Indiana Court’s Decision Undermines Second Amendment Freedoms

The Troubling Trend of Judicial Overreach in Gun Rights

In a ruling that has raised major red flags among Second Amendment advocates, the Indiana Court of Appeals recently upheld a lower court’s decision stating that the Second Amendment “does not apply to machine guns.” This is a disturbing development for law-abiding citizens and firearms trainers nationwide—especially for those of us here in South Carolina who value both constitutional freedoms and responsible gun ownership.

At Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we believe the right to keep and bear arms is non-negotiable. It’s more than a legal entitlement—it’s a fundamental human right that serves as a last line of defense against tyranny. Sadly, courts in other states are increasingly willing to chip away at these rights, hiding behind arbitrary interpretations and broad generalizations.

The Dangerous Implications of the Indiana Decision

The Indiana appellate court ruled that a 46-year-old man convicted of owning a modified AR-15—adjusted to fire automatically—could be lawfully charged due to longstanding federal firearm restrictions. The court leaned heavily on the idea that machine guns were “dangerous and unusual” and therefore not protected under the Second Amendment.

Let’s break this down. The court drew directly from a 2008 Supreme Court decision, District of Columbia v. Heller, in which the language “dangerous and unusual” was included. However, that language was meant to safeguard against weapons not commonly found in civilian hands—not functionally modified firearms that, in many cases, share mechanical similarities with semi-automatics already in lawful circulation.

This ruling sets a dangerous precedent—one that could have ripple effects across the country, including down here in South Carolina. If courts can arbitrarily decide that certain guns are “unusual,” what’s to stop them from labeling your home defense shotgun or hunting rifle the same way next?

Weaponizing Legal Loopholes

The appellant, Michael Thompson, was originally convicted in 2022 for illegal possession of a machine gun. The gun in question was an AR-15 that had been modified using a “drop-in auto sear,” making it capable of fully automatic fire. Yes, under current federal law, this modification classifies the weapon as a machine gun—and federal registration requirements are strict. But instead of challenging the federal law, which is already problematic in its own right, the court took things a step further by suggesting that the Constitution itself offers no protection for such ownership.

This is not simply a debate about firearms technology. It’s a broader ideological struggle over whether the Constitution still means what it says. And when courts start picking and choosing which rights are upheld based on public fears or political pressure, we inch closer to the disarmament of lawful citizens under the guise of “public safety.”

Who is Safer When the Public is Unarmed?

The core issue here is not whether machine guns should be more readily available—although that’s a legitimate debate—it’s whether the government can redefine constitutional protections based on subjective criteria. Remember, the Second Amendment doesn’t specify which arms; it says, “the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” That’s a clear, plain-text promise—not a suggestion open for reinterpretation every time a new legislative body feels uncomfortable with citizens owning powerful tools of self-defense.

Here in South Carolina, we understand that good training and responsible ownership are the keys to safe communities. That’s exactly what we teach at Fortress Firearms Training. Our programs empower citizens to act confidently in defense of self, family, and community.

Our training courses promote:

• Safe firearm handling and storage
• Effective marksmanship and situational awareness
• Legal knowledge concerning gun ownership rights and responsibilities

By turning legal firearm owners into well-trained defenders, we give Americans the tools they need not just to survive—but to stand up against tyranny, criminal threats, and bureaucratic overreach.

Time to Push Back

This kind of ruling isn’t just happening in courts—it’s moving through legislation, executive orders, and federal agencies that overstep their constitutional bounds. It’s time for everyday Americans to become vocal, educated, and prepared.

We’re proud to be part of that fight through training, education, and community outreach. At Fortress Firearms Training, we are unapologetically pro-Second Amendment and firmly believe that the right to bear arms is a safeguard for all other freedoms. Efforts to curtail that right—like those happening in Indiana—must be met with informed resistance and civic engagement.

Here are actions you can take today:

• Get trained. Even if you own a firearm, regular practice and professional instruction are crucial.
• Stay informed. Follow legal developments in your state concerning firearms legislation.
• Vote your values. Never elect politicians who support stripping you of your constitutional rights.
• Support pro-2A organizations. Whether through donations or active participation, your voice matters.

Let’s Defend Our Rights—Together

The Indiana court ruling is a reminder: the battle for the Second Amendment is far from over. Courts and lawmakers won’t stop until we make it clear that our rights are not up for negotiation.

At Fortress Firearms Training, we’re doing our part to ensure South Carolinians are always ready—legally, mentally, and technically—to stand firm against the tide of infringement. Whether it’s a concealed carry permit, tactical training, or home defense readiness, we’re here to make you a more prepared American citizen.

Visit us anytime at fftcwp.org to enroll in a course or learn more about how you can be part of the movement that keeps freedom alive.

Your rights are only protected if you are willing to defend them. Don’t wait until it’s too late.