The United States has, by far, the highest rate of privately owned guns per inhabitant, with around *** guns per 100 inhabitants. Deadly shootings have become a significant problem in the country. Yemen, the country with the second-highest gun ownership rate worldwide, only has half of the U.S. rate.

The Small Arms Survey 2017 provides estimates of the total number of civilian-owned guns in a country. It then calculates the number per 100 persons. This number for a country does not indicate the percentage of the population that owns guns. This is because individuals can own more than one gun.

COLUMN DESCRIPTION

• 'region': region of the owner
• 'subregion': subregion of the owner
• 'country': country of the owner
• 'civil_firearms': Estimate of civilian firearms per 100 persons
• 'population': population
• 'firearm_poss': Estimate of firearms in civilian possession
• 'reg_firearms': registered firearms
• 'unreg_firearms': unregistered firearms

Photo by Timothy Dykes on Unsplash

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

The share of American households owning at least one firearm has remained relatively steady since 1972, hovering between ** percent and ** percent. In 2024, about ** 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 to 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 regarding 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 lobbies for the interests of firearm manufacturing in the United States, which has continued to rise since a fall in the early 2000s.

Estimated number of civilian guns per capita by country vs. crime and safety index

data sources: 1. Privately owned guns: https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Estimated_number_of_civilian_guns_per_capita_by_country 2. Crime and Safety Index: https://www.numbeo.com/crime/rankings_by_country.jsp

cover image credit: https://www.pexels.com/photo/hand-of-a-person-holding-black-semi-automatic-pistol-5202395/

Texas was the state with the highest number of registered weapons in the United States in 2024, with 1,136,732 firearms. Rhode Island, on the other hand, had the least, with 4,895 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 traveling in, the owner is subject to the law of the state they are traveling in. Civilian-owned firearms The United States is estimated to have the highest rate of civilian-owned firearms in the world, 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 13,529 homicides in 2023.

In recent years, gun violence in the United States has become an alarmingly common occurrence. From 2016, there has been over ****** homicides by firearm in the U.S. each year and firearms have been found to make up the majority of murder weapons in the country by far, demonstrating increasing rates of gun violence occurring throughout the nation. As of 2025, Mississippi was the state with the highest gun violence rate per 100,000 residents in the United States, at **** percent, followed by Louisiana, at **** percent. In comparison, Massachusetts had a gun violence rate of *** percent, the lowest out of all the states. The importance of gun laws Gun laws in the United States vary from state to state, which has been found to affect the differing rates of gun violence throughout the country. Fewer people die by gun violence in states where gun safety laws have been passed, while gun violence rates remain high in states where gun usage is easily permitted and even encouraged. In addition, some states suffer from high rates of gun violence despite having strong gun safety laws due to gun trafficking, as traffickers can distribute firearms illegally past state lines. The right to bear arms Despite evidence from other countries demonstrating that strict gun control measures reduce rates of gun violence, the United States has remained reluctant to enact gun control laws. This can largely be attributed to the Second Amendment of the Constitution, which states that citizens have the right to bear arms. Consequently, gun control has become a highly partisan issue in the U.S., with ** percent of Democrats believing that it was more important to limit gun ownership while ** percent of Republicans felt that it was more important to protect the right of Americans to own guns.

The civilian guns and bullets market exhibits robust growth potential, driven by factors such as increasing personal safety concerns, a rise in recreational shooting activities, and the expanding popularity of hunting. While precise market size figures are unavailable, based on industry reports and comparable markets, we can reasonably estimate the 2025 market size to be approximately $15 billion USD. This substantial market is expected to grow at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of approximately 5% from 2025 to 2033. This growth trajectory is influenced by several key factors including rising disposable incomes in developing economies leading to increased purchasing power for recreational goods, and advancements in firearm technology, offering consumers more sophisticated and appealing options. However, stringent government regulations regarding firearm ownership and sales, coupled with increasing social awareness surrounding gun violence, present significant constraints to market expansion. The market is segmented by various firearm types (handguns, rifles, shotguns), ammunition calibers, and distribution channels (retailers, online platforms). Leading manufacturers such as FN Herstal, Remington Arms, Beretta, Heckler & Koch, and others, are actively engaged in product innovation and strategic partnerships to maintain a competitive edge. Regional variations in market size and growth rate are expected, with North America and Europe anticipated to represent major market shares, driven by established gun cultures and higher per capita spending on firearms. The long-term outlook remains positive, contingent upon regulatory changes and evolving consumer preferences within this dynamic industry. Continued emphasis on safety regulations and responsible gun ownership will be crucial to shaping future market growth. This report provides a comprehensive analysis of the civilian guns and bullets market, a sector characterized by significant growth and evolving dynamics. We delve into market concentration, key trends, dominant regions, product insights, and future projections, offering actionable intelligence for industry stakeholders.

Gun Case Market Outlook

According to our latest research, the global gun case market size reached USD 1.41 billion in 2024, demonstrating a robust expansion driven by growing firearm ownership, heightened security concerns, and evolving regulatory requirements. The market is poised to grow at a CAGR of 5.2% from 2025 to 2033, with the total market value expected to hit USD 2.22 billion by 2033. This upward trajectory is propelled by a combination of factors including technological advancements in case materials, increased participation in shooting sports, and the rising demand for secure storage and transportation solutions for firearms across both civilian and institutional segments.

One of the foremost growth drivers for the gun case market is the surge in firearm ownership globally, particularly in regions such as North America and parts of Europe. The proliferation of shooting sports, hunting activities, and personal defense needs has led to a significant increase in the demand for reliable and durable gun cases. Consumers are increasingly prioritizing the safety and security of their firearms, seeking products that offer advanced locking mechanisms, impact resistance, and weatherproof features. The market is also witnessing a shift toward aesthetically appealing and customizable cases, reflecting the evolving preferences of firearm owners who view their weapons as valuable assets requiring optimal protection.

Technological innovation in materials and manufacturing processes is another critical factor fueling market expansion. Manufacturers are investing in the development of lightweight yet robust materials such as high-density plastics, composite metals, and advanced fabrics, which enhance portability without compromising on security. The integration of smart technologies, including biometric locks and GPS tracking, is gradually transforming the gun case landscape, offering end-users enhanced convenience and peace of mind. These advancements are particularly attractive to military, law enforcement, and high-end civilian segments, where the need for secure and quick access to firearms is paramount. Additionally, the increasing prevalence of international shooting competitions and hunting expeditions is boosting the demand for cases that comply with airline and cross-border transportation regulations.

Regulatory frameworks and safety standards are playing an instrumental role in shaping the gun case market. Stringent government mandates regarding firearm storage and transportation, especially in developed markets, are compelling both individual and institutional buyers to invest in certified gun cases. This trend is further accentuated by rising public awareness about the risks associated with improper firearm storage, including accidental discharges and theft. As a result, manufacturers are focusing on product certifications, compliance with international safety standards, and collaborations with law enforcement agencies to enhance their market positioning. The growing emphasis on responsible gun ownership is expected to sustain the demand for advanced gun case solutions over the forecast period.

From a regional perspective, North America continues to dominate the gun case market, accounting for the largest share in 2024, followed by Europe and Asia Pacific. The United States, in particular, remains the epicenter of demand due to its high per capita firearm ownership and well-established hunting and shooting sports culture. Europe is witnessing steady growth, driven by increased security concerns and regulatory compliance, while Asia Pacific is emerging as a lucrative market fueled by rising defense budgets and expanding civilian gun ownership in countries such as India and China. The Middle East & Africa and Latin America are also registering gradual growth, supported by military modernization programs and evolving civilian firearm regulations. The regional dynamics are further influenced by cultural attitudes toward firearms, economic development, and government policies, which collectively shape the competitive landscape and growth opportunities within the global market.

Product Type Analysis

The gun case market is segmented by product type into rifle cases, handgun cases, shotgun cases, tactical cases, and others, each catering to the specific needs of firearm owners. Rifle cases hold a substantial share of the market, owing to the widespread use of rifles in hunting, sporting, and military applications. These cases are designed to accommodate the larger size

Global sales of massage guns are valued at USD 1.5 billion in 2025 and are expected to rise to USD 3.7 billion by 2035 at an 8.1% CAGR.

Metric	Value
Industry Size (2025E)	USD 1.5 billion
Industry Value (2035F)	USD 3.7 billion
CAGR (2025 to 2035)	8.1%

Top 5 Countries Driving the Massage Guns Market

Country	United States
Population (millions)	345.4
Estimated Per Capita Spending (USD)	15.20

Country	China
Population (millions)	1,419.3
Estimated Per Capita Spending (USD)	8.30

Country	Germany
Population (millions)	84.1
Estimated Per Capita Spending (USD)	12.40

Country	United Kingdom
Population (millions)	68.3
Estimated Per Capita Spending (USD)	11.10

Country	Japan
Population (millions)	123.3
Estimated Per Capita Spending (USD)	9.70

Massage Guns Market - Global Country-Wise Outlook

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
United States	7.5%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
United Kingdom	7.2%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
Germany	7.4%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
India	8.1%

Country	CAGR (2025 to 2035)
China	8.5%

Competition Outlook

Company Name	Estimated Market Share (%)
Therabody	15-20%
Hyperice	10-15%
TimTam	5-10%
DMS	5-10%
Other Companies	50-65%

The Balkan countries Albania and Bosnia have the highest murder rates with cases involving firearms in Europe. Perhaps somewhat surprisingly, Sweden came third. The Scandinavian country has seen increasing levels of gang-related violence in recent years.

Information about GDP per capita; GDP growth; total public expenditure as percent of GDP; percent public consumption; gini coefficient for equivalent disposable income; percent imports from developing countries; inflation; percent social security transfers; percent unionized; percent unemployed; female labor force participation rate; percent employed in industry; percent employed in agriculture; percent employed in service sector; percent of population aged 0-14 years; percent of population aged 15-64 years; percent of population aged 65 years or more for 16 industrialized countries during the period 1966-1994.

Purpose:

Find the reason to why income distribution change in industrialized countries.

Forehead Thermometer Gun Market Outlook

The global forehead thermometer gun market size was valued at approximately USD 1.2 billion in 2023 and is projected to reach USD 2.5 billion by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 8.1%. This growth is primarily driven by the rising demand for non-contact temperature measurement devices, spurred by increasing health awareness and the ongoing need for infection control, particularly in light of global health crises such as the COVID-19 pandemic.

The growing concern for hygiene and safety in medical settings has contributed significantly to the escalating demand for forehead thermometer guns. In healthcare environments where minimizing the risk of cross-contamination is critical, these non-contact devices offer a highly sanitary solution for monitoring body temperature. Additionally, the healthcare sector globally is undergoing rapid advancements and expansion, thereby driving the adoption of more sophisticated and convenient medical devices like forehead thermometer guns.

Furthermore, technological advancements in thermometer gun functionalities, such as faster readings, better accuracy, and user-friendly interfaces, have made these devices incredibly appealing to a broad range of users. Enhanced features, including memory storage, backlit displays, and contactless operation, are becoming standard, thereby fueling market growth. The increasing availability and affordability of these advanced devices have further amplified their adoption across various segments.

The market growth is also catalyzed by the rising prevalence of infectious diseases, necessitating rigorous and frequent temperature monitoring in public spaces like airports, shopping malls, and workplaces. Governments and private organizations are increasingly investing in health monitoring solutions, which has significantly boosted the market for forehead thermometer guns. The convenience and rapid results offered by these devices make them indispensable tools in managing public health.

Regionally, North America and Asia Pacific are expected to dominate the forehead thermometer gun market owing to strong healthcare infrastructure, high health awareness, and significant investments in healthcare technologies. North America, with its high per capita healthcare expenditure and established market players, continues to lead the market. Meanwhile, Asia Pacific is experiencing rapid growth due to increasing population density, improving healthcare facilities, and the rising incidence of infectious diseases.

Product Type Analysis

The forehead thermometer gun market can be segmented by product type into infrared forehead thermometer guns and digital forehead thermometer guns. Infrared forehead thermometer guns are particularly favored for their ability to provide quick, accurate, and non-contact temperature readings. These devices use infrared sensors to measure the temperature from the forehead without any physical contact, making them ideal for use in situations where hygiene and safety are of paramount importance. Their application is widespread in hospitals, clinics, and other medical settings due to their reliability and ease of use.

Digital forehead thermometer guns, on the other hand, also offer non-contact temperature measurement but use different technology. These devices often incorporate advanced digital sensors and display features that make them user-friendly and convenient for at-home monitoring. Digital thermometer guns have gained popularity among households and small clinics due to their affordability and ease of use. The integration of digital features such as memory recall, multiple user settings, and illuminated displays further enhances their appeal, particularly in home care settings.

The infrared segment is expected to maintain a dominant share of the market owing to its widespread use in professional healthcare settings. However, the digital segment is anticipated to witness faster growth during the forecast period, driven by increasing demand from household users seeking reliable and easy-to-use medical devices. The technological advancements in digital thermometer guns that offer enhanced accuracy and user convenience are playing a crucial role in this segment's growth.

Both product types are continuously evolving with advancements in sensor technology and ergonomic design. Manufacturers are focusing on improving the accuracy and response time of these devices, which is essential for both medical and non-medical applications. Additionally, the trend of integrating

This two-part data collection comprises information for military expenditures and transfer of armaments for 142 countries in the period 1966-1975. Part 1 consists of time series data that provide information for national military expenditures, including the yearly value of weapons exports and imports per capita, per soldier, and as a percentage of the gross national product (GNP), as well as the population per million. The country and the year form one unit, so that each country appears ten times. Part 2 data provide additional information about the current values of the total arms exported by each major supplier and the total arms transferred in the period 1964-1974 by the United States, France, United Kingdom, Canada, Poland, China, West Germany, the Soviet Union, and Czechoslovakia.

In the United States in 2023, ** percent of Republicans reported that they owned at least one gun, and ** percent said that they lived in a household with a gun. In comparison, only ** percent of Democrats owned at least one gun, and ** percent lived in a gun household. Who are gun owners? In 2022, significantly more Democrats were in favor of limiting gun ownership in comparison to Republicans. On the other hand, more Republicans were in favor of protecting the right to own guns in comparison to Democrats. When examined by education level, respondents who said they only had some college, but no degree were the most likely to have said that there is at least one gun in their household. However, nearly a ******* of Americans over 18 years old said that they rarely carry a gun on their person. Republicans vs Democrats Debate The gun control debate in the United States has been a highly contested one. In light of frequent mass shootings, gun control laws have become the center of policy discussions. Democratic politicians tend to put significant emphasis on their gun control policies and are overall more in favor of stricter gun control laws and want more background checks for those who want to purchase a gun. However, Republicans tend to work in favor of gun rights.

This data collection, which focuses on military spending and arms transfers, supplies information on 145 developed and developing countries of the world. The first file contains background data for each country, including items such as region, sub-region, alliances (OPEC, NATO, and Warsaw Pact), and OECD and World Bank membership. The second file tabulates annual military expenditures, GNP, central government expenditures, arms imports and exports, and total imports and exports in current and constant dollars for each country from 1973 to 1983. Additional variables detail total population, number of armed forces personnel, number of armed forces personnel per 1000 people, GNP in constant dollars per capita, and military expenditures in constant dollars per capita.

Number and percentage of homicide victims, by type of firearm used to commit the homicide (total firearms; handgun; rifle or shotgun; fully automatic firearm; sawed-off rifle or shotgun; firearm-like weapons; other firearms, type unknown), Canada, 1974 to 2018.

The global outside waistband holster market, valued at $572 million in 2025, is projected to experience steady growth, driven by a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.9% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The increasing demand for concealed carry permits and personal protection among civilians is a significant driver, particularly in North America. Furthermore, consistent demand from law enforcement and armed forces globally contributes to market expansion. The market segmentation reveals a diverse product landscape, with varying price points catering to different consumer needs and budgets. The “$50-$100” segment likely holds the largest market share due to its balance between affordability and quality, attracting both individual consumers and larger institutional buyers. While specific regional breakdowns are not explicitly provided, North America is expected to maintain a significant market share owing to its robust firearms culture and relatively higher per capita spending on personal protection equipment. Emerging markets in Asia Pacific, particularly India and China, present significant growth opportunities, although these regions may exhibit slower growth initially due to factors such as lower purchasing power and differing regulatory environments. Competitive pressures from a large number of established and emerging holster manufacturers keep prices competitive and innovation at the forefront. This includes innovation in materials, designs (e.g., Kydex vs. leather), and features offering improved comfort, concealment, and durability. The restraints on market growth are primarily linked to stringent regulations surrounding firearms and holster usage in various regions. Stricter gun control laws, particularly in certain European countries, can hinder market expansion. Furthermore, economic fluctuations can impact discretionary spending on non-essential items like holsters, potentially slowing growth in periods of economic downturn. However, the consistent demand from law enforcement and military, coupled with the growing civilian concealed carry market, is expected to offset these restraints. The market's future success hinges on the adaptability of manufacturers in responding to changing consumer preferences and the evolving regulatory landscape. This includes developing innovative products and adapting to evolving consumer demand for features such as enhanced comfort and concealment.

The global sports pistol market, encompassing competitive shooting and recreational activities, is experiencing robust growth. While precise market size figures for 2025 aren't provided, considering the typical size of the firearms market and growth trends in related sectors, a reasonable estimate for the 2025 market value could be in the range of $2.5 billion USD. This market is driven by increasing participation in shooting sports, both competitively and recreationally, fueled by a rising global population and increased disposable incomes in many developing nations. Further growth is fueled by technological advancements in pistol design, leading to improved accuracy, ergonomics, and overall performance. The 25m Rapid Fire Pistol and 10m Air Pistol segments are major contributors, benefiting from dedicated training facilities and competitive leagues worldwide. However, stringent regulations regarding firearm ownership and use in various regions, along with safety concerns, act as significant restraints on market expansion. The market is also seeing a shift towards more technologically advanced pistols incorporating features like improved sights and enhanced trigger mechanisms, catering to both professional and amateur shooters. Regional differences exist, with North America and Europe currently holding significant market shares due to established shooting cultures and higher per capita income levels. However, the Asia-Pacific region is projected to witness substantial growth over the forecast period driven by increasing participation in shooting sports, particularly in countries like India and China. The forecast period (2025-2033) is expected to witness continued expansion, driven by the aforementioned factors. A conservative Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) estimate of 5% is feasible, resulting in a projected market value exceeding $3.7 billion by 2033. Key players like American Outdoor Brands, Beretta, Colt's, and others are actively investing in research and development to enhance product offerings and cater to evolving consumer preferences. Maintaining a strong focus on safety, compliance with regulations, and continuous innovation will be key to success within this dynamic and competitive market landscape. Furthermore, strategic partnerships with shooting ranges and associations, coupled with targeted marketing campaigns, will be crucial for capturing a larger share of the burgeoning market.

THIS DATASET WAS LAST UPDATED AT 7:11 AM EASTERN ON DEC. 1

OVERVIEW

2019 had the most mass killings since at least the 1970s, according to the Associated Press/USA TODAY/Northeastern University Mass Killings Database.

In all, there were 45 mass killings, defined as when four or more people are killed excluding the perpetrator. Of those, 33 were mass shootings . This summer was especially violent, with three high-profile public mass shootings occurring in the span of just four weeks, leaving 38 killed and 66 injured.

A total of 229 people died in mass killings in 2019.

The AP's analysis found that more than 50% of the incidents were family annihilations, which is similar to prior years. Although they are far less common, the 9 public mass shootings during the year were the most deadly type of mass murder, resulting in 73 people's deaths, not including the assailants.

One-third of the offenders died at the scene of the killing or soon after, half from suicides.

About this Dataset

The Associated Press/USA TODAY/Northeastern University Mass Killings database tracks all U.S. homicides since 2006 involving four or more people killed (not including the offender) over a short period of time (24 hours) regardless of weapon, location, victim-offender relationship or motive. The database includes information on these and other characteristics concerning the incidents, offenders, and victims.

The AP/USA TODAY/Northeastern database represents the most complete tracking of mass murders by the above definition currently available. Other efforts, such as the Gun Violence Archive or Everytown for Gun Safety may include events that do not meet our criteria, but a review of these sites and others indicates that this database contains every event that matches the definition, including some not tracked by other organizations.

This data will be updated periodically and can be used as an ongoing resource to help cover these events.

Using this Dataset

To get basic counts of incidents of mass killings and mass shootings by year nationwide, use these queries:

Mass killings by year

Mass shootings by year

To get these counts just for your state:

Filter killings by state

Definition of "mass murder"

Mass murder is defined as the intentional killing of four or more victims by any means within a 24-hour period, excluding the deaths of unborn children and the offender(s). The standard of four or more dead was initially set by the FBI.

This definition does not exclude cases based on method (e.g., shootings only), type or motivation (e.g., public only), victim-offender relationship (e.g., strangers only), or number of locations (e.g., one). The time frame of 24 hours was chosen to eliminate conflation with spree killers, who kill multiple victims in quick succession in different locations or incidents, and to satisfy the traditional requirement of occurring in a “single incident.”

Offenders who commit mass murder during a spree (before or after committing additional homicides) are included in the database, and all victims within seven days of the mass murder are included in the victim count. Negligent homicides related to driving under the influence or accidental fires are excluded due to the lack of offender intent. Only incidents occurring within the 50 states and Washington D.C. are considered.

Methodology

Project researchers first identified potential incidents using the Federal Bureau of Investigation’s Supplementary Homicide Reports (SHR). Homicide incidents in the SHR were flagged as potential mass murder cases if four or more victims were reported on the same record, and the type of death was murder or non-negligent manslaughter.

Cases were subsequently verified utilizing media accounts, court documents, academic journal articles, books, and local law enforcement records obtained through Freedom of Information Act (FOIA) requests. Each data point was corroborated by multiple sources, which were compiled into a single document to assess the quality of information.

In case(s) of contradiction among sources, official law enforcement or court records were used, when available, followed by the most recent media or academic source.

Case information was subsequently compared with every other known mass murder database to ensure reliability and validity. Incidents listed in the SHR that could not be independently verified were excluded from the database.

Project researchers also conducted extensive searches for incidents not reported in the SHR during the time period, utilizing internet search engines, Lexis-Nexis, and Newspapers.com. Search terms include: [number] dead, [number] killed, [number] slain, [number] murdered, [number] homicide, mass murder, mass shooting, massacre, rampage, family killing, familicide, and arson murder. Offender, victim, and location names were also directly searched when available.

This project started at USA TODAY in 2012.

Contacts

Contact AP Data Editor Justin Myers with questions, suggestions or comments about this dataset at jmyers@ap.org. The Northeastern University researcher working with AP and USA TODAY is Professor James Alan Fox, who can be reached at j.fox@northeastern.edu or 617-416-4400.