Once again, I'll try to clear up any confusion that exists about ETS policy. This is really simple. It's emotion that gets in the way of understanding and compliance.

The use of firearms for survival or preparedness, either for food gathering or self-defense, is a perfectly acceptable topic. You can discuss what, where, when, how and training. Any discussion that moves into the realm of defending or opposing firearms ownership or use in our society is political in nature and has no place here.

From the perspective of ETS, firearms have a valid place at the survival and preparedness table. This is a done deal from our perspective. If that concept bothers you, too bad. If you don't believe in this, ignore threads involving firearms. If discussion of firearms use bothers you too much, you are welcome to leave. If you oppose the concept of firearms ownership or use, regardless of your reasons, take your debate about the subject elsewhere. If you support firearms ownership and use, that's fine, BUT this is not the place to try to convert those who do not. The thread in question clearly delved into those areas.

This policy has developed from many years of keeping the peace in cyberspace. It's one reason we remain a family friendly environment and avoid many of the redundant and recurring flame threads found elsewhere Most of us like that. There are myriad places online to debate politically and emotionally charged subject matter. ETS is not the place.

I am updating the Rules to make this clear, as this subject seems to come up again and again.

Subject closed.