When I moved to Utah 7 months ago, I realized that it was going to be a weird place to live (even for a Texan). So I guess it should be no surprise that amidst serious discussion about the state budget deficit and how to pay for education, Medicaid and other such weighty costs, the Utah Legislature decided to spend time passing a bill to make the Browning M1911 the state firearm of Utah.

Now, I am not big on gun control but it seems strange to have a gun as a state symbol. The bill’s supporters argue that the weapon represents the defense of liberty and freedom around the country and around the world, while detractors felt it was a poor idea to use something as polarizing as a handgun as a symbol for Utah.

Then again, maybe it is appropriate since Utah is also considering a bill to do away with the need for concealed carry licenses for citizens ¹ and another to do away with “gun free” buffer zones around schools. Maybe it is the perfect symbol, if you aren’t going to use the Angel Moroni.

This article was edited after publication by the author on 12 Feb 2011. View changes.