The share of American households owning at least one firearm has remained relatively steady since 1972, hovering between 37 percent and 47 percent. In 2023, about 42 percent of U.S. households had at least one gun in their possession.

Additional information on firearms in the United States

Firearms command a higher degree of cultural significance in the United States than any other country in the world. Since the inclusion of the right to bear arms in the second amendment to the constitution of the United States, firearms have held symbolic power beyond their already obvious material power. Despite many Americans being proud gun-owners, a large movement exists within the country in opposition to the freedom afforded to those in possession of these potentially deadly weapons.

Those opposed to current gun regulation have sourced their anger from the large number of deaths due to firearms in the country, as well as the high frequency of gun violence apparent in comparison the other developed countries. Furthermore, the United States has fallen victim to a number of mass shootings in the last two decades most of which have raised questions over the ease at which a person can obtain a firearm. Although this movement holds a significant position in the public political discourse of the United States, meaningful change in regards to the legislation dictating the ownership of firearms has not occurred. Critics have pointed to the influence possessed by the National Rifle Association through their lobbying of public officials. The National Rifle Association also lobby for the interests of firearm manufacturing in the United States which has continued to rise since a fall in the early 2000s.

Texas was the state with the highest number of registered weapons in the United States in 2021, with 1,006,555 firearms. Rhode Island, on the other hand, had the least, with 4,887 registered firearms.

Gun laws in the United States

Gun ownership in the U.S. is protected by the 2nd Amendment of the Constitution, which allows citizens to own firearms and form a militia if necessary.

Outside of the 2nd Amendment, gun laws in the U.S. vary from state to state, and gun owners are subject to the laws of the state they are currently in, not necessarily the state they live in. For example, if concealed carry is allowed in a gun owner’s state of residence, but not in the state they are travelling in, the owner is subject to the law of the state they are travelling in.

Civilian-owned firearms

The United States is estimated to have the highest rate of civilian-owned firearms in the world, and more than double that of Yemen, which has the second-highest gun ownership rate. Unfortunately, along with high gun ownership rates comes a higher number of homicides by firearm, which was about 10,258 homicides in 2019.

The statistic shows the percentage of population in the United States owning one or more firearms in 2017, by region. In 2017, about 36 percent of the respondents living in the South owned a gun personally.

State-level firearm suicide proxy (FSS) for household gun ownership 1949-2023. Unlike most gun prevalence measures that are representative at the national or regional level, this proxy represents household gun ownership trends at the state level and is not reliant on self-reported data that are prone to social desirability bias. This extended proxy represents the longest-ranging dataset of state-level gun ownership rates to date. This dataset also includes historic data on firearm homicide and homicide counts and rates per 100,000 residents.

In the United States, gun laws vary from one state to the next; whether residents need a permit or a background check to purchase a firearm, whether residents must undergo firearm training before making this purchase, and whether residents can openly carry their guns in public is dependent upon state legislation. As of 2024, 22 U.S. states required background checks and/or permits for the purchase of a handgun. A further 13 states had regulations on openly carrying firearms in public, however, only California, Connecticut, Florida, and Illinois had completely prohibited open carry for all firearms. In comparison, Maryland, New Jersey, and New York prohibited open carry for handguns but either did not have regulations in place or required a permit for other types of guns. A constitutional right The Second Amendment of the Constitution, which states that citizens have the right to bear arms, has made it difficult for any gun control legislation to be passed on a national level in the United States. As a result, gun control laws in the U.S. are state-based, and often differ based on political perspectives. States with strong gun laws in place, such as Massachusetts, generally experience less gun violence, however, some states with strong gun laws, such as Maryland, continue to face high rates of gun violence, which has largely been attributed to gun trafficking activity found throughout the nation. A culture of gun owners In comparison to other high-income countries with stricter gun control laws, the United States has the highest gun homicide rate at 4.38 gun homicides per 100,000 residents. However, despite increasing evidence that easy access to firearms, whether legal or illegal, encourages higher rates of gun violence, the United States continues to foster an environment in which owning a firearm is seen as a personal freedom. Almost half of U.S. households have reported owning at least one firearm and 43 percent of registered voters in the U.S. were found to believe that it was more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns, compared to 23 percent who said it was more important to limit gun ownership.

Introduction: Firearm legality and ownership have been contentious topics in American culture, due to the well-documented, yet preventable, health and safety risks. States vary in the amount of firearm ownership, as well as firearm mortality and injury rates. Objectives: The primary aim of this project is to compare two states, New Jersey and Texas, on the likelihood of firearm violence occurring to each state's citizens. The variables of gun ownership, firearm mortalities, and firearm injuries are compared and visualized to understand if living in one state is safer than living in the other. Methods: Data analysis focused on connecting and comparing the two states with variables pointing to firearm safety/danger. Line graphs compare the two states and firearm injuries and mortalities over a sixteen-year period as well as number of firearms per state. Scatterplots show a correlation, if any, between number of firearms and injuries/mortalities in the two states. Results: Texas had a consistently higher mortality rate by firearms (excluding suicides) for each year of the seventeen years. Texas also led in firearm injuries from the years 2000-2010, 2012, and 2014-2016, but not in 2011 and 2013. New Jersey consistently has a lower mortality rate (3.5 and under per 100,000) and lower gun ownership (.11 and under per household). Texas’ data has both a higher mortality rate (between 3.8 and 4.8 per 100,000) and a higher gun ownership rate (.34 to .40 per household). With a few exceptions from the years 2011 and 2013, the state data points are clustered to show the relationship between gun ownership and firearm injuries to be high/high for Texas and low/low for New Jersey. Conclusions: From the years 2000-2016 it is, on average, 20% less likely that one will be injured by a firearm and 30% less likely that one will be killed by a firearm if one were to live in New Jersey instead of Texas, causing the conclusion that it is safer to live in New Jersey than in Texas.

The United States is ranked first in gun possession globally and is among the countries suffering the most from firearm violence. Several aspects of the US firearm ecosystem have been detailed over the years, mostly focusing on nation- or state-level phenomena. Systematic, high-resolution studies that compare US cities are largely lacking, leaving several questions open. For example, how does firearm violence vary with the population size of a US city? Are guns more prevalent and accessible in larger cities? In search of answers to these questions, we apply urban scaling theory, which has been instrumental in understanding the present and future of urbanization for the past 15 years. We collate a dataset about firearm violence, accessibility and ownership in 929 cities, ranging from 10,000 to 20,000,000 people. We discover superlinear scaling of firearm violence (measured through the incidence of firearm homicides and armed robberies) and sublinear scaling of both firearm ownership (inferred from the percentage of suicides that are committed with firearm) and firearm accessibility (measured as the prevalence of federal firearm-selling licenses). To investigate the mechanism underlying the US firearm ecosystem, we establish a novel information-theoretic methodology that infers associations from the variance of urban features about scaling laws. We unveil influence of violence and firearm accessibility on firearm ownership, which we model through a Cobb–Douglas function. Such an influence suggests that self-protection could be a critical driver of firearm ownership in US cities, whose extent is moderated by access to firearms.

According to a survey conducted in the United States in 2023, Americans aged 55 years old and above were more likely to personally own a gun than their counterparts in other age groups. At this time, ** percent of Americans aged 55 years old and over personally owned a firearm, compared to ** percent of those aged 18 to 34 years old, and ** percent of those aged between 35 and 54 years old.

The online gun trust market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand for streamlined legal firearm ownership solutions. The market's expansion is fueled by several factors, including the rising popularity of firearms, evolving legal landscapes surrounding gun ownership, and the convenience and accessibility offered by digital platforms. Consumers, particularly regular gun owners, hunters, and competitive shooters, are increasingly seeking the simplicity and cost-effectiveness of online gun trust creation services, eliminating the need for extensive consultations with lawyers. This shift is evident in the rise of companies specializing in providing online gun trust creation services, such as WealthCounsel, STANDARD LEGAL, and Gun Trust USA, among others. While precise market sizing data was not provided, a conservative estimate based on the growth of related legal tech sectors and the expanding firearm ownership market suggests a current market value (2025) of approximately $200 million USD. Considering a reasonable CAGR (Compound Annual Growth Rate) of 15% for the next decade (2025-2033), this translates to a projected market value exceeding $700 million by 2033. The North American market, particularly the United States, currently dominates the online gun trust market due to higher firearm ownership rates and a more complex legal environment. However, increasing firearm ownership and stricter regulations in other regions like Europe and parts of Asia-Pacific indicate potential for substantial future growth in these markets as well. While the market faces potential restraints such as concerns about legal complexities and the need for robust security measures to protect sensitive client information, the inherent convenience and affordability of online platforms are anticipated to overcome these challenges. Market segmentation reveals a significant portion of the market comes from individuals contracting with lawyers for trust creation, highlighting a need for robust, accurate, and legally sound online services that cater to various user skill sets and technical comfort levels. The future growth will likely be shaped by ongoing technological improvements, expanded service offerings (e.g., legal consultations, insurance integration), and a continued focus on user-friendly platforms that meet the evolving needs of gun owners seeking responsible and compliant firearm ownership.

The firearms trust market, encompassing online gun trusts, legal services, and related products, is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand for responsible firearm ownership and legal protection. The market, estimated at $500 million in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12% from 2025 to 2033, reaching approximately $1.5 billion by 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Firstly, heightened awareness of legal complexities surrounding firearm ownership, particularly in the context of inheritance and liability, is prompting more individuals to establish firearm trusts. Secondly, the rise of online platforms offering streamlined trust creation services caters to the increasing preference for digital convenience. Thirdly, diverse customer segments, including regular gun owners, hunters, and competitive shooters, contribute to market diversification. The market is segmented by application (Regular Gun Owner, Hunter, Competition Shooters) and type of trust (Online Gun Trusts, Trust Lawyers). Competition among established legal firms and specialized online providers ensures a dynamic market landscape. While regulatory changes and potential legal challenges represent potential restraints, the overall market outlook remains positive, anticipating continued growth driven by evolving consumer preferences and the expanding market for firearms accessories and services. The North American market, particularly the United States, currently dominates the global firearms trust market, reflecting the high rate of firearm ownership and the complex legal frameworks surrounding it. However, growing awareness and changing regulations in other regions, such as Europe and parts of Asia-Pacific, are creating opportunities for market expansion. Specific regional growth will be influenced by local legal frameworks, gun ownership regulations, and the accessibility of online and traditional legal services. Companies offering comprehensive services, combining online platforms with legal expertise, are well-positioned to capture significant market share. The future of the firearms trust market hinges on a confluence of factors: evolving legal landscapes, technological advancements in trust creation and management, and changing consumer preferences for streamlined, secure, and legally sound solutions for firearm ownership.

The Division of Criminal Justice Services (DCJS) collects crime reports from more than 500 New York State police and sheriffs’ departments. DCJS compiles these reports as New York’s official crime statistics and submits them to the FBI under the National Uniform Crime Reporting (UCR) Program. UCR uses standard offense definitions to count crime in localities across America regardless of variations in crime laws from state to state. In New York State, law enforcement agencies use the UCR system to report their monthly crime totals to DCJS. The UCR reporting system collects information on seven crimes classified as Index offenses which are most commonly used to gauge overall crime volume. These include the violent crimes of murder/non-negligent manslaughter, forcible rape, robbery, and aggravated assault; and the property crimes of burglary, larceny, and motor vehicle theft. Firearm counts are derived from taking the number of violent crimes which involve a firearm. Population data are provided every year by the FBI, based on US Census information. Police agencies may experience reporting problems that preclude accurate or complete reporting. The counts represent only crimes reported to the police but not total crimes that occurred. DCJS posts preliminary data in the spring and final data in the fall.

This statistic illustrates the estimated rate of civilian-owned firearms per 100 residents in 2017, by country. In that year, there were an estimated 120.5 civilian-owned firearms per 100 residents in the United States.

The civilian self-defense rifle market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing concerns about personal safety and home security. This demand is further fueled by factors such as rising crime rates in certain regions, political instability in some areas, and a growing preference for self-reliance among consumers. The market is segmented by rifle type (light, standard, heavy) and application (hunting, shooting sports, self-defense), with the self-defense application segment exhibiting particularly strong growth. Considering the provided data and industry trends, we can reasonably estimate the 2025 market size to be approximately $2.5 billion USD, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 6% projected through 2033. This signifies a substantial market expansion and significant investment opportunities within the sector. This growth is not uniform across all regions. North America, particularly the United States, currently holds the largest market share due to high gun ownership rates and a strong culture of self-defense. However, increasing demand is observed in other regions as well, particularly in countries experiencing social or political instability. Europe and Asia-Pacific markets are projected to see notable growth, driven by factors such as increased awareness of personal safety and the rising popularity of shooting sports. The market's growth, however, faces certain restraints including stricter gun control regulations in some countries and rising manufacturing costs. This necessitates manufacturers to focus on innovative designs, enhanced features, and efficient supply chain management to navigate these challenges and capitalize on emerging opportunities.

Wall Gun Safes Market Outlook

The global wall gun safes market size was valued at approximately USD 320 million in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 540 million by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.0% during the forecast period. The growth of this market is largely driven by increasing concerns about firearm safety and a growing preference for secure and concealed storage solutions.

One of the primary growth factors for the wall gun safes market is the rising awareness regarding firearm safety. With increasing incidences of gun-related accidents and thefts, both residential and commercial entities are prioritizing the secure storage of firearms. This awareness has led to a surge in demand for reliable and tamper-proof storage solutions such as wall gun safes. Additionally, as gun ownership rates rise in several regions, the need for safe storage options has become a critical issue, further propelling market growth.

Advancements in technology are another significant driver of market growth. Modern wall gun safes now come equipped with biometric, electronic, and mechanical locking systems that offer enhanced security features. Biometric safes, in particular, have gained popularity due to their ease of use and high level of security. The integration of smart technologies, such as remote access and monitoring, has made these safes more user-friendly and secure, thereby attracting a wider consumer base.

The regulatory landscape also plays a crucial role in market expansion. Stricter laws and regulations regarding firearm storage in numerous countries have mandated the use of secure storage solutions. For instance, in the United States, several states have enacted laws requiring gun owners to store firearms securely, especially in households with children. These regulatory requirements are pushing consumers towards purchasing wall gun safes, thereby driving market growth. Moreover, insurance companies are increasingly offering discounts on premiums for homes equipped with certified gun safes, providing an additional incentive for consumers.

Safe and Arm Devices play a crucial role in enhancing the security features of wall gun safes. These devices are designed to ensure that firearms are not only stored securely but also remain in a state that prevents accidental discharge. By integrating Safe and Arm Devices, manufacturers can offer an additional layer of safety, which is particularly important in households with children or inexperienced gun handlers. These devices often include mechanisms that require specific actions to arm or disarm the firearm, thereby reducing the risk of accidental firing. As technology advances, the incorporation of such safety features is becoming more sophisticated, offering peace of mind to gun owners who prioritize safety in their storage solutions.

Regional outlook of the wall gun safes market indicates a varied growth pattern across different areas. North America holds a significant share of the market, driven by high rates of gun ownership and stringent storage regulations. Europe is also experiencing steady growth, with countries like Germany and the United Kingdom emphasizing safe storage practices. Meanwhile, the Asia Pacific region is emerging as a lucrative market due to increasing disposable incomes and growing awareness about home security. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa are also showing potential, albeit at a slower pace, driven by rising security concerns and regulatory changes.

Type Analysis

The wall gun safes market can be segmented by type into biometric, electronic, and mechanical safes. Each type offers distinct features and caters to different consumer preferences and needs. Biometric wall gun safes are gaining traction due to their advanced technology and high security. These safes use fingerprint recognition to grant access, making them virtually tamper-proof. The convenience of quick access combined with enhanced security features makes biometric safes a preferred choice for many consumers. The integration of smart technology, such as remote monitoring and control via smartphones, further adds to their appeal.

Electronic wall gun safes are another popular segment, known for their reliability and ease of use. These safes typically use keypads for entry, allowing for programmable access codes. One of the advantages of electronic safes is their affordability compared to biometric options, making them accessible to a

Compact Carry Gun Market Outlook

The global compact carry gun market size was valued at approximately USD 2.5 billion in 2023 and is expected to reach around USD 4.7 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 6.7% during the forecast period. This market growth is driven by increasing concerns about personal safety and security, advancements in firearm technology, and a rise in the issuance of concealed carry permits.

One of the critical growth factors for the compact carry gun market is the increasing need for personal protection. With rising crime rates and a growing sense of insecurity globally, individuals are seeking means to protect themselves and their families. This has led to an increase in the demand for compact carry guns, which are easier to conceal and carry, making them an attractive option for personal protection. Additionally, the proliferation of social media and news coverage of violent incidents has heightened public awareness and concern, further driving demand for personal defense weapons.

Technological advancements in firearms have also played a significant role in the market expansion. Innovations such as polymer frames, improved ergonomics, advanced sighting systems, and enhanced reliability have made compact carry guns more user-friendly and efficient. Manufacturers are continuously investing in research and development to produce lighter, more accurate, and durable firearms. These enhancements not only cater to the needs of individual consumers but also attract law enforcement and military personnel who require reliable and efficient weapons.

The increasing issuance of concealed carry permits is another crucial factor driving the compact carry gun market. Many governments, particularly in the United States, have relaxed regulations surrounding gun ownership and the issuance of concealed carry permits. This policy shift has led to a significant increase in the number of legally armed civilians, further fueling the demand for compact carry guns. Countries with stringent gun laws have also seen a rise in demand due to the perceived need for self-defense amidst growing urbanization and socio-political unrest.

In addition to these technological advancements, the market for compact carry guns is also influenced by the growing interest in shooting sports, such as Sports Pistol competitions. These events require participants to use precision and skill, often with firearms that are compact and easy to handle. The popularity of such sports not only promotes responsible gun ownership but also encourages manufacturers to develop firearms that are both high-performing and suitable for competitive use. As a result, many compact carry guns are designed with features that appeal to sports enthusiasts, including improved accuracy, customizable grips, and enhanced sighting systems. This intersection of personal protection and recreational shooting contributes to the overall growth and diversification of the market.

Regionally, North America holds the largest share of the compact carry gun market, primarily due to the high prevalence of gun ownership and favorable regulatory frameworks. The United States, in particular, has the highest number of guns per capita, which significantly contributes to the market's growth. Europe and Asia Pacific are also emerging as lucrative markets due to increasing civilian interest in personal protection and rising defense budgets. Latin America and the Middle East & Africa, while smaller in market size, are experiencing gradual growth driven by increasing security concerns and government initiatives to strengthen defense capabilities.

Type Analysis

The compact carry gun market is segmented into semi-automatic and revolver types, each catering to different consumer preferences and use cases. Semi-automatic compact carry guns are highly favored for their larger ammunition capacity and quicker reload times compared to revolvers. This segment is witnessing substantial growth due to advancements in firearm technology that have made semi-automatics more reliable and easier to use, even for novice gun owners. The ease of use and higher firing rate make semi-automatic guns particularly attractive for personal protection and law enforcement applications.

Revolvers, while not as prevalent as semi-automatic guns, still maintain a significant market share. Known for their simplicity, reliability, and ease of maintenance, revolvers are favored b

Gun Rebuild Kit Market Outlook

The global market size for gun rebuild kits was valued at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023, and it is projected to reach around USD 3.5 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 12.5% during the forecast period. This notable growth can be attributed to several factors, including increasing demand for firearm customization, rising interest in do-it-yourself (DIY) projects among gun enthusiasts, and the growing need for regular maintenance and repair of firearms.

One of the primary growth factors for the gun rebuild kit market is the increasing popularity of firearm customization. Gun owners are continually looking for ways to personalize their weapons to meet specific aesthetic or functional preferences. Customized firearms not only have a unique visual appeal but also can be tailored for performance enhancements. Gun rebuild kits offer a convenient and cost-effective solution for firearm owners to modify their existing guns without purchasing new ones. This demand for customization is particularly strong in the United States, where a significant portion of the population owns firearms and takes pride in their personalized firearm collections.

Another significant driver of the market is the rising interest in DIY firearm maintenance and repair. Gun rebuild kits provide all the necessary components and instructions for gun owners to disassemble, clean, repair, and reassemble their firearms. This trend aligns with the broader DIY culture that has been growing across various sectors, including automotive and home improvement. The increasing availability of online tutorials and resources further supports this trend, empowering gun owners to perform maintenance tasks themselves. This not only offers cost savings but also ensures that firearms are well-maintained and in optimal working condition.

The demand for gun rebuild kits is also driven by the necessity for regular firearm maintenance and repair, particularly among law enforcement and military personnel. Firearms used in these sectors undergo significant wear and tear, necessitating frequent maintenance to ensure reliability and safety. Gun rebuild kits provide a standardized and efficient way to replace worn-out parts and extend the lifespan of firearms. Additionally, the growing global defense budgets and modernization programs are likely to fuel the demand for rebuild kits in the military sector, further contributing to market growth.

Geographically, North America holds the largest share of the gun rebuild kit market, driven by high firearm ownership rates and a strong culture of firearm customization and maintenance. However, other regions, such as Europe and Asia Pacific, are also witnessing growth due to increasing awareness about firearm maintenance and the adoption of gun rebuild kits among civilian gun owners and law enforcement agencies. The market in Asia Pacific is expected to grow at the highest CAGR during the forecast period, fueled by rising defense spending and modernization initiatives in countries like China and India.

Product Type Analysis

The gun rebuild kit market is segmented by product type into handgun rebuild kits, rifle rebuild kits, shotgun rebuild kits, and others. Handgun rebuild kits are among the most popular segment due to the widespread use of handguns for personal defense, law enforcement, and recreational shooting. These kits typically include components such as springs, pins, and replacement parts specific to various handgun models. With the growing trend of concealed carry permits and increasing personal defense awareness, the demand for handgun rebuild kits is expected to remain strong.

Rifle rebuild kits are another significant segment, catering to a wide range of firearms, including hunting rifles, tactical rifles, and sporting rifles. These kits often contain parts such as barrels, bolts, and trigger assemblies, which are crucial for maintaining the performance and accuracy of rifles. The popularity of rifle shooting sports, such as competitive shooting and hunting, drives the demand for these kits. Additionally, rifles are commonly used by military and law enforcement agencies, further bolstering the market for rifle rebuild kits.

Shotgun rebuild kits serve a niche yet important market segment. Shotguns are widely used for hunting, sport shooting, and home defense. Maintaining the reliability of a shotgun is essential for these applications, and rebuild kits provide the necessary components to ensure smooth operation. These kits may include elements such as extractors, f

This study examined spatial and temporal features of crime guns in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, in order to ascertain how gun availability affected criminal behavior among youth, whether the effects differed between young adults and juveniles, and whether that relationship changed over time. Rather than investigating the general prevalence of guns, this study focused only on those firearms used in the commission of crimes. Crime guns were defined specifically as those used in murders, assaults, robberies, weapons offenses, and drug offenses. The emphasis of the project was on the attributes of crime guns and those who possess them, the geographic sources of those guns, the distribution of crime guns over neighborhoods in a city, and the relationship between the prevalence of crime guns and the incidence of homicide. Data for Part 1, Traced Guns Data, came from the City of Pittsburgh Bureau of Police. Gun trace data provided a detailed view of crime guns recovered by police during a two-year period, from 1995 to 1997. These data identified the original source of each crime gun (first sale to a non-FFL, i.e., a person not holding a Federal Firearms License) as well as attributes of the gun and the person possessing the gun at the time of the precipitating crime, and the ZIP-code location where the gun was recovered. For Part 2, Crime Laboratory Data, data were gathered from the local county crime laboratory on guns submitted by Pittsburgh police for forensic testing. These data were from 1993 to 1998 and provided a longer time series for examining changes in crime guns over time than the data in Part 1. In Parts 3 and 4, Stolen Guns by ZIP-Code Data and Stolen Guns by Census Tract Data, data on stolen guns came from the local police. These data included the attributes of the guns and residential neighborhoods of owners. Part 3 contains data from 1987 to 1996 organized by ZIP code, whereas Part 4 contains data from 1993 to 1996 organized by census tract. Part 5, Shots Fired Data, contains the final indicator of crime gun prevalence for this study, which was 911 calls of incidents involving shots fired. These data provided vital information on both the geographic location and timing of these incidents. Shots-fired incidents not only captured varying levels of access to crime guns, but also variations in the willingness to actually use crime guns in a criminal manner. Part 6, Homicide Data, contains homicide data for the city of Pittsburgh from 1990 to 1995. These data were used to examine the relationship between varying levels of crime gun prevalence and levels of homicide, especially youth homicide, in the same city. Part 7, Pilot Mapping Application, is a pilot application illustrating the potential uses of mapping tools in police investigations of crime guns traced back to original point of sale. NTC. It consists of two ArcView 3.1 project files and 90 supporting data and mapping files. Variables in Part 1 include date of manufacture and sale of the crime gun, weapon type, gun model, caliber, firing mechanism, dealer location (ZIP code and state), recovery date and location (ZIP code and state), age and state of residence of purchaser and possessor, and possessor role. Part 2 also contains gun type and model, as well as gun make, precipitating offense, police zone submitting the gun, and year the gun was submitted to the crime lab. Variables in Parts 3 and 4 include month and year the gun was stolen, gun type, make, and caliber, and owner residence. Residence locations are limited to owner ZIP code in Part 3, and 1990 Census tract number and neighborhood name in Part 4. Part 5 contains the date, time, census tract and police zone of 911 calls relating to shots fired. Part 6 contains the date and census tract of the homicide incident, drug involvement, gang involvement, weapon, and victim and offender ages. Data in Part 7 include state, county, and ZIP code of traced guns, population figures, and counts of crime guns recovered at various geographic locations (states, counties, and ZIP codes) where the traced guns first originated in sales by an FFL to a non-FFL individual. Data for individual guns are not provided in Part 7.

This statistic shows the share of household that own a firearm in the United States in 2017, by proximity to urban centers. In 2017, 46 percent of Americans living in rural areas personally owned a firearm.

In the United States, Black people have higher rates of gun homicide than White people across all age groups. As of 2022, gun homicide rates were highest among Black people aged between 15 and 24 years, at 63.78 gun homicides per 100,000 of the population. In comparison, there were only 2.58 gun homicides per 100,000 of the White population within this age range. However, the risk for gun homicide was greatest among all adolescents and adults between the ages of 15 to 44 in that year. The impact of guns on young Americans In the last few years, firearms have become the leading cause of death for American children and teenagers aged one to 19 years old, accounting for more deaths than car crashes and diseases. School shootings also remain on the rise recently, with the U.S. recording 57 times as many school shootings than other high-income nations from 2009 to 2018. Black students in particular experience a disproportionately high number of school shootings relative to their population, and K-12 teachers at schools made up mostly of students of color are more likely to report feeling afraid that they or their students would be a victim of attack or harm. The right to bear arms Despite increasingly high rates of gun-related violence, gun ownership remains a significant part of American culture, largely due to the fact that the right to bear arms is written into the U.S. Constitution. Although firearms are the most common murder weapon used in the U.S., accounting for approximately 15,000 homicides in 2022, almost half of American households have at least one firearm in their possession. Consequently, it is evident that firearms remain easily accessible nationwide, even though gun laws may vary from state to state. However, the topic of gun control still causes political controversy, as the majority of Republicans agree that it is more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns, while Democrats are more inclined to believe that it is more important to limit gun ownership.

The global gun sound suppressor market, valued at $388 million in 2025, is projected to experience robust growth, driven by a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 5.8% from 2025 to 2033. This expansion is fueled by several key factors. Increased demand from law enforcement and military agencies for enhanced hearing protection and reduced signature operations is a significant driver. Furthermore, the rising popularity of recreational shooting sports, coupled with a growing awareness of hearing safety among enthusiasts, contributes to increased suppressor adoption. Technological advancements leading to lighter, more efficient, and versatile suppressors are further stimulating market growth. Segmentation reveals rifle silencers hold the largest market share, followed by pistol silencers, reflecting the prevalence of these firearm types. North America, particularly the United States, currently dominates the market due to higher gun ownership rates and relaxed regulations in certain states compared to other regions. However, growing awareness of hearing conservation and the increasing adoption of suppressors in other regions, notably Europe and Asia Pacific, are anticipated to diversify the market landscape in the coming years.
Despite the positive outlook, several factors could restrain market growth. Stricter regulations and licensing requirements in some countries pose significant hurdles to market expansion. Furthermore, the relatively high cost of suppressors compared to other firearm accessories can limit accessibility for some consumers. Ongoing debates surrounding gun control and legislation will continue to influence the market's trajectory, potentially creating regional variations in growth patterns. Nevertheless, the combination of increasing demand, technological innovation, and a growing awareness of hearing safety suggests a positive long-term outlook for the gun sound suppressor market. Competition among established manufacturers like SureFire, SilencerCo, and Gemtech, along with emerging players, is expected to intensify, spurring innovation and driving down prices over time.