2 If By Sea Tactical Weekly News Round Up Week of 5/3/26

The firearm world never slows down, and this past week proved that once again. From massive spikes in gun sales to new state-level restrictions, major policy shifts under the Trump administration, and even religious leaders weighing in on Minnesota politics, there has been no shortage of developments impacting gun owners across the country.

As always, here at 2 If By Sea Tactical, we believe it is important to cut through the noise and focus on what these stories actually mean for lawful Americans and the future of the Second Amendment.

Gun Sales Hit 1.19 Million in April — Virginia Surges 79 Percent

Americans are still buying firearms at a staggering pace. According to newly released background check data tied to firearm sales, April saw approximately 1.19 million firearms sold nationwide. While national numbers remain strong overall, one state stood out above the rest: Virginia.

Virginia reportedly experienced a shocking 79 percent increase in firearm sales compared to previous periods, and many believe the spike is directly connected to looming gun control legislation expected to move forward in the state.

This trend has become increasingly common across the country. Whenever aggressive firearm restrictions are proposed, gun sales often surge as Americans rush to purchase firearms before new regulations potentially take effect. We saw it during the Biden administration. We saw it during state-level “assault weapon” ban pushes. Now we are seeing it again in Virginia as they push their own gun control agenda.

What this tells us is simple. Americans do not trust politicians to stop at “reasonable restrictions.” Many citizens view these laws as steppingstones toward broader bans and heavier government control over lawful ownership. The reality is that uncertainty drives demand. Gun owners understand that rights lost are often difficult to regain.

Connecticut Sneaks Late-Night ‘Glock’ Ban Into Law

Meanwhile, Connecticut lawmakers are once again pushing the boundaries of firearm restrictions. In a move drawing significant backlash from Second Amendment advocates, state lawmakers reportedly pushed through a late-night measure targeting certain Glock-related firearm components and configurations.

This move is intentionally deceptive. Lawmakers used vague language and rushed procedures to avoid broader public scrutiny. This type of legislative maneuver has become increasingly common in anti-gun states.

Instead of openly debating sweeping firearm restrictions in daylight, lawmakers frequently bury firearm provisions inside larger bills, push votes late at night, or rely on confusing terminology to avoid public attention until after legislation passes.

For lawful firearm owners, the concern extends far beyond Glock pistols themselves. The broader fear is that states continue expanding restrictions piece by piece until commonly owned firearms and accessories become functionally impossible to own legally.

It also reinforces another growing divide in America. While some states continue embracing constitutional carry and expanding gun rights, others are aggressively moving in the opposite direction. That divide is only becoming more obvious with each passing year.

Trump Administration Expands Hunting Access on Federal Lands

In a major win for outdoorsmen, hunters, and conservation-minded Americans, the Trump administration is reportedly lifting restrictions on hunting across certain national parks, wildlife refuges, and wilderness areas.

The policy shift is being celebrated by many conservation groups and pro-2A organizations who argue that responsible hunting remains one of the most important wildlife management tools in the country. For many Americans, hunting is not simply a hobby. It is tradition, conservation, food sourcing, and a core part of rural American culture.

Over the years, sportsmen have increasingly pushed back against efforts to restrict access to public lands. Many hunters argue that federal lands belong to the American people and should remain accessible for lawful outdoor recreation including hunting, fishing, and shooting sports.

This move also highlights a philosophical contrast between administrations. While previous federal policies often focused on tighter environmental restrictions and access limitations, the Trump administration appears to be moving toward expanding public use rights and reducing federal barriers. For many gun owners and outdoorsmen, that is a welcome shift.

Trump DOJ Looks to Change USPS Handgun Shipping Rules

Another major development involves the United States Postal Service and handgun shipping regulations. The Trump Department of Justice is reportedly exploring changes to long-standing USPS rules that currently restrict the mailing of handguns by ordinary citizens. Existing federal law largely limits handgun mailing through USPS to licensed firearm dealers and certain authorized entities.

The DOJ’s reported position raises constitutional questions about whether the federal government can continue restricting lawful firearm transportation in this manner. We have long argued that many firearm-related shipping restrictions unnecessarily burden lawful ownership while doing little to impact criminal activity. Wea re among the supporters of potential reform believing that easing these rules could simplify legal firearm transfers, repairs, and shipping for ordinary Americans.

Of course we see our opponents, however, already warning that loosening restrictions could create safety concerns or increase illegal trafficking risks. As with many firearm policy debates, the core issue comes down to a familiar question. Should lawful gun owners face additional barriers because criminals may abuse the system anyway? That debate is likely far from over.

Archbishop Hebda Sends Letter to Governor Walz and Minnesota Legislative Leaders

Here in Minnesota, another major development came from an unexpected direction. Archbishop Bernard Hebda recently sent a letter to Governor Tim Walz (D) and legislative leaders addressing concerns surrounding state policy issues and the broader political climate. While much of the discussion centers around social concerns and public safety, the timing comes as Minnesota lawmakers continue debating additional firearm-related proposals and restrictions.

Minnesota has increasingly become a battleground state in the fight over gun rights. Between proposed permit changes, storage laws, expanded restrictions, and local pushes for additional regulations, many gun owners throughout the state feel growing pressure from anti-gun activists and politicians.

At the same time, opposition to those efforts remains strong, especially in Greater Minnesota and among rural communities that continue viewing firearm ownership as a normal and constitutionally protected part of life.

The involvement of religious leaders also highlights something larger happening across America. Firearm debates are no longer isolated political issues. They increasingly intersect with broader conversations surrounding public safety, morality, government authority, self-defense, and individual liberty.

Minnesota remains deeply divided politically, and it does not appear those divisions will cool anytime soon.

Final Thoughts

This week’s headlines reinforce something we continue saying regularly at 2 If By Sea Tactical. The battle over the Second Amendment is happening on every level simultaneously.

It is happening federally through DOJ policy changes and public land access decisions. It is happening at the state level through restrictions in places like Connecticut and Virginia. And it is happening locally right here in Minnesota as lawmakers, activists, and community leaders continue fighting over the future of firearm rights.

Despite constant pressure from anti-gun organizations, Americans continue purchasing firearms in massive numbers. Hunting culture remains strong. Gun owners remain engaged. And millions of lawful citizens continue refusing to surrender rights that they believe are constitutionally protected.

That conversation is not ending anytime soon.

Here at 2 If By Sea Tactical we strive to bring you the best experience in the firearms world.  As we continue to grow the media arm of 2 If By Sea, make sure you keep tuning in to our Youtube and Rumble channels and right here at “The Patriot’s Almanac” to stay informed on the latest happenings in the firearm world! But we are not lawyers, so this isn't legal guidance. We are proud to be Southern Minnesota source for all things 2A.

Stay sharp, stay informed, and stay ready.