What is a Bump Stock AR-15?
Contents
A Brief Introduction to Bump Stocks
In the aftermath of the Las Vegas shooting in 2017, where a gunman used bump stocks to modify his weapons to mimic fully automatic fire, there has been significant public outcry and debate surrounding these devices. But what exactly is a bump stock AR-15, and how do they work?
What is a Bump Stock?
A bump stock is a device that allows semi-automatic firearms, such as AR-15s, to simulate fully automatic fire. It does this by harnessing the recoil energy of the gun and using it to bump or "bump" the trigger, firing additional rounds without the shooter needing to pull the trigger manually. This creates a continuous burst of fire, much like a fully automatic weapon.
How Does a Bump Stock Work?
Here’s a step-by-step explanation of how a bump stock works:
• Recoil energy: When a semi-automatic rifle is fired, the recoil energy is released.
• Bump stock movement: The bump stock moves rearward, typically at a rate of 10-15 inches per second.
• Trigger movement: As the bump stock moves, it causes the trigger to bump against the receiver, firing another round.
• Continued fire: The cycle of recoil, bump stock movement, and trigger bump continues, allowing for continuous firing.
Limits of Bump Stocks
Despite the similarity to fully automatic fire, bump stocks do not technically make a weapon fully automatic. They remain legal under current US gun laws, as they still require the shooter to physically pull the trigger to initially fire the weapon. This has led to controversy over the definition of "automatic fire" and the extent to which bump stocks constitute an unfair advantage.
Bump Stock vs. Full Auto
| Bump Stock | Fully Automatic | |
|---|---|---|
| Trigger Pull | Required | Not required |
| Rate of Fire | 700-800 RPM | Up to 1,200 RPM |
| Regulatory Status | Legal under NFA | Highly restricted or illegal |
History of Bump Stocks
Bump stocks have been around since the early 2000s, originally designed for competitive shooters to enhance their performance. However, their popularity and accessibility increased significantly in the early 2010s, particularly among civilian gun owners.
Congressional Action
In the aftermath of the Las Vegas shooting, there was increased pressure on Congress to take action against bump stocks. On November 8, 2017, President Donald Trump announced that he was directing the Department of Justice to propose regulations that would effectively ban bump stocks.
On December 20, 2018, the Trump administration issued a federal regulation banning bump stocks and other devices that enable fully automatic fire. The rule was published in the Federal Register on March 21, 2019, and went into effect on April 5, 2019.
New Rule: Bump Stock Ban
- All existing bump stocks must be surrendered to the government by December 26, 2019.
- Newly manufactured bump stocks are illegal and will be confiscated if detected.
- Possession or sale of bump stocks may result in criminal penalties, including fines and imprisonment.
Conclusion
While bump stocks may have provided a tactical advantage for competitive shooters, their proliferation in civilian hands has raised significant concerns about public safety. The controversy surrounding bump stocks has led to a wider conversation about gun control and the Second Amendment.
As we continue to navigate the complexities of firearms regulation, it’s essential to understand the technologies and devices that impact gun safety. By demystifying the concept of bump stocks and their history, we can better approach the complex issues surrounding firearms in America.
