Washington state’s latest gun control effort is a ban on so-called “high-capacity” magazines. It was overturned briefly in recent days, and gun owners converged on a local shop to replenish their supply of these firearm accessories.
Last week a Cowlitz County judge ruled that the ban on these magazines was unconstitutional. This brought a quick appeal by Attorney General Bob Ferguson to keep the Washington anti-gun statute effective.
But there was a silver lining for gun rights supporters in a 90-minute window. The magazines were rendered legal once again, and a gun shop owner reported that his business sold hundreds before the state Supreme Court granted an emergency stay.
Wally Wentz is the proprietor of Gator’s Custom Guns, located in Kelso. He is one of the plaintiffs who challenged Washington’s prohibition on these popular magazines, and he took advantage of the small window.
An off day was scheduled, but Wentz wisely opened his shop and welcomed customers happy about the opportunity. What he encountered was a deluge of shoppers asking what he had in his inventory and how many they could purchase.
One questioned, “Is there a limit?” He simply replied, “What’s the limit on your gold card?”
The owner of a Washington gun store sold hundreds of high-capacity magazines during the hour-and-a-half in which he could sell them before the ban was put back in place. pic.twitter.com/iXxyrJGbAB
— The Post Millennial (@TPostMillennial) April 15, 2024
Wentz reported that he welcomed hundreds of enthusiasts who converged on his business and sold hundreds of magazines during the 90-minute window.
The statewide ban is still in effect — as of now. A hearing is scheduled this week on the prohibition and emergency stay.
AG Ferguson issued the standard gun control mantra that magazine bans save lives and prevent mass shootings. This is widely countered by Second Amendment advocates who prefer to focus on stopping violent criminals and treating mental health disorders.
The fight against the latest infringement on Second Amendment rights will not end even with an appeals court loss. “If we do lose in there, we’re going to appeal — just like we knew the state would appeal this week. If we get to those folks in black dresses, it’s going to be a dogfight.”
Wentz said state actions caused him to shed between 30-40% of his gun store’s business. He declared his willingness to pursue justice as high as the Supreme Court.
