Gun Sales Surge in Alabama Amid National Uptick: BIRMINGHAM, Ala. Firearms are flying off the shelves in Alabama, mirroring a national trend of increased gun purchases.
At Redland Rifle Company on Highway 280, the owner reports a 30% spike in gun sales last month compared to the previous month. James JD Deer attributes much of this surge to the rising levels of violence.
In an election year, with events in Ukraine, Israel, and the broader Middle East, along with the recent shooting in Maine, we’ve definitely seen an uptick in sales, says JD.
The Federal Bureau of Investigation notes a 7% rise in firearm background check applications nationwide in October compared to September. The statistics reveal 2,255,089 people underwent a firearm background check in October, a significant increase of around 150,000 from September.
JD emphasizes that there isn’t a specific style or category of firearm witnessing a higher demand at his shop.
“People are looking for items for self-defense, as well as home defense, so I wouldn’t say there’s any one particular style or category of firearm that has seen an uptick,” JD explains.
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Regardless of the type of firearm, JD underscores the importance of understanding your weapon and adhering to safety precautions.
“It really is about safety; it is paramount. Get some training, and we tell everybody – you really need to go to the range. You need to put rounds down range and see how this things going to react or how youre going to react, how youre going to handle it with different types of ammunition.”
For new gun owners or those yet to take a class, JD encourages enrolling in a firearm training course. Jefferson County’s Sheriffs Office was the first in the state to offer a free handgun safety class to citizens, promoting responsible firearm ownership.
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Our Reader’s Queries
Has gun buying surged in recent years?
Based on background checks and data analysis, The Trace calculates that gun sales nearly tripled from 2005 to 2020, increasing from 7.8 million to 21.8 million. In 2021, firearm sales decreased to 18.9 million, and in 2022, they dropped further to 16.6 million. Each of these three numbers surpasses the total gun sales for any other year in the 21st century.
What percentage of people in Alabama own guns?
Get the latest stats on gun ownership and licenses in 2022 for states like Mississippi, Alabama, South Dakota, and North Dakota. See how the numbers stack up – Mississippi leads with 55.8% gun ownership and 80,712 licenses, followed closely by Alabama at 55.5% and 194,920 licenses. South Dakota and North Dakota also show high rates of gun ownership at 55.3% and 55.1% respectively, with 64,666 and 30,975 licenses. Stay informed on the latest data from all 50 states.
How do Republicans feel about gun laws?
86% of Democrats believe obtaining a gun legally is too easy, compared to 34% of Republicans. The majority of urban (72%) and suburban (63%) residents also share this view. Rural residents are more evenly split, with 47% saying it is too easy, 41% saying it is just right, and 11% saying it is too difficult.
Are guns increasing in value?
Classic military arms have seen unprecedented price growth in the world of gun collecting. M1 Garands, K98 rifles, and combat shotguns have all experienced a significant surge in value.