Gun ownership in the United States is a topic of widespread interest and debate. We’ve compiled data and insights from a Pew research Center survey that reveals some surprising and insightful details about who owns guns, why they own them, and how these patterns differ across the country.
Whether we own guns ourselves or not, we’ve all got plenty of preconceived ideas about who owns guns and why, and many of those are likely wrong.
1. Almost Half of American Adults Live in a Household with a Gun
Nearly 4 in 10 American adults report that they live in a household where there’s a gun. This means that around 42% of adults either own a gun themselves or live with someone who does. Gun ownership is woven into the fabric of many American households, but I was still surprised the percentage was this high! I’d expect a higher percentage out in the country, but in urban centers, I’d expect the numbers to be lower.
2. Men Are More Likely to Own Guns Than Women
Men are nearly three times more likely to own a gun than women. According to the report, 39% of men say they own a gun compared to 22% of women. This gender gap is consistent across various regions and demographics in the U.S, which came as no surprise to me, although the women in my family all shoot just as well, if not better, than the guys.
3. White Americans Lead Gun Ownership Rates
Gun ownership varies significantly by race, with 49% of White adults reporting gun ownership. This is substantially higher than Black and Hispanic adults, who report ownership at rates of 32% and 21% respectively. The reasons behind these differences are complex, involving historical, cultural, and social factors.
4. Gun Ownership Increases with Age
Older adults are more likely to own guns than younger ones. About 33% of adults aged 50 and older report owning a gun, compared to just 28% of those aged 18-29. This trend reflects different attitudes towards guns and possibly differing needs for self-defense or hunting.
5. Republicans Are Twice as Likely to Own Guns as Democrats
Political affiliation plays a significant role in gun ownership. About 44% of Republicans say they own a gun, which is more than double the rate of Democrats, at 20%. This difference highlights the deep political divides on issues related to guns and gun control.
6. Rural Americans Are the Most Likely to Own Guns
Where you live also impacts gun ownership. People in rural areas are far more likely to own guns, according to the survey results, with 46% reporting ownership, compared to 28% in the suburbs and just 19% in urban areas. Rural residents often cite hunting and self-defense as key reasons for owning a gun, which makes sense. If you’re like me, and hunting is part necessity, part cultural heritage, it’s important that you have the right weaponry for this job. .
7. Guns Are Often Passed Down Through Families
Family traditions play a big role in gun ownership. About 67% of gun owners say that guns were passed down to them by family members, myself included. I think this goes to show the cultural significance of guns in many American families, where they are often seen as heirlooms or symbols of heritage.
8. Personal Protection Is the Main Reason for Owning a Gun
Among gun owners, the primary reason for owning a gun is personal protection. About 67% of owners say they keep a gun for protection against people, while 38% say they own a gun for hunting. Not everyone is a hunter, of course, so this makes sense. Although I live in a rural place perfect for hunting and self-sufficiency so, for me, a decent rifle to take deer and larger game is a must for me.
9. Handguns Are the Most Commonly Owned Firearms
Handguns are the firearm of choice for most gun owners, with 72% reporting that they own a handgun. This is followed by rifles and shotguns, which are owned by 62% and 54% of gun owners respectively. The preference for handguns aligns with their primary use for personal protection.
10. More Education Equals Less Gun Ownership
Education level has an inverse relationship with gun ownership. Adults with only a high school diploma or less are more likely to own a gun (40%) compared to those with some college education (30%) and college graduates (25%). This trend might reflect differing life experiences, economic backgrounds, and values.
11. The South Has the Highest Rate of Gun Ownership
Geography matters in gun ownership. The South leads the nation with 36% of adults owning a gun, while the Northeast has the lowest rate at 16%. This regional difference is linked to cultural factors and varying state laws on gun ownership.
12. Married People Are More Likely to Own Guns
Marriage seems to correlate with higher gun ownership. About 35% of married adults own a gun, compared to 22% of those who have never been married. Married people might feel a stronger need to protect their families, leading to higher ownership rates, but I still had to tripe-check this, as I thought it would skew the other way.
13. Gun Owners Tend to Own Multiple Guns
If you own one gun, you’re likely to own more. The report found that 66% of gun owners have more than one firearm, and 29% own five or more. This trend suggests that once people start owning guns, they often continue to add to their collection.
14. Many Gun Owners Keep Guns Hidden or Locked Away
Safety is a concern for many gun owners, with 54% saying they keep all their guns locked away and unloaded when not in use. I actually thought this figure would be lower, expecting more people to keep their firearms loaded and close-to-hand. However, 30% admit to keeping at least one gun loaded and easily accessible at all times, often for quick access in case of an emergency.
15. Most Americans Support Some Form of Gun Control
Despite the high rates of gun ownership and passion for the 2nd amendment, most Americans support certain gun control measures. The report shows that 84% of gun owners support background checks for private sales and gun shows, indicating a broad consensus for at least some regulation.
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