In 1988, the bill was defeated in the House by 36 votes. Last year, House Speaker Thomas Foley blocked the bill from the floor, and a second vote.

Supporters said this year they have Foley's assurances of a floor vote, which they expect before Memorial Day.

A Senate fight still looms. ''Right now it's an uphill battle. After this endorsement, that could change,'' said Sen. Paul Simon, D-Ill.

Gun control opponents, meanwhile, minimized the impact of Reagan's endorsement.

''It seems he doesn't understand how the bill will operate,'' said Larry Pratt, executive director of the Gun Owners of America.