Palmetto State Armory is a very reputable and well respected manufacturer of AR-15 rifles and related parts. Which is why I was slightly surprised to learn via their Facebook page that they are about to start manufacturing something they’re calling a “NOBO12” AR-15 lower…
The “NOBO12” is a not-so-subtle reference to the desire for many to oust Barack Obama in the 2012 election (NO Barack Obama 2012), and the safety markings (“HOPE” for safe and “CHANGE” for fire) are an obvious reference to the president’s campaign slogan. It pretty quickly becomes clear what the political message behind the receiver design is.
I fully admit, I think it’s funny as hell. And I kinda want one just for the comedy value. But this is definitely WAY into “gimmick” territory, not something I usually associate with PSA. I would have expected this from one of the various companies that make those “zombie” lowers or other assorted gimmick markings, but not one of the Big Boys of the AR-15 world.
I have no problem with PSA making these. And I would have no problem if they sent me one to check out (hint hint). But what concerns me is how this is going to play in the mainstream media, whether this will be taken as arming the Republicans against the president or some other conspiracy theory. And what’s worse is that I guarantee some idiot is going to get one of these and start running his mouth about how he’s going to use it to vote Obama out all by himself.
It just seems a little… close to the line of good taste.
No word yet on whether proceeds will be going to the Republican presidential campaign.