New Illinois gun bill aims at glock switches; critics say it misses the real problem

(The Center Square) – A proposed Illinois measure aimed at handguns that can be modified for automatic fire is drawing criticism from gun rights advocates who say the legislation would do little to curb violent crime while restricting lawful gun owners.

Supporters say the bill targets devices known as “Glock switches” that can convert a semi-automatic handgun into a fully automatic firearm. But Guns Save Life Executive Director John Boch said the proposal effectively singles out firearms made by Glock, one of the most widely owned handgun brands.

“There’s only a handful of handgun models that can be modified with one of these devices. Glock is the preeminent one,” Boch told The Center Square. “Criminals like them for the same reason that good guys like them, because they’re effective tools, not because they have some sort of d...