[Arran]

Yes, an eight tube set can be more then efficient, if designed the right way, my C.G.E H-86 is proof of that. In fact I have had good luck with any radio employing a tuned RF amplifier stage, that seems to offer the biggest bang for the buck in terms of performance.
The solution to this despicable trend is counter intuitive, if you want to end mass shootings ban gun free zones. The majority of these maniacs seek out places where they figure nobody will be armed except themselves, and they are usually bad shots as well. This is why you see shootings on college campi and not in gun shops or firing ranges.
It isn't just a U.S problem though, a maniac in New Brunswick shot and killed three RCMP officers the other day.
With regards to the guy in Russia, it sounds like a Son of Sam type plea, except with a cat instead of barking dogs. But then again a hard core alcoholic will try drinking just about anything if he can't get proper booze, mouthwash, aftershave, rubbing alcohol, lysol. I can imagine some would try that anti microbial hand wash too if they had it on hand.
Regards
Arran