The United States, a country with a rich tradition of firearms ownership, has long been the world’s largest consumer market for shotguns. Amidst a surge in firearm sales following the pandemic, a significant spotlight has been cast on the manufacturers that continue to make these versatile weapons domestically. Despite the predominance of imported shotguns, American companies have held their ground, with recent reports shedding light on those leading the charge in U.S. shotgun production.
According to data from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), while over 80% of the nearly 2.4 million shotguns sold in the U.S. were imported in 2020, several American manufacturers still play a crucial role in the market. Among these, Maverick Arms (Mossberg), Savage Arms, and RemArms top the list for domestically produced shotguns, demonstrating the persistent demand and craftsmanship available within the United States.
Maverick Arms (Mossberg), with its production facilities in Connecticut and Texas, led the pack in 2022 with an impressive 266,382 shotguns manufactured domestically, amounting to a substantial 40.2% of all U.S.-made shotguns. Known for models like the 590 and 940, Maverick Arms exemplifies the robust nature of American firearm manufacturing.
Savage Arms, hailing from Massachusetts, followed suit with 102,288 shotguns produced, including popular models such as the 320 and Renegauge. These figures represent a significant 15.4% of the domestic shotgun production, showcasing Savage Arms’ commitment to quality and performance.
RemArms, formerly Remington Arms, continues its legacy in New York with 83,781 shotguns produced domestically in 2022, translating to 12.6% of the U.S. market. Their models, which include the 1100 and 870, are steeped in history and remain a favorite among enthusiasts for their reliability and classic design.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation highlighted the overarching importance of the arms and ammunition industry, which directly and indirectly generated over $90 billion in economic output in 2023, while employing over 384,000 Americans. This highlights not only the economic significance but also the deeply ingrained cultural aspect of firearm ownership in the U.S.
In the competitive landscape of firearm manufacturing, American companies have shown resilience and innovation, countering the dominance of foreign imports. Enthusiasts of military history and technology, political connoisseurs, and admirers of science and nature can appreciate the sustained contributions of domestic shotgun producers to the market. It’s a testament to American craftsmanship, providing tools for protection, sport, and hunting to a nation with a longstanding heritage of firearm ownership.
Relevant articles:
– Companies Behind the Best-Selling American-Made Shotguns, 24/7 Wall St.
– America’s Top Shotgun Companies, 24/7 Wall St.
– american made shotguns?, Shotgun Forum
– Best Shotguns of 2023, Tested and Reviewed, Field & Stream