Aftermarket Trigger Ruling Signals a Win for Gun Owners and Personal Freedom

In a move hailed by Second Amendment supporters and firearms enthusiasts across the nation, the Department of Justice has formally ended its enforcement of a controversial ban on the Rare Breed FRT-15 trigger—a decision that marks a clear stand for constitutional rights and pushes back against overreaching gun control policies.

The DOJ Reverses Course on Aftermarket Trigger Enforcement

The Rare Breed FRT-15 trigger first came under scrutiny by federal regulators back in 2021, when the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) classified the device as a machine gun under federal definitions. This kickstarted a multi-year legal battle, drawing a hard line between federal agencies and 2A advocacy groups fighting for lawful ownership rights.

Fast forward to March 2024, and the Department of Justice has now confirmed that it will not pursue criminal prosecutions or current enforcement actions involving the production or possession of the FRT-15 trigger. While many in the mainstream media and left-leaning policy circles expressed alarm—claiming public safety was at risk—those with a clear-eyed view of our constitutional liberties recognize this as a necessary check against regulatory overreach.

What This Means for Gun Owners and Instructors

Here at Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we see this revelation not just as a win for rare trigger owners, but as a much-needed reaffirmation of our rights guaranteed by the Second Amendment. When regulatory bodies can unilaterally redefine common accessories as “machine guns,” we all lose—not just collectors or competitive shooters, but every law-abiding citizen who takes self-defense, training, and freedom seriously.

This ruling opens doors for:

• New opportunities in firearms training with a broader range of trigger systems.
• Expanded technical education for students interested in understanding different firearm mechanisms.
• Solid legal precedence to push back against vague and discretionary federal rulings.

Why the Panic from Gun-Control Activists?

Predictably, gun-control proponents were quick to stoke fear, framing the decision as a threat to public safety. But these concerns betray a concerning trend: an unwavering belief in top-down regulation, with little regard for facts or citizens’ constitutional rights. The argument assumes that law-abiding Americans cannot be trusted with responsible ownership unless DC bureaucrats micromanage every accessory or attachment they choose.

According to the DOJ, the recent legal settlement with Rare Breed did not admit wrongdoing on either side, but it did conclusively end efforts by the ATF to enforce their flawed classification. While anti-gun advocates called this ruling “dangerous,” any honest observer can see that gun control efforts have repeatedly failed to address the root causes of gun violence—which are overwhelmingly tied to criminal misuse, not lawful ownership.

The Second Amendment Is Not Optional

Every time unelected regulators attempt to limit access to common firearm components, they test the boundaries of constitutional law and personal liberty. The recent DOJ decision is a critical reminder that the Second Amendment is not some vague guideline subject to bureaucratic whim. It’s a foundational right—one that we, as American citizens, must continue to defend.

This victory not only strengthens your ability to own and operate the firearms and components that best serve your needs but also underscores the importance of quality education and training. Understanding the differences between semi-automatic triggers, binary systems, and now-legal fast-reset triggers is crucial for any gun owner looking to train safely and effectively.

Why Firearms Education Matters Now More Than Ever

At Fortress Firearms Training, we believe responsible ownership starts with comprehensive and skill-driven education. As legal battles over firearm components ebb and flow depending on the current political climate, now is the time for Americans to double down on:

• Understanding firearm operation and safety protocols
• Learning the legal nuances of firearm component ownership
• Building advanced shooting skills in realistic environments

Our courses in Fountain Inn, SC are tailored to help you grow from casual gun owner to confident protector of your family and community. Whether you’re interested in concealed carry certification, tactical training, or personalized defensive shooting instruction, our experienced team is here to guide you every step of the way.

Stand Up, Train Up, and Speak Out

This recent development surrounding aftermarket triggers is a sharp reminder of what’s at stake when agencies interpret laws outside of legislative authority. And make no mistake, this won’t be the last attempt. That’s why it’s essential to remain vigilant—not only in the courtroom, but in our communities, in the training field, and at the ballot box.

More than ever, gun owners must reject false narratives that link legal firearm components with criminal behavior. We must push back against politically motivated fear campaigns that seek to erode our freedoms under the guise of safety. Being trained, prepared, and informed is our best response—and it’s exactly what you’ll find at Fortress Firearms Training.

Conclusion: A Well-Educated Citizenry Is the Best Defense

The decision by the DOJ to lift the ban on the FRT-15 aftermarket trigger is a commendable course correction. It’s time for politicians and bureaucrats to stop scapegoating gun accessories and start prioritizing honest discussions about safety, accountability, and rights. We at Fortress Firearms Training are proud to stand with fellow Americans who value liberty and choose to invest in quality firearms education.

If you’re ready to gain the skills, confidence, and legal knowledge needed to protect yourself and your loved ones, join us on the range. Visit https://www.fftcwp.org to sign up and learn more.