This is one of the ongoing debates within the firearms community: 14.5″ versus 16″ carbine rifles. Indeed, Greg Sullivan, an armor and instructor with years of experience, says that the internet is rife with valuable information and misinformation. It is from this premise that Sullivan insists that much about firearms maintenance and operation should be done right, especially in law enforcement agencies. He observed that most departments usually make procurement decisions based on local availability, sales pitches, or even magazine adverts without a thorough understanding of the specifications for the type of firearm the agency requires.
Sullivan recommended sending agency staff to the armorer courses so they would understand in-depth how firearms work, how they are maintained, and the nuances behind materials and different components. He further extends to show how vital knowledge concerning gas port sizes, barrel erosion, and ammunition quality is to performance. He shows a situation where rifles over 40,000 rounds fired started blowing primers out because of gas port erosion from not being maintained or checked for an extended time.
This discussion extended to the broad context of firearm regulations, particularly in states like Massachusetts and Virginia. Massachusetts law identifies Assault Weapons either by specific names of makes and models or as “copies or duplicates” that are substantially similar in construction or configuration. The Attorney General’s Enforcement Notice articulates tests for identifying such weapons based on internal components and interchangeability with banned models.
Carrying a handgun openly is legal in Virginia, but the carrying of a concealed weapon is highly regulated. There are several exemptions, including those related to carrying within one’s residence or when hunting legally. To receive a concealed handgun permit, a thorough application process, background checks, and demonstrations of competency with a firearm are required. The state also has reciprocity with other states that issue permits to carry a concealed weapon, provided they are on Virginia’s list.
These represent a balance of rights and safety concerns for the public, purporting that firearms should be used in a responsible manner and by qualified persons. As Sullivan counsels, the operating dynamics of firearms, as well as the regulatory framework accompanying them, remain critical to appreciation by law enforcement and civilian gun owners alike.