Skip to content

Firearm Manufacturing Sees Decline in 2022 After 2021 Peak

After a record-breaking 2021, firearm manufacturing slowed down in 2022. But long-term trends show consistent demand for firearms, with over 10 million guns produced between 2016 and 2023.

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.

Firearm Manufacturing Sees Decline in 2022 After 2021 Peak

Firearm manufacturing in the country has seen fluctuations in recent years. In 2022, a decrease was recorded, while 2021 saw a significant increase in Multiple Sale Reports (MSRs).

In 2022, the total number of firearms domestically manufactured decreased to 12,938,218, a notable shift from the previous year's peak of 15,120,931. This decline continues a trend that began in 2021, when MSRs decreased by 10%. The decrease in MSRs continued into 2022, with a further 8% reduction.

From 2016 to 2023, Federal Firearms Licensees (FFLs) reported a total of 4,380,986 multiple sale transactions involving 10,151,417 firearms. This indicates a consistent level of total wireless purchases over the years. The majority of enthusiasts buying more than one gun were 35 years old or older, with over 80% being men, regardless of the year.

Looking at the long-term trend, the total number of firearms domestically manufactured has increased significantly. In 2000, this number was 3,932,734, compared to 9,970,792 in 2023. The main buyers of NFA firearms in 2023 were primarily licensed firearms dealers, law enforcement agencies, and military contractors.

The decrease in firearms manufactured in 2022, following a peak in 2021, suggests a stabilization in production. However, the consistent level of total wireless purchases and the increasing trend over the past two decades indicate a persistent demand for firearms in the country.

Read also:

Latest