[Unknowing]

My state constitution says that all able-bodied men aged 18-45 unless exempted are the "militia," and the public rifles are to be stored in armories. I do not know of such public arms and armories, though I ought to speak with Travis' Luke Tanner, who knows people there.

So I guess we all have to buy "Springfield Armory" manufactured goods, for the security of a free state.

[Siamese Princess]

My state constitution says that all able-bodied men aged 18-45 unless exempted are the "militia," and the public rifles are to be stored in armories. I do not know of such public arms and armories, though I ought to speak with Travis' Luke Tanner, who knows people there.

So I guess we all have to buy "Springfield Armory" manufactured goods, for the security of a free state.

According to the 1792 Militia Act, all able-bodied male citizens of military age (about 17 or 18 to 45) were automatically enrolled in the citizens' militia. This does not mean the National Guard, which did not exist in 1792. The National Guard is the organized militia, versus the unorganized militia consisting of the citizenry. Even at the outbreak of the Civil War, a number of states still had laws on the books mandating that male citizens, accompanied by their firearms, muster once a month for drill. At that point, though, it seems that the typical militia outfit was simply a private social club, giving the members an excuse to get together every so often, dress up in smart uniforms, parade around and impress the girls and then go for drinks. They sure made pretty targets at First Bull Run.

Here in New Jersey, use of the M-1 carbine is banned. I assume that I may own one (I'd like to), but I can't fire it in New Jersey. Imagine: A man could use one to fight with in WWII but nowadays can't use it for target practice in New Jersey.