Too Good To Be True

Three industry pros talk about the trouble of counterfeit gun parts.

- Ken Perrotte

“Psst … Hey buddy, wanna buy a scope?”

Retail fraud in the firearms accessories sector is rampant, with respect for trademarks and patents seemingly nonexistent among product counterfeiters. Shady sellers want only to tap into customers’ wallets; shady “customers” cut into retailers’ bottom line by committing return fraud.

To listen to industry professionals, the worst scammers are akin to the cliché guys on the street who open a trench coat and flash a dozen “Fool-ex” knockoffs of Rolex watches. Only it’s fake optics, slings, AR components, and more being passed off as the real thing. 

The issue is multifaceted. First, there’s the ability and willingness of many production sources, mostly in China, to create knockoffs. This readiness to create counterfeits, though, is bolstered by unscrupulous people here in America willing to knowingly trade in them.

While United States Customs officials and other protection agencies catch millions of fakes destined for American markets, enough slip through to create genuine concern.

We talked with representatives from three major manufacturers about how counterfeits are affecting them and what they recommend for consumers wanting assurances they’re getting authentic goods.

MAGPUL 

Duane Liptak,Jr., is Magpul’s director of product management and marketing. He says counterfeiting of Magpul’s products is pervasive.