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by CodeAndCuffs 1431 days ago
The AP isnt saying that assault rifles dont exist. They are saying the term has a definition that doesnt apply to most situations, and when it does is still vague. AR-15s aren't, by Wikipedias definition[1], an assault rifle.

Rifles have a definition. In the U.S. they have a very specific one regarding cartridge size, barrel length, and rifling of said barrel (which differentiates them from muskets, which have smooth bores)

The issue isn't that the term Assault Rifle is too specific, its that its too inaccurate. A fully automatic machine gun in a high powered cartridge isn't an assault rifle. An AR-15 that shoots semi-auto is not an assault rifle. A fully automatic 9mm is not an assault rifle. To call them such is like saying a moped is a motorcycle, a hang glider is a plane, or an M1 Arbams is a truck

Very few shootings in the US have happened with assault rifles. Most people already cant access (legally or otherwise) assault rifles. Semi automatic rifles or sporting rifles are largely available, and generally just as dangerous.

Most lay people wouldn't consider a Ruger Mini-14[2] an assault rifle, and it isn't. However it is a rifle that comes with a 20 round magazine that fires the same cartridges as an AR 15 at similar ranges, and is of similar size. Its a dangerous weapon, its a rifle, but its not an assault rifle by any widely accepted definition. The same applies to the AR-15

[1]https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Assault_rifle [2]https://www.ruger.com/products/mini14RanchRifle/specSheets/5...
1 comments
jleyank 1431 days ago
Reading comprehension: “Perhaps the confusion comes from the civilian look-alikes that are supposedly reduced capability? Although this reduction did not and does not seem to be a hard reduction.”

Decades ago, I was told by an avid hunter that a little work with a file made the ar-15 behave like it’s military cousin (m-16). Bump stocks seem to do this as well. HN readers are familiar with jargon and abbreviations, so “assault rifle” meaning it’s look-alikes as well should be a familiar extrapolation. Perhaps “high powered” would be of use but the ability to shoot quickly is key.

Many people lie or dissimulate by being quite specific with words. Relying on niggling details re rifles strikes me as a good example of it.

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