Firearm Industry Shows Signs of Rebound

Indicators point to potential recovery after pandemic-era sales decline

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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Several industry developments suggest the post-pandemic decline in gun sales may be coming to an end, with a National Rifle Association report highlighting positive signs from major players across the firearm supply chain, including a retail chain's expansion plans, a wholesaler's new distribution center, and a manufacturer's improved earnings.

Why it matters

The firearm industry is known for its cyclical nature, often tied to elections and economic conditions. A potential rebound could mean changes for consumers, with the possibility of better deals and more product availability giving way to higher prices and limited stock if demand increases.

The details

The report cites several indicators of a potential industry rebound, including the National Shooting Sports Foundation's monthly gun sales estimates showing a 0.7% decline in January 2026 compared to the same month in 2025, and a 3.5% improvement in February 2026 over February 2025. Other signs include the expansion plans of the largest indoor gun range and firearm retailer, Range USA, which is opening three new stores in 2026, and the construction of a new state-of-the-art corporate headquarters and distribution center by wholesaler Lipsey's. Firearms manufacturer Ruger also reported a 3.6% sales increase in the fourth quarter of fiscal year 2025 and a 1.9% increase for the full year, despite an overall challenging consumer environment.

  • The National Shooting Sports Foundation released its January 2026 gun sales estimates in March 2026.
  • The National Shooting Sports Foundation released its February 2026 gun sales estimates in March 2026.
  • Range USA announced plans to open three new stores in 2026.
  • Lipsey's is beginning construction on its new corporate headquarters and distribution center in April 2026.
  • Ruger released its fourth quarter and full-year fiscal 2025 earnings report on March 3, 2026.

The players

National Rifle Association

The organization that published the report on the potential rebound in the firearm industry.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

The organization that provides monthly estimates of gun sales, which are seen as a key industry barometer.

Range USA

The nation's largest indoor gun range and firearm retailer, which is expanding with three new store openings in 2026.

Lipsey's

A leading sporting goods wholesaler that is building a new state-of-the-art corporate headquarters and distribution center.

Ruger

A major firearms manufacturer that reported improved sales in its fourth quarter and full-year fiscal 2025 earnings.

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What they’re saying

“Our current Pittsburgh (Robinson Township), Nashville (Goodlettsville) and Kansas City (North Kansas City, Mo.) locations have seen quick success, with local communities and customers embracing our presence. This strong performance made expanding into Smyrna, Lenexa and Monroeville a strategic priority for us, and we're excited to see all three stores open with similar success.”

— Jimmy McManus, Range USA Chief Operating Officer (americanrifleman.org)

“For almost 75 years, Lipsey's has been proud to call Baton Rouge home. This project reflects our continued belief in the region and dedication to our team, customers and partners who have helped us grow. Our new headquarters will position us for the future while honoring the legacy and values that define our family-owned company.”

— Laurie Lipsey, Lipsey's Chairwoman and CEO (americanrifleman.org)

“We are encouraged by our fourth quarter and full-year results, with revenues exceeding the same periods last year despite a challenging consumer environment. This performance reflects the strength of our product strategy and our continued focus on innovation.”

— Todd Seyfert, Ruger President and CEO (americanrifleman.org)

The takeaway

While the firearm industry has historically experienced cyclical booms and busts, the recent indicators of a potential rebound, including expansion plans by major players across the supply chain, suggest consumers may soon face changes in product availability and pricing as demand potentially increases.