In a bold act of defiance ahead of a statewide ban, Surplus Provisions, a military surplus store in Warwick, Rhode Island, made headlines for giving away free firearms, including three AR-15 rifles, just days before a new gun law takes effect. The giveaway, part of the store’s celebration of its expansion into firearms sales, has sparked a wave of controversy and support, particularly as Rhode Island’s Governor Dan McKee signed a bill into law that restricts the sale and transfer of semi-automatic firearms, including AR-15s.
A Bold Giveaway to Celebrate a New Venture
According to WPRI 12 News reporter Sarah Bawden, Surplus Provisions, which has primarily been known for its military surplus gear, decided to mark its first foray into the firearms market with an ambitious giveaway. On the morning of June 27, 2025, the store launched its “Locked and Loaded Launch,” where they gave away six firearms, including AR-15s, shotguns, and revolvers.
Tonya Pereira, the store’s owner, announced on social media that the first person in line received a free AR-15, while the second received a shotgun, and the third walked away with a revolver. In addition to the free firearms, the first 50 customers were entered into a raffle for another AR-15, and anyone wearing Surplus Provisions gear had the chance to win a free pistol. The store also hosted a shooting competition, with the best shot receiving yet another firearm.
Community Reaction: A Celebration Turned Controversial
As the event unfolded, it quickly became clear that the giveaway was more than just a local store promotion. It became a form of resistance against the new legislation set to take effect on July 1, 2026. While some Rhode Islanders voiced support for the store’s decision, there were others who expressed concern that such a giveaway might be illegal or encourage irresponsible gun ownership.
A Deliberate Act of Defiance
Liberty Doll, a well-known YouTuber who discusses Second Amendment issues, weighed in on the situation, describing how Surplus Provisions’ giveaway was not just an ordinary store promotion, but a deliberate act of defiance against the state’s assault weapons ban.
As Liberty Doll pointed out in her video, Rhode Island’s new law will restrict the sale, transfer, and manufacture of semi-automatic firearms, including AR-15 rifles, and will make it nearly impossible to purchase these firearms legally after 2026. She also noted that the legislation was deeply unpopular with many gun owners, as it included provisions like a mandatory registration of already-owned firearms, which she likened to a form of gun confiscation.
The New Rhode Island Gun Ban: A Controversial Move
The new legislation, signed into law by Governor McKee, prohibits the sale of “assault weapons,” which are broadly defined as semi-automatic rifles with detachable magazines and certain features such as pistol grips. The law also includes harsh penalties for those who attempt to transfer these firearms without following the new registration process, including fines and jail time.
Liberty Doll criticized the law as being overly restrictive and ineffective. She pointed out that Rhode Island has higher rates of drunk driving fatalities than homicides, yet the state continues to focus on gun control rather than addressing other pressing issues. “We don’t see anyone banning alcohol,” she remarked sarcastically, highlighting what she sees as misplaced priorities in the new law.
Surplus Provisions’ Defiance: A Call for Resistance
Pereira’s public opposition to the bill has been a key element of the store’s promotion. Prior to the bill’s passage, she attended several hearings and actively campaigned against the legislation. As Sarah Bawden’s report reveals, the store’s giveaway was a direct challenge to the new law, and it garnered significant attention both locally and nationally.
Pereira expressed her dissatisfaction with the restrictions and stated that the event was her way of “standing up” against what she viewed as an unjust law that trampled on the rights of gun owners.
An Atmosphere of Camaraderie
The giveaway, paired with the raffles and competitions, created an atmosphere of camaraderie and solidarity among gun enthusiasts in the area. People lined up as early as Wednesday, days before the event, to ensure they didn’t miss out on the chance to win a firearm. The excitement around the event was palpable, with many locals showing up in support of Surplus Provisions’ stand against the new law.
The Law’s Impact on Gun Shops and Local Businesses
One significant consequence of the new law is its potential impact on local gun shops. Surplus Provisions, like many other Federal Firearm Licensees (FFLs), could face financial difficulties once the ban takes full effect. As Liberty Doll pointed out, many gun shops in states with similar bans have closed down or been forced to scale back their operations due to the restrictions on semi-automatic rifles.
However, Surplus Provisions, being a military surplus store, might have a better chance of weathering the storm compared to other specialized gun retailers. Pereira has expressed hope that the store’s military surplus background will allow it to continue thriving, even as the firearms market in Rhode Island faces stricter controls.
The Potential for Legal Challenges
The passage of the ban has spurred discussions among gun rights groups in Rhode Island, many of whom have vowed to challenge the law in court. As Liberty Doll noted, these groups have constitutional grounds for their opposition, citing Supreme Court decisions like Heller and Bruen, which have affirmed the individual right to own firearms.
Despite this, Liberty Doll acknowledged that it may take time before these legal challenges result in meaningful change, especially considering the political climate in many states that support such restrictive measures.
Rhode Island’s Growing Gun Rights Community
The reaction to the giveaway also sheds light on the growing gun rights community in Rhode Island. While traditionally seen as a liberal state with strong anti-gun sentiment, Rhode Island’s gun owners have become more vocal in recent years, particularly in response to increasing restrictions on firearm ownership.
The support for Surplus Provisions’ event appears to reflect a shift in attitudes, with more Rhode Islanders speaking out against the new law. Liberty Doll noted that the community’s response has been overwhelmingly positive, with only a few negative comments from people who were unaware of the legalities of firearm giveaways. This shows that despite Rhode Island’s small size, there is a strong and passionate base of Second Amendment supporters in the state.
What Lies Ahead for Gun Owners in Rhode Island?
Looking ahead, it’s clear that the battle over gun rights in Rhode Island is far from over. While the new law takes effect in 2026, its potential consequences are already being felt in the local community. Gun rights groups will continue to challenge the legislation, and it is possible that future legal decisions could overturn or modify some of the provisions in the law.
However, in the meantime, Surplus Provisions and its supporters will likely continue to advocate for gun rights, using events like the giveaway to raise awareness and galvanize opposition to the law. It remains to be seen how the state’s gun laws will evolve, but one thing is certain: Rhode Island’s gun owners are not backing down.
A Show of Resistance
The giveaway at Surplus Provisions in Warwick, Rhode Island, was more than just a promotional event – it was a statement. In defiance of the upcoming assault weapons ban, the store’s actions have sparked both praise and controversy, shedding light on the growing resistance to gun control measures in the state. With local gun rights groups already preparing for legal challenges, it’s clear that the fight for Second Amendment rights in Rhode Island is far from over.
Movement Gaining Momentum
As the state’s gun laws become more restrictive, it’s important to remember that such actions are not isolated. The movement against excessive gun control is gaining momentum across the country, and Rhode Island is just one battleground in this ongoing struggle. Surplus Provisions’ bold giveaway serves as a reminder that even in the face of adversity, gun owners will continue to stand up for their rights.
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.
