ED: Yesterday the ATF raided Polymer80, the Nevada-based seller of 80% lowers, pistol frames, gun parts and kits. Another big name in the space, 80 Percent Arms, has more than a passing interest in what just happened to their competitor. They’ve given TTAG the following statement regarding the ATF’s actions yesterday.
We were reminded today of the precarious and often unpredictable nature of firearms enforcement. While 80 percents remain a well-defined and legal method for people to complete and build firearms, we were saddened to learn about the ATF’s raid of P80. The pretense of the raid is being reported widely with a litany of reasons. No arrests were made however, and it does seem the motivation is purely stepped up enforcement against our industry as a whole.
It’s important to remember that, while the 80% market is definitively legal by the ATFs own decision making, administrations and policymakers realize there is latitude to make examples of our industry. Despite P80 being our competitor, we have immense respect for their company and tremendous sympathy for what they are dealing with today. They are patriots who focus on making fantastic products. They were first to market with the 80% Glock category, which in turn, makes them a target. Just as we are the leader in the 80% AR space, we too know that we are a target.
This is the opening salvo in a new war against the 80% market and likely a pretense to rescinding all 80% letters in the near future under a Biden administration. While the revocation may occur, we believe strongly that this action would be illegal and we are prepared to vigorously fight for the continued existence of 80% lowers.
80% Arms is currently the only 80% manufacturer fighting in court to prevent further regulation from taking place. When you support us, you are directly supporting our legal fight in both the
California v. ATF and New York v. ATF are lawsuits that will determine the future legality of the 80% lowers nationwide.
While competitive rivalries are commonplace in the industry, we are appalled and dismayed by today’s events. Every firearms manufacturer and reseller, 80% or not, should be extremely concerned with the ramifications of this potential overreach.
Why This Matters to Everyone
It’s important to understand what is at stake as these issues continue. Companies that make the 80% products we all enjoy employ teams of manufacturers, engineers, logistics professionals, and customer service representatives. In addition, through a complex web of domestic suppliers, we support thousands of families and businesses who are dedicated to protecting the second amendment. And of course, speaking selfishly, we like being here and serving you.
How to Help
We’ve made partnerships with the Firearms Policy Coalition a priority for this reason. We are matching donations to FPC at 300% and we have joined FPC in a lawsuit for this exact reason.
Ultimately, we need to help litigate and protect the rights of our customers and our friends. Not to mention our own. We all have a stake in this.