Gun-Related Gear Shortage Ahead?

by
posted on October 15, 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. **
gun-gear-demand-doubles.jpg
The record-setting pace of new firearm sales this year is well-documented, but tracking nationwide purchases of gun-related gear is another story. No NICS check is required for a holster, but a press release from 1791 Gunleather this month indicates orders for its products went up almost 100 percent between April and September.

“At 1791 Gunleather, we have seen an unprecedented demand for products,” the press release states. “In the past six months, we have nearly doubled the output of our products while maintaining strict adherence to our code of quality.”

The figure obviously doesn’t represent every manufacturer’s experience, but it does endorse a trend made obvious when visiting most gun stores today—low-to-no stock in some items, including ammunition. If a specific firearm-related item is on your holiday gift-giving list shop early this year.

1791 Gunleather has added staff has to fill orders, although doing so safely during the pandemic presented an unusual challenge—a hurdle shared by the industry at this time. There was another focus for 1791, though, according to company COO Alex Toussieh. “Increasing our capacity is a task that we take very seriously,” he said. “We have a standard of quality that takes priority over meeting demand. Demand is a close second, but quality first.”

The company continues to introduce new products and improve on its older versions, despite the added workload and challenges of COVID-19. Its Smooth Concealment Fair Chase holster, for example, is one of its latest innovations. Unlike the steerhide or Kydex found in most of its products, this one uses deer leather for breathable comfort during carry.

Founded in 2015, 1791 Gunleather uses 100-percent Certified American, Heavy Native Steerhide in most of its holsters. Its team incorporates four generations of professional leather artisans into the mastery of both beautiful craftsmanship and functionality found in each holster.

Latest

magazines with ammo
magazines with ammo

Old (Un)reliable: Finding a Magazine that Works for Your 1911

There have been more than 100 manufacturers of 1911-style pistols and magazines, some more faithful to the original drawings than others.

3 New Shotgun Suppressors for 2026

Just because you're in the field hunting for upland game or busting clays at your local range doesn't mean you can't protect your hearing.

First Breach Begins Trading on NASDAQ Under "FBDT" Ticker Symbol

In August 2026, First Breach Defense Technologies, a producer of ammunition and unmanned aerial systems based in Hagerstown, Md., announced that its common stock had begun trading on the NASDAQ capital market under the ticker symbol "FBDT."

Review: Franchi Momentum Elite MULE

Franchi’s Momentum Elite MULE is a not-quite-a-scout rifle that has a lot to offer the modern rifle shooter.

The Armed Citizen® Aug. 24, 2026

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

I Have This Old Gun: Smith & Wesson K-22 Masterpiece

Smith & Wesson's rimfire K-22 Masterpiece revolver proved that quality costs, but it also sells.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.