The problem, as I see it, is this.

The United States courts have interpreted the second amendment so widely that anyone can own virtually anything.  The federal, state and municipal governments all have their hands tied when it comes to placing reasonable restrictions on the right to bear arms.

Until someone convinces the courts that the right to life, liberty and pursuit of happiness (also part of the United States constitution) overrides the second amendment, and allows Congress to place some reasonable restrictions on who can own what weapons under what conditions, the problem is going to persist.