01-17-2013, 04:07 AM
Variable Wrote:"The people" indeed refers to the people as a whole, with those capable of bearing arms comprising the unorganized "militia".Concur.
Quote:"Well regulated" in the parlance of the day means competent and trained. I.E. A well "regulated" timepiece/clock-- accurate and reliable. Not "controlled by federal regulations (laws)".Again, concur.
Quote:The true meaning is that "the people" are not to be forbade, limited, or denied access to arms, as that would decrease their ability to be competent (and respond to threats) with them.Agreed, but this part can be considered no longer relevant.
First, almost all modern military weapons are not available to the vast majority of private citizens, therefore competency is not possible.
Second, necessary training for most modern weapons is provided by the armed forces.
Quote:The Federalist papers leave absolutely no wiggle room in what their intent was.However, the Federalist papers are not law. What is in the Constitution is what the OP addressed.
