Our attitude towards personal firearms should be compared to that which we harbor for the other potentially lethal weapon which most Americans have and use.

Like guns, automobiles have a legitimate purpose, are widely available and for the most part are used wisely and safely. They can also maim and kill. Our society prohibits the use of automobiles by those considered to be too young, too infirm, by those who have not used them wisely and by those who are otherwise considered to be a public threat.

We have enacted restrictions on the size and power of automobiles. Manufacturers are required to incorporate safety features such as air bags, strong gas tanks and effective brakes. Cars are inspected annually. Those who would drive are required to prove their competence and are forced to use automotive safety features such as seat belts and to protect their children similarly.

Despite these restrictions, just about every competent law abiding American of age who can afford to drive owns and operates a automobile.

This is not to say that accidents don’t occur and people don’t get injured or die due to use of automobiles. They do, but at least we try to reduce the frequency of such accidents and limit their damage.

Thus, a precedent has been set by our society which should also apply to guns. Legitimate gun owners should not fear reasonable restrictions.

To the extent that the NRA opposes the reasonable regulations of guns, it reveals to itself to be an organization devoted more to its own political power than to public welfare, including the safety of its own members. Sidney R. Block, M.D. Bangor