ATF’s Post Fails as Fatal Errors Go Unaddressed
The ATF’s Social Media Post Sparks Controversy Over Firearm Safety
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives (ATF) is facing intense criticism for a recent social media post that highlights a concerning lack of firearm safety within the agency.
In the post shared by the ATF’s Houston Field Division, agents are seen at a gun range accompanied by guests from the local United States Attorneys’ Offices.
However, instead of promoting responsible gun handling, the post immediately drew attention to the glaring mistakes made by the supposed experts in the field.
One particularly alarming aspect of the post is the display of parts and firearms that are typically restricted from public ownership. These dangerous items were carelessly laid out, resembling children’s toys, in direct violation of the fundamental rule of gun safety: “Treat every firearm as if it’s loaded and ready to fire.”
To see the ATF’s post and identify the most egregious example of firearm safety negligence, follow the link here.
The ATF Austin Office out on the range today with special guests from our local U.S. Attorneys’ Offices. pic.twitter.com/568GrEEHLG
— ATF Houston (@ATFHou) July 19, 2023
If you take a closer look at the photo, you’ll notice a man in the foreground who, despite wearing an ATF-tagged ballistic plate carrier, has left a part of his body exposed. What’s even more concerning is that an MP 40 submachine gun on the table is pointed directly at his unprotected pelvis.
It’s important to understand that the MP 40 is a German-designed firearm known for its use by the Third Reich during World War II. This particular weapon operates on an open bolt system, meaning the bolt is held back until the trigger is pulled. This outdated design poses significant risks, as a simple part failure can cause the bolt to move forward, potentially chambering and firing a round instantly.
While it’s unclear if the firearm in the photo is an automatic open-bolt MP 40, other items on the table, such as an apparent Glock “switch” for converting a semi-automatic pistol to fully automatic, suggest that the situation is indeed dangerous.
Regardless of the specifics, having a firearm pointed at one’s pelvis is a grave safety violation. The pelvis is a critical area housing vital body systems and arteries, making any injury in this region potentially fatal. It’s safe to say that no one would want their day ruined by a gunshot wound in this area.
Although some may argue that the firearm was cleared by an expert and the magazine is removed, it’s undeniable that the golden rule of firearm safety is being disregarded here. Even if the man is affiliated with the ATF, his gear and role remain unclear. The ATF cannot escape responsibility, as their agents should have been acting as range safety officers or ensuring the presence of one to prevent deadly mistakes and safety oversights.
Unfortunately, it seems that not a single person noticed the blatant disregard for firearm safety captured in the photo. This ignorance was unwittingly documented and shared, much to the amusement of the American public.
That would get you thrown out of most ranges.
— Kevin Miller (@ReelKevinMiller) July 21, 2023
you idiots are in charge of policing our firearms???
— Abby Libby (@abbythelibb_) July 21, 2023
As usual, law enforcement is exempt from gun laws. I’m seeing multiple felonies in one picture, not to mention violation of the most basic safety procedures.
— TimmerMcGraw, CFI (@TimmerMcGraw) July 20, 2023
While ordinary Americans would face severe legal consequences for possessing many of the items displayed on the table, it appears that the ATF, supposedly the experts in the field, will continue to handle these deadly devices without proper regard for safety.
Hopefully, the ATF will learn some valuable lessons in gun safety sooner rather than later.
The post ATF Post Backfires After People Notice Deadly Mistakes Being Openly Ignored appeared first on The Western Journal.
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