RECOIL LIVE: State of the Gun Industry

Published on April 25, 2020
Duration: 58:40

This RECOIL Live webinar features industry leaders discussing the significant impact of the COVID-19 pandemic on the firearms industry. Topics include disruptions to training, unprecedented demand for ammunition and firearms, supply chain challenges, and the influx of new gun owners. The panelists, including representatives from Sig Sauer, Hornady Manufacturing, Brownells, and Lead F.O.R.C.E. Tactical, share insights into how their businesses are adapting and the long-term implications for the industry, particularly concerning the growing number of first-time firearm owners.

Quick Summary

The COVID-19 pandemic has drastically reshaped the firearms industry, leading to unprecedented demand for ammunition and firearms, supply chain disruptions, and a significant influx of new gun owners. Experts anticipate this heightened demand to continue, influenced by upcoming elections and ongoing political discourse, with supply chains needing several months to normalize.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: RECOIL Live Panel
  2. 01:30COVID-19 Impact on Firearms Training
  3. 03:42Ammunition & Product Demand at Brownells
  4. 05:24Biggest Sellers & Industry Surges
  5. 08:07Supply Chain & Component Sourcing
  6. 09:50Workforce Impact & Safety Measures
  7. 17:17Demand for Non-Standard Items
  8. 20:12Ammunition Pricing & Retail Markups
  9. 21:45Component Costs & Raw Materials
  10. 26:29NICS Checks & New Firearm Owners
  11. 27:13Impact of New Shooters on the Industry
  12. 30:44Growth & Transition in the Firearms Industry
  13. 34:57New Product Launches & NRA Show Cancellation
  14. 36:18Sig P320 Modular System Expansion
  15. 44:43Firearms Industry Outlook for 2020
  16. 50:12Shift in Gun Control Legislation Efforts
  17. 52:54Firearm Recommendations for New Female Owners
  18. 56:00Advice for New Gun Owners
  19. 58:10Panel Conclusion & Thanks

Frequently Asked Questions

How has COVID-19 impacted firearms training?

COVID-19 significantly impacted firearms training due to social distancing requirements. Many classes, especially for law enforcement and private groups, were postponed or cancelled, forcing trainers like Dan Brocas of Lead F.O.R.C.E. Tactical to reschedule or adapt to smaller group sizes.

What are the biggest selling items in the firearms industry during the pandemic?

Ammunition, AR-platform components, and magazines have been top sellers. Reloading equipment has also seen a surge in demand as consumers seek to produce their own ammunition due to shortages and price increases. Even niche items like short shotgun shells have seen increased movement.

Are manufacturers raising wholesale prices due to increased demand?

Manufacturers like Hornady stated they have not changed their wholesale pricing. They suggest that perceived price increases are often due to retailers adjusting their margins, returning to normal pricing after a period of deep discounts, rather than wholesale cost hikes.

What is the outlook for the firearms industry in the remainder of 2020?

The outlook suggests continued high demand, with supply chains needing 90-120 days to normalize. The upcoming election and ongoing political rhetoric are expected to sustain heightened interest in firearms and ammunition sales throughout the year.

What firearm is recommended for a new female gun owner?

For new female gun owners, especially for concealed carry, experts recommend prioritizing quality and shootability over extreme compactness. While micro-compacts are popular, starting with a slightly larger, easier-to-control firearm is advised for better accuracy and handling under stress.

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