7 Key Facts About Americans & Guns

Aaron Spuler is a firearms enthusiast and recreational shooter. Follow more or his work at The Weapon Blog

Firearms and weaponry in the U.S. are integral to the unique history of our nation. From developing innovative technology to the nuances of regulation, it’s difficult to extricate America from guns. Within this rich history, there are hundreds of key facts to explore, but we’re going to highlight some of the most important things to know when it comes to Americans and guns.

Gun Rights and Restrictions in the U.S. Are Complex

Gun ownership has always been a cornerstone in the U.S., so much so that after the Civil War, shop owners sold handguns alongside pantry staples like flour and sugar. These days, there are firearm stores, and the relationship between guns and Americans is far more complex. For decades, there have been debates and discussions about rights and restrictions on gun ownership and use. Should background checks be required? Is it best to implement gun safety courses? What type of firearms should be allowed? These are all questions that have been politically and socially discussed across party lines for years. Some sides advocate for less regulation to educate people on how to safely use guns while others believe that strict regulations will quell gun violence.

No matter how you look at it, both opinions have shaped the current gun culture in America and will continue to do so.

Firearm Ownership Is Protected Under the Second Amendment

Owning a firearm is protected under the second amendment within the Bill of Rights. It says, “A well regulated Militia, being necessary to the security of a free State, the right of the people to keep and bear Arms, shall not be infringed.” Your right to own a weapon can not be revoked, but it can be regulated. Plus, the process of getting a firearm is not federally controlled, rather the state dictates the necessary steps and how one acquires a firearm.

There Are More Guns Than People in the U.S.

Many studies and research have shown that the U.S. is a big fan of guns. In fact, there are more guns than people in the U.S. There are over 393 million civilian-owned guns. The second-largest gun-owning country in the world is Yemen, and they have less than half of the guns that the U.S. does. Plus, among wealthier countries, the U.S. outranks the nearest contender, Canada, three times over.

For some, this large amount of guns can be concerning, while for others, it’s comforting. Weapon blogs have also shown that Americans are largely split on this issue, citing that the larger number of guns should need heavier regulations. While other parties believe the higher quantity of guns should encourage fewer restrictions — that increased education on weapon safety and handling will be more beneficial.

Gun Purchases Contribute to Conservation Efforts

Many gun owners are also outdoor enthusiasts who are passionate about conservation efforts. In fact, gun purchases have contributed billions of dollars to the preservation efforts of wildlife and nature. This is due to the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act of 1937, which allocates taxes from firearm purchases to conservation efforts and causes.

This is something that is great for hunters, the economy, and even the wildlife. Not only are sportsmen still able to hunt, but beautiful land and animals that are crucial to our ecosystem are kept in their natural habitats.

44 Percent of American Households Have a Gun

This might seem like a high number or a low number, depending upon your perspective on gun ownership. The most common reason people have a gun in the home is for protection. While some believe that guns can pose even more of a danger in the home, teaching children proper safety, having the appropriate tactical gear on hand, and having a firm knowledge of how to use the firearm can help prevent accidents and keep you safe.

Not Every State Requires Background Checks to Own a Firearm

It’s a federal right to own a firearm, but how you acquire one depends upon your state and county. Although some states require a background check, there are many that do not. There are only 14 states that require a background check for arms purchases. Background checks can be a lengthy process, but they can be useful to ensure the gun is going into practiced and capable hands.

The process of requiring a background check to acquire a firearm was not enacted until 2000. In its first year, there were 8.5 million background checks, fast forward to 2015, and that number has nearly tripled to 23 million.

Most Crimes Committed With a Firearm Are Not Done With a Legally Purchased Weapon

Guns are often used in crimes, so people may think that the ability to purchase a gun would increase crime. In fact, there was one study in Pittsburgh, PA that showed 80% of gun-related crimes were committed with a firearm not owned by the individual committing the crime.

Remington Arms is The Oldest Gun Manufacturer in the U.S.

Formed in 1816, Remington is the oldest manufacturer of firearms in the U.S. The second-oldest is Smith & Wesson, which was founded in 1856.

When it comes to America and guns, there’s no simple way to view the culture surrounding them, but you can get educated. Knowing the facts and staying up to date on trends, laws, and safety practices are great ways to keep yourself and others safe with firearms.

Bio:
Jordan McDowell is a knife enthusiast and blogger that has first hand experience working with and writing about different types of weapons. He prefers Japanese knives for cooking and protection because of their superior quality. You can find his work published across a number of digital platforms including The Weapon Blog.