This thesis examines the history of the Second Amendment from 18th century scholars through to the present day to search for clues on the legality of banning firearms based on appearances such as the popular AR-15 rifle. It also examines current government statistics as they relate to murder with firearms as well as defining mass shooting incidents. Explanations of various types of firearms are provided as well descriptions of different firearms. It is also suggested that mass shootings are caused by other factors such as mental illness and not the availability of a particular firearm.