative politicians and empty campaign promises that they have no other choice but to vote for them or their machine. Those who come along must pass the trial by fire. Many do not succeed since they don't have the funds to fight the established power or they reach their breaking point and allow themselves to be beat into submission.

 

[dusty88]

However, the last week or two, I keep seeing advertising banners on YouTube and websites that say "Fight now or lose your rights." While I understand the thoughts and feelings behind it, I simply cannot STAND fear-mongering. That's what it is. It's this type of thing that the anti-gunners do ("If it saves just one child," etc.). Fear-mongering is also the thing that makes well-intentioned gun owners into "Chicken Littles" crying "They're coming to take our guns!" I do feel that we all need to do what we can to help protect the entire 2A. But, I don't know if I want to back a group that wants to divide the country and lowers itself to reductio ad absurdum arguments and scare tactics. I'm torn.

I don't think it's fear-mongering. I think if we did not have organized resistance to gun control, there would be laws passed to remove more common guns.

Vermont was the first state to pass constitutional carry, correct? There is now legislation moving through their house that would ban 10-round magazines.

It's an ongoing battle IMO.

 

[madvarminter]

i also voted for the lesser of two evils and knowing now what i didnt then i would still vote trump but i was certainly hoping for more than what we are getting I think its about getting re-elected now instaed of living up to promises typical polilitics

 

[CraigAPS]

I don't think it's fear-mongering. I think if we did not have organized resistance to gun control, there would be laws passed to remove more common guns.

Vermont was the first state to pass constitutional carry, correct? There is now legislation moving through their house that would ban 10-round magazines.

It's an ongoing battle IMO.

I agree that there needs to be resistance to gun control. I agree it's an ongoing thing. I have no clue who the first constitutional carry state was.

 

[edsinger]

Well I see it as a boiling Frog. I am no longer a member but they still serve a purpose. I was sick and tired of all the fund raising all the time and the thousands of emails. Speaking of which I have asked to be removed multiple times and ol Wayne still sends them.

Yes they served a purpose at one time, but they compromised like the Trump did yesterday.

As a side note: Just something to think about. There was 80 billion more for the Military in that bill. The Army Corps of Engineers is under that budget. You think they could build a wall?

 

[CindyE]

Yeah, I don't appreciate being told I'm stupid. Like Rooster, our range requires NRA membership. The NRA isn't perfect, but they help us more than hurt us.
What was I gonna do if I didn't vote Trump, vote for Hillary? It's not because I thought Trump was so great, and I believed everything he said. I still support him, although I'm not always happy with him.
Can you imagine if we were dealing with Hillary?!

 

[cbhausen]

If the NRA supports your particular POV, then by all means, join. There was a time when the NRA was devoted solely to the 2A. Those days have passed, and now they are political body that caters completely to right-wing ideologies. Believe it or not, there are a lot of people with left-wing ideologies that are are just as strong supporters of the 2A as anybody. So while, undoubtedly, the right identifies more with the NRA there are still a sizable portion of the population that they exclude.

The NRA should move more to the center, and at the very least admit their past foolish actions. They have no problem letting people know that they helped start some of the first Black gun clubs in America. They actually pride themselves on it, but they don't ever talk abut how they shafted California and helped essentially turned it into the anti-2A bastion it is today. The NRA could go a LONG way if they started a legitimate outreach program to crime ridden communities.... but they don't really do that. Why?

Truth be told the people who actually need guns, aren't you nor I, but people in that live in the worst neighborhoods in America. And in many cases the people that live in these places don't have the ability to protect themselves, nor do they have a competent understanding of the Second Amendment, and the freedoms they are denied. The NRA should be trying to change that.

They could start by voting Republican... Look where decades of voting Democrat has gotten them...

And thanks for the reminder OP... I’m off to buy my wife an NRA Life Membership.

 

[openwell]

to return to the slide-fire stocks-

I saw a cool youtube video just after the Vegas shooting. Showed a guy using his belt loop on his jeans to achieve the exact same results as a slide-fire stock!

I like the NRA stand on asking DOJ to look at them because they do seem to turn an AR into my definition of "automatic rifle" although I'm not an firearms engineer or anything.

I guess I can just accept that for FUTURE SALES. however, I'm not down with confiscation of existing supplies of slide-fire stocks lawfully purchased.

My membership in the NRA is secure because I seem to differ with them on some things and agree on some things which are important to me and your mileage may vary, which is OK.

 

[MCgrease08]

However, the last week or two, I keep seeing advertising banners on YouTube and websites that say "Fight now or lose your rights." While I understand the thoughts and feelings behind it, I simply cannot STAND fear-mongering. That's what it is. It's this type of thing that the anti-gunners do ("If it saves just one child," etc.). Fear-mongering is also the thing that makes well-intentioned gun owners into "Chicken Littles" crying "They're coming to take our guns!" I do feel that we all need to do what we can to help protect the entire 2A. But, I don't know if I want to back a group that wants to divide the country and lowers itself to reductio ad absurdum arguments and scare tactics. I'm torn.

This is not fear mongering. They ARE coming for our guns. Not just AR-15s, but all of them. That is the end goal of the left. More and more of them are now willing to openly admit it.

If you don't believe that then you haven't been paying attention.

Now IS absolutely the time to speak up and fight for our rights. If not now, then when?