The Growing Threat to Second Amendment Freedoms

In our ongoing mission at Fortress Firearms Training in Fountain Inn, SC, we not only equip students with the skills to responsibly and effectively use firearms—we also keep a close eye on legislative moves that threaten our constitutional rights. The recent push by Michigan lawmakers to introduce stricter regulations on “ghost guns” and firearm sellers should raise alarms for every patriot who values the Second Amendment.

What’s At Stake?

According to a report by Michigan Public Radio, Michigan House Democrats have put forward a sweeping gun control package targeting so-called “ghost guns”—privately made firearms without serial numbers—as well as imposing new restrictions on private firearm sellers. Supporters claim it’s a necessary step for public safety. But we see it for what it really is: an assault on lawful gun ownership and a clear overstep by the government.

This type of legislation not only poses a serious risk to liberty, but it also stigmatizes responsible gun ownership and the very instructors—like us at Fortress Firearms Training—who are dedicated to teaching lawful citizens how to exercise their rights safely.

Understanding “Ghost Guns”

The term “ghost gun” is often used to dramatize a concept that’s been part of American tradition for centuries: building your own firearm for personal use. These homemade firearms are legal under federal law, provided the builder is not prohibited from owning a gun and the weapon stays for personal use.

Yet, Michigan lawmakers want to criminalize this age-old practice. They propose:

• Requiring registration and serialization of all homemade firearms
• Limiting the sale or possession of so-called “ghost gun kits”
• Enhanced penalties for individuals in possession of unregistered homemade guns

Legislation like this not only erodes personal freedom but also ignores a larger truth: Criminals don’t obey laws. Restricting homemade firearm assembly only harms law-abiding citizens. It does absolutely nothing to prevent someone with criminal intent from acquiring or building a weapon.

Impact on Firearm Sellers and Enthusiasts

The gun-control package further targets firearm sellers, proposing stricter regulations and increased criminal penalties for those who sell arms without a Federal Firearms License (FFL). While Fortress Firearms Training supports legal and ethical firearm sales, this law appears designed to intimidate private citizens engaging in lawful transfers, such as between family members or fellow enthusiasts.

These new constraints could severely throttle gun shows, local trading, and community networks that have long supported gun culture and responsible ownership. This also shines a light on the broader agenda many of these policies reflect: creating a government chokehold on who can own, build, or sell a firearm.

At Fortress Firearms Training, We Stand on Principle

We were founded on the belief that every law-abiding citizen has the right—and responsibility—to defend themselves. That includes having the knowledge and access to firearms. Our training courses in Fountain Inn emphasize:

• Constitutional Carry Education
• Safe Handling and Storage Techniques
• Firearms Law and Ethics Instruction
• Practical Defense Shooting Training

Attacks like the Michigan legislation highlight the urgency of educating and empowering more responsible firearm owners. We don’t just teach how to shoot—we teach why the right to bear arms exists and why we must protect it.

Let’s Address the Core Issue: Criminals, Not Guns

Advocates pushing these new restrictions claim it’s to reduce gun violence. But let’s be honest—no amount of regulation will stop a criminal from breaking the law. What truly reduces violence is:

• Enforcing existing laws
• Punishing repeat offenders with harsher penalties
• Supporting responsible gun ownership and self-defense

We see stories every year of legally armed citizens stopping would-be criminals and protecting communities before law enforcement could ever arrive. Yet, policies like these erode those very protections.

Keeping South Carolina Free

Although Michigan may seem far removed, such legislative actions have a way of rippling across state lines. At Fortress Firearms Training, we urge South Carolinians to remain vigilant. Today it’s Michigan. Tomorrow it could be Columbia.

Supporting pro-2A representatives and contributing meaningfully to local culture and politics is essential. The more we normalize responsible ownership, education, and training, the stronger our firewall against unconstitutional legislation becomes.

Why Training Matters Now More Than Ever

When government overreach threatens not just ownership but also basic knowledge of firearm safety and rights, it’s crucial that we step up. Our programs aim to build a strong foundation in:

• Legal Carry Laws in South Carolina
• Real-Life Defensive Scenarios
• Emergency Response Tactics

Firearm training isn’t just a hobby—it’s a civic responsibility. As legislation tightens in states like Michigan, it’s never been more important for citizens elsewhere to become well-informed, well-armed, and well-prepared.

Preparedness Over Panic

Rather than blindly accepting limiting policies under the guise of safety, we should focus on personal responsibility and education. The answer isn’t fewer guns—it’s smarter, better-trained gun owners. That’s our mission at Fortress Firearms Training.

We know the overwhelming majority of gun owners are responsible, law-abiding Americans who cherish their freedoms and embrace the responsibility they carry. When unelected bureaucrats and lawmakers infringe upon those values, it’s not only appropriate to push back—it’s essential.

Final Thoughts

The push in Michigan to restrict ghost guns and private sellers underlines a far more dangerous push: to dismantle the foundation of the Second Amendment piece by piece. At Fortress Firearms Training, we encourage our community to stay informed, stay prepared, and never back down from defending liberty. Don’t let short-term policies rob you of long-term freedom.

Visit Fortress Firearms Training today to learn more about how you can protect your rights through professional education and training.