Local gun shop and young gun owner weigh in on possible age restrictions on semiautomatic rifles

ELKHART, Ind.,--The legislation that passed the House Wednesday would restrict the legal to purchase certain semiautomatic rifles from 18 to 21. The owner of Doug’s Guns, Doug Rhude has been in the business for more than thirty years, but age is just a number to him. He believes adults younger than 21 can be responsible gun owners.

Myshaun Robinson is only 19 years old. If the Protecting Our Kids Act passes the Senate, Robinson will not be able to add another semiautomatic rifle to his collection until he turns 21. To him guns aren’t just for show and tell but for protection.

“This is more of a collection. You know, some people just fall in love with firearms, and I am one of them,” said Robinson. “Personally, I see it as a means to defend the ones you love, really.”

Rhude, a Vietnam veteran, first became familiar with guns at a young age. He’s sold Robinson a couple of guns in the past and says he’s always known him to be responsible even though he’s only 19.

“I trust him explicitly. He’s a hard-working young man,” said Rhude.

Rhude believes that the age of a gun owner does not determine whether they are a responsible gun owner. He wants children and families be protected but believes much of the problem is rooted in mental health which needs to be addressed.

“There is a big opportunity this time for our politicians to do something to come together, and not only just have Democrat and Republican politicians coming together, but get other people involved too. People in the mental health industry,” said Rhude. “And let’s get every idea that we can get on board on how to help these people that we know have problems.”

Again, the legislation that would impact sales nationwide, still needs to make it through the Senate for approval.