Top Media-Abused Gun Terms

 Most reporters will never understand a bullet is not a cartridge. Nor will the fact that a semi-automatic firearm requires a trigger press for each shot convince them to stop calling nearly every gun “automatic.” Here are a few I find annoying.

Stockpile—Journalistic interpretation of just enough ammo for next weekend’s match or a brick of .22 LR purchased on sale.

Warning shots—Reporter’s attempt at making reckless endangerment and ignorance of gravity (in most cases) seem socially responsible.

Silencer—Do we really want to confuse the public with the fact that a suppressor does not render a gun noiseless?

Folding stock—Device to inflate a firearm’s Napoleonic complex.

Flash hider—Invisibility cloak for guns, and the technological basis for the wildly successful Harry Potter garment.

Clip—Any ammunition-retention system, including magazines, speed loaders, belts, bandoleers and TSA screeners.   

Assault weapon—Liberal and inaccurate use recommended for a ratings boost and sweeps-week trump card.  

Cache of military-style guns—Firearm collection with World War II memorabilia (especially helmets, helmets make good footage).