@DavCrav
The truly and vastly overwhelming majority of those with a SGC and guns in their possession are acutely aware of their legal obligations regarding the handling and storage of guns. I can speak as one who is aware that I might well be considered partly responsible for the loss or theft of my guns if I fail to adhere to the laws regarding this. And face prosecution.
Those that I have shot with over the past 3 decades are self-policing regarding safety and security, I have yet to meet someone who would relax any of the golden rules governing the use of firearms or shotguns. For example, if anyone is seen to handle a gun incorrectly at a shoot, they will have instruction from strangers to put them straight, whether they wanted advice or not!
I think the original thrust of the article is that the shooting community were to be scrutinized further than they already are and that this was unfair, and that this scrutiny was considered unnecessary.
I'm inclined to agree.
As for discerning if someone is depressed or turning into a pisshead (intemperate), again, I firmly believe that the community would largely police itself. But in any case, would the police or any other body or group be better placed to tell if someone was going to blow a gasket and become dangerous? I wouldn't place a bet.
There's moral high ground to be had in the steering groups and committee rooms where firearms are concerned - doesn't mean any sense comes out of 'em.
SD