Gun Rights Advocates Clash Over HPA

Gun rights advocates across the country have rallied for years behind the Hearing Protection Act (HPA), a bill that would remove firearm suppressors from the National Firearms Act (NFA). But now, a surprising twist has emerged: the resistance isn’t just coming from anti-gun lawmakers – it’s coming from within. According to William, host of Copper Jacket TV, and Jared Yanis of Guns & Gadgets, at least two major figures on the pro-gun side are working behind the scenes to stall the bill’s progress.

What the Hearing Protection Act Actually Does

The Hearing Protection Act is a simple yet significant bill. It would completely deregulate suppressors by removing them from the NFA. That means no more $200 tax stamp, no background checks or fingerprinting, no year-long waits, and, importantly for many, no federal registry of suppressor owners. As William explained in his Copper Jacket TV video, “It’s about ending unnecessary restrictions and protecting people’s hearing – plain and simple.”

David Kustoff: The Unexpected Obstacle

Surprisingly, one of the individuals allegedly blocking the HPA is Representative David Kustoff, a Republican from Tennessee. Both William and Jared report that Kustoff is pushing an alternative bill that would reduce the suppressor tax stamp from $200 to just $5. While that might sound like a win, critics argue it leaves the worst parts of the NFA in place – namely the registry, fingerprinting, and extensive delays. “We’re this close to dismantling the NFA,” said Jared Yanis. “Why stop now for a $5 discount on tyranny?”

Registry Remains the Real Issue

Suppressor advocates aren’t simply focused on cost – they’re focused on freedom. William, who lived in California for over 40 years, said his concern isn’t the fee. It’s the surveillance. “I’ve been on a registry. I don’t want to be on another one,” he said. For him, moving to Nevada offered a chance at legal suppressor ownership without the strings. “We’re not just asking for a better deal – we’re asking for our rights back,” he emphasized.

Chris Cox: Former NRA Leader, Now Lobbyist

Even more surprising to many in the 2A community is the second name tied to the HPA’s delay: Chris Cox, former head of the NRA-ILA. According to both William and Jared, Cox is now a lobbyist with a firm called Capital 6 Advisors and is reportedly lobbying against the Hearing Protection Act, in favor of the $5 tax stamp model. This revelation has sparked backlash, with many questioning why a longtime pro-gun figure would oppose full deregulation.

Who’s Paying the Lobbyists?

One of the more puzzling aspects of the situation is the money trail. As William pointed out, lobbying isn’t free. “Nobody does this stuff out of the goodness of their heart,” he said. So who’s paying Cox to support partial regulation over total deregulation? The theory from both hosts is that it might be pro-gun industry players, perhaps those with a financial interest in keeping suppressors under the NFA. But so far, no hard evidence has surfaced. “It raises a lot of questions,” William admitted.

NRA’s Position: Support for the HPA

Adding to the confusion is the fact that the NRA-ILA, Cox’s former organization, publicly supports the Hearing Protection Act. As William stated, studies show that 70% to 80% of hunters don’t use any hearing protection, and that a single shot from a high-powered rifle can cause permanent damage. Suppressors, which reduce noise but don’t eliminate it, are seen as essential safety tools. The NRA believes full deregulation will increase access and protect more hearing in the field.

Jared’s Call to Action: “Light Up the Phones”

In his Guns & Gadgets broadcast, Jared Yanis didn’t mince words. He called on viewers to contact Rep. David Kustoff and Ways and Means Committee Chair Jason Smith, urging them to stop blocking the HPA. Jared provided phone numbers and told his audience to call repeatedly, even on the weekend. “Don’t be rude,” he warned, “but be firm. This isn’t the time to be quiet.” He also encouraged people to reach out on social media, tagging lawmakers and influential figures like Pam Bondi and Donald Trump.

When Allies Become Roadblocks

It’s not uncommon in politics to face opposition from the other side. But it’s deeply frustrating for gun owners to see people who claim to support the Second Amendment become obstacles. Both William and Jared agree: a $5 tax stamp isn’t a compromise – it’s a trap. It gives the illusion of freedom while keeping the most invasive parts of the NFA intact. “You’re still on a registry. You’re still treated like a criminal for wanting to protect your ears,” said Jared.

Why This Fight Feels Different

This moment feels critical because, as both hosts mentioned, this is the closest gun rights activists have ever come to removing a major portion of the NFA. Suppressors are widely misunderstood by the public and often wrongly associated with crime. But in countries like New Zealand and Norway, they’re considered normal shooting accessories. The HPA has a real shot at success – but only if advocates hold their ground and refuse to accept half-measures.

A Closing Window of Opportunity

Jared warned that the window is closing fast. “This is our shot,” he said. “If we let it go now, who knows when we’ll get another one.” Both William and Jared believe the only way forward is for everyday Americans to step up – call Congress, write letters, make noise. “Lobbyists are making their voices heard. It’s time we do the same,” William concluded. And with momentum building, they’re urging the gun rights community to finish the job.

Deregulation or Distraction?

The Hearing Protection Act has become a flashpoint not just between gun owners and the federal government, but among gun rights advocates themselves. The core issue is simple: Do suppressors belong in the same category as machine guns and short-barreled rifles? Most say no. The louder question now is: Will internal politics and quiet lobbying kill the bill before it ever gets to a vote? If supporters stay silent, it just might. But if they speak up, the HPA could finally deliver the freedom so many have waited for.