San Bernardino Shooting: Should we have more gun control laws?

In the aftermath of the San Bernardino shooting on Dec. 2, President Barack Obama has declared the tragedy an act of terrorism. Many have also expressed their anger and sorrow about the need for stricter gun control laws, stating it is way too easy for dangerous people to get their hands on a gun.

The two suspects, Syed Rizwan Farook and Tashfeen Malik, were killed in a shootout with police. Both assailants endured multiple gunshots. Farook, who worked at the Inland Regional Center, attended the training event as an employee. Farook and Malik were armed with semi-automatic pistols and rifles when they opened fire at the guests in the event. Within four minutes, they fired between 65 to 75 bullets, left three pipe bombs, and fled the building before authorities arrived.

The homes and vehicles of the perpetrators were searched; authorities discovered ammunition for multiple weapons, and tools that could be used to make improvised explosives.

Many have expressed their outrage with gun control laws since the incident took place, claiming it is easy for criminals to get their hands on weapons. However, criminals will always find a way to get their hands on firearms. Banning firearms would only boost black market sales. Many have already created plans on how to further stop mass shootings without violating the Second Amendment. Some have devised a plan to add restrictions on ammunition instead of guns, because as of now, you can buy ammunition with just your ID and a credit card in the U.S.

You can buy ammunition online, and have it directly shipped to your home. The thought of someone being able to illegally obtain a gun, and buy ammunition from any website online is frightening. If criminals do not have easy access to ammunition, they will not be able to commit mass shootings.

The idea of psych-evaluations have also been brought up. The idea states the customer would have to be evaluated and cleared by a doctor in order to prove they are mentally sane enough to buy a gun. Others have also added in that those who are purchasing a firearm should give a detailed description of why they are making the purchase.

The complete ban of guns will only make the problem worse, but as long as the current gun control laws are enforced, the need for new additional laws will diminish. This way, incidents like this one, and many others can be avoided.