[WarOnPrivacy]

> I mean what's the legit reason for having an assault rifle?

If I understand the proponents correctly: Ostensibly it is to defend one's property and people from a tyrannical government.

Just for an exercise, let's say you believe that. And let's say that day is here. The tyrannical government has arrived and has necessitated your use of assault rifles.

The people you're shooting, what are they wearing? They're almost certainly wearing uniforms; police and/or military.

From the proponents' standpoint, the reason to have assault rifles is to kill police and soldiers.

[chiefalchemist]

Not quite. From the proponents' standpoint… it’s to defend themselves and their property from anyone who is a treat. It could be a tyrant. It could be agents of that tyrant.

[DrScientist]

Most countries ( ie people in those countries ) have decided that it's generally better for everyone that protecting people and property( enforcing the law ) is left to a well regulated professional police force rather than individuals of varying moral quality, mental stability or narcotic status.

One of the ironic aspects of the situation in the US is that the fear that is used to justify the need for guns is by and large there because everyone has guns......

Very few people in the UK are troubled by the thought that they might need a gun to defend their home or person, as there is no expectation that you will be attacked by somebody with a gun.

There is also no expectation to be threaten or shot by police with guns either.