ANNAPOLIS, Md. (WJZ) — More than a thousand Marylanders landed in Annapolis Wednesday to protest Governor Martin O’Malley’s proposed gun legislation.

Political reporter Pat Warren has more on their objections.

Gun supporters lay down the law.

“This is just the first step in what they’re trying to do [which is to take] away the 2nd Amendment and disabling the Constitution,” said Gary Preston.

“If they pass this, they’re actually going to impede my ability to defend my family,” said Gerald Zickefoose.

“They’ll start outlawing shotguns, just like they did in England, then pistols and then you’re not going to be allowed to have a pellet gun,” said Glen Kreitzer.

The governor proposes strict guidelines for the purchase of handguns and a ban on military-style assault weapons. Owners are also required to re-register their weapons every five years.

“This is not about ideology. This is about public safety. This is about doing reasonable things that work to save lives and prevent hopefully the sort of slaughter our country has sadly been a witness to far too often,” O’Malley said.

But supporters found themselves outnumbered and outgunned by Marylanders who feel their own safety is being sacrificed in an attempt to curb crime.

“I don’t break any laws. I don’t harm anybody and you’re trying to make me pay for the crimes of other people,” said Scott Smith.

“I am a 5’2″, hundred pound female who is recently widowed and I don’t want anyone telling me how I can defend myself in my own home,” said Connie Boswell.

The bill is likely to see a number of amendments before it comes to a full vote.

Hours of testimony before and against the legislation is being heard.