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.

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.

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 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 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.

The Online Gun and Ammunition Sales industry has grown at a strong rate over the past five years. Operators are licensed firearm dealers that sell guns, ammunition and related equipment over the internet. The industry has experienced steady demand growth in response to greater per capita disposable income, which enabled consumers to spend more on discretionary items. Companies also benefited from sudden spikes in consumer firearm purchases immediately following acts of terror, mass shooter events and uncertainty presented during COVID-19 and election years. These events, often prompt public calls for additional firearms legislation, routinely lead many consumers to purchase more industry products before more stringent regulations can come into force. Over the five years to 2024, revenue has grown at a CAGR of 8.8% to $3.4 billion, including a 5.1% increase in 2024 alone. Despite rising revenue, profit was squeezed because of supply chain disruptions and rising wage costs. Federal law requires that all online firearms purchases be fulfilled through the purchaser's local and federally licensed dealer. This limits the industry's potential growth somewhat as it forces consumers to go to their local gun store, which is an external competitor. Online platforms still encounter various advantages, like the ability to reach a much wider audience, reduced costs associated with brick-and-mortar locations and the potential to offer a wide array of goods. As a result, the industry still has most of the characteristics, which have helped e-commerce rapidly gain market share over traditional retail outlets. The growing trend in consumer online shopping has also bolstered industry revenue growth. Economic conditions are expected to continue improving during the outlook period and expanded per capita disposable income is expected to enable more consumers to purchase higher-priced firearms and ammunition. Conversely, uncertainty surrounding gun regulations may pose a significant challenge to online gun retailers if the regulations shrink their potential customer base because of more stringent background checks. However, continued product innovation, specifically surrounding firearm safety, will contribute to growth. Overall, revenue is forecast to jump at a CAGR of 3.2% to $3.9 billion over the five years to 2029.

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

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.

In the United States in 2022, 48 percent of Republicans reported that they owned at least one gun, and 66 percent said that they lived in a household with a gun. In comparison, only 20 percent of Democrats owned at least one gun, and 31 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 quarter 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.

Context

The Gun Violence Archive is an online archive of gun violence incidents collected from over 2,000 media, law enforcement, government and commercial sources daily in an effort to provide near-real time data about the results of gun violence. GVA in an independent data collection and research group with no affiliation with any advocacy organization.

Content

This dataset includes files that separate gun violence incidents by category, including deaths and injuries of children and teens, and a collection of mass shootings.

Inspiration

• What has been the trend of gun violence in the past few years?
• What states have the highest incidents per capita per year? How has this metric changed over time?
• Are officer involved shootings on the rise? Where are they most concentrated? Do they correlate with the rates of accidental deaths and mass shootings?

Acknowledgements

This dataset is owned by the Gun Violence Archive, and can be accessed in its original form here.

This national-level survey of youth was undertaken to gather detailed behavioral and attitudinal data concerning weapons and violence. The research project sought to obtain information from a broad sample of high-school-aged youth to achieve diversity regarding history, cultural background, population size and density, urban and non-urban mix, economic situation, and class, race, and ethnic distributions. Data for the study were derived from two surveys conducted during the spring of 1996. The first survey was a lengthy questionnaire that focused on exposure to weapons (primarily firearms and knives) and violence, and was completed by 733 10th- and 11th-grade male students. Detail was gathered on all weapon-related incidents up to 12 months prior to the survey. The second survey, consisting of a questionnaire completed by 48 administrators of the 53 schools that the students attended, provided information regarding school characteristics, levels of weapon-related activity in the schools, and anti-violence strategies employed by the schools. The student survey covered demographic characteristics of the respondent, family living situations, educational situations and aspirations, drug, criminal, and gang activities, crime- and violence-related characteristics of family and friends, respondent's social and recreational activities, exposure to violence generally, personal victimization history, and possession of and activities relating to firearms and knives. Administrators were asked to provide basic demographic data about their schools and to rate the seriousness of violence, drugs, guns, and other weapons in their institutions. They were asked to provide weapon-related information about the average male junior in their schools as well as to estimate the number of incidents involving types of weapons on school grounds during the past three years. The administrators were also asked to identify, from an extensive list of violence reduction measures, those that were practiced at their schools. Variables are also provided about the type of school, grades taught, enrollment, and size of the community. In addition to the data collected directly from students and school administrators, Census information concerning the cities and towns in which the sampled schools were located was also obtained. Census data include size of the city or town, racial and ethnic population distributions, age, gender, and educational attainment distributions, median household and per capita income distributions, poverty rates, labor force and unemployment rates, and violent and property crime rates.

According to a survey conducted in the United States in 2023, white respondents were more likely to either personally own a gun or live in a gun owning household than their non-white counterparts. During the survey, 35 percent of white Americans reported that they personally owned a firearm, compared to 22 percent of non-white respondents.

The global fully automatic rifle market, while representing a niche segment within the broader firearms industry, exhibits robust growth potential driven by several key factors. Military and law enforcement agencies remain primary consumers, demanding advanced weaponry for counter-terrorism and specialized operations. This demand is further fueled by geopolitical instability and ongoing conflicts in various regions globally. Furthermore, the increasing prevalence of civilian ownership in certain markets, although heavily regulated, contributes to market expansion, especially for high-end, customized models. The market is segmented by application (military, law enforcement, civilian), type (based on caliber and features like rate of fire and weight), and region. North America and Europe currently dominate the market, owing to established firearms industries and higher per capita spending on defense and security. However, emerging markets in Asia-Pacific and the Middle East & Africa are showing signs of increasing demand driven by modernization of their armed forces and law enforcement agencies. While stringent regulations and export controls act as restraints, the market is expected to witness steady growth, propelled by technological advancements focusing on improved accuracy, reduced recoil, and enhanced lethality. The projected Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) for the fully automatic rifle market, while not explicitly stated, is estimated to be around 4-6% between 2025 and 2033. This conservative estimate accounts for regulatory complexities and fluctuating geopolitical situations. This growth will be unevenly distributed across regions. North America and Europe are predicted to maintain their leading positions due to existing infrastructure and market maturity, though Asia-Pacific is likely to demonstrate the fastest rate of growth due to expanding defense budgets and modernization efforts. Significant technological advancements, like the integration of smart technologies and improved materials, will cater to the high-demand for enhanced accuracy and reliability, driving premium pricing and influencing market segmentation. Competition remains fierce among established players, with companies investing heavily in research and development to maintain a leading edge.

The global electric nail gun market is experiencing steady growth, projected to reach a market size of $772.7 million in 2025, exhibiting a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 2.7% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors. The increasing popularity of DIY home improvement projects and professional construction activities drives demand for efficient and powerful fastening tools. The cordless electric nail gun segment is particularly attractive due to its enhanced portability and convenience, leading to increased adoption in residential and commercial settings. Technological advancements, such as improved battery technology and ergonomic designs, further enhance the appeal of electric nail guns, leading to higher productivity and reduced operator fatigue. The industrial sector continues to be a significant market segment, driven by the need for high-volume fastening applications in manufacturing and infrastructure projects. However, factors like the initial investment cost associated with purchasing high-quality electric nail guns and potential safety concerns may act as restraints on market expansion. Nevertheless, the ongoing growth in the construction sector globally, coupled with the rising adoption of sophisticated tools in various industries, suggests a positive outlook for the electric nail gun market over the forecast period. The market segmentation reveals a significant contribution from cordless models, driven by their ease of use and reduced operational limitations compared to corded variants. The commercial and industrial sectors represent the largest application segments, with the commercial sector benefiting from the increased adoption of time-saving tools for faster project completion. Geographic distribution indicates strong market presence in North America and Europe, attributable to the mature construction industry and higher per capita income in these regions. Asia-Pacific is also expected to exhibit significant growth potential in the coming years due to rapid urbanization and infrastructure development. Competition in the market is intense, with established players like Bosch, DeWALT, Makita, and Stanley Black & Decker vying for market share alongside several other significant brands. Innovation in battery technology, improved motor efficiency, and the development of more compact and lightweight models are expected to be key competitive differentiators in the coming years. This report provides a detailed analysis of the global electric nail gun market, projected to be worth over $2 billion by 2028. We delve into market segmentation, key players, emerging trends, and future growth projections, offering invaluable insights for industry stakeholders. The report utilizes extensive primary and secondary research to deliver accurate and actionable data, focusing on high-search-volume keywords like "cordless nail gun," "electric nail gun reviews," "framing nail gun," and "best electric nail gun for construction."

The global water gun market, encompassing electric and pump-action varieties for home use, children's playgrounds, and other applications, is experiencing robust growth. While precise market size figures for 2025 aren't provided, a logical estimation based on typical CAGR rates for similar toy markets (assuming a CAGR of 5-7%) and a hypothetical 2019 market size of $500 million suggests a 2025 market value in the range of $700 - $800 million. This growth is fueled by several key drivers. Increasing disposable incomes in developing economies, coupled with a rising demand for outdoor recreational activities, particularly among children, significantly contribute to market expansion. The introduction of innovative product designs, featuring enhanced water capacity, improved range, and technologically advanced features like electronic controls and rechargeable batteries in electric water guns, are further boosting demand. Seasonal trends, with peak sales during summer months, are also a significant factor. However, the market faces challenges such as increased competition from other outdoor toys and potential environmental concerns regarding water usage. The market segmentation, encompassing electric and pump water guns across various application areas, offers manufacturers opportunities to cater to specific consumer preferences and expand their market share. The competitive landscape is marked by a mix of established brands like Super Soaker and Disney, alongside smaller players like Prextex and Fun Express. These companies leverage branding, marketing strategies targeted at children and families, and distribution channels to secure market share. Regional variations in market dynamics are anticipated, with North America and Europe maintaining significant shares due to high per capita income and established recreational markets. However, rapid growth is expected from Asia-Pacific regions like China and India driven by increasing urbanization and changing lifestyles. The forecast period (2025-2033) indicates continued market expansion driven by ongoing product innovation, expanding distribution networks, and growing consumer demand. To capitalize on this market potential, manufacturers must strategically address the challenges posed by competition, environmental concerns, and fluctuating seasonal demand.

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.

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 DATASET WAS LAST UPDATED AT 2:11 AM EASTERN ON JULY 15

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.

The global non-lethal self-defense weapon system market is experiencing robust growth, driven by increasing demand for personal safety and security solutions. The market, valued at approximately $2.5 billion in 2025, is projected to exhibit a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 7% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key factors, including rising crime rates in urban areas, escalating concerns over terrorism, and the growing popularity of self-defense training and awareness campaigns. Furthermore, advancements in non-lethal weapon technology, such as improved accuracy, reduced collateral damage, and enhanced effectiveness, are contributing significantly to market expansion. The diverse applications across law enforcement, military, and civilian sectors are broadening the market's scope. Specific segments like directed energy weapons are witnessing particularly high growth due to technological advancements and increasing interest from military and law enforcement agencies. However, regulatory hurdles concerning the sale and usage of certain non-lethal weapons, as well as ethical concerns surrounding their deployment, are potential restraints on market growth. The market is segmented by weapon type (direct contact weapons like pepper spray, tasers, and batons; directed energy weapons like stun guns and lasers) and application (law enforcement, military, and civilian). North America currently holds the largest market share, owing to high per capita income, strong security infrastructure, and a well-established market for self-defense products. However, Asia-Pacific is expected to demonstrate significant growth in the coming years, driven by increasing urbanization and rising disposable incomes. The presence of established companies such as Axon Enterprise, Rheinmetall, and others, alongside numerous smaller players, indicates a competitive yet dynamic market landscape. Future growth will largely depend on technological innovations, regulatory changes, and consumer adoption of these evolving safety solutions. The market is poised for continued expansion, driven by a heightened focus on personal safety and the development of increasingly sophisticated non-lethal technologies. This comprehensive report provides an in-depth analysis of the global non-lethal self-defense weapon system market, projected to reach $8 billion by 2030. It examines market dynamics, key players, emerging trends, and future growth prospects, offering valuable insights for manufacturers, investors, and government agencies. This report uses data-driven analysis to provide a clear and concise overview of the Non-Lethal Self-Defense Weapon market, empowering stakeholders to make informed decisions.

The global dental composite dispenser gun market is experiencing steady growth, projected to reach a market size of $150 million by 2025, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 5% from 2025 to 2033. This growth is fueled by several key drivers. The increasing prevalence of dental procedures, coupled with the rising demand for efficient and precise composite delivery systems, is a significant factor. Dental professionals are increasingly adopting dispenser guns due to their ability to minimize waste, improve accuracy in material application, and ultimately enhance the overall efficiency of dental procedures. Furthermore, advancements in dispenser gun technology, such as the incorporation of ergonomic designs and improved material compatibility, are contributing to market expansion. The market segmentation reveals a preference for smaller volume dispensers (5ml and 10ml) within both hospital and clinic settings, indicating a focus on single-use or smaller-batch applications. However, the "Other" segment across both type and application categories suggests potential for growth in specialized applications and larger-volume dispensers. Geographic distribution shows strong market presence in North America and Europe, driven by established dental infrastructure and higher per capita healthcare spending. Emerging markets in Asia Pacific and Middle East & Africa present significant growth opportunities in the coming years as dental infrastructure develops and awareness of advanced dental technology increases. The competitive landscape is characterized by a mix of established players and emerging manufacturers. Key companies like DenMat Holdings, Parkell, RONVIG Dental, TP Orthodontics, Ultradent Products, Pac-Dent, and Ivoclar Vivadent are actively involved in product innovation and market expansion, driving competition and fostering technological advancement within the industry. Despite the positive outlook, market restraints such as high initial investment costs for dental clinics and hospitals and the availability of alternative composite application methods could potentially slow down market growth. However, the overall trend points toward sustained expansion driven by the ongoing need for improved efficiency, precision, and hygiene in dental practices worldwide.