What Colorado Gets Wrong About Gun Safety

In a sweeping move that reflects the growing push for firearms restrictions across left-leaning states, Colorado Governor Jared Polis recently signed into law a series of bills designed to impose more limitations on law-abiding gun owners. The motivation behind these regulations is couched in the language of “safety” and “violence prevention,” but once again, the burden falls disproportionately on responsible gun owners rather than criminals who disregard laws in the first place.

At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we believe strongly in preserving our Second Amendment rights. We also believe that gun safety comes from education, responsible ownership, and proper training—not from government overreach or legislative fearmongering.

Colorado’s New Restrictions: A Misguided Approach

Colorado’s newly passed laws include several deeply flawed measures:

• Raising the legal age for firearm purchases to 21
• Introducing a three-day waiting period before buying a gun
• Expanding the state’s red flag law to allow more individuals to request a gun seizure
• Removing broad liability protections from firearm manufacturers

Supporters of these laws argue they will reduce gun violence. Yet, virtually every data point shows that those who commit violent crimes with guns are rarely the individuals impacted by legal restrictions. Instead, these policies limit the freedoms of responsible citizens—and worse, set a troubling precedent for other states.

A Direct Attack on Constitutional Rights

Instead of focusing on the root causes of violence—mental health, lack of community support, and personal accountability—Colorado’s lawmakers have decided to blame the tool, not the criminal. This increasing red tape doesn’t make the streets safer; it makes the path to self-protection more difficult for everyday Americans.

Consider the three-day waiting period: a delay that could be fatal in situations where an individual is threatened and needs immediate means of protection. The right to keep and bear arms isn’t a political privilege—it’s a constitutional right that was put in place precisely to safeguard citizens, not put them in harm’s way based on arbitrary timelines.

The Red Flag Expansion: A Slippery Slope of Subjectivity

Perhaps one of the most concerning changes is the expansion of red flag laws. This piece of legislation opens the door for nearly anyone—including teachers, doctors, and roommates—to report a gun owner as a danger, allowing the state to confiscate firearms without due process. It’s a dangerously subjective law that can be abused based on personal biases, political disagreements, or even simple misunderstandings.

At Fortress Firearms Training, we teach our students not only how to handle their firearms responsibly but also how to be mentally prepared for ownership. That’s the kind of education that prevents tragedy—not empowering bureaucrats to make assumptions about one’s mental state or intentions.

Why Training Matters More Than Legislation

In South Carolina, where the Constitution is still respected, we see far better outcomes thanks to a focus on empowering citizens rather than victimizing them. At Fortress Firearms Training, we prioritize:

• Comprehensive concealed carry classes that adhere to state training guidelines
• Education on legal use of force and situational awareness
• Practice sessions focusing on marksmanship and safe handling
• Family and youth-friendly firearm safety courses

Training like this actually reduces accidents and misuse. Unlike the policies passed in Colorado, our approach doesn’t restrict rights—it strengthens responsibility.

Firearm Manufacturers Under Fire

The move to remove liability protections from gun manufacturers is nothing more than political scapegoating. The equivalent would be holding car companies liable for drunk drivers or knife makers responsible for domestic stabbings. This is not about justice—it’s about blaming inanimate objects and lawful businesses for societal failures.

Holding gun makers legally responsible for misuse sets a dangerous precedent. If lawsuits begin to mount, it could drive legitimate manufacturers out of the market, limiting choices for law-abiding citizens and concentrating power into fewer hands—a scenario ripe for government interference.

SC Gun Owners: Stay Vigilant and Trained

As more radical anti-gun legislation sweeps through states like Colorado, freedom-loving Americans must stay vigilant. While South Carolina remains a state that respects our constitutional rights, the political pressure from national groups continues to mount.

This is why continued education and training are more important than ever. At Fortress Firearms Training, we don’t just show you how to shoot—we show you how to think, how to prepare, and how to act responsibly under pressure.

Our students range from new gun owners exploring their Second Amendment rights for the first time to seasoned shooters looking to sharpen their skills. What unites them is a belief in self-reliance, lawfulness, and the enduring value of freedom through preparedness.

Conclusion: Don’t Let Colorado’s Policies Take Root Elsewhere

Colorado’s misguided efforts, as shown in their recent legislative package, hurt law-abiding citizens far more than they deter crime. These laws are a warning bell. They reveal a philosophy that sees government control as more important than personal liberty. If we don’t stand up and speak out, this tide of overregulation could reach us all.

Let Colorado serve as a reminder of the importance of local action, education, and awareness in defending our rights. At Fortress Firearms Training, we’re doing our part every day—through hands-on education, respect for the Constitution, and training that empowers citizens instead of disarming them.

Remember: Safety doesn’t come from restriction—it comes from responsibility. Make the right choice. Train, prepare, and defend your rights before someone else decides they no longer belong to you.