Colo. firearm company in spotlight over gun debate

ERIE, Colo. (AP) — A Colorado company that manufactures firearm accessories has stepped into the spotlight over the gun control debate as state lawmakers consider limiting ammunition magazines.

Officials at Erie-based Magpul Industries have told legislators they will leave the state if the pass a bill to ban magazines that hold more than 15 rounds.

Lawmakers have tried to ease Magpul’s concerns by amending the proposal to specify the company can still manufacture magazines of any size, but they could only sell them out of state or to law enforcement and the military.

Company officials argue the limits on magazine sizes won’t prevent violence but will cause legal uncertainty for their business.

The company has largely been operated largely unnoticed since 1999. The firearm accessories they sell are used by gun enthusiasts, the military and law enforcement.