Several firearms-focused YouTube channels are choosing to leave the platform due to increased restrictions on gun-related content. YouTube’s new rules ban content that shows the removal of firearm safety devices, limits access to videos featuring automatic weapons, and restricts links to gun retailers. These changes have prompted concern among creators in the GunTube community who rely on YouTube for views and sponsorships. Some channels with large followings have already announced their departure to platforms with looser rules like Rumble.
Gun-related channels on YouTube often generate revenue through sponsorships and ad revenue. The platform’s crackdown on promotional links could impact the income of these creators, prompting a shift to alternative platforms. Some creators have criticized YouTube’s censorship and unclear rules, while others have expressed concern about the impact on their ability to create content full-time.
YouTube has stated that it periodically updates its policies to reflect the current content landscape and consults with outside experts to ensure its guidelines are appropriate. Advocacy groups like Everytown for Gun Safety support stricter regulations on gun-related content and underscore the responsibility of platforms like YouTube to enforce their rules.
Some gun channels, like Hickok45, with millions of subscribers, have opted to comply with YouTube’s new rules to stay on the platform due to its large reach compared to competitors. The tension between YouTube and the GunTube community highlights the challenges faced by creators in niche content areas subject to platform regulations.
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