Michael W. Warfel

In the following viewpoint, Michael W. Warfel argues that while the Bill of Rights does protect an individual’s right to own firearms, the right to bear arms is not absolute. He describes a high-caliber rifle that is capable of shooting down aircraft, as well as weapons such as howitzers or missile launchers, as examples of firearms that individuals should not have the right to own. He also rebuts the National Rifle Association’s claim that any restrictions on firearm ownership will inevitably lead to a total ban. Finally, Warfel concedes that new gun control legislation will not solve the problem of gun violence in America—but he insists that is a vital first step. Warfel, a Catholic priest, is the bishop of the Diocese of Juneau, Alaska.

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