Women Gun Ownership Spikes Amid COVID-19 – Why Is That So?

The last year was challenging for everybody. The pandemic influenced all areas of life, the ways we work, think and socialize. Lots of people lost their jobs due to covid-19, and unemployment rates have skyrocketed. In combination with civil unrest, the presidential election, and renewed discourse about the Second Amendment, there’s no wonder why more and more Americans are feeling nervous. As a result of these events, gun sales surged during the last year, and the trend continues in 2021. Interest in guns and gun ownership has always been an essential part of the foundation of our country. So, it’s not surprising that more people are opting for buying a firearm, many of them for the first time. What is surprising, though, is that a large portion of the new gun owners are women. Here is why women gun ownership spikes amid Covid-19.

First-time buyers

Since the beginning of the pandemic, there has been a rise in purchasing guns. FBI data shows that 2.6 million guns were bought in March last year (which is an 85% percent increase compared to the previous year). The states where the rise in gun ownership was most noticeable are Illinois, Texas, and Kentucky. The interesting fact the surveys show is that 40% of the people who bought the firearms are new to gun ownership.

What’s more, 40% of the new buyers are women. Why is that so? What has motivated women to start buying guns more than ever before? There are many reasons, and they vary from person to person. However, research shows that the main reason is personal protection. Many women are feeling a bit vulnerable and helpless with the pandemic and everything else that’s happening. For that reason, owning a firearm and learning how to use it makes them feel safe, independent, and confident.

The beginning of the pandemic created fear and uncertainty

As the pandemic spread across the world, no one was sure what to expect. With businesses closing down, people losing their jobs, and the crime rate going up, many people were afraid of economic collapse and shortage of food and basic supplies. Different people responded in different ways. Therefore, lines were forming in front of grocery stores and, surprisingly, gun stores too. Uncertainty about what will happen during the pandemic led many women to consider learning how to safely use a gun.

Not only have we had to adjust ourselves to the “new normal”, but many people have taken active steps to increase their safety. For example, some women, especially those living in densely populated urban environments, have chosen to move to more peaceful, rural areas with the help of professionals such as those at  heavenlymove.com. On the other hand, some women have decided to rely on themselves and purchase a weapon. Having a means of protection enables them to feel secure and continue with their lives.

Women are looking for ways to protect themselves and their families

So, the primary force behind the increase of women’s gun ownership is a wish to feel safe in times of trouble and uncertainty. Covid-19 initiated firearms sales, but other events contributed to the continuation of this trend. Civil and political unrest and the fear of erosion of civil society led many women to change their views on guns. They want to be self-reliant and capable of protecting themselves and their families if it becomes necessary.

Family and personal influences played a role, too. Many women grew up with guns in their life, but have never really learned how to use them. Teaching kids how to safely use a gun is essential if growing up in a home with guns. For that reason, many women are buying guns and taking classes on how to handle, load, and unload them.

Political discourse about the Second Amendment

The turbulent presidential election did nothing to calm things down. Instead, the fears of post-election violence, changes to the Second Amendment, and restrictions on firearms have led many people to buy guns. Gun stores report that various firearms, from pistols to shotguns, are flying from the shelves. Ammo shortages are expected for years to come.

In addition, this inspired first-time buyers, especially women, to arm themselves. Covid-19 measures and consequent events lead people to distrust the government. Many people are worried that the government won’t be able to protect them. On the other hand, some people are afraid the government will infringe on American freedom to defend themselves.

Safety first

Of course, guns are helpful tools only if you know how to handle them. For many women, shooting was a pastime or something they were only marginally familiar with. For a long time, gun ownership was a province of men. Women have often felt uncomfortable asking or searching for a firearm in gun stores.

One of the reasons why women gun ownership spikes amid COVID-19 is that there are more places where women feel at ease when buying a gun for themselves. Not only that, but there are also classes and shooting practice for women only. There they can learn everything they need to know about self-defense and firearms.

So, more women are learning how to safely use and handle guns. And they’re doing it in classes with other women where they’re not looked down on or uncomfortable. Everything, from picking up a gun from a table to relocating your gun safely during the pandemic, is essential.

As we’ve mentioned before, more and more people are moving due to the pandemic. If you’re planning to move, make sure to find a reliable company that will help you relocate without breaking the bank. Relocations can be costly, so cutting moving expenses wherever possible is imperative. And don’t forget that your firearms must be safely and securely packed and transported!

A sense of empowerment

Apart from all these critical world events, women have always felt a bit vulnerable in our society. Unfortunately, domestic violence is far from unheard of. Furthermore, living by yourself or going back home alone late at night are all potential risks for every woman. For that reason, taking self-defense classes or having a firearm give women a valuable sense of empowerment and self-confidence. Women gun ownership spikes amid COVID-19 because of many factors. However, a wish to take care of themselves and protect their loved ones is at the heart of this recent trend.

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Women gun ownership spikes amid Covid-19. Read on to find out why more and more women are buying and learning how to use guns!