Oh, I don't think we're that far apart. Certainly I was only making a comparison: A rifle isn't literally an attractive nuisance. But neither is it strictly a tool for self defense. It's principle uses are offensive If I see someone like Kyle sporting an assault rifle in such a context my first thought is more likely to be active shooter than good samaritan with an eye toward self-defense.

Of course legally speaking that doesn't mean he was guilty of a criminal act. US gun laws being what they are;)