Firearm Industry Declared Essential During COVID-19 Pandemic

by
posted on March 31, 2020
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
firearm-companies-essential.jpg

The firearm industry is included in the list of businesses considered essential during the COVID-19 outbreak, according “Guidance on the Essential Critical Infrastructure Workforce” issued on March 28, 2020, by Christopher C. Krebs, director of the Federal Government’s Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency. The listing falls under the Law Enforcement section and states jobs that can continue include, “Workers supporting the operation of firearm or ammunition product manufacturers, retailers, importers, distributors, and shooting ranges.”

“We are deeply appreciative to the Trump Administration and Department of Homeland Security for recognizing the vital role our industry fulfills in our nation,” said Lawrence G. Keane, senior vice president and general counsel for the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

It’s a recognition of the need for law enforcement to have access to supplies and the right to self-defense during the crisis, but it does not guarantee those FFLs, ranges and manufacturers that are currently open will not close. Cities, counties and states can still impose more stringent guidelines as conditions dictate. “This list is advisory in nature,” the guidance statement explains.

“It is not, nor should it be considered, a federal directive or standard. Additionally, this advisory list is not intended to be the exclusive list of critical infrastructure sectors, workers, and functions that should continue during the COVID-19 response across all jurisdictions. Individual jurisdictions should add or subtract essential workforce categories based on their own requirements and discretion.”

Many indoor shooting ranges, in particular, have already closed their doors to honor the so-called social distancing rules and minimize exposure risk to their customers and staff—despite cutting-edge ventilation systems capable of ferreting out the smallest airborne particles. Owners and prospective owners are encouraged to call ahead to ensure the store or range is still open and adhere to all shelter-in-place orders in effect in their region.

Latest

Ballistics 101 A
Ballistics 101 A

Terminal Ballistics 101: What You Must Know As A Rifleman

It is easy to take a box of bullets for granted, but as a rifleman, it is important to understand all variables at play when it comes to terminal ballistics. This guide, from NRA Firearms Sourcebook, will help drill down on what is important.

Preview: BlackPoint Tactical Leather Wing—Light Mounted

The Leather Wing from BlackPoint Tactical is a hybrid OWB concealed-carry holster that pairs thermoformed front and rear Kydex shells with flexible leather side panels.

Bringing The 940 Back: Smith & Wesson & Davidson's Revive Classic Revolver

After a 27-year hiatus, the Smith & Wesson Model 940 revolver in 9 mm Luger is finally back, thanks to S&W's partnership with distributor Davidson's, Inc.

Preview: The Life Of Samuel H. Walker

Firearm enthusiasts will recognize the name of Samuel Walker due to his association with Sam Colt.

Gun Of The Week: Bergara BMR-X Steel

In this episode, the American Rifleman staff is on the range with a rimfire rifle that’s designed to excel in competition. This is the Bergara BMR-X Steel, a bolt-action that offers some match-grade features at a price that won’t break the bank.

Robert "Bob" Nosler Passes Away

Robert "Bob" Nosler, chairman of Nosler, Inc., passed away on Sept. 2, 2025, at the age of 79.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.