I think we need to look at why the 2nd amendment exists.

Dictators subjigate their populations by control them through access to information, basic human needs like food and electricity and weapons. Examine the current dictatorships around the world and you will find that only the army and "security forces" can own guns -- not the general population. This was recognized when the US Constitution was drafted.

The result was the agreement that a standing malitia would exist at the state level, individuals could own weapons and that individuals would not have to board soldiers in their homes. The state level maitia was a check on central government. The right to bear arms, as opposed to arm bears, was key for the individual to have a check on their government.

The better discussion -- in a modern society -- as opposed to 1774 -- what kind of legitimate controls are required that keep people safe without violating the original intent. Mandatory gun training on par with the time and complexity to get a drivers license might be a place to start. Its most interesting to note that the countries outside of the US with the highest rate of gun ownership have the lowest murder rates.