Effort continues to protect M1 Garands

In a little-noticed decision in March, the Obama administration reversed an earlier decision and moved to block the importation of 857,470 lawful M1 semi-automatic rifles which were being sold by South Korea in an effort to raise money for its military.

According to the State Department, this action was taken because the M1’s “could potentially be exploited… for illicit purposes.”

Even worse, a spokesman for the State Department left the impression that the valuable historic relics could possibly be melted down or otherwise destroyed.

Possession of these firearms by Americans is lawful, and purchasers would have to be approved through the Instant Check system.

Pro-gun Reps. John Boozman and Paul Broun wrote and are submitting a letter to Secretary of State Hillary Clinton urging that this unlawful decision be reversed.  Their letter, which can be viewed HERE, was cosigned by 66 additional Representatives.

GOA is also working with Senators John Cornyn (R-TX), Mike Enzi (R-WY) and Mike Johanns (R-NE) on a Senate letter to Secretary Clinton.