Supreme Court Takes Up FPC Lawsuit to Strike Down “Assault Weapon” Bans Nationwide

Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) issued the following statement in response to the United States Supreme Court granting review in FPC’s Viramontes v. Cook County, Illinois lawsuit challenging the County’s ban on so-called “assault weapons” as unconstitutional under the Second Amendment:

“Moments ago, the Supreme Court granted review in an FPC case challenging Cook County’s ban on semiautomatic rifles. This is not the end of the fight to eliminate bans on so-called ‘assault weapons,’ but it marks the end of the beginning. For years, the FPC Grassroots Army has fought hard to bring this question to the Supreme Court, and now the time has come to march forward and reclaim the rights that were immorally taken from us. And as we approach Independence Day—as our nation celebrates 250 years—we embrace our movement’s next challenge: securing a historic Supreme Court victory that protects the right to keep and bear arms for generations to come. The FPC Grassroots Army will continue to Fight Forward until every ban on constitutionally protected arms is eliminated, full stop.” Read more

General

Supreme Court Grants Cert in SAF Assault Weapons Cases

BELLEVUE, Wash. — The U.S. Supreme Court has granted two of the Second Amendment Foundation’s (SAF) petitions for a writ of certiorari in both Viramontes v. Cook County and Grant v. Higgins, the organization’s challenges to the bans on so-called “assault weapons” in Illinois and Connecticut.

Originally filed in 2021, Viramontes challenges Cook County’s ban on many commonly owned modern guns, which was the precursor for the nearly identical statewide ban passed by the Illinois legislature. In Grant, SAF is challenging Connecticut’s ban on commonly owned semi-automatic rifles – both by name and by feature set. After a troubling and misguided preliminary injunction decision from the Second Circuit Court of Appeals, SAF presented the case to the Supreme Court for consideration.

“The Supreme Court’s decision to hear these pivotal cases will finally provide the courts the necessary guidance as it relates to the types of arms protected by the Second Amendment,” said SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut. “The modern semi-automatic rifles banned in Cook County, Connecticut and elsewhere are among the most commonly owned firearms in the country, placing them well within the scope of the Second Amendment. The Second Amendment protects arms in common use for lawful purposes, and it’s hard to argue that a type of rifle that potentially outnumbers Ford F-150 trucks in America doesn’t meet that standard.”

SAF is joined in Viramontes by the Firearms Policy Coalition and two private citizens, and is joined in Grant by the Connecticut Citizens Defense League and three private citizens.

“Lawmakers have long relied on fearmongering to pass laws that infringe on the Second Amendment, especially when it comes to common, semi-automatic rifles,” said SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. “We’re hopeful the Court will finally put to rest the idea that these rifles are not covered by the Second Amendment simply because of their look and features. These arms are no different than other semi-automatic firearms millions of Americans own for self-defense, and we look forward to restoring the right to keep and bear arms for countless citizens through these cases.” Read more

Gun Control

NSSF Statement on SCOTUS Decision of Gun-Related Petitions

NSSF®, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, is elated over the U.S. Supreme Court’s decision today to hear petitions challenging state restrictions on the possession of Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs). Petitions challenging the constitutionality of these state-based restrictions have endured a tortuous legal path to the nation’s highest court.

The challenges, Viramontes v. Cook County and Grant v. Higgins, will be heard by the Supreme Court in the next session. These petitions were relisted several times before the Supreme Court ultimately decided to grant cert. Viramontes and Grant challenge Cook County, Illinois and Connecticut’s respective bans on MSR possession, the most-commonly sold centerfire rifle in America, of which there are over 32 million in circulation. NSSF believes that the Heller and Bruen precedents clearly hold that firearms in common use are protected by the Second Amendment.

NSSF contends that review of these challenges by the Supreme Court is long overdue. NSSF was frustrated with the Court’s decision in June 2025 to deny cert in Snope v. Brown and the NSSF-funded Ocean State Tactical v. Rhode Island petitions challenging on Second Amendment grounds Maryland’s MSR Ban and Rhode Island’s ban on standard sized magazines, respectively. NSSF respectfully disagreed with Justice Brett Kavanaugh’s statement then that the Court should wait a “Term or two” before taking action to stop the lower courts from misapplying the Court’s holdings in Heller and Bruen, effectively denying the Second Amendment rights of millions of law-abiding Americans living in the states that have enacted laws banning MSRs and standard capacity magazines.

Rhode Island’s ban on the sale of MSRs will take effect July 1, 2026, and Virginia has since enacted into law a similar ban, which is currently being challenged in courts, including one funded by NSSF.

NSSF continues to monitor the Duncan v. Bonta and Gator’s Customs Guns, Inc. v. Washington petitions, which were held over by the Supreme Court. Both cases challenge state restrictions on standard capacity magazines. NSSF contends that magazines are arms, protected by the Second Amendment and states that ban standard capacity magazines are violating the civil rights of law-abiding citizens of those states. Read more

General

Winchester USA 250th Anniversary Commemorative Ammunition Series Available Now

The collectible 250th Anniversary Commemorative Ammunition Series from Winchester is now available at retailers nationwide. Winchester is offering this unique series as a celebration of America being a symbol of freedom, hope, and indomitable spirit for 250 years.

Each unique package pays tribute to the United States and tells the story of how Winchester is woven into the fabric of American heritage. With only 15,000 units available, this limited-edition series will be sought after by patriots and Winchester collectors across the nation.

USA 250th Anniversary Commemorative Ammunition Series themes:

    • Pioneering America – 30-30 Win 170GR Power-Point®
    • American Hunter – 270 Win 150 GR Power-Point®
    • Defending Freedom – 45 Auto 230GR FMJ
    • Committed to Conservation – XPERT® Waterfowl 12 GA 3″, 1550 FPS, 1-1/8 OZ#2
    • Building Traditions – AA® 12 GA 2-3/4″, 1145 FPS 1-1/8 OZ #8

Read more

Ammunition

Chiappa USA Announces Limited-Edition 1911 Field Special 250th Independence Edition Exclusive to Chattanooga Shooting Supply

Chiappa USA is proud to announce the release of the new 1911 Field Special 250th Independence Edition, a limited-production commemorative pistol celebrating 250 years of American independence. Available exclusively through Chattanooga Shooting Supply (CSSI), only 250 individually produced pistols will be offered to collectors, enthusiasts, and dealers nationwide.

Built on Chiappa’s proven full-size 1911 Field platform, the 250th Independence Edition combines classic American handgun heritage with distinctive commemorative styling. The pistol features a durable Blue Navy Cerakote® finish enhanced by an intricate laser-etched commemorative design, creating a striking tribute to the nation’s historic milestone while preserving the dependable performance expected from the legendary 1911 platform.

Chambered in .45 ACP, the 1911 Field Special 250th Independence Edition features a traditional single-action, semi-automatic operating system and a 5-inch barrel, delivering the handling characteristics and accuracy that have made the 1911 one of the most respected handgun designs in history. The pistol features an 8+1 capacity, includes one magazine, and is fitted with durable grey and black G10 grips that provide a secure purchase in a variety of shooting conditions.

“The 250th anniversary of American independence represents a significant moment in our nation’s history, and we wanted to commemorate it with a firearm that honors both American heritage and one of the most iconic handgun designs ever created,” said Oscar Chiappa, Marketing Manager for Chiappa USA. “With only 250 pistols being produced, this exclusive edition offers collectors and enthusiasts a unique opportunity to own a firearm designed specifically to mark this historic occasion.”

Constructed from steel and weighing approximately 2.5 pounds, the pistol measures 8.6 inches in overall length and features slot-mounted iron sights along with a traditional left-side thumb safety. Each firearm is shipped in a durable molded case and includes a magazine, a trigger lock, and an owner’s manual. Read more

Firearms

Time Is Running Out to Claim Your Free Backdraft Suppressor

Time is running out for shooters to take advantage of one of Meprolight’s most popular promotions of the year. Through July 31, 2026, customers who purchase a qualifying Meprolight® optic remain eligible to receive a rebate for a free Backdraft suppressor, making now the time to upgrade their firearm with premium optics and suppressed performance.

The limited-time offer pairs Meprolight’s battle-proven optics with a high-performance suppressor, giving shooters exceptional value through a straightforward rebate process. With the promotion ending soon and available only while supplies last, customers are encouraged to act before the deadline.

“This promotion has generated tremendous interest because it delivers genuine value to shooters,” said Jordan Stein, Digital Marketing Manager for Meprolight®. “If you’ve been considering upgrading your optic or adding a suppressor to your firearm, now is the time. Once July 31 arrives, this opportunity is gone.”

Receiving the free suppressor is simple:

    • Purchase a qualifying Meprolight® optic.
    • Submit the required rebate information.
    • Receive your free Backdraft suppressor.

Read more

Firearms

Want the Chance to Hunt Cranes, Grouse or Swans in Utah This Fall? Apply for 2026 Permits Starting June 30

Photo courtesy of Utah Division of Wildlife Resources

If you are looking for a unique experience in Utah’s outdoors, consider applying for a permit for the chance to hunt greater sage-grouse, sandhill crane, sharp-tailed grouse or tundra swan this fall. The 2026 application period for these four Utah bird hunts opens on Tuesday, June 30.

Obtaining permits

Qualifying to hunt most bird species in Utah is simple: buy a combination or hunting license and head afield. However, some bird species also require a special permit in addition to a hunting license. Those species include:

  • Band-tailed pigeon
  • Greater sage-grouse
  • Sandhill crane
  • Sharp-tailed grouse
  • Tundra swan (Hunters should note that it’s illegal to harvest a trumpeter swan in Utah.)
  • Turkey
  • White-tailed ptarmigan

Permits for greater sage-grouse, sandhill crane, tundra swan and sharp-tailed grouse are available through the Utah hunt drawing. You can apply for permits from June 30 at 8 a.m. MDT to July 14 at 11 p.m. MDT for a chance to hunt these larger, unique birds this fall. The permits for band-tailed pigeon and white-tailed ptarmigan are available for free, starting July 30, and you can obtain them online or from any license agent. Read more

Hunting

Colt, Guns.com Join Forces to Offer Exclusive Auction Benefitting SAF

Colt’s Manufacturing Company and Guns.com have teamed up to offer a one-of-a-kind auction featuring an exclusive collector’s edition Colt Custom Shop Python in celebration of the nation’s founding, with all proceeds benefitting the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF).

“Anniversaries invite reflection, but they should also inspire ambition,” said Colt’s Head of Marketing Kristin Marlow. “As America marks its 250th anniversary, this firearm pays tribute to the Python created for the nation’s Bicentennial in 1976 while also celebrating the 50th anniversary of the Colt Custom Shop. For 190 years, Colt has been part of the American story – a nation shaped by innovation, individual liberty, and a constant belief that tomorrow can be better than today. That’s a value Colt shares with our partners at Guns.com and the Second Amendment Foundation. We honor our past with gratitude, while looking confidently toward the future.”

Crafted to commemorate America’s 250th anniversary, the Colt Custom Shop Python pays tribute to one of the most sought-after commemorative revolvers in Colt’s history: the 1976 Bicentennial Python. Drawing inspiration from that iconic firearm, this special edition features a bright stainless finish, smooth walnut grips with eagle medallion, vintage-style markings, and patriotic roll engraving honoring the nation’s founding and enduring spirit. Read more

Contests, Firearms

Weatherby Introduces the Model 307 MZY, the Company’s First Production Muzzleloader

Sheridan, WY – June 25th, 2026 Weatherby proudly announces the launch of the Model 307 MZY, the company’s first production muzzleloader in its 80 year history. Built on a modified Model 307 action and featuring the innovative Arrowhead Rifles Gen2 ignition system, the Model 307 MZY delivers a new standard of accuracy, reliability, and consistency for black powder hunters.

Designed specifically for hunters who refuse to compromise performance during muzzleloader seasons, the Model 307 MZY combines modern rifle technology with proven muzzleloading capability. The result is a precision hunting tool that offers cleaner operation, tighter velocity spreads, and dependable cold-weather performance when paired with BlackHorn 209 powder.

At the heart of the Model 307 MZY is a modified Model 307 action engineered to accept Arrowhead Rifles’ Gen2 sealed primer-based ignition system. Traditionally found only in custom muzzleloaders, the system utilizes precision-fit primer modules loaded with large rifle primers rather than conventional 209 primer systems. This design creates a hotter, more consistent ignition through a short, straight flame path while fully sealing the breech. The sealed system eliminates blowback into the action, maintains repeatable headspace, and significantly reduces maintenance compared to traditional muzzleloader ignition systems. The result is cleaner operation, improved consistency, and reliable performance across a wide range of hunting conditions. Read more

Firearms

U.S. Supreme Court Drives Final Stake Through Hawaii “Vampire Rule” Gun Carry Ban in Second Amendment Decision

Consistent with FPC’s victories against “vampire rule” laws in multiple states, the United States Supreme Court today issued a major 6-to-3 decision in Wolford v. Lopez holding that Hawaii cannot presume that peaceable carry is forbidden on private property held open to the public unless the owner first gives express permission. In the decision, the Court held that this reversal of the longstanding common-law default unconstitutionally infringes upon the exercise of the right to bear arms and violates the Second and Fourteenth Amendments.

The Court explained that these laws did not merely regulate where licensed people could carry. Instead, they severely burdened the ordinary exercise of the right to bear arms by forcing peaceable people to seek permission before entering the stores, restaurants, gas stations, pharmacies, and other businesses they visit every day. That burden, the Court held, is incompatible with the Second Amendment’s protection of the right to carry firearms for self-defense as Americans go about their daily lives.

The case against the State of Hawaii was brought by three individuals and the Hawaii Firearms Coalition. Notable amicus briefs filed in support of Wolford include those by FPC, California Gun Rights Foundation, and the United States. FPC has successfully blocked enforcement of “vampire rule” laws in multiple states, including California, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York.

The Court’s opinion for Wolford was written by Justice Alito. A concurring opinion was written by Justice Barrett and partially joined by Justices Thomas and Gorsuch. Dissenting opinions were written by Justice Kagan and Justice Jackson (joined by Justice Sotomayor).

The ruling confirms what FPC has argued from the beginning: States may not nullify Bruen by turning ordinary places open to the public—stores, restaurants, parking lots, and other public-facing private property—into carry-prohibited zones by default. Read more

Gun Control
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