Trends in Gun Sales in the United States

Demand for guns in the United States surged during the COVID-19 pandemic, social unrest, and a contentious presidential election, but the boom is now subsiding. Gun sales remain high compared to pre-pandemic years, with millions more guns produced in recent years. The National Instant Criminal Background Check System recorded over 15.2 million checks for gun sales in 2024.

Gun Sales Background Checks in March 2024

March 2024 saw over 1.4 million NICS checks for gun sales, continuing a streak of over one million checks for 56 consecutive months. The NSSF adjusted the data to reflect only background checks for gun sales.