New law bans stabilizing braces for pistols
The stability brace is a device that was designed to stabilize a firearm when firing. These devices were legal for pistols in the United States up until recently when the ATF proposed new rules that could have a significant effect on gun owners. The new law bans stabilizing braces for pistols, which means that many firearms enthusiasts will no longer be able to use this device when shooting.
What are stabilizing braces?
Stabilizing braces first appeared on the market in 2013 when a new design was patented. The idea behind them was to provide additional support when shooting a pistol, which would make it easier for people with disabilities or mobility issues. This was particularly important for veterans who had been injured in combat and were having difficulty shooting a pistol.
The brace works by attaching to a pistol, much like a stock attaches to a rifle. It is made of different materials such as rubber, plastic, and metal. These materials enable the brace to be adjusted to the shooter’s size and preferences. It has been a valuable tool for gun enthusiasts who enjoy shooting pistols and would like more stability and accuracy.
Why are they banned?
On June 7, 2021, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) announced a new ruling amending the definition of “rifles” under the National Firearms Act. The ruling says that firearms with stabilizing braces no longer qualify as pistols. It is now considered a short-barreled rifle, which is illegal under the National Firearms Act of 1934 if it does not have a tax stamp.
The ATF’s justification for the ban is that stabilizing braces are being used to turn pistols into short-barreled rifles, which are highly regulated. The ATF argues that stabilizing braces are used to circumvent the law, allowing gun owners to avoid restrictions such as paying a fee and undergoing a background check.
Impact on firearms enthusiasts
This new ruling has sparked controversy among firearms enthusiasts, who argue that the ban is arbitrary. The firearms community is already subject to numerous regulations and gun laws in the United States. The addition of this new regulation could cause confusion and ultimately limit the types of firearms that are available to the general public.
Many firearms enthusiasts argue that the new rule is not solving the problem of gun violence. They argue that the crime rate is not related to the firearm type but is related to the person holding the weapon. The use of firearms in crimes stems from the people committing the crimes, not the firearms themselves.
What can gun owners do?
Gun owners who own firearms with stabilizing braces will need to comply with the new regulations. They have several options, including removing the stabilizing brace, getting a tax stamp, or turning their firearm into a rifle.
Getting a tax stamp is a lengthy and expensive process. It involves submitting an application, paying a fee, and undergoing a background check. This process could take several months before the owner gets a response from the ATF.
Turning a firearm into a rifle may also be an option. This involves attaching a stock to the rear of the gun, making it a rifle. This would also require a background check and submission of an application. However, this would not be as expensive as getting a tax stamp.
Conclusion
The new law banning stabilizing braces for pistols is a hot topic among gun enthusiasts and the firearm community at large. It is viewed by many as an arbitrary addition to existing gun laws and regulations. The ruling has sparked controversy and ignited a debate about the need for more gun laws, particularly when it comes to firearms with stabilizing braces.
While the new regulation presents a challenge for gun owners, compliance with the rule is necessary to avoid facing illegal possession of a firearm charges. There are available options such as getting a tax stamp or turning a firearm into a rifle, and gun owners must educate themselves on how to comply with the new rule to avoid running into trouble with the ATF.
