In a monumental move, the Department of Justice declares a long-standing gun mailing restriction unconstitutional, signaling a win for Second Amendment advocates.
Story Highlights
- DOJ declares 18 U.S.C. § 1715 unconstitutional, disrupting a century-old firearm mailing ban.
- The decision aligns with the 2022 Supreme Court ruling in *Bruen*, emphasizing historical tradition.
- USPS yet to update regulations, leaving firearm mailing policies unchanged for now.
- The ruling is seen as a major victory for gun rights advocates and Federal Firearms Licensees.
DOJ’s Landmark Decision on Gun Mailing Restrictions
On January 15, 2026, the Department of Justice’s Office of Legal Counsel (OLC) proclaimed that the 1927 statute, 18 U.S.C. § 1715, which prohibits the mailing of handguns through the U.S. Postal Service, is unconstitutional. This decision was influenced by the Supreme Court’s 2022 *Bruen* ruling, which mandates that firearm regulations adhere to historical traditions. The DOJ’s stance is that the ban infringes on Second Amendment rights by restricting lawful activities such as self-defense and hunting.
Implications for USPS and Gun Owners
Despite the DOJ’s declaration, the USPS has not yet modified its policies. Currently, USPS Publication 52 still classifies handguns as nonmailable, creating a legal gray area for Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) and private citizens. The DOJ’s opinion, while not legally binding, directs executive enforcement strategies, urging USPS to revise its regulations in line with this new interpretation. This presents a significant shift in how firearm commerce might be conducted in the future.
Reactions and Future Expectations
The DOJ’s opinion has been hailed as a significant victory by gun rights advocates and the NRA, who have long challenged shipping restrictions. However, without immediate regulatory changes from USPS, the practical impact remains limited. This development is expected to be a precursor to further legal challenges and possible changes in USPS operations, potentially easing barriers for lawful gun owners and businesses.
DOJ Declares Longstanding Gun Restriction Is Unconstitutional and Cannot Be Enforced https://t.co/TlC1Bpokk7 #gatewaypundit via @gatewaypundit
— Greg S (@greg207) January 17, 2026
The broader implications of this decision could see increased accessibility for rural hunters and self-defense proponents, fostering firearm commerce. Yet, it also raises concerns about mail security. As the debate continues, stakeholders will closely monitor USPS’s response and any subsequent legal developments that may follow.
Sources:
DOJ Says USPS Handgun Mailing Ban Is Unconstitutional
DOJ Says the Ban on Mailing Handguns is Unconstitutional
Wyomingites Cheer Potential Reversal of Ban on Mailing Guns
