This investigation was started on January 31, 1955, when the Federal Bureau of Investigation was asked to investigate manufacturing of rifle scopes and mounts by sportsmen's shops. Several sellers advertised the items in sports magazines and by companies contacted. Some of the sellers were advertising the items at cut rate prices, which violated the Sherman Antitrust Act. Seven of the individuals and magazine companies were charged with price fixing, as they would not allow anyone other than their companies and the individuals to sell and/or advertise in their magazines. The National Rifle Association was required to register as a lobbing group with the House of Representatives.
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