I think the point of the legislation is that absent an orange tip or other obvious indicator, one would not be able to tell the difference between an imitation firearm and a real one.KLB wrote: ↑Wed Mar 06, 2019 11:44 am I can understand enhancing penalties for brandishing an imitation firearm, but I have misgivings for making the penalties the same as for a real one. That it's an imitation indicates there's no intention to harm anyone, so it seems a less serious offense to me.
Of course, brandishing an imitation firearm is stupid in that LEOs will reasonably perceive it as real.
If someone were to attempt to rob you on the street using an imitation firearm, would you feel justified in discharging your weapon?
Would you be able to tell the difference?
Until it is proven to be an otherwise, I am going to operate under the assumption that it is a loaded and REAL firearm.