Washington — A Georgetown University professor has released a dramatically expanded version of his National Firearms Survey, delivering fresh data that undercuts long‑standing gun‑control arguments. The 2026 survey, an update to the 2021 study, shows a significant increase in lawful gun ownership and defensive firearm use across the United States.
Key Findings
• AR‑15‑style rifles: An estimated 26.4 million American adults now own an AR‑15 or a similarly styled semi‑automatic rifle with a pistol grip, up from 24.6 million who had ever owned one in 2021.
• High‑capacity magazines: About 44.5 million adults currently possess magazines holding more than ten rounds, representing roughly 50.5 % of gun owners.
• Defensive gun uses: The survey estimates 2.2 million defensive firearm incidents each year, an increase from the 1.67 million reported in the earlier study. The rise includes protections against animal attacks, which account for over 8 % of reported uses.
• Public carry: Approximately 33.6 million adults now carry a concealed‑carry permit and report carrying for self‑defense at least sometimes—a 60 % jump over five years.
Context and Impact
The updated questionnaire asked respondents about current ownership of specific firearms and accessories, addressing earlier criticisms that the 2021 survey may have inflated numbers by counting former owners. By focusing on present possession, the new data provides a clearer picture of lawful gun ownership trends.
Since July 2021, twelve states have enacted permitless‑carry laws, and the Supreme Court’s 2022 decision in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen broadened public‑carry rights. These legal changes, combined with heightened concerns about violent crime, appear to have spurred a “come to Jesus” moment for many Americans who recognize the importance of their Second Amendment rights.
Demographically, the survey shows a modest rise in female gun owners—up 3.5 % from 2021—despite clearer instructions to count only personally owned firearms. This suggests that women are not merely reporting spouses’ weapons but are increasingly exercising their own right to self‑defense.
What This Means for the Debate
Gun‑control advocates have long argued that assault‑style rifles and high‑capacity magazines have little civilian purpose and should be heavily restricted. The new findings challenge that narrative by demonstrating widespread lawful ownership for self‑defense, hunting, and sport shooting.
While critics may still question methodology, the data indicates that defensive gun uses were likely undercounted in the earlier study, not exaggerated. The surge in public‑carry permits and the growing demographic diversity of gun owners further underscore a cultural shift toward embracing constitutional gun rights.
As the nation continues to grapple with public‑safety concerns, the survey provides policymakers and citizens alike with robust, evidence‑based insight into how Americans are exercising their right to bear arms responsibly.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
