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

Published on April 6, 2026
Duration: 10:03

This video from Line45 discusses firearms that were once popular but are now experiencing declining sales in 2025. Host Scott attributes this trend to evolving buyer preferences, increased competition from newer designs, and shifts in ammunition costs and availability. The firearms discussed include the Marlin 336, Mossberg 500/590, Remington 870 Tactical, Sig P226, S&W Shield Gen 1, Ruger AR-556, and S&W 686/642 revolvers.

Quick Summary

Several firearms, including the Marlin 336, Mossberg 500/590, Remington 870 Tactical, Sig P226, S&W Shield Gen 1, Ruger AR-556, and S&W 686/642 revolvers, are experiencing declining sales in 2025 due to evolving buyer preferences for modern features, higher capacity, and better performance.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Guns Gathering Dust
  2. 00:35Marlin 336: The Fading Lever Action
  3. 01:52Mossberg 500 & 590: Pump Shotguns in Decline
  4. 03:13Remington 870 Tactical: Reputation Issues
  5. 04:27Sig P226: Outpaced by Newer Designs
  6. 05:51S&W Shield Gen 1: Capacity Concerns
  7. 07:11Ruger AR-556: Market Saturation
  8. 08:29S&W 686 & 642: Revolvers' Shrinking Demand
  9. 09:47Conclusion: Shifting Buyer Habits

Frequently Asked Questions

Which firearms are experiencing declining sales in 2025?

Several once-popular firearms are seeing reduced sales in 2025. These include the Marlin 336 lever-action rifle, Mossberg 500/590 pump shotguns, Remington 870 Tactical, Sig Sauer P226 pistol, original Smith & Wesson Shield, Ruger AR-556, and Smith & Wesson 686/642 revolvers.

Why are lever-action rifles like the Marlin 336 becoming less popular?

Lever-action rifles are becoming less popular as hunters shift to bolt-action rifles for greater range and better optics compatibility. Additionally, the cost and availability of .30-30 ammunition make it less appealing compared to more common calibers like .308 or 6.5 Creedmoor.

What is causing the decline in pump shotgun sales?

Pump shotgun sales are declining because buyers for home defense are opting for lighter, faster AR-style rifles or pistol-caliber carbines, while hunters are increasingly choosing semi-automatic shotguns or over/under models for better performance and ergonomics.

Why are older semi-automatic pistols like the Sig P226 not selling as well?

Older DA/SA pistols like the Sig P226 are being outsold by modern striker-fired handguns such as the Sig P320 and P365. Buyers prefer the lighter, simpler operation, optics-ready slides, and often higher magazine capacities of newer designs.

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