Rifles, long a staple of the American firearms industry, have seen a resurgence in popularity, particularly the modern sporting rifles (MSRs), which have sparked a significant uptick in domestic production. Based on recent data from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives, rifles outpaced the manufacture of other types of firearms, such as pistols, revolvers, and shotguns, in 20 of the last 37 years. Over the past decade, more than 32.9 million rifles were made in the U.S.—a 77% increase over the previous 10 years. MSRs, civilian versions of military rifles like the AR-15 or AK-47, accounted for nearly 70% of the 28.1 million MSRs in circulation since 1990, with most sold within the last ten years.

In 2022 alone, 33 companies produced over 92% of the nearly 3.6 million rifles manufactured in the U.S.

The surge in MSR sales has not only benefited gun enthusiasts but also the U.S. arms and ammunition industry, which directly and indirectly generated over $90 billion in economic output and employed over 384,000 Americans in 2023. This renaissance is a boon for American gunmakers amid a period of high firearm sales during and after the pandemic.

Despite the growing popularity of MSRs, there remains a substantial market for more traditional rifle models. Companies such as RemArms and Henry Repeating Arms continue to cater to this segment by producing bolt-action and lever-action rifles, proving there is still a considerable appetite for classic platforms.

For instance, RemArms is known for the bolt-action Model 700, while Henry Repeating Arms has built its reputation on lever-action rifles.

The industry’s pivot towards MSRs has seen companies like Sturm, Ruger & Company lead the pack with 694,397 rifles manufactured in 2022, equivalent to 19.4% of all U.S.-made rifles.

Ruger’s diverse production locations, spanning across Arizona, Connecticut, New Hampshire, and North Carolina, highlight the geographic spread of the sector.

Following Ruger is Savage Arms with 608,579 rifles, representing 17% of total U.S. production. Henry Repeating Arms, distinguished for its classic models, also had a strong showing with 334,805 rifles, or 9.4% of the total.

The consumer appetite for MSRs reflects a broader trend in America’s firearm culture, where military-derived designs have become increasingly mainstream.

The AR-15 and its variations, particularly, have found favor among gun owners for their customizability and versatility, contributing to their dominance in the market.

This trend also mirrors a shift in consumer interests, with a focus on firearms that blend traditional use with modern advancements. The steady demand for rifles, both traditional and modern, signals a robust market that accommodates a diverse range of preferences.

Moreover, the rise in MSR production underscores the agility of U.S. gunmakers in adapting to changing market dynamics and consumer tastes.

As the industry navigates through a period of increased demand, it also faces the ongoing debates surrounding gun control and firearms legislation.

Nevertheless, U.S. manufacturers continue to drive innovation in the sector, catering to both longstanding traditions and evolving consumer demands.

The continued growth of the rifle market, particularly the ascent of MSRs, is a testament to the enduring appeal of American-made firearms and the industry’s economic significance.

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– Most Popular American-Made Rifle Companies, 24/7 Wall St.
– This is America’s Favorite Rifle Company, 24/7 Wall St.