Under a proposed law currently being debated in the Montana Legislature, “firearms, weapons components and ammunition made in Montana and kept in Montana would be exempt from federal regulation, potentially releasing some Montanans from national gun registration and licensing laws,” The Missoulian reported. “The legislation could also free gun purchasers in the state from background checks.”
“Firearms are inextricably linked to the history and culture of Montana, and I'd like to support that,” said Republican Rep. Joel Boniek, the bill's sponsor. “But I want to point out that the issue here is not about firearms. It's about state rights.”
Those rights could very well be reviewed in a federal court of law, as the “Made in Montana” bill was “intentionally drafted to draw the feds into court,” over the issues of mandatory gun background checks and various licensing requirements. At the same time, argued the bill’s proponents, the measure could jump-start a thriving firearms industry in the Big Sky State.
The Montana House has passed the bill, and the Senate is expected to do likewise.
Why You Can Trust Gun Digest
Since 1944, Gun Digest has been a trusted authority on firearms, shooting and shooting gear, delivering expert firearms reviews backed by nearly a century of experience. We go beyond standard reviews, combining hands-on independent gun testing, in-depth research, and expert insights from industry professionals and manufacturers.
Our reviewers are the bedrock of our testing and come from a comprehensive cross section of the shooting world. Their diverse backgrounds include law enforcement professionals, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and life-long firearms enthusiasts. In addition to being firearm experts, we are also thorough journalists adhering to the strictest standards of the profession.
For our readers, this means objective, unbiased reviews, free from outside influence. Our priority is to provide the information you need to make informed decisions—whether a firearm or piece of gear is a must-have investment or one to pass on.
Find out more about our Editorial Standards and Evaluation Process
