Rise Of Illegal Gun Conversion Devices Fuels Gun Violence

A handgun frame that has been printed on a 3D printer is held for a photograph at the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF), National Services Center, Thursday, March 2, 2023, in

An alarming trend of illegal gun conversions to fully automatic weapons is contributing to a surge in gun violence in communities across the United States. These conversions, facilitated by devices such as Glock switches, auto sears, and chips, have enabled individuals to transform legal semi-automatic firearms into highly dangerous machine guns.

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) reported a 570% increase in the number of conversion devices collected by police departments between 2017 and 2021. These devices, which can be produced using 3D printers or purchased online for as little as $30, are quick to install and modify the gun's machinery to fire at a rapid rate.

ATF reported a 570% rise in conversion devices collected by police from 2017 to 2021.

Illegal gun conversions using devices like Glock switches are increasing gun violence.

Conversion devices can be easily produced or purchased online for as little as $30.

Police departments have seized these devices in cities like Indianapolis multiple times a week.

Converted weapons can fire up to 800 bullets per minute, posing a serious risk.

Efforts are being made to update laws to prohibit these conversion devices.

Illegal gun conversions have led to tragic incidents, including mass shootings.

States lack specific regulations against these devices, making enforcement challenging.

Issac Davis advocates against gun violence after losing his son in a shooting incident.

Police departments have seized these conversion devices in cities like Indianapolis, where they were found multiple times a week. The devices have been linked to several tragic incidents, including mass shootings that resulted in multiple fatalities.

Law enforcement officials have highlighted the danger posed by these converted weapons, which can fire up to 800 bullets per minute and are difficult to control, leading to unintended victims in shooting incidents. Despite being illegal under federal law, many states lack specific regulations against these devices.

Efforts are being made to address this issue, with some states updating their laws to include prohibitions on conversion devices. However, the widespread availability of these devices online and their inconspicuous appearance make them challenging for law enforcement to detect.

The impact of gun violence fueled by illegal conversions is devastating for families and communities, as seen in tragic incidents like the shooting that claimed the life of 11-year-old Domonic Davis. His father, Issac Davis, is determined to honor his son's memory by advocating against gun violence through the foundation 'For Every Eleven.'

As authorities work to combat the proliferation of illegal gun conversions, the need for comprehensive legislation and enforcement measures to address this growing threat remains critical.