The firearm industry has been through a lot since 2019, the most recent year U.S. firearms production data from ATF is available. Shooting Industry’s annual “U.S. Firearms Industry Today” report featured in the July issue focuses on trends observed in 2019, as well as provides a broader view of the 2010s decade. This data-rich report recognizes the top U.S. firearm manufacturers, leading exporters and more.

The cyclical nature of the industry is one of its defining characteristics. This sustained period of record demand won’t last forever, and savvy businesses are taking steps to invest in long-term planning. Two features this month, from outdoor industry consultant Jim Curcuruto and NASGW President Kenyon Gleason, argue maintaining a pulse on the market is key in “Research In A Time Of Plenty” and “Get Good Instruments & Trust Them,” respectively.

Tim Barker evaluates dealer efforts to develop repeat customers from the year’s millions of first-time gun buyers in “Emerging Trends Of First-Time Buyers.” In-step with the surge in firearm sales is increased demand on cleaning products. Shannon Farlow examines the way retailers are managing the booming “Gun-Care Market.”

Massad Ayoob addresses customer pet peeves in July’s Personal Defense Market — if a team can avoid some of the turnoffs he outlines, the odds of a sale skyrocket. The Arms & The Woman installment spotlights three successful woman-owned stores. Carolee Anita Boyles introduces their unique stories and what’s helped them get to where they are today, including one that opened during the pandemic. Owners of small businesses often wear many hats, one of which is usually marketing. With budget, time and capability in mind, Ashley McGee provides “7 Low-Cost Marketing Tools” to help a store or range grow in this month’s Best Practices.

The Greatest Buyer’s Guide In The Universe makes its semi-annual appearance in the July issue. This ample resource provides thousands of connections with businesses related to the shooting industry.

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