Biden Faces Pushback on High-Capacity Magazine Limits

President Joe Biden and Democratic-led states have once again been met with resistance from gun owners in their attempt to impose restrictions on firearms and accessories. The latest battleground is over high-capacity magazines that hold more than 10 rounds. While many states have sought to enforce laws limiting magazines to 10 rounds, gun groups argue that these larger capacity magazines are very common and protected by the Constitution.

According to a report by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, nearly 1 billion pistol and rifle magazines have been produced since 1990, with over 700 million in use classified as “large capacity,” holding over 10 rounds. This vast number of high-capacity magazines reflects the strong demand for them among gun owners.

Most gun ‘magazines’ are high capacity, 11 rounds or more — and we want more.@NSSF “Changes in legislation outlawing or granting access to these magazines may change overall market proportions but the preference to have more ammunition available is clear.”… pic.twitter.com/CZb5ORW3NK

— Paul Bedard (@SecretsBedard) April 30, 2024

Despite attempts by several states to implement magazine size restrictions, the popularity of larger magazines continues to grow, particularly among target shooters. This surge in demand has been driven by concerns about safety and a clear preference among consumers for magazines with a capacity of 11 or more rounds.

In California, courts have twice rejected magazine size limits, highlighting the inconsistency in judicial rulings on this issue. However, in Rhode Island, a ban on larger magazines has been upheld, indicating that the matter is likely to be brought before the Supreme Court for a final decision.

The report from the National Shooting Sports Foundation emphasizes that legislation impacting these magazines could have a significant impact on the firearms industry. It underscores the strong consumer preference for high-capacity magazines and the potential market changes that could result from future restrictions or access to these accessories.