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U.S. Gun Market Dominated by Semi-Automatics, Ownership Tops 100 Million

Semi-automatic guns lead the U.S. market. High gun ownership contributes to crime prevention, but elections reveal a complex picture on gun control.

In this picture I can see a gun in the book and I can see text on the papers.
In this picture I can see a gun in the book and I can see text on the papers.

U.S. Gun Market Dominated by Semi-Automatics, Ownership Tops 100 Million

In the United States, semi-automatic guns dominate the market, with over 53% of all firearms manufactured or imported in 2020. Gun ownership is widespread, with more than 100 million owners and over 393 million guns in circulation. Texas leads with the most Federal Firearm Licensees.

The Small Arms Survey estimates that American citizens own over 393 million guns, a significant increase from previous years. This high number of gun owners contributes to an estimated 1.6 million crimes being stopped annually by armed citizens, with most incidents involving no shots fired.

Gun manufacturing is largely domestic, with over half of the guns sold in the U.S. made in America each year. As of 2022, there were 52,910 licensed gun stores and gunsmiths, known as 'Type 1' Federal Firearm Licensees. These businesses contribute to conservation programs and public shooting facilities through excise taxes on guns and ammo, totaling over $1 billion in 2022.

Elections often show a discrepancy between poll results and voter choices on gun control. Despite polls indicating support for stricter gun laws, voters frequently elect pro-gun candidates. This trend highlights the complex nature of gun politics in the U.S.

The U.S. gun market is dominated by semi-automatic firearms and has a high number of gun owners. Gun ownership plays a significant role in crime prevention, and the industry contributes to conservation efforts through taxes. However, the political landscape surrounding gun control remains complex and contentious.

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