Justin
Moderator Emeritus
From the Merriam-Webster dictionary
Sorry brownie, but your attempt to split semantic hairs over what constitutes a tool doesn't fly. Given that a gun is "a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task" it falls under the definition of an implement that is a tool. What task that tool is designed to accomplish is irrelevant. It doesn't matter if it's designed to pound nails (hammer), write C# (computer) or defend one's life, liberty, and property (firearm). All are examples of tools. It just so happens that 'weapon' is a valid subset of 'tool.' (Oddly enough, I had a conversation along these lines with a cultural anthropologist once upon a time. He agreed with me.)
Main Entry: 1tool
Pronunciation: 'tül
Function: noun
Etymology: Middle English, from Old English tOl; akin to Old English tawian to prepare for use -- more at TAW
Date: before 12th century
1 a :a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task b (1) : the cutting or shaping part in a machine or machine tool (2) : a machine for shaping metal : MACHINE TOOL
2 a : something (as an instrument or apparatus) used in performing an operation or necessary in the practice of a vocation or profession <a scholar's books are his tools> b : a means to an end <a book's cover can be a marketing tool> c often vulgar : PENIS
3 : one that is used or manipulated by another
4 plural : natural ability <has all the tools>
Sorry brownie, but your attempt to split semantic hairs over what constitutes a tool doesn't fly. Given that a gun is "a handheld device that aids in accomplishing a task" it falls under the definition of an implement that is a tool. What task that tool is designed to accomplish is irrelevant. It doesn't matter if it's designed to pound nails (hammer), write C# (computer) or defend one's life, liberty, and property (firearm). All are examples of tools. It just so happens that 'weapon' is a valid subset of 'tool.' (Oddly enough, I had a conversation along these lines with a cultural anthropologist once upon a time. He agreed with me.)