I think calling them weapons suggests intent.
The AR was originally produced as a hunting and sporting rifle. Military and Law enforcement took it up because of it's tactical aspects.
I have several firearms. I don't consider them weapons. They are locked in a cabinet 98% of the time, maybe even 99%. Would you consider a fishing pole a weapon? Neither would I. It's a ridiculous argument isn't it, but a firearm used for putting food on the dinner table does not equate to a weapon in my view. Occasionally I just enjoy a little target shooting or even some skeet with a few friends. There's nothing malicious about it.
If I lived in a high crime area then I might have a different view and I would probably have more firearms for self defense and for a deterrent.
As suggested here previously by another, some dip shit goes on a rampage and the rest of us law abiding citizens get punished.
That's not intended to trivialize lives lost. As a parent a dread to consider the possibility.
Intentional irony? Yes, you caught me. I think enthusiasts, sportsmen, and groups like the NRA could and should do better at playing the game of re branding.
Some of us have to make a conscious effort to avoid calling a firearm a weapon.
In the military, it's beat into your head that it is NOT a gun.
Guns are on tanks, ships, and self-powered artillery vehicles. If you carry it in your hands, it's a weapon.
It takes a very long time for that to go away, and even when it does, you get this little "internal warning" every time you try to use the word "gun".
That is the single reason I type firearm as much as I do. I hate typing gun, and weapon doesn't give the right message these days.
Cheers,
Kennith