Mission has changed

I have been a hunter and gun owner for 60 years, and am over 80 years old. During this time, only shotguns with three shots or less could be used to hunt waterfowl, and the gun bore size was dictated. The U.S. worked with Canada to establish this law to protect the diminishing waterfowl population. In 1991, lead shot for shotguns was banned on federal lands and in waterfowl hunting areas because lead was causing health problems in waterfowl and other aquatic animals.

I have hunted deer, antelope and elk with rifles. Seldom were over three shots ever fired because the animal was either dead or gone (most of the time the latter). The only sporting guns available at that time with multiple-shot capacity were the Daisy BB gun or .22-caliber rifle, neither fully automatic or of great killing power.

The National Rifle Association (NRA) was established in 1871 by hunters, shooters and other gun enthusiasts to promote marksmanship and gun safety. The NRA reports that presently there are over 5 million members. The focus of the NRA appears to have changed in the 1970s from being gun enthusiasts and responsible gun owners to political lobbyists who campaign against control of ammunition or firearms. The NRA provides financial support to governmental candidates, therefore, the government will not properly control firearms.

In the 20th century, data indicates the government legislated to protect waterfowl. However, in the 21st century (and because of lobbying by the NRA) the government apparently will not legislate to protect humans—in particular, our children. Enough is enough … do something! CHARLES B. SPEICE

Harrison