Pistols in Disguise: Stabilizing Braces Discreetly Sold on Amazon
Amazon shoppers seeking bike accessories may have stumbled upon an unexpected find: stabilizing braces, devices designed to be attached to pistols, enabling them to be shouldered like rifles, enhancing aim and control.
However, these listings were disguised as innocuous items, such as bike handlebar grips, to evade detection.
Despite Amazon’s policy banning sales of stabilizing braces, dozens were available on the site, drawing attention from VICE News.
The listings were removed after Amazon received an inquiry, but similar listings remain, concealed within various product categories.
The Biden administration implemented new regulations in January 2023, requiring registration of “weapons with ‘stabilizing braces'” by May 31. Failure to comply could result in felony charges and imprisonment.
Despite lawsuits challenging the regulations, they do not currently outlaw the sale or possession of stabilizing braces, making their presence on Amazon’s site permissible. However, Amazon’s terms of use prohibit the listing or sale of “pistol stabilizing braces.”
Justin Wagner, from Everytown for Gun Safety, emphasizes that these listings violate Amazon’s policies and should not be offered, especially with the potential to enhance shooting lethality.
Amazon’s spokesperson maintains that such sales are prohibited and corrective actions are being taken against evasive listings.
The National Firearms Act regulates weapon configurations, including rifles and pistols. Stabilizing braces were initially deemed legal in 2012 and 2017, proliferating in recent years.
Lawsuits against the Biden administration’s brace restrictions argue their arbitrariness and ineffectiveness in preventing shootings.
Exemptions exist for stabilizing braces designed for individuals with disabilities.
The outcome of the legal challenges will determine whether the new brace regulations remain in effect.
Cody Wisniewski from the Firearms Policy Coalition highlights the right of private entities to set their own rules but expresses concern about restrictions on lawful conduct online.
Amazon shoppers discussed the possibility of legal violations when installing the disguised braces on unregistered short-barreled rifles.
Despite Amazon’s efforts to remove the listings, stabilizing braces remain widely available online.
