Women Firearm Owners on the Rise

23 percent of the customers who have gravitated to retail firearm and ammo shops in recent years are women.  This is up from 13 percent in 2005, according to recent Gallup poll data.  The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), reported in their January info-graphic that of the twenty-one million established target shooters, women comprised 30 percent.

Firearm Safety Organizations

USA Today reported that along with the rise in both female firearm ownership and target shooters, comes a growing number of women taking classes on firearm safety and self-defense.  A nationwide organization called The Well Armed Woman caters to women by introducing them to target practice and personal self-defense.  The organization’s motto is, “where feminine and firearms meet.”   

As part of the National Rifle Association of America (NRA), the Women on Target® is another organization that caters to female firearm owners.  The organization provides instructional shooting clinics that are primarily focused on teaching the importance of firearm safety and confidence when shooting.   

    

Firearm Industry and Women

The women’s market is very real, and is poised for rapid growth with plenty of manufactures making products specifically aimed at women.  Products options include aesthetically pleasing colors, smaller sizes and elements to reduce fatigue.  There are pink ammo rifles, pink shotguns and more.  Purses with holsters have also been specifically designed for women with conceal-carry permits.    

Smith & Wesson, was the first manufacture to recognize the potential for the women’s market, and today offers many different firearms for the women owner including revolvers and rifles.  One such model is the Smith& Wesson M442 Airweight Revolver (#150469).  This model features a unique Scandium Alloy high-strength frame, which allows for the lightest revolver capable of greater recoil and performance.   

However, the industry is not stopping there.  Proper fitting clothing, accessories and even bedazzled hats are also being manufactured from hunting apparel companies.  While these products - firearms and apparel - may not have been seen in past generations over even a few years ago, manufactures (as mentioned) are definitely now embracing female owners.    

     

Why Own a Firearm?

The vast majority of women firearm owners say that having a gun in their possession – whether on their body or close by – makes them feel safer.  Other specific reasons for their owning a firearm includes:

• ·        Protection
• ·        Gun Control
• ·        Economy
• ·        Independence
• ·        Hunting
• ·        Target/Sport Shooting

For more information on the references used in this blog, please click on the links above.  If you would like to learn more regarding the availability of women firearms, be sure to contact us at (888) 549-8802 or visit our website at www.firearms4u.com.