US Supreme Court considers gun law

The US Supreme Court is considering the right of US citizens to keep and use guns, for the first time in nearly 70 years.

The controversial case questions whether Washington DC can maintain its ban of nearly all handguns and restrictions on shotguns in the home.

The nine justices will deliberate on whether the right to keep and bear arms, as described in the US constitution, is an individual or collective right, and whether the capital's regulations are reasonable.

Washington DC passed its gun ban in 1976.

The law requires any rifles or shotguns in the home to be disassembled or kept under trigger lock and prevents private citizens from carrying handguns in most cases.

Hundreds of pro- and anti-gun advocates gathered outside the Supreme Court carrying signs and arguing their views.

Following the hearing, both sides claimed that victory was imminent. A decision is not expected for several months.