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    Small Arms Market

    ID: MRFR/A&D/5736-CR
    158 Pages
    Sejal Akre
    November 2023

    Small Arms Market Research Report Information By Type (Handguns {Pistols and Revolvers}, Shortguns, Machine Guns, Rifles & Others), By Barrel (Rifled-Bore and Smooth-Bore), By Operation (Self-Loading Firearm {Automatic Firearm and Semi-Automatic Firearm} and Manually-Operated Firearm), By End User(Armed Forces, Law Enforcement, Sporting & Hunting Civilian Self-Defense) And By Region (North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Middle East & Africa and South Ameria) –Market Forecast Till 2035

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    Small Arms Market Infographic
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    Small Arms Market Summary

    As per Market Research Future Analysis, the Global Small Arms Market was valued at USD 10057.69 million in 2024 and is projected to grow to USD 18163.18 million by 2035, with a CAGR of 5.52% from 2025 to 2035. Key drivers include the rising popularity of recreational shooting and increased military expenditure. Emerging markets are presenting new opportunities due to urbanization and rising affluence, leading to heightened demand for personal safety and self-defense firearms. Handguns dominate the market, accounting for approximately 43% of revenue in 2022, driven by concerns for personal safety and the expansion of concealed carry permits. The rifled-bore barrel type led the market in 2022, enhancing accuracy and range. Civilian self-defense users held the largest share, reflecting a growing emphasis on personal security.

    Key Market Trends & Highlights

    The Small Arms Market is witnessing significant growth driven by various factors.

    • Market Size in 2024: USD 10057.69 million.
    • Projected Market Size by 2035: USD 18163.18 million.
    • CAGR from 2025 to 2035: 5.52%.
    • Handguns accounted for ~43% of market revenue in 2022.

    Market Size & Forecast

    2024 Market Size USD 10057.69 million
    2035 Market Size USD 18163.18 million
    CAGR (2024-2035) 5.52%

    Major Players

    Beretta Holding, Heckler & Koch GmbH, Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

    Small Arms Market Drivers

    Civilian Demand for Firearms

    The Global Global Small Arms Market Industry is also influenced by the rising civilian demand for firearms. Factors such as personal safety concerns, hunting, and sport shooting contribute to this trend. In many countries, there is a growing acceptance of firearm ownership, leading to increased sales of small arms to civilians. For instance, the number of registered firearms in the United States has reached over 400 million, reflecting a robust civilian market. This demand is expected to sustain the growth of the industry, as manufacturers adapt their offerings to meet the needs of civilian customers.

    Market Trends and Projections

    Rising Global Defense Budgets

    The Global Global Small Arms Market Industry is experiencing growth driven by increasing defense budgets across various nations. Countries are prioritizing military modernization and enhancing their defense capabilities, leading to a surge in demand for small arms. For instance, the global defense spending is projected to reach approximately 2.1 trillion USD in 2024, with a significant portion allocated to small arms procurement. This trend indicates a robust market environment, as governments seek to bolster their military readiness in response to evolving security threats. As a result, the Global Global Small Arms Market Industry is anticipated to grow to 10.1 USD Billion in 2024.

    Regulatory Changes and Policies

    Regulatory changes and policies play a significant role in shaping the Global Global Small Arms Market Industry. Governments are continuously revising their firearms regulations, which can either facilitate or hinder market growth. For example, some countries are implementing stricter controls on firearm sales, while others are easing restrictions to promote civilian ownership. These regulatory environments can create opportunities for manufacturers to expand their market presence or adapt their strategies accordingly. As such, understanding the regulatory landscape is crucial for stakeholders in the Global Global Small Arms Market Industry.

    Escalating Geopolitical Tensions

    Geopolitical tensions are a critical driver of the Global Global Small Arms Market Industry. Ongoing conflicts and territorial disputes in regions such as Eastern Europe and the Middle East have heightened the demand for small arms. Nations are increasingly investing in their military capabilities to address perceived threats, which in turn fuels the small arms market. For example, the conflict in Ukraine has prompted neighboring countries to enhance their military arsenals. This environment of uncertainty is likely to sustain the market's growth trajectory, with projections indicating an increase to 18.1 USD Billion by 2035.

    Technological Advancements in Small Arms

    Technological advancements are reshaping the Global Global Small Arms Market Industry, leading to the development of more efficient and effective weaponry. Innovations such as smart ammunition, modular weapon systems, and enhanced targeting technologies are becoming increasingly prevalent. These advancements not only improve the operational capabilities of small arms but also attract investment from defense contractors and governments alike. As a result, the market is poised for growth, with a projected compound annual growth rate of 5.5% from 2025 to 2035. This trend underscores the importance of technological innovation in driving market dynamics.

    Market Segment Insights

    Small Arms Market Platform Segment Insights

    Small Arms Type Insights

    Based on type, the Small Arms Market segmentation includes handguns {pistols and revolvers}, shortguns, machine guns, rifles & others The In-House held the majority share in 2022, contributing around ~43% to the market revenue. Handguns, also referred to as pistols, are small, one-handed-operable firearms. Demand and sales have increased significantly in recent years due to their growing popularity. Several factors are driving the segmental development of handguns, which accounts for this increase in popularity. Increasing concern for personal safety and self-defense is one of the factors fueling the expansion of handguns.

    People look for methods to safeguard themselves and their loved ones in an uncertain world. Handguns provide individuals with a sense of security and autonomy, allowing them to defend themselves in potentially hazardous situations. This heightened awareness of personal safety has resulted in a surge in demand for handguns, as individuals are willing to invest in protection. The expanding market for concealed carry permits is another factor contributing to the growth of handguns. Numerous nations and jurisdictions have relaxed their concealed carry laws, permitting individuals to carry handguns publicly for self-defense.

    As a result, a new market for compact and easily concealable handguns has emerged, as individuals pursue firearms that can be carried discretely without attracting attention. The demand for concealed-carry handguns has driven the expansion of this market segment as manufacturers endeavor to meet the market's specific requirements. In addition, the influence of popular culture cannot be ignored when discussing the development of handguns.

    Small Arms Barrel Type

    Based on the barrel type, the Small Arms Market segmentation is rifled-bore and smooth-bore. Rifled Bore dominated the market in 2022. A rifled bore is the interior of a firearm's barrel with spiral grooves carved into its surface. The purpose of these grooves, known as rifling, is to impart rotation on a projectile as it travels down the barrel. Rifling is most commonly found on rifles, but it can also be found on certain handguns and shotguns. Rifling is designed to stabilize the projectile in flight, thereby enhancing its accuracy and range.

    Small Arms Operation Insights

    Based on operation, the Small Arms Market segmentation includes self-loading firearm {automatic firearm and semi-automatic firearm} and manually operated firearm. The self-loading firearm owners held the majority share in 2022. A self-loading firearm, also known as an automatic or semi-automatic firearm, uses the energy of the discharged round to automatically cycle the action, load a new round from a magazine, and prepare the firearm for firing again. Self-loading firearms, unlike manually operated firearms such as bolt-action or pump-action rifles, do not require the user to manipulate the action between rounds manually.

    Each trigger stroke of a semi-automatic firearm fires a single round, and the firearm reloads the next round from the magazine into the chamber. Compared to manually operated firearms, this provides for a relatively rapid rate of fire. Common applications for semi-automatic firearms include self-defense, target shooting, and hunting. Automatic firearms can discharge multiple rounds with a single trigger pull if the trigger remains depressed. These weapons are commonly known as fully automatic or machine rifles. Due to their potential for misuse and high discharge rate, automatic firearms are heavily regulated and restricted in many nations.

    Various mechanisms, including gas operation, recoil operation, and blowback operation, are utilized by firearms that fill themselves. These mechanisms utilize the energy produced by the fired round to cycle the action, extract and eject the spent casing, and insert a new round into the magazine. Self-loading firearms have several benefits over manually operated firearms. Typically, they have a quicker rate of fire, allowing for faster follow-up rounds. This can be advantageous in self-defense or competitive shooting situations where quickness is a factor.

    Small Arms End User Insights

    Based on end-user, the Small Arms Market segmentation includes armed forces, law enforcement, sporting & hunting, and civilian self-defense. The Civilian Self-Defense owners held the majority share in 2022. Civilian self-defense is the act of individuals protecting themselves, their loved ones, and their property against potential threats or damage. It employs various strategies, techniques, and instruments to deter or defend against potential attackers or dangerous situations. Depending on the local laws and regulations, self-defense can take many forms, including physical techniques, situational awareness, and using self-defense weapons such as pepper spray, personal alarms, and even firearms.

    The purpose of civilian self-defense is to in still a sense of safety and security in individuals, enabling them to defend themselves and their loved ones when threatened. Individuals interested in self-defense must acquire the necessary skills and knowledge through appropriate training and education. This may involve learning self-defense techniques, comprehending legal rights and responsibilities, and exercising situational awareness to avoid potentially hazardous situations. It is important to note that self-defense laws and regulations vary from country to country and even region.

    Individuals must familiarize themselves with the specific laws and regulations governing self-defense in their respective jurisdictions to act within the law. Civilian self-defense is about personal safety and empowerment, enabling individuals to take proactive measures to protect themselves and their loved ones in potentially dangerous situations.

    Get more detailed insights about Small Arms Market Research Report – Global Forecast till 2032

    Regional Insights

    By Region, the study provides market insights into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World. The Europe Small Arms market accounted for ~37% in 2022. North America, which includes the United States, Canada and Mexico, is a major participant in the Small Arms Market. This market comprises handguns, rifles, shotguns, submachine guns, ammunition , and corresponding accouterments. Multiple regionally-specific factors have contributed to North America's sustained development in the small arms industry. The region's profoundly ingrained firearm culture is among the most important contributors to North America's small arms market growth.

    The United States has a lengthy history of gun ownership dating back to its founding.

    FIGURE 3: SMALL ARMS MARKET SIZE BY REGION 2022 VS 2032

    SMALL ARMS MARKET SIZE BY REGION 2022 VS 2032

    Source: Secondary Research, Primary Research, Market Research Future Database, and Analyst Review

    Further, the major countries studied in the market report are the U.S., Canada, Germany, France, the UK, Italy, Spain, China, Japan, India, Australia, South Korea, and Brazil.

    Europe market accounts for the second-largest market share. Europe plays an important role in the global market for small arms, characterized by disparate attitudes and regulations regarding firearms in various countries. This market includes various firearms, such as handguns, rifles, shotguns, and submachine guns, as well as their accessories and ammunition. Several regional factors have contributed to the market dynamics of European small armaments. Europe is a stronghold for competitive and recreational shooting, with countries such as Germany, the United Kingdom, and France hosting numerous shooting competitions and fostering thriving shooting sports communities.

    This demand for firearms for recreational activities, such as hunting and target shooting, has been instrumental in driving the regional growth of the small arms market.

    The Asia Pacific Small Arms Market is expected to grow at the fastest CAGR between 2022 and 2032. Asia-Pacific, comprised of numerous countries and cultures, plays a significant role in the global market for small arms. This dynamic market includes handguns, rifles, shotguns, and submachine weapons, in addition to their accessories and ammunition. Several factors unique to this extensive and diverse region drive the expansion of the small arms market in the Asia-Pacific region. The region's complex security environment is one of the main growth drivers for the Asia-Pacific small arms market.

    Numerous nations in the Asia-Pacific region confront security issues, such as territorial disputes, insurgency, and organized crime. This has resulted in government contracts and procurement for small arms and light weapons used for military and law enforcement.Recent Development News : 

    April 2024: Israel Weapons Industries, or IWI as it is more commonly known, revealed a new product, stressing that they have developed a ‘computerised small arms system’. The current modification of Israeli technology is called the Arbel and it includes a computer, an upgraded electronics system that includes sensors and a new Arbel firing mode along with a replaceable battery. The Arbel system while not intended as a fire control system, is meant to assist soldiers in avoiding errors and improving their performance, the Arbel system focuses on shooting during short engagements.

    The Arbel system comes in two types, one for the assault rifle and the other for machine guns both created in 7.62×61 mm and 5.56×45 mm. Initially, the Arbel system came as an add-on for IWI’s Negev light machine but has since then been extended to the companies’ Arad, Tavor, and X95 Mini Tavor among others.

    August 2024: AWEIL launched a 50-meter range revolver on the market ‘Prabal’, India’s first long range revolver. As cater to a wider target audience the revolver is cheaper by half in comparison to similar products in this category and is designed to look more appealing while being lighter in overall weight. The revolver was announced during the small arms factory talking about its features and placement within the market. It is the only one in the country which has side wing cylinder making trigger pull easy and craftsmanship eases up the fall benefiting.

    Made with metal injection mold technology, 'Prabal' weighs 700 grams (without cartridges), its barrel length 76 mm, while its overall length is 177.6 mm.

    Key Players and Competitive Insights

    With a strong presence across different verticals and geographies, the Small Arms market is highly competitive and dominated by established, pure-play vendors. Over 30 vendors cater to this market, and they continually innovate their solutions to meet the evolving needs of businesses by adopting new technologies. These vendors have a robust geographic footprint and partner ecosystem to cater to diverse customer segments. The Small Arms market is highly competitive, with many vendors offering similar products and services.

    The major players in the market include Beratta Holding, Heckler Holding Inc, Sturnm Ruger, & Co Inc, and others. Beretta Holding S.A. is committed to producing high-quality firearms. The company uses only the best materials and components in its products and has a rigorous quality control process.

    The Small Arms Market is consolidated, increasing competition, acquisitions, mergers, and other strategic market developments and decisions to improve operational effectiveness.

    Key Companies in the Small Arms Market market include

    Industry Developments

    • Q2 2024: Smith & Wesson opens new $125 million headquarters and manufacturing facility in Tennessee Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. officially opened its new headquarters and manufacturing facility in Maryville, Tennessee, consolidating operations and expanding production capacity for small arms.
    • Q2 2024: Sturm, Ruger & Company appoints Christopher J. Killoy as Chairman of the Board Sturm, Ruger & Company, a major U.S. firearms manufacturer, announced the appointment of CEO Christopher J. Killoy as Chairman of the Board, effective May 2024, strengthening its executive leadership.
    • Q2 2024: GLOCK launches Gen6 pistol series with enhanced modularity GLOCK GmbH unveiled its Gen6 pistol series, featuring improved ergonomics and modular components, targeting law enforcement and civilian markets worldwide.
    • Q2 2024: SIG SAUER awarded $100 million U.S. Army contract for Next Generation Squad Weapons SIG SAUER secured a $100 million contract from the U.S. Army to supply its Next Generation Squad Weapons, including rifles and automatic rifles, as part of a major modernization initiative.
    • Q2 2024: Beretta acquires RUAG Ammotec, expanding European small arms footprint Italian firearms group Beretta completed the acquisition of RUAG Ammotec, a leading European ammunition and small arms manufacturer, strengthening its position in the defense and civilian markets.
    • Q3 2024: Heckler & Koch wins German police contract for new service pistols Heckler & Koch was awarded a multi-year contract to supply new service pistols to several German state police forces, reinforcing its presence in the European law enforcement market.
    • Q3 2024: Colt CZ Group announces $50 million investment in U.S. manufacturing expansion Colt CZ Group SE announced a $50 million investment to expand its U.S. manufacturing operations, aiming to increase production capacity for handguns and rifles.
    • Q3 2024: Remington Arms launches new line of lightweight hunting rifles Remington Arms Company introduced a new series of lightweight hunting rifles, featuring advanced materials and modular design for improved performance.
    • Q4 2024: FN Herstal secures Belgian Ministry of Defense contract for FN SCAR rifles FN Herstal was awarded a contract by the Belgian Ministry of Defense to supply FN SCAR assault rifles to the Belgian Armed Forces, supporting national defense modernization.
    • Q4 2024: Taurus Holdings opens new manufacturing facility in Georgia, USA Taurus Holdings, a major firearms manufacturer, opened a new production facility in Bainbridge, Georgia, to meet growing demand in the U.S. small arms market.
    • Q1 2025: Savage Arms announces partnership with U.S. Department of Homeland Security Savage Arms entered into a partnership with the U.S. Department of Homeland Security to supply patrol rifles for federal law enforcement agencies.
    • Q1 2025: Rheinmetall acquires minority stake in U.S. small arms startup True Velocity German defense company Rheinmetall acquired a minority stake in True Velocity, a U.S.-based small arms and ammunition innovator, to collaborate on next-generation lightweight ammunition technologies.

    Future Outlook

    Small Arms Market Future Outlook

    The Global Small Arms Market is projected to grow at a 5.52% CAGR from 2025 to 2035, driven by increasing defense budgets, rising civilian demand, and technological advancements.

    New opportunities lie in:

    • Invest in smart weapon technologies to enhance precision and reduce collateral damage.
    • Expand into emerging markets with tailored small arms solutions for local law enforcement.
    • Leverage partnerships with defense contractors to innovate in modular weapon systems.

    By 2035, the Global Small Arms Market is expected to be robust, reflecting evolving security needs and technological integration.

    Market Segmentation

    Small Arms Type Outlook

    • Handguns Pistols Revolvers
    • Pistols
    • Revolvers
    • Shortguns
    • Machine Guns
    • Rifles & Others
    • Rifled-Bore
    • Smooth-Bore
    • Self-Loading Firearm Automatic Firearm Semi-Automatic Firearm
    • Automatic Firearm
    • Semi-Automatic Firearm
    • Manually-Operated Firearm
    • Armed Forces
    • Law Enforcement
    • Sporting & Hunting
    • Civilian Self-Defense
    • North America US Canada
    • US
    • Canada
    • Europe Germany France UK Italy Spain Rest of Europe
    • Germany
    • France
    • UK
    • Italy
    • Spain
    • Rest of Europe
    • Asia-Pacific China Japan India Australia South Korea Australia Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • China
    • Japan
    • India
    • Australia
    • South Korea
    • Rest of Asia-Pacific
    • Middle East and Africa Saudi Arabia Qatar UAE Rest of MEA
    • Saudi Arabia
    • Qatar
    • UAE
    • Rest of MEA
    • South America Brazil Ecuador Rest of LATAM
    • Brazil
    • Ecuador
    • Rest of LATAM

    Report Scope

    Report Attribute/Metric Details
    Market Size 2024 USD 10057.69 million
    Market Size 2035 18163.18 (Value (USD Million))
    Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) 5.52% (2025 - 2035)
    Base Year 2024
    Market Forecast Period 2025 - 2035
    Historical Data 2018- 2022
    Market Forecast Units Value (USD Million)
    Report Coverage Revenue Forecast, Market Competitive Landscape, Growth Factors, and Trends
    Segments Covered Type, Barrel Type, Operation End User and Region
    Geographies Covered Europe, North America, Asia-Pacific, and the Rest of the World
    Countries Covered The U.S, Germany, Canada, U.K., Italy, France, Spain, Japan, China, Australia, India, South Korea, and Brazil
    Key Companies Profiled Accuracy International Ltd,American Outdoor Brands Corporation, Beretta Holding SpA, Colt's Manufacturing Company, LLC, Glock Ges.M.B.H, Heckler & Koch GmbH, Herstal SA, Remington Outdoor Company, Steyr Arms GmbH, Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc
    Key Market Opportunities ·       Growing demand in emerging markets for evolving security needs ·       Technological advancements
    Key Market Dynamics ·       Growing popularity of recreational shooting ·       Increasing military expenditure
    Market Size 2025 10612.90 (Value (USD Million))

    Market Highlights

    Author
    Sejal Akre
    Senior Research Analyst

    She has over 5 years of rich experience, in market research and consulting providing valuable market insights to client. Hands on expertise in management consulting, and extensive knowledge in domain including ICT, Automotive & Transportation and Aerospace & Defense. She is skilled in Go-to market strategy, industry analysis, market sizing, in depth company profiling, competitive intelligence & benchmarking and value chain amongst others.

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    FAQs

    How much is the Small Arms market?

    The Small Arms Market size is expected to be valued at USD 9533.36 Million in 2023.

    What is the growth rate of the Small Arms market?

    The global market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 5.5% during the forecast period, 2024-2032.

    Which region held the largest market share in the Small Arms market?

    North America had the largest share of the global market.

    Who are the key players in the Small Arms market?

    The key players in the market are Accuracy International Ltd,American Outdoor Brands Corporation, Beretta Holding SpA, Colt's Manufacturing Company, LLC, Glock Ges.M.B.H, Heckler & Koch GmbH, Herstal SA, Remington Outdoor Company, Steyr Arms GmbH, Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

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