Once Popular, Now Forgotten: Guns Few Are Buying In 2026

Published on April 6, 2026
Duration: 10:03

This video analyzes why several once-popular firearms are now struggling to sell in 2025. The Marlin 336 faces competition from bolt-action rifles, pump shotguns like the Mossberg 500/590 and Remington 870 Tactical are losing ground to AR-15s and semi-auto shotguns, and classic pistols like the Sig P226 and S&W Shield Gen 1 are outsold by modern striker-fired, higher-capacity alternatives. Even budget AR-15s like the Ruger AR-556 and revolvers like the S&W 686/642 are seeing declining sales due to evolving buyer preferences for features, capacity, and modern designs.

Quick Summary

Once popular firearms like the Marlin 336, Mossberg 500/590, Remington 870 Tactical, Sig P226, and S&W Shield Gen 1 are experiencing declining sales in 2025. This shift is driven by evolving buyer preferences for modern features such as higher magazine capacity, lighter weight, easier operation, and better optics integration, leading many consumers to opt for AR-15s, striker-fired pistols, and semi-automatic shotguns.

Chapters

  1. 00:35Marlin 336 Struggles
  2. 01:52Mossberg 500 & 590 Decline
  3. 03:07Remington 870 Tactical's Woes
  4. 04:27Sig P226 Losing Market Share
  5. 05:51S&W Shield Gen 1 Outdated
  6. 07:11Ruger AR-556 Saturation
  7. 08:31Revolvers Gathering Dust

Frequently Asked Questions

Why are firearms like the Marlin 336 no longer selling well?

The Marlin 336, a classic lever-action rifle, is facing declining sales as hunters increasingly prefer bolt-action rifles for their superior reach and better optics mounting capabilities. Additionally, the cost and availability of .30-30 ammunition make it less appealing compared to alternatives like .308.

What has caused pump-action shotguns like the Mossberg 500/590 and Remington 870 to fall out of favor?

Pump-action shotguns are losing ground to AR-15s and pistol-caliber carbines for home defense due to their lighter weight, faster reloads, and easier optics integration. For hunting, semi-automatic and over/under shotguns are becoming more popular, especially among younger shooters.

Why are older semi-automatic pistols like the Sig P226 and S&W Shield Gen 1 struggling to sell?

Modern buyers prioritize striker-fired pistols that are lighter, easier to operate, and offer higher magazine capacity. The P226's DA/SA trigger and the Shield Gen 1's single-stack design are seen as outdated compared to newer, higher-capacity micro-compacts.

What is the current market status for budget AR-15 rifles like the Ruger AR-556?

The market for budget AR-15s has cooled significantly due to saturation. Most consumers who wanted a basic AR have already purchased one. Current buyers are often looking for more premium features, leaving models like the AR-556 in a less competitive position.

More Reviews Videos You Might Like

More from Line45

View all →