Smart guns are non-so-bright idea

As folks struggle to find ways for blaming guns for violence, Reuters reports  a resurgence of interest in so-called "smart guns" that will fire only for  authorized users.

The idea has been around for years, first using magnetic rings and then RFID  chips to unlock the trigger and make it go bang. Other research has focused on  biometetrics such as fingerprints and handprints.

Trouble is, the concept behind personal firearms is that it will render  stolen guns useless. If the key is embedded in a ring or bracelet, the thief  could claim both the gun and key by disabling the gun owner. 

Robert McNamara, who patented the TriggerSmart RFID lock, claimed his  invention might have prevented the mass shooting at Sandy Hook Elementary  School. However, the gunman, who stole a rifle and pistols from his mother,
killing her in the process, would have known the guns were locked -- and could  have made sure to take the keys after doing away with his mother.

Another issue with smart guns is reliability. Law officers and gun owners fear that one  failure to unlock could be a fatal mechanical failure. 

Finally, gunmakers are reluctant to embrace what could be an expensive  technical upgrade for a firearm that could easily be placed in a safe, locked  drawer, or secured with a conventional trigger lock.

 - Dr. Gatling