Solution to a vexing problem...

Many bicycling advocates routinely couple rights with responsibilities. I've done it time and again. The theme crops up every spring when the annual anti-cycling rants appear in various media, along with the routine nanny-posts recommending that cyclists not only obey all the rules of the road but wear their magic Styrofoam hats as well. Lately, I've seen a few of the get-out-of-my-way-or-I'll-crush-you pieces from some of our more pin-headed motoring brethren, too. I file most of these as well-intended but clueless advice, while the vague threats of violence go into the hyperbole bin.

Everyone who uses the public way has both rights and responsibilities. That includes motorists, cyclists, pedestrians, and even horse back riders or horse-drawn vehicles. I'm getting fed up with motorists who think that their larger, heavier, more powerful vehicle gives them a greater right to use that public space, and I'm getting especially fed up with the pencil-necked geeks who use their vehicles as weapons. It's an annoying problem, and that problem has a solution.

Cyclists should carry guns.

The next step is to determine what kind of gun to carry. Obviously, long guns like the SKS assault rifle or a combat shotgun would have a deterent effect when slung across the back. But they'd be cumbersome to use one-handed since a cyclist would have to keep one hand on the handlebar. An Uzi or Mac-10 would be a better choice. Most of these guns are heavy, and weight is always a consideration for a bicyclist.

Handguns are lighter than long guns, but they also have significant limitations. My 22 target pistol, for instance, is highly accurate but also heavy and bulky. Worse, 22 bullets aren't likely to penetrate automotive glass. They simply bounce away. The 38 Special isn't much better. It penetrates but uses most of its energy doing so. The popular 9mm and 380 have similar limitations. Bigger, heavier bullets are required.

Oh, sure, the 357 and 44 magnums would do nicely, but again, they're revolver cartridges and the guns are fairly large and heavy.

My current thought is that the best compromise of weight, bulk, and power settles on the 40 S&W and the venerable 45ACP. Compact automatics chambering these rounds are small enough to fit in a jersey pocket. Even better, some of these pistols are made of composites or other rust proof materials, so they won't corrode from sweat. The rounds penetrate automotive glass and steel panels, and retain sufficient energy to incapacitate an especially stupid motorist.

As an American citizen, you have the right to carry personal arms. You also have the responsibility to do so legally and morally. Know the concealed carry laws in your state and apply for a permit if it's required. Take the training course if it's offered. In my experience, armed citizens are polite and totally self-controlled because the presence of that handgun carries with it an awesome responsibility that cannot be taken lightly.