Biggest barf bag collection; largest dog wedding ceremony; most nationalities in a sauna; fastest toilet.
When it comes to the Guinness Book of World Records it seems no feat is too frivolous, or downright silly for their record books. However, it appears there’s simply no room in Guinness’ annals if the achievement is a responsible celebration of the right to keep and bear arms.
Last Monday, 1,000 Second Amendment supporters gathered at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix, Ariz. to make history. Dubbed the 1,000 Man Shoot, attendees sought to set the world record for number of people firing two shots simultaneously, by lining up on the range and firing a shot from a special edition .22-caliber Henry Golden Boy Silver rifle and then firing a second shot minutes later.
The event was initially planned by NRA and Henry Repeating Arms as an expression of support for, and to raise money in defense of, the Second Amendment. However, according to one media outlet present, the event also took on an air of celebration, thanks to Donald Trump’s victory in the presidential election.
From all accounts the plan went off without a hitch, and the 1,000 present achieved the world record. The event was well-documented with visual evidence, leaving no question as to whether the attendees’ goal was reached.
Unfortunately, when NRA contacted Guinness World Records to register the triumph, Guinness refused to recognize the record. The reason for Guinness’ refusal is not clear, as a search of the organization’s records database shows that they recognize a host of firearms-related records.
Whether or not Guinness’ decision not to recognize the record was politically motivated, NRA, Henry Repeating Arms, and the attendees of the 1,000 Man Shoot deserve to have their achievement validated. For those who would like to urge Guinness to recognize this historic achievement, the record keeping organization can be reached by form email, or by telephone at 718 513-7270.
We hope the Guinness staff proves responsive, that is, if they are not too busy researching new claims on the record for most feet and armpits sniffed.
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