Is the problem that the wepons are better?
Does that change the basic nature of the situation?
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Of course!
Imagine the Newtown shooter doing his nefarious deed with a Revolution Era 1770's black powder musket: swab barrel with ramrod, pour in black powder, stuff a wad down with the ramrod, drop in the ball, stuff with ramrod again, aim and FIRE!
Repeat 26 times, taking care that the barrel is not so hot it will ignite the black powder when you pour it in.
It would be easier to kill the kiddies with a crossbow.
Perhaps we should insist that those wishing to be armed join and train with a "well-organized militia" and in return, be allowed to own a 1780's musket, rifle or other c. 1800 weapon of their choice.
I understand that Lewis & Clark had a really fancy air rifle that could shoot several times without pumping it up.