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SAF Champions Second Amendment Rights in Supreme Court Case
Bellevue, WA – On September 12, 2025, the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) took a significant step in defending gun ownership rights by filing an amicus brief urging the Supreme Court to review the pivotal case of Duncan v. Bonta. This case challenges California's legislation that prohibits the possession of magazines capable of holding more than 10 rounds of ammunition.
The SAF's position in the case is shared with influential partners such as the Second Amendment Law Center and Minnesota Gun Owners Caucus. Kostas Moros, Director of Legal Research and Education at SAF, expressed that the Ninth Circuit’s recent ruling diverges sharply from established precedents set by the Supreme Court, including prominent cases like Heller, Bruen, and Rahimi. He emphasized that the ruling incorrectly categorizes standard-capacity magazines not as "arms" protected under the Second Amendment, which he claims undermines the original intent and plain text of the constitutional amendment.
Understanding the Importance of Magazines in Self-Defense
By legally recognizing magazines as essential components of firearms, SAF asserts that they play a critical role in self-defense for many Americans. The brief points out that any government regulation regarding these magazines must be backed by historical precedent. However, as argued, no such tradition exists, particularly in relation to the types of firearms commonly owned today.
Moros criticized the Ninth Circuit for relying on generalized analogies from history, such as restrictions on bowie knives, while ignoring relevant historical examples like unrestricted 19th-century revolvers and repeating rifles. This selective historical interpretation raises concerns about the Ninth Circuit's dedication to interpreting the Second Amendment correctly.
The Broader Implications for Gun Owners
Alan M. Gottlieb, the founder and Executive Vice President of SAF, highlighted the case's significance in protecting the rights of millions of law-abiding gun owners across the nation. He stated, "This case goes to the heart of protecting commonly owned arms that millions of Americans rely on for self-defense, including standard-capacity magazines for handguns and rifles." The SAF’s engagement in writing amicus briefs and litigation aims to restore Second Amendment protections nationwide, advocating for the faithful application of the Supreme Court's precedents by lower courts.
As the Supreme Court considers whether to grant certiorari, the outcome of Duncan v. Bonta could shape the future of gun rights and the legality of many firearm accessories across the United States. Such a decision will likely resonate deeply with gun owners, policymakers, and legal analysts concerned with maintaining balance between governmental regulation and individual rights.
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