Firearm Industry Sees Substantial Growth In 2021

The economic impact of the firearm and ammunition industry in the United States increased from $19.1 billion in 2008 to $70.52 billion by 2021—a 269-percent increase—according to a recently released report from the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). The number of full-time equivalent jobs rose from approximately 166,000 to over 375,819 during that period.

On a year-over-year basis, the industry’s economic impact rose from $63.5 billion in 2020, to $70.52 billion in 2021. Jobs directly related to firearms, ammo and accessories increased by more than 33,000 in that 12-month span.

More than $7.85 billion in business taxes—including property, income and sales-based levies—were paid by companies in the industry. Another $1.1 billion was generated in federal excise taxes, which directly contributes to wildlife conservation.

“The economic contributions of our industry are indisputably contributing to every state and every community,” said Joe Bartozzi, NSSF president and CEO. “This is the hallmark of the hard-working men and women who prove that the American firearm and ammunition industry is strong. The growth of firearm and ammunition manufacturing year-after-year shows that this industry continues to meet the American demand for lawful firearm ownership. This industry produces the highest quality firearms and ammunition, and has been proud to welcome over 5.4 million first-time gun buyers in 2021 alone. These new gun owners are increasingly representative of Americans from all walks of life, including more women and more minority communities that have decided to exercise their right to keep and bear arms and to safely enjoy the recreational shooting sports. This growth equals more jobs that add to our local economies, averaging $56,900 in wages and benefits. Since 2008, federal tax payments increased by 206 percent, Pittman-Robertson excise taxes that support wildlife conservation by 214 percent and state business taxes by 151 percent.”

The annual Firearm and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact Report [PDF] is available here, courtesy of NSSF. It also provides a state-by-state breakdown of job numbers, wages and output covering direct, supplier and induced employment, as well as federal excise taxes paid.