This is an archived article that was published on sltrib.com in 2011, and information in the article may be outdated. It is provided only for personal research purposes and may not be reprinted.

The Brady Campaign to Prevent Gun Violence gave Utah a zero score because it does not have "a single common sense gun law" on its books.

It also bestowed on Utah its "Craziest Gun Laws" award for allowing guns on college campuses ("'Craziest laws': Utah scolded by national gun-violence group," Tribune, May 6).

In response, Rep. Curt Oda, R-Clearfield, said: "I'm glad we got a zero from that group. I actually wish we would get a negative score from them — like an F-minus-minus."

I know a way to do that. Legalize dueling.

Dueling is not only a quick, free-market way to resolve conflicts (helping our clogged courts), but even when no one is wounded or killed it's an efficient way to maintain one's "honor."

And macho pride is certainly a major motivation of people who choose to openly carry a gun.

Why else would Rep. Carl Wimmer, R-Herriman, openly wear his pistol on the floor of Utah's House of Representatives? His physical safety is not threatened there, but clearly openly displaying his gun addresses some troublesome psychological issues.

So, sadly, the next logical extension of Utah gun culture is dueling, which should garner the desired "F-minus-minus."

Jennette Jones

Salt Lake City