Civil Shotgun and Rifles Market Size, Share & Industry Analysis, By Caliber (Rimfire Calibers, Intermediate Centerfire Calibers, Full-Power / Battle Rifle Calibers, and Pistol Calibers) By Operating Mechanism (Gas-Operated, Blowback-Operated, and Recoil-Operated), By Application (Hunting & Pest Control, Sport Shooting & Competition, Recreational Shooting, and Personal Security & Home Defense), By End User (Civilians, Private Security Firms, and Commercial Training Providers), and Regional Forecast, 2026-2034

The global civil shotgun and rifles market size was valued at USD 3.25 billion in 2025. The market is projected to grow from USD 3.38 billion in 2026 to USD 4.83 billion by 2034, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.5% during the forecast period.

Civil shotgun and rifles are types of firearms specifically designed and manufactured for civilian ownership. These arms are in accordance with local, state, or national laws governing firearms.Civilians use these rifles for hunting, sports shooting, shooting competitions, recreational shooting, and personal security or home defense. Popular calibers in this industry are .22 LR, .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, 7.62×39mm, and new variants such as 6.8mm Remington SPC.

The major players in this market include Sturm, Ruger & Co., Smith & Wesson, Sig Sauer, FN Herstal, and others. These rifle manufacturers provide firearms for sporting, hunting, recreational, and home defense applications. Sturm, Ruger & Co. offers popular platforms such as the Ruger Mini-14 and 10/22 popular specifically for hunting and shooting competition. Sig Sauer offers the M400 and 556 series, high-quality rifles catering to sports shooters and tactical enthusiasts. 

MARKET DYNAMICS

MARKET DRIVERS

Rise in Awareness in Personal Security and Home Defense Expected to Drive Market Growth

In recent years, there has been an increase in public awareness of personal security. As individuals become more conscious of potential threats, the demand for firearms rises as civilians view firearms as essential for self-protection and home security. This shift is particularly notable in regions with a strong culture of firearm ownership, such as North America. The rise in awareness is also fueled by societal concerns over rising crime rates and personal safety, which influence consumer behavior towards investing in reliable and effective firearms. Moreover, government initiatives and training programs are expected to increase confidence and awareness among civilians regarding the use of firearms, which is expected to drive the demand for civilian legal rifles & shotguns.

• For instance, in September 2025, the Udupi District Police conducted a five-day civilian rifle training program with 195 participants from various sub-divisions. This training, aimed to equip civilians with responsible firearm handling skills

MARKET RESTRAINTS

High Cost and Associated License & Training Expenses to Limit Market Expansion

The high cost of civilian semi-automatic rifles is a significant restraint that negatively affects the significant growth of the market. These rifles are made with quality materials and precision engineering, which makes them difficult for potential buyers to afford. Moreover, there are additional costs for licenses, training, and accessories, which further increase the overall cost of owning such rifles. Such a price barrier limits accessibility, especially in regions with lower average incomes, which can reduce overall market growth. 

MARKET OPPORTUNITIES

Technological Advances in the Design of Semi-Automatic Rifles Provide Significant Market Opportunities

The rapid advancement of technology in firearm accessories and customization is creating significant new opportunities in the global market during the forecast period. Manufacturers are focused on enhancing optics, modular designs, and features such as smart gun, which allows users to tailor rifles to their specific needs. This is increasing the interest among civilians and professional shooters towards the purchase of advanced and new guns & rifles. Moreover, these innovations push aftermarket sales and specialized services, which in turn propel the market growth. 

• For instance, in February 2024, Smith & Wesson introduced the M&P15 Sport III, an upgraded version of its popular Sport II AR-15 rifle for civilians. The new model features a 16-inch Armornite-coated barrel with 5R rifling and a 1:8 twist for better ammo compatibility.

MARKET CHALLENGES

Regulatory Restrictions Remain a Key Challenge for the Civil Shotgun and Rifles Market

Stringent and varying government regulations across the globe present a significant challenge to the market. These restrictions include specific firearm features that complicate compliance for manufacturers and limit consumer access. Moreover, the regulatory uncertainties, background checks and waiting periods, and frequent legal changes create an environment of unpredictability, impacting market growth and operational stability.

CIVIL SHOTGUN AND RIFLES MARKET TRENDS

Rising Popularity of Semi-Automatic Rifles among Sport Shooters is a Significant Trend

A significant trend shaping the market is the rapid surge in the adoption of these rifles by sport shooters. Recreational and competitive shooting activities are expanding globally, with many participants preferring semi-automatic rifles for their versatility, ease of use, and precision. This increasing popularity drives demand for rifles designed for sports applications. Manufacturers constantly invest in the development of rifles with features such as ergonomics, accuracy, and customization options. Moreover, the growth of shooting sports communities & events due to the rising popularity of hunting and sports shooting further fuels this trend, creating sustained opportunities for market expansion.

• For instance, in October 2025, the National Rifle Association of India (NRAI) launched the country’s first franchise-based Shooting League of India (SLI), approved by the International Shooting Sport Federation (ISSF).

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By Caliber 

Balanced Performance and Wide Application Drives Intermediate Centerfire Calibers Segment Growth

On the basis of caliber, the market is bifurcated into rimfire calibers, intermediate centerfire calibers, full-power / battle rifle calibers, and pistol calibers. 

The intermediate centerfire calibers hold the largest share of the market due to the balanced performance and offering manageable recoil combined with sufficient stopping power. These features in the rifles drive their demand among hunters and sport shooters. These calibers support a wide range of applications from recreational shooting to personal defense, making them popular among civilian owners. Moreover, there is an increase in demand for an advanced and compact design intermediate centerfire caliber rifle that combines traditional styling with modern tactical features. 

• For instance, in January 2024, Ruger launched a new Mini-14 Tactical 5.56 side-folding model, reviving the classic stainless folder configuration as a modern semi-automatic rifle for civilian buyers seeking a compact, traditional-style platform for defense and general-purpose use.

The pistol caliber segment is the fastest-growing segment of the market, owing to an increase in civilian demand for effective self-defense, long-range rifles, and pistols chambered in popular calibers such as 9mm, 10mm, and others. The expanding popularity of semi-automatic pistols for personal security and sport shooting also fuels the civil shotgun and rifles market growth

By Operating Mechanism 

Superior Recoil Management and Reliability Boosts Demand for Gas Operated Segment

Based on operating mechanism, the market is segmented into gas-operated, blowback-operated, and recoil-operated. 

Gas-operated segment acquires the largest share in the market due to characteristics such as higher-powered cartridges with reduced recoil and improved reliability. This system uses expanding gas from fired cartridges to cycle the action, enabling smoother operation and better accuracy. In addition, manufacturers aim to include versatility and high performance in gas-operated rifles to boost consumer confidence and increase the rifles demand.

• For instance, in January 2023, Israel Weapon Industries (IWI) US Inc. announced it would debut the Carmel short-stroke, gas-piston semi-automatic rifle to the U.S. consumer market. The company launched a civilian-legal 5.56 NATO platform derived from the Israeli service rifle and positioned for tactical, competition, and defensive shooters. 

Blowback blowback-operated segment is the fastest-growing segment of the market. Within the blowback rifles the low-caliber, pistol-caliber, and rimfire rifles are increasingly getting popular due to their simpler design and lower manufacturing costs. Blowback systems use the direct force of cartridge pressure to cycle the action. Therefore, this design makes them mechanically less complex and easier to use and maintain. Thus, they are favored by entry-level and casual shooters, which drives their demand in the market during the forecast period.

By Application

Increasing Safety Concerns and Support of Firearm Legal Access Support Personal Security & Home Defense Segment Growth

Based on application, the market is segmented into hunting & pest control, sport shooting & competition, recreational shooting, and personal security & home defense.

The personal security and home defense segment leads the market due to a surge in concerns over safety, crime rates, and property protection in the world. Civilians are increasingly preferring semi-automatic rifles and shotguns for their reliability, rapid responsiveness, and ease of use in emergency situations. The legal acceptance of firearms supported by supportive legal frameworks by the government, further propels the civil shotgun and rifles market demand.

• For instance, in September 2025, the Trump administration in the U.S. rescinded Biden-era restrictions on civilian firearms exports, lifting bans on sales to 36 countries previously considered high-risk for diversion to criminals and terrorists.

The sport shooting and competition segment holds a significant share in the market, fueled by expanding shooting sports communities and the increasing popularity of competitive events. The enthusiasts are interested in rifles that are optimized for accuracy, modularity, and performance. Thus, such increased demand for high-quality, customizable semi-automatic rifles encouraged manufacturers to develop innovative shotguns and launch advanced rifles for hunting applications. 

For instance, in 2024, Ruger introduced new SFAR models chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, extending its small-frame auto-loading AR-pattern rifles for civilian long-range and hunting users with a regulated gas block, 20-inch barrel, and lighter, AR-15-sized package. 

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By End User

Expanding Gun Ownership Rights and Recreational Shooting Popularity Drive the Civilians Segment Growth

Based on end user, the market is segmented into civilians, private security firms, and commercial training providers. 

The civilian segment dominates due to increased personal security concerns, legal reforms expanding civilian gun ownership rights, and the rising trend of recreational shooting and hunting. Civilians increasingly view semi-automatic rifles as practical and accessible tools for home defense. Due to this, manufacturers are designing products for civilian usability, such as ergonomic designs and user-friendly safety features. 

• For instance, in February 2023, Daniel Defense announced its Limited Series Program, partnering with other premium manufacturers to produce small-batch, high-spec semi-automatic rifles for the civilian market. 

Private security firms hold a significant share of the market and are expected to grow at a moderate rate. The security firms require reliable, effective semi-automatic rifles for rapid response, asset protection, and personnel safety during numerous critical security situations. Rise in the private security deployment in critical infrastructure, commercial properties, and high-risk zones demands advanced, high-quality firearms, which is expected to drive the growth of the segment.

Civil Shotgun and Rifles Market Regional Outlook

North America

North America remains the largest market due to the widely prevalent use of civilian guns in the region and high civilian gun ownership rates. The North America civil shotgun and rifles market is valued at 1.94 billion in 2025. Moreover, the supportive legislative frameworks in countries in the region, such as the U.S., which largely promote responsible gun ownership, are known for driving market growth. The U.S., in particular, has recreational hunting communities, expansive shooting ranges, and private security sectors that procure civilian rifles in large quantities. In addition, the presence of major rifle manufacturers such as Smith & Wesson, Ruger, Anderson Manufacturing, and others expands the market growth in the region during the forecast period. These players develop various strategies to expand their market share in the region. 

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• For instance, in October 2023, Smith & Wesson announced the expansion of establishment of its new 650,000-square-foot headquarters in Maryville, Tennessee, after relocating from Springfield, Massachusetts. The move was motivated by Massachusetts' strict gun laws, with Tennessee offering a more gun-friendly regulatory environment and a supportive state government.

Europe

In Europe, the market growth is driven by increasing adoption of semi-automatic rifles for sporting and competitive use within a highly regulated environment. The civilian ownership faces strict legal regulation, but the industry in this region is growing due to precision shooting, hunting, and tactical applications that remain strong. The government initiatives to modernize law enforcement and security agencies drive the demand for advanced niche rifles. In addition, manufacturers are focused on the development of advanced rifles, which is increasing public interest and familiarity with modern semi-automatic rifles in the civilian sector. 

• For instance, in August 2025, Kalashnikov Concern announced to release of the first large-scale civilian batch of life-sized, non-functional mass-dimensional mock-ups (MMGs) of the AK-12 assault rifle, designed for training and familiarization purposes.

Asia Pacific

The Asia Pacific market is rapidly expanding due to rising disposable incomes, urbanization, and a growing middle class interested in recreational and competitive shooting. Moreover, government-backed firearm training programs, expansion of shooting ranges and training facilities, and evolving legal acceptance boost ownership rates. The expansion of rifle availability and local production aligned with government initiatives is anticipated to drive the growth of the market for shotguns and rifles. 

• For instance, in August 2023, Brazilian firearms manufacturer Taurus Armas is competing in an Indian government tender to supply 425,000 rifles. Moreover, the company plans to enter India’s civilian market through a partnership with the Jindal Group to begin production of handguns and revolvers. 

Latin America

Latin America's civilian legal semi-automatic rifles growth is propelled by increasing concerns over crime and personal safety. This has supported increased demand for semi-automatic rifles for home defense and private security. The expansion of the private security sector drives the procurement of reliable tactical firearms accelerates the growth of the industry. 

Middle East & Africa

In the Middle East & Africa, challenging security environments and geopolitical tensions have encouraged the use of semi-automatic rifles by private security, which influences the civilian market. Investment in modern private security infrastructure and training fosters demand for versatile, reliable firearms. 

COMPETITIVE LANDSCAPE

Key Industry Players

Strategic Innovation, Adoption of Advanced Materials, and Technologies Drive Competitive Dynamics in the Civil Shotgun and Rifles Market

The competitive landscape of the Civil Shotgun and Rifles market is moderately consolidated, featuring several key manufacturers that dominate the sector through continuous technological innovation and strategic partnerships. Leading companies such as Smith & Wesson, Ruger, Daniel Defense, and Kalashnikov constantly invest in improving rifle ergonomics, modularity, and safety features to meet evolving civilian needs.

These players are focused on gaining civil shotgun and rifles market share by expansion, upgrading product design, incorporating advanced materials and manufacturing technologies, and enhancing customization options. The companies are also involved in strategic collaborations with defense contractors, training institutions, and distribution networks to further strengthen their market positions.

LIST OF KEY CIVIL SHOTGUN AND RIFLES COMPANIES PROFILED

• Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (U.S.)
• Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (U.S.)
• SIG Sauer, Inc. (U.S.)
• FN Herstal (Belgium)
• Springfield Armory, Inc. (U.S.)
• Daniel Defense LLC (U.S.)
• Palmetto State Armory (U.S.)
• Heckler & Koch GmbH (Germany)
• Česká zbrojovka a.s. (Czech Republic)
• Bravo Company Manufacturing (BCM) (U.S.)

KEY INDUSTRY DEVELOPMENTS

• September 2025: Springfield Armory released updated SAINT Victor V2 rifles and pistols in 5.56 and 7.62, featuring refined barrels, controls, and furniture. These rifles are presented by the company as upgraded AR-pattern platforms for civilian home-defense and range use.
• July 2025, Palmetto State Armory launched the PSA SABRE ARV pistol-caliber carbine, a premium 9mm delayed-blowback semi-automatic rifle built on the AR platform as an application for civilian home-defense and PCC competition shooters in the mid-to-upper price tier.
• December 2024, Ruger announced the release of an ultra-lightweight 10/22 semi-automatic rimfire rifle with a carbon-fiber barrel sleeve and Magpul MOE X-22 stock, expanding its 10/22 line for civilian hunting, plinking, and training with a higher-spec factory configuration.
• February 2024, Smith & Wesson introduced the M&P15 Sport III, an updated gas-operated AR-15-pattern rifle with a 16-inch Armornite-coated barrel, 5R rifling, and free-float M-LOK handguard. The rifle is launched as a modern sporting rifle for civilian defense and recreational shooting.
• April 2023, FN America launched the FN 15 Guardian, a new 5.56×45 mm modern sporting rifle positioned as a high-value AR-15-pattern carbine for civilian sport shooters and home defenders, expanding the FN 15 series with a more affordable configuration. 

REPORT COVERAGE 

The global market analysis provides an in-depth study of market size & forecast by all the civil shotgun and rifles market segmentations included in the report. It includes details on the market dynamics and the civil shotgun and rifles market trends expected to drive the market in the forecast period. The civil shotgun and rifles market report includes Porter's five forces analysis, which illustrates the potency of buyers and suppliers in the market. Civil shotgun and rifles market forecast offers information on the technological advancements, new product launches, key trends, major industry developments, and details on partnerships, mergers & acquisitions. The civil shotgun and rifles market analysis also encompasses detailed competitive landscape with information on the market share and profiles of key major players.

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Report Scope & Segmentation