New Forum-wide Rule

[Bob K]

You mean........there's another gun forum???? Bob

[WendyZXZ]

Bob, are you kidding?

I think that Dom has answered some of the questions very nicely. One thing to keep in mind is as pointed out is that we see posts that are reported, and I receive e-mails at times pointing out a problem or possible problem with posts and threads, and we have seen increased posts that do seem to be going over the line lately. Simply locking a thread or deleting the post is something that was discussed when coming up with the new rule. The problem with that is it has been used in the past and that even if we warn the person they may behave for a while and then repeat as if there are never going to be repercussions. This is why this new policy is in place. One thing to keep in mind about interpreting what is rude or offensive is often just knowing the two individuals. Are they good friends who kid back and forth in this way or are they people who genuinely dislike each other and this has been an ongoing issue between them? That is where the moderators will consults and take note of the patterns of behavior and if they are disruptive because of bad feelings between member which causes them to post messages that others here may think are beneath the dignity of this forum and may be repeated in the future if only a slap on the wrist is the consequence. Another thing to keep in mind in some of these issues is that it is easy to criticize while not getting out of hand and staying polite. Telling someone that they haven't thought something through or are ignorant is the same as telling them they have 's__t for brains', but one comment is adult in nature during a debate, the other is immature, rude and offensive in nature. Willie, we will always have political incorrectness here, but we do ask that common sense be used. Remember, this is a free forum with few rules and that all of us need to remember is that we are guests in someone else's house and should stick to a sense of decorum. One problem that comes up on forums at times is that we forget that the First Ammendment and being politically incorrect ends when it violates the rules and the rule would not be there unless there was a problem.

[Blackcloud2]

Okay, let's cut this announcement down to brass tacks; I'm considering a move to New York for a political run at office. When I do so and win, will I or will I not be able to post photos of "possibly occupied" underwear shots to forum members that have irritated me in the past; some of who might lodge a complaint... who will be sent to the Principal's office? My handlers await your answer...

[Smithfan]

As a poster who always is loveable and thoughtful and insightful, not to mention modest, dissembling and unassuming, I have no problem with this ruling. I have no doubt it will curtail my critics...

But seriously, folks...I think it is a good idea. Above all else, this has always been a serious and intelligent Forum. Anything to keep it that way is fine by me.

Bill

[JohnFox]

Wendy, I really liked your thoughtful response. But here is my problem with a rule.

It's not the rule itself, it's having to have one. Why?? Because it can be misused. Not necessarily by moderators, but by the very folks you want to admonish. I can hear it now 'When John said that thing to Willie, he wasn't banned. Why are you banning me???'

I would have no issue with the moderators agreeing among themselves to establish some general guidelines. All I need to be told is the rule is 'behave yourself' and then any punishment handed out is fine with me. It doesn't have to be fair or even handed. You can piss me off all you want, as was noted earlier, I don't pay for the privilege to post here, so I really have no say if it's taken away. And, since I don't pay, I don't have any expectations that my opinions are even considered.

But as soon as you write it down, some idiot will come along and make you modify it. Again and again and again....and it will become a huge burden.

That's why my motorcycle group has only one rule ... 'ride safely'. Everything else is at my discretion, since I'm the only one that pays for it. Everyone understands that, and everyone trusts me to make the right decision.

When folks trust other folks, rules are rarely needed and guidelines are usually sufficient. At least in my experience.

[WendyZXZ]

It's not the rule itself, it's having to have one. Why??

Because this isn't the first time that others have complained about some of the comments that get posted at times. The personal attacks, the content of the messages. What brought the rule on has been an ongoing and increasing issue that most members do not see, but which the moderators do hear about. Some of it personal between 1 or 2 people, but what should be taken offline or in IM or e-mail is spilling over into the forum. This is one of those things where I would say if you want the drama I will surrender being a moderator to anybody and let them deal with the drama between the parties.

"But as soon as you write it down, some idiot will come along and make you modify it."

No, we don't listen to the idiots, but we have non idiots here.

[DDG11]

I like it. I've been on another forum for years now and a lot have left this past year as the forum has grown more and more have shown they have no manners and don't have the abilty to disagree respectfully !!!! So many have just quit it, that's sad because many had a lot of knowledge , that could have been helpful to the new ones.

[USMC Snakedriver]

This is the forum where I feel the most welcomed. If you post an issue or an observation on other sites, be prepared to defend it, not discuss it. I can live by the new rules. You need a place that isn't prickly and you can count on a measured response, not an emotional attack. Thanks.

[grasshopper]

I think this is the best and most enjoyable gun forum around, period. I've learned a lot and have found the folks very helpful. It's really the only forum I deal with anymore. It's also been the most fun, but does this mean I shouldn't say that Obama's a Socialist jerk anymore?
(Just kidding).
yeah......