In the terminology of the day, "well-regulated" had nothing to do with governmental control or restriction. The term "regulated", when used in the context of firearms, refers to calibrating a gun's sights, and in the context of troops, to their ability to fight in concert with one another and use their weapons in an effective manner. Since the militia was to be an impromtu force called up when needed, rather than a professional trained military unit, the phrase does not imply regulation by the government, but rather the obligation of the government to encourage firearms skills in the general public, or at the least to not discourage it by laws limiting the people's right to own and practice with such arms. This is consistent with a long history of English laws either requiring or encouraging ownership of, and skills with, weapons by the English subjects. It is only by common association with weapons that people learn how to use them (and not use them) safely and effectively for good, and not for evil.
Here is a well-researched and documented article that confirms that the Second Ammendment guarantees an individual right.
Surprise! The Department of Justice agrees too. (link) |
