Walmart discontinues assault-style rifle sales, raises firearm purchase age to 21

(KMSP) - Following a similar policy change from Dick's Sporting Goods chain Wednesday, Walmart is discontinuing sales of all assault-style rifles, including airsoft guns and other toys resembling the items.

It's also raising the minimum age to buy firearms or ammunition to 21.

The retail giant made its announcement in a press release Wednesday afternoon, saying, "In light of recent events, we've taken an opportunity to review our policy on firearm sales."

In the release, Walmart said it already goes beyond federal law in requiring anyone purchasing a gun to pass a background check, and prohibits the sale of bump stocks, high-capacity magazines and similar firearm accessories in its stores. 

Walmart discontinued its sale of the AR-15 and similar guns nearly three years ago, and only sells handguns in Alaska. 

"Our heritage as a company has always been in serving sportsmen and hunters, and we will continue to do so in a responsible way," the release reads.