With the expiration of the federal assault weapons ban in September of 2004, civilian possession and use of military-style guns is again legal. Assault weapons have been used disproportionately in mass killings and the slayings of law enforcement officers. Especially at a time of heightened homeland security, it is irresponsible to allow civilian possession of .50 caliber sniper rifles, which are marketed for their ability to penetrate an armored vehicle and to bring down a helicopter from more than one mile away. Even individuals within the gun industry have admitted that there is no sporting purpose for .50 caliber sniper rifles or assault weapons and their high-capacity magazines.

WAVE favors legislation that would ban military-style weapons, including .50 caliber sniper rifles and assault weapons and their high capacity magazines in Wisconsin.