There are lots of overreactions and rash judgments made in the wake of a mass shooting like the one we saw in Florida earlier this month but is Dick's Sporting Goods decision to stop selling assault rifles one of them?

First, I know it's a tired argument be we first have to know what an "assault rifle" is. There's no clear definition. Is it a semi-automatic weapon? Does it need a pistol grip or rail system? Perhaps a bayonet lug?

Let me attempt to clarify. When most people talk about assault weapons, they're talking about the AR-15 rifle. That's the civilian version of the M16/M4 military rifle. The major difference between the two is one (the civilian model) is semi-auto, and the other will fire in either a 3 round burst or full auto.

There are other rifles that might meet the standard such as Mini-14's and similar models made by H&K or Sig but they all have the same basic "look" which is what most people are using to define an assault weapon.

So is Dick's taking a stand or is it a massive PR move? I don't know. They did this once before back in 2012 in the wake of Sandy Hook. This time they say it's a permanent ban. Ultimately I think sales will determine if they come back on the shelf or not.

Either way, a company should be allowed to choose what it puts up for sale and what it doesn't. That's the beauty of the free market.

****
Lindsey Graham says "War is coming to Lebanon."

Yes, the man who never saw a war he didn't think needs fighting is now suggesting Isreal is preparing for an invasion of Lebanon to combat the manufacturing of guided rockets by Hezbollah.

I really can't understand why we don't stay out of these kinds of conflicts. It doesn't involve us. American liberty isn't being threatened, but there is always this overwhelming drive to pick a side. To DO something. It drives me crazy!!