- First-time gun buyers: A large proportion of firearm purchases during the surge were made by first-time gun owners. Fears related to social unrest, civil rights protests, and the COVID-19 pandemic motivated many individuals to purchase firearms for self-defense or protection.
- Women: Women accounted for a significant portion of firearm purchases during the surge. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) reported a notable increase in the number of women purchasing firearms, driven by concerns over personal safety amidst uncertain times.
- Minorities: Minorities, particularly African Americans and Hispanics, also played a role in the purchasing surge. These communities experienced heightened anxieties about community safety and law enforcement interactions, leading many individuals to seek firearms for self-protection and empowerment.
- Existing gun owners: Existing gun owners also contributed to the surge in purchases, expanding their firearm collections and seeking different types of firearms such as handguns, shotguns, and rifles for sport shooting, target practice, and self-defense purposes.
- Preppers and survivalists: Individuals with survivalist and preparedness mindsets also drove a significant portion of firearm purchases. Amid concerns about societal disruptions, natural disasters, and civil unrest, many preppers and survivalists stocked up on firearms and ammunition as part of their emergency preparedness plans.
It's important to note that the reasons for firearm purchases can be diverse, and the factors mentioned above are not exclusive to the 2020 surge. However, they provide a general overview of the demographics that contributed significantly to the increased demand for firearms during this period.
