Amendment Quote by Jeff Cooper
“The rifle is a weapon. Let there be no mistake about that. It is a tool of power, and thus dependent completely upon the moral stature of its user. It is equally useful in securing meat for the table, destroying group enemies on the battlefield, and resisting tyranny. In fact, it is the only means of resisting tyranny, since a citizenry armed with rifles simply cannot be tyrannized.”
About This Quote
Source Book: The Gun Digest, 1977
A rifle's moral value depends on its user's ethics; it can feed families, wage war, or defend liberty, but only if wielded responsibly.
In simple terms: Rifles reflect the user's morals.
Key Takeaway
Use weapons responsibly.
Themes
ethics
power
responsibility
Mood
serious
reflective
Type
political
philosophical
When to use this quote
- hunting
- military service
- civil resistance
- personal protection
Key Concepts
Moral philosophy
self‑defense
civil liberty
Questions to Reflect On
- Is armed citizenry truly a safeguard?
- How do we ensure ethical use?
A Different Perspective
Power can corrupt even noble intentions.
