One of our writers (who shall remain nameless) emailed me today about his trip into the wilderness. “While hiking, I ran into a twenty-something carrying an 16″ [modern home sporting rifle] AR. On the way out ran into a fellow with an XD.” Our man was leading a Boy Scout Troop. So he wasn’t carrying, was he? No, he wasn’t. Because The Boy Scouts of America forbids it. From the Guide to Safe Scouting; Shooting Sports: “Except for law enforcement officers required to carry firearms within their jurisdiction, firearms shall not be brought on camping, hiking, backpacking, or other Scouting activities except those specifically planned for target shooting under the supervision of a currently certified BSA or National Rifle Association firearms instructor.” Is that a sensible precaution? Would the ban stop you from being a troop leader or sending your child into the wilderness with the Scouts? What’s your take on the Scouts “gun-free” leadership policy?