I have no issue with your analysis of "the media", whatever media that is (I suspect it's media that tends to disagree with your assessment). But it is just a different issue. Tommy guns are virtually non-existent because government (The People) decided to do put a heavy tax on them after children were killed in 1930's gang warfare like Bonnie and Clyde.  There was no "slippery slope" leading to further bans, people can still buy all sorts of guns and bullets. 
I've seen Dr. Gina interview a promoter of the AK 47, saying it is just really a hunting rifle that can fire a clip of bullets because, heck, that bear may keep charging. And, since criminals could have this weapon, any home needs one to engage the assailant in a hail of bullets to protect their family. 
So sure, crazies use them. Stop the crazies. Unfortunately, if we start turning in crazies, any person who wants to get back at their neighbor who pissed them off can call the police and report them as crazy. 

I'm no buying it.