I have wondered the same. Do they crank out lots of stories fast, and then the editor picks one to publish? Then I could almost understand.

But if they are actually spending some time on each article (which they should) it seems like it wouldn't be hard to actually do their job and talk to -if not an expert- at least a local enthusiast/hobbyist.

This journalist has written extensively about guns and gun control for the past several years. They have no excuses to be misinformed.

It’s worth considering why some writers feel the need to puff themselves up with ridiculous macho fantasies about munitions. It reeks of insecurity like they’re trying to cosplay as Sebastian Junger.