Can I Buy Bump Stocks Again?
After the tragic events of the Las Vegas shooting in 2017, the sale of bump stocks was effectively banned in the United States. The devices, which allow semi-automatic rifles to fire at a faster rate, were deemed to be a threat to public safety. But with the current legal landscape, can you buy bump stocks again? The answer is a bit complicated.
What Happened to Bump Stocks?
In 2017, a gunman used a bump stock-equipped rifle to fire at a crowd of concertgoers in Las Vegas, killing 58 people and injuring hundreds more. In response to the tragedy, the Trump administration announced a ban on bump stocks in 2018. The ban was implemented through a federal regulation, which effectively made it illegal to possess, sell, or transfer bump stocks.
Current Legal Status
As of 2022, the legal status of bump stocks is as follows:
- Federal Law: The bump stock ban is still in effect, making it illegal to possess, sell, or transfer bump stocks under federal law.
- State Laws: Some states have enacted their own bans on bump stocks, while others have not. Check with your state’s attorney general or law enforcement agency to determine the specific laws in your area.
- Civilian Possession: If you owned a bump stock before the federal ban took effect, you may still possess it. However, you cannot transfer it to anyone else, and you may not be able to sell it or pass it down to a family member.
Are Bump Stocks Still Available?
Despite the ban, some companies are still manufacturing and selling bump stocks. However, these devices are often marketed as "legal" or "not bump stocks" to avoid running afoul of federal regulations. Some examples include:
- Bump-fire stocks: These devices are designed to mimic the effect of a bump stock but are marketed as being legal under federal law. However, some legal experts argue that these devices may still be illegal.
- Trigger activators: These devices are designed to speed up the trigger pull on a semi-automatic rifle. While they may not be bump stocks per se, they can still increase the rate of fire and may be subject to legal restrictions.
- Modular devices: Some companies are marketing modular devices that can be attached to a rifle to increase its rate of fire. These devices may be legal under federal law, but their legality is still unclear.
Can I Buy Bump Stocks Online?
Buying bump stocks online is not a straightforward process. Some online retailers may still sell bump stocks, but be aware that these devices may be illegal under federal law. Additionally, some retailers may be selling devices that are designed to mimic the effect of a bump stock but are not actually bump stocks.
Table: Online Retailers and Their Bump Stock Policies
| Retailer | Bump Stock Policy |
|---|---|
| Amazon | Prohibits the sale of bump stocks |
| Walmart | Prohibits the sale of bump stocks |
| Academy Sports + Outdoors | Prohibits the sale of bump stocks |
| Bass Pro Shops | Prohibits the sale of bump stocks |
| Brownells | Sells bump-fire stocks, but not bump stocks |
Conclusion
While it is still possible to buy bump stocks online, it is important to be aware of the legal landscape. The federal ban on bump stocks is still in effect, and some states have enacted their own bans. Additionally, some online retailers may still sell bump stocks, but these devices may be illegal under federal law.
Important Notes:
- Check local laws: Before purchasing or possessing a bump stock, check with your local authorities to determine if it is legal in your area.
- Be cautious online: Be wary of online retailers that may be selling bump stocks or devices that mimic the effect of a bump stock.
- Legal gray areas: Some devices may be legal under federal law but may still be subject to legal restrictions or controversy.
In summary, while it is still possible to buy bump stocks online, it is important to be aware of the legal landscape and to take caution when purchasing or possessing these devices.
