Frank Miniter Speaks with Mark Keefe, Public Affairs and Editorial Director of the NRA.

Published on June 9, 2026
Duration: 22:06

This discussion, featuring NRA Public Affairs and Editorial Director Mark Keefe, delves into the legal ramifications and historical context surrounding Glock switches, also known as auto-sears. Keefe explains how these devices illegally convert semi-automatic Glocks into machine guns, highlighting the severe federal and state penalties associated with their possession and manufacture. The conversation also touches upon the historical perception of Glocks and how anti-gun advocates are leveraging the issue of switches as an excuse to target handguns more broadly.

Quick Summary

A Glock switch, or auto-sear, is an illegal device that converts a semi-automatic Glock pistol into a fully automatic machine gun. Possession or manufacture of these devices carries severe federal penalties, including up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine, with states also imposing significant penalties. These devices are not new, with patents dating back to the late 1980s, and are now being used by anti-gun advocates as a pretext for broader handgun bans.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Glock Switches & State Bans
  2. 00:44History of Glock Switches: Not a New Idea
  3. 01:31What is a Glock Switch and How Does it Work?
  4. 02:32How Glock Switches Defeat Firearm Safeties
  5. 03:00Federal Penalties for Illegal Machine Gun Conversion
  6. 03:35State Laws and Penalties for Glock Switches
  7. 04:15Enforcement is Key: Deterring Criminal Behavior
  8. 04:45Glock's History: Early Perceptions and Innovation
  9. 05:46Glock's Impact on Law Enforcement and Civilian Markets
  10. 06:25The Ingenious Simplicity of Glock Design
  11. 06:45Historical Attacks on Glock: Fear and Politics
  12. 07:20Glock as the Most Popular Gun in America
  13. 07:40Demonizing Glock: The Anti-Gun Movement's Strategy
  14. 08:00Glock's Evolution and Media Mischaracterizations
  15. 08:18Pop Culture and Glock: The 'Die Hard' Cameo
  16. 09:03Glock's Real Impact: Utility and Popularity
  17. 09:40Glocks in Common Use: Constitutional Protections
  18. 10:33NRA's Role in Fighting Firearm Bans
  19. 10:54Glock Switches as an Opportunistic Attack
  20. 11:00Self-Defense and Glock Pistols for Women
  21. 11:12New Generation Glocks: Truth vs. Media Claims
  22. 11:40Glock's Design Updates: Manufacturing vs. Legislation
  23. 12:18Legislative Ignorance of Firearm Mechanics and Law
  24. 12:38Glock Switches: A Long-Standing Issue Exploited Politically
  25. 12:57The End Game: Banning Handguns
  26. 13:11Conclusion: Terrible Policy, Worse Law

Frequently Asked Questions

What is a Glock switch and why is it illegal?

A Glock switch, also known as an auto-sear, is an illegal device that converts a semi-automatic Glock pistol into a fully automatic machine gun. Possessing or manufacturing such a device is a serious federal offense, carrying penalties of up to 10 years in prison and significant fines.

What are the penalties for possessing a Glock switch?

Possessing an illegal Glock switch is considered the illegal manufacture of a machine gun. Federally, this can result in up to 10 years in prison and a $250,000 fine. States like Maryland and Connecticut also have severe penalties for possessing these conversion devices.

Are Glock switches a new invention?

No, the concept of devices to convert semi-automatic firearms to automatic fire is not new. Patents for similar mechanisms date back to the late 1980s, and the ATF has documented busts related to these devices since the early 2000s, indicating they are an old idea being exploited.

Why are anti-gun groups focusing on Glock switches?

Anti-gun legislators and groups are using Glock switches as an excuse to push for broader handgun bans. They leverage public fear and a lack of understanding about firearm mechanics to advance their agenda, aiming to restrict Second Amendment rights.

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