Gun retailers across the U.S. are experiencing a significant downturn in sales, with a reported drop of over 35% since 2020, despite the Trump administration’s pro-gun policies. Many dealers note that the easing of fears surrounding stricter regulations has dampened demand, leading to a persistent “Trump Slump” reminiscent of the decline following the 2016 election. In Michigan and several other states, background checks—indicative of gun purchases—have decreased by more than 4% compared to last year, marking the slowest summer for sales in nearly a decade.
Contributing factors include inflation, which limits discretionary spending among potential buyers, and tariffs on imported metals that inflate ammunition costs. While some states are seeing increases in gun purchases, even these struggles point to the emerging trend of online sales overshadowing local retailers. Experts warn of an industrywide recession as the political landscape has shifted from panic buying to a quieter market, raising questions about the long-term viability of gun stores nationally.
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