How Gun Control Paves the Way for Broader Weapon Bans

When Australia implemented its sweeping firearms ban in 1996, many saw it as the ultimate solution to gun violence. Nearly three decades later, it’s clear that sacrificing fundamental freedoms under the guise of “public safety” didn’t stop at guns. Now, Australia targets machetes after enforcing strict gun control laws, highlighting just how quickly the slippery slope of weapon prohibition can escalate. At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we believe in the importance of upholding the Second Amendment and safeguarding the right to self-defense—not just for today, but for future generations.

The Real Outcome of Australia’s Gun Control Policies

After the tragic 1996 Port Arthur massacre, Australia enacted some of the most restrictive gun laws in the developed world. Firearm ownership was massively curtailed, with nearly 650,000 guns forcibly bought back by the government. Fast forward to 2024, and instead of promoting real safety, authorities are now shifting focus toward other tools—like knives, crossbows, slingshots, and most recently, machetes.

Australia targets machetes after enforcing strict gun control laws—a move that should concern freedom-loving Americans. If the original argument for disarming civilians was to reduce violent crime, then why does the list of banned or restricted implements continue to grow? The answer is simple: when you strip citizens of one means of self-defense, the state will seek to control the next.

Weapon Control: A Never-Ending Road

Victoria’s state police minister, Anthony Carbines, recently announced an upcoming ban on the purchase and possession of certain bladed weapons—machetes included. This is the next phase of Australia’s ever-tightening weapon laws. It reinforces a chilling pattern dead-set on abolishing individual empowerment in the name of state control.

Consider the following list of weapons that are already regulated or banned in parts of Australia:

• Crossbows and slingshots
• Expandable batons and knuckle dusters
• Certain types of knives and swords
• Pepper spray and other non-lethal defense tools

This begs the question: when does it stop? Today it’s machetes; tomorrow it could be kitchen knives or tools found in any garage. The fact that Australia targets machetes after enforcing strict gun control laws should serve as a warning to Americans who value their right to bear arms under the Constitution.

The Importance of the Second Amendment in America

Unlike Australia, the United States is built on a framework that fiercely defends individual liberties. Chief among these is the Second Amendment, which affirms the right of the people to keep and bear arms. At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we understand that gun ownership is much more than a hobby—it’s a constitutional right, a critical protection, and a cornerstone of American liberty.

Red-leaning, pro-2A citizens know that disarmament, even when disguised as “common-sense gun reform,” often leads to following in Australia’s footsteps. And we’re already seeing signs of that here. In states that have passed sweeping restrictions on firearms, there have been proposals to curtail other forms of legal self-defense. Do not be fooled—gun control is rarely the end goal. It is often the starting point for broader, more pervasive state power.

Self-Defense is a Fundamental Right, Not a Crime

One of the most troubling themes in the Australian crackdown is the change in mindset: tools of self-defense are now seen as threats—even in the hands of law-abiding citizens. The government isn’t just removing weapons from criminals; they’re removing the right to defend oneself entirely.

At Fortress Firearms Training, we teach responsible firearm usage while empowering individuals to make informed decisions about their safety. Our training courses are rooted in principle and patriotism. We reject the escalating trend of demonizing those who choose to be prepared rather than helpless.

Anticipating What’s Next: Are American Freedoms at Risk?

If we aren’t vigilant, the same rhetoric being used in countries like Australia will creep into U.S. legislation. Banning one tool for self-defense sets the stage for banning others. We must combat the false narrative that restricting weapons equals increasing safety. In reality, the removal of legally owned weapons makes citizens more dependent on the state and less capable of defending their families.

Australia targets machetes after enforcing strict gun control laws. And if their public safety doesn’t improve after decades of bans, it’s clear the strategy is flawed, not your freedoms. Americans should use this moment to stand firm. We must engage in honest dialogue grounded in fact—not fear—and advocate for our constitutional rights while we still can.

What You Can Do:

• Educate yourself on the facts behind gun control and its long-term effects.
• Support local firearms training to ensure responsibility and readiness.
• Vote for leaders who respect the Constitution—not those looking to rewrite it.
• Engage with organizations like Fortress Firearms Training that are committed to the 2nd Amendment.

Protecting Liberty: One Training Session at a Time

Here in South Carolina, we’re blessed to have a rich legacy of personal freedom and self-defense. At Fortress Firearms Training, we are proud to be part of that tradition. Our mission is not just about helping people shoot better—it’s about building a culture of responsibility, freedom, and resilience at a time when all three are under attack. Australia targets machetes after enforcing strict gun control laws. Don’t let that be the future of America.

This is your call to action: get involved, get trained, and stay vigilant. The lessons from abroad are clear. When a government decides it knows what’s best for you—even in your own home—it’s not long before true freedom is replaced by “safety” mandates. Visit www.fftcwp.org to learn more about our comprehensive firearms training programs and how you can stand strong for your rights.

Freedom is never more than one generation away from extinction. Train today—defend tomorrow.