ATF Ruling On Sporting Purposes Exemption To Armor Piercing Ammunition

Published on December 12, 2012
Duration: 6:23

This video discusses the ATF's process for determining sporting purposes exemptions for ammunition, particularly concerning projectiles made of harder metals. John Fraser of NRA-ILA explains the background of the armor-piercing ammunition law, its exceptions, and the current public comment period. He highlights concerns that the ATF might use this process to enact gun control via regulation, referencing past instances and the evolving landscape of handgun calibers.

Quick Summary

The ATF is reviewing its definition of 'sporting purposes' for ammunition exemptions to the armor-piercing law. This process, open for public comment, determines if projectiles made from harder metals can be used for hunting and sport shooting without being classified as armor-piercing.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction with John Fraser
  2. 00:06ATF Public Comment on Sporting Purposes Exemption
  3. 00:41Background of Armor Piercing Ammunition Law
  4. 01:54The Sporting Purposes Exemption Explained
  5. 02:12ATF's Delay on Exemption Requests
  6. 02:55Why Gun Owners Should Comment
  7. 03:26Varmint Hunting Cartridge Incident
  8. 04:00ATF Concerns on New Handguns
  9. 04:34Past Regulatory Actions (Clinton Admin)
  10. 05:13Congressional Intent on Handgun Definition
  11. 05:35Timeline for ATF Ruling

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the ATF's current focus regarding armor-piercing ammunition?

The ATF is seeking public comments on how to define 'sporting purposes' for ammunition exemptions. This process determines which projectiles, especially those made from harder metals, are not classified as armor-piercing when used for hunting or target shooting.

What is the 'sporting purposes exemption' for ammunition?

This exemption allows ammunition to be excluded from the federal 'armor piercing ammunition' ban if the Attorney General finds it is primarily intended for sporting purposes, such as hunting or target shooting, rather than military or law enforcement use.

Why should gun owners submit comments to the ATF?

Submitting comments allows gun owners to voice their support for ammunition used in sporting activities. This is crucial as the ATF's decisions could impact the availability of certain non-lead or specialized ammunition types for hunters and sport shooters.

What historical precedent exists for ATF ammunition rulings?

In the past, during the Clinton administration, certain rifle ammunition like 7.62x39mm with a steel core was classified as armor-piercing because it could be used in handguns, highlighting the ATF's interpretation of 'may be used in a handgun'.

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