Thanks to the proliferation of easy and inexpensive access to firearms, many Americans are participating in the gun buying craze. But are the Americans buying guns the ones you may be expecting?
Historically, gun enthusiasts have come from a variety of backgrounds. From hunters, to law enforcement officers, to gun collectors, the typical gun owner had many correlations. Today, a new type of gun owner is emerging, and many may be surprised by the face of the new gun-owning demographic.
According to recent studies, a new wave of gun buyers is coming from first- and second-generation immigrant families. This growing group, which is primarily composed of young adults of African, Hispanic and Asian descent, is purchasing firearms for a variety of reasons.
In interviews, many of these immigrants expressed the need for protection. Depending on the country of origin, some of the immigrants have witnessed or experienced political unrest and crime. In response to this, many are purchasing firearms for self-defense.
Additionally, the thrill of a new hobby and opportunity to explore their American heritage have further fueled the desire to purchase a firearm. According to many immigrants, guns fit in to American culture and provide a different type of excitement than they experienced in their former countries.
Of course, these new trends don’t come without risk. To ensure responsible gun ownership, stricter regulations on purchasing, including background checks and laws forbidding underage purchases must be enforced.
As the U.S. gun market continues to grow, it’s likely that continued waves of immigrants – and other demographics (women aged 18-35, for example), will continue to drive gun sales. Regardless of education level, race or gender, guns are becoming a more accessible purchase for many.
