Small Arms Market by product type (Shotgun, Pistol, Rifle, Revolver, Machine Gun, Others (Carbines, Sub-Machine Guns)), by caliber (56 mm, 62 mm, 9 mm, 7 mm, Others (14.5mm, 10 mm)), by cutting type (Threaded, Smooth Bore, By application(Military, Law Enforcement, Self Defense, Sports, Hunting), By Region And Companies - Industry Segment Outlook, Market Assessment, Competition Scenario, Trends, And Forecast 2023-2032

Report Overview

Small Arms Market size is expected to be worth around USD 5.51 Bn by 2032 from USD 4.3 Bn in 2022, growing at a CAGR of 2.5% during the forecast period from 2023 to 2032.

The small arms market is an active and always-changing part of the defense industry. It is driven by a number of factors that contribute to its constant growth and development. Some of these drivers are geopolitical tensions, plans to update the military, and advances in technology. The rise of terrorism and organized crime, as well as the rising demand for military-grade weapons and personal defense, are also driving the market.

Small arms are frequently used by military troops, law enforcement agencies, and citizens as crucial tools for personal defense, hunting, and recreational shooting. Handguns, rifles, shotguns, and other non-explosive weapons are produced and sold in this world market for firearms intended for individual use. The small arms market is critical to the defense industry and has many applications, including military and personal defense, small arms, sports and recreation, and hunting.

In recent years, the small arms market has seen a lot of changes that have made guns much better. These include the use of advanced materials like polymers and composites, the development of advanced sighting systems, and the integration of electronic systems.

By enhancing the accuracy and effectiveness of weapons, improving situational awareness, and allowing smooth contact between soldiers on the battlefield, the integration of electronic systems has transformed the small arms market. The development of smart weapons using sensors and microprocessors has also helped to enhance the accuracy and effectiveness of weapons.

Driving factors

Conflicts and Security Concerns

The demand for small arms is driven by the need for security in areas that are prone to violence and conflicts. To uphold law and order and to protect their borders, governments, law enforcement agencies, and armed troops all depend on small arms. Small arms are used extensively in countries that are prone to internal conflicts or face threats from the outside, like terrorism or insurgency. The demand for small arms among civilians is driven by the need for security and safety, particularly in countries with weak rule of law and high crime rates.

Civilian gun culture

The gun culture among civilians is another thing that drives the small arms market. In many countries, especially in the United States, the ownership of firearms is a deeply rooted cultural practice. In countries where the right to bear arms is written into the constitution, there is a strong demand for firearms for personal defense, hunting, and sport shooting. The civilian gun culture is also driven by the idea that having a gun is a basic right and that firing arms symbolizes freedom and independence.

Technological Advancements

Firearms are now more precise, dependable, and effective thanks to technological advancements in small arms making. Improvements in materials, design, and manufacturing have led to the creation of high-performance firearms that are light and easy to carry. These guns are in high demand by law enforcement, the military, and civilians. The demand for small arms is also being driven by the rising appeal of modular firearms, which allow users to change their weapons to fit their needs.

Political unrest and how the government runs

Changes in government policy and political unrest can have a big effect on the market for small arms. Government policy changes can lead to changes in the rules and licenses needed for the production, sale, and ownership of firearms, which can affect the demand for small arms ownership. As governments and armed forces raise their buying to keep their security and stability, political unrest and conflicts can also lead to fluctuations in demand for small arms.

Restraining Factors

Increased focus on Non-Lethal Weapons

Due to the potential to reduce deaths and maintain human respect, governments all over the world have increased their focus on non-lethal weapons. In the military, law enforcement, and riot control teams, the use of weapons that don't kill people has increased. This change has led to disruptions in the small arms market, increased competition, and increased pressure on small arms manufacturers. The small arms market needs to adapt to this trend by selling more than just standard firearms. It needs to sell more non-lethal weapons as well.

Ban on Private Ownership

The ban on private ownership of firearms is a big danger to the small arms market all over the world. Many countries have strict rules and laws that limit who can own certain firearms or ban private ownership of firearms altogether. Sales, income, and profits for small arms manufacturers all suffer as a result of this limit, which lowers the market for such products. On the other hand, small arms manufacturers can do well if they look for other markets, such as law enforcement, the military, and private hunters.

Type analysis

With the shotgun segment leading the way, the small arms market is having unprecedented growth. The shotgun is a stable and adaptable gun that is used a lot in law enforcement, hunting, and shooting sports. The shotgun segment makes for the majority of the small arms market due to its ease of use and affordability.

Driving the adoption of the shotgun segment is the economic growth of developing economies. Countries like China and India are witnessing an expanding middle class that is becoming more and more interested in shooting sports for fun. In addition, due to rising crime rates in these countries, there is a growing demand for firearms for personal defense. As a result, shotgun makers are trying to expand their customer base in these areas by creating new goods that cater to their specific needs.

Also influencing the growth of the shotgun segment are consumer trends and behaviors. Many shooters like the versatility of shotguns, which can be set up for different types of shooting games or self-defense situations by changing the ammunition. The demand for competition-grade shotguns with better accuracy and dependability has also increased as a result of the rising popularity of clay shooting sports.

Caliber Analysis

The 5.56 mm segment is the most popular in the small arms market. Its versatility and mobility make it a good option for a wide range of uses. Due to its accuracy and lightweight construction lasers, this caliber is frequently used in military rifles. The adoption of this segment is also driving its growth in the small arms market due to its success in military use.

The growth of the 5.56 mm segment is mostly due to the rise of new economies. Countries like Brazil, India, and China are expanding their military powers, driving up demand for military-grade firearms. Rising regional conflicts in the Middle East and Southeast Asia have also increased demand for this caliber in these areas.

The growth of the 5.56 mm segment is also due in part to consumer trends and behaviors. Due to its accuracy and dependability, this caliber is favored by many enthusiasts for sports purposes such as hunting, target shooting, and self-defense. Also, shooting with a 5.56 mm caliber is easier for novice shooters who don't like shooting with heavy rounds.

Cutting type analysis

Due to its versatility, dependability, and ease of customization, the threaded segment rules the small arms market. Many types of firearms, such as pistols, rifles, and shotguns, use threaded barrels extensively. They're well-liked by gun enthusiasts who like to customize their weapons with accessories like suppressors, flash hiders, muzzle brakes, and compensators.

In the small arms market, economic growth in developing economies is driving the adoption of the threaded segment. Countries like China and India are witnessing an increase in demand for firearms among civilian and law enforcement officials, which is driving the demand for accessories like threaded barrels. By coming up with designs that cater to this demand, manufacturers hope to expand their product line.

Also influencing the growth of the threaded segment are consumer trends and behaviors. The option to customize firearms with a threaded barrel is popular among shooters and hunters. This lets them change their rifles to meet their own wants and tastes. Also, the success of competitive shooting has increased, which has led to more demand for threaded barrels, which can help improve accuracy and decrease recoil.

Application analysis

Due to its role in military activities and demand from law enforcement agencies around the world, the military arms segment leads the small arms market. In order to be effective in a variety of combat conditions, military firearms must be reliable, accurate, and flexible.

Particularly in countries where geopolitical pressures are high, the economic growth of emerging economies is driving the adoption of military firearms. Countries like China and India are expanding their military powers, which is driving demand for firearms that are made for the military.

Also influencing the growth of the military segment are consumer trends and behaviors. For fun shooting or as part of their collections, many firearm enthusiasts and collectors are interested in purchasing military-style firearms. Also, police departments all over the world are updating their weapons to meet the changing wants of the market.

Key Market Segments

By Product Type

• Shotgun
• Pistol
• Rifle
• Revolver
• Machine Gun
• Others (Carbines, Sub-Machine Guns)

By Caliber

• 5.56 mm
• 62 mm
• 9 mm
• 7 mm
• Others (14.5mm, 10 mm)

By Cutting Type

• Threaded
• Smooth Bore

By Application

• Military
• Law Enforcement
• Self Defense
• Sports
• Hunting

Growth Opportunity

Demand from the Military and Law Enforcement

The majority of purchasers of small guns come from the government, specifically the military and law police. They require these weapons for a variety of reasons, including the conduct of counterterrorism operations, participation in peacekeeping missions, and the upkeep of law and order.

In recent years, there has been a considerable increase in the number of terrorist-related incidents that have occurred all over the world, which has led to an increase in the demand for firearms, particularly firearms of a smaller caliber. The growing frequency of wars, border disputes, and civil uprisings all over the world are all factors that contribute to the increased demand for small guns.

Self-Defense

People all across the world now feel less safe as a result of the proliferation of terrorist acts on a global scale. There has been a rise in the desire for self-defense weapons, such as handguns and rifles, as a result of the widespread dread of terrorist attacks. In addition, there has been an increase in the overall sense of disquiet and the number of crimes that have been committed, both of which have led to the growth in the market for small guns.

Activities including Hunting as well as Shooting Competitions

Hunters and those who are interested in shooting like the use of small guns as well. Over the past several years, there has been a discernible rise in the quantity of shooting contests and hunting activities. As a consequence of this, there has been a rise in the demand for small arms, in particular for guns such as rifles.

Latest Trends

Increasing Use of Smart Guns

The increasing prevalence of smart guns is one of the most significant trends in the small arms industry. Smart guns are firearms that incorporate cutting-edge technologies like electronic locks, fingerprint detectors, and biometric sensors. These technologies are intended to improve safety and prevent unauthorized use, which makes them particularly appealing to law enforcement software agencies and military forces.

In addition to improved accuracy and dependability, reduced maintenance costs, and increased versatility, smart guns provide a variety of additional advantages. As a result, they are gaining popularity among both civilian and military users and are anticipated to become the prevalent trend in the future years.

Concentrate on Weight Reduction and Ergonomics

The focus on lowering weight and enhancing ergonomics is another significant trend in the small arms market. This trend is driven by the need to make firearms lighter and more comfortable to use, particularly for extended periods. This is especially essential for military personnel who may need to transport their firearms for hours or even days.

Manufacturers are exploring a range of novel materials and manufacturing techniques, including carbon fiber, nanotechnology, and 3D printing, to achieve these objectives. These technologies enable manufacturers to create firearms that are lighter, more durable, and more comfortable to use than ever before.

Transition to Modular and Tailored Designs

In addition to concentrating on weight and ergonomics, manufacturers are developing modular and customizable designs. This trend is driven by the need to design firearms that can be readily modified to meet the evolving requirements of users. For instance, a police officer may need different accessories and attachments than a combatant, and a civilian shooter may prefer a different handle or trigger.

Manufacturers are developing firearms that can be customized and altered in a wide range of ways to meet these diverse requirements. This includes customizable designs that enable users to modify the fit and feel of the weapon, as well as modular designs that allow users to swap out various parts of the firearm.

Sustainability and environmental responsibility emphasized

The final trend in the small arms market that will be discussed is the increasing emphasis on environmental responsibility and sustainability. This trend is driven by increasing public awareness of the environmental impact of firearms production and use, as well as ethical concerns surrounding the use of lethal force.

To address these issues, manufacturers are exploring a wide range of novel materials, manufacturing techniques, and environmental practices, such as metal recycling and waste reduction programs. They are also striving to develop new environmentally responsible firearms, such as those that use renewable energy sources, produce fewer emissions, and are constructed from sustainable materials.

Regional Analysis

North America is Likely to Maintain Market Dominance Throughout the Prediction Period.

North America is currently one of the foremost regions in terms of economic growth, technological advancements, and market expansion. The region has a highly developed infrastructure, a competent workforce, and business policies that encourage industrial development.

Moreover, North America has emerged as a significant contributor to the global economy due to the presence of several rapidly expanding industries, and it is expected to maintain its market supremacy throughout the forecast period.

Numerous factors contribute to North America's dominance of the market. For example, the region is home to several prominent multinational corporations that have established a presence in several industries, including the healthcare, technology, energy, finance, and automotive sectors.

These corporations have played a significant role in generating economic growth, creating employment opportunities, and supporting technological advancements, which have made North America the preferred location for businesses, investors, and entrepreneurs worldwide.

Key Regions and Countries

North America

• US
• Canada
• Mexico

Western Europe

• Germany
• France
• The UK
• Spain
• Italy
• Portugal
• Ireland
• Austria
• Switzerland
• Benelux
• Nordic
• Rest of Western Europe

Eastern Europe

• Russia
• Poland
• The Czech Republic
• Greece
• Rest of Eastern Europe

APAC

• China
• Japan
• South Korea
• India
• Australia & New Zealand
• Indonesia
• Malaysia
• Philippines
• Singapore
• Thailand
• Vietnam
• Rest of APAC

Latin America

• Brazil
• Colombia
• Chile
• Argentina
• Costa Rica
• Rest of Latin America

Middle East & Africa

• Algeria
• Egypt
• Israel
• Kuwait
• Nigeria
• Saudi Arabia
• South Africa
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates
• Rest of MEA

Key Players Analysis

Smith & Wesson, Glock, Remington, Sturm, Ruger & Co, Browning Arms Company, SIG Sauer, and Beretta are some of the most prominent key players in the small arms market. These companies are well known for their innovations in small arms technology, which have seen enhanced performance and accuracy, lighter materials, and improved ergonomics.

Smith & Wesson is well-known for its handguns, rifles, and accoutrements, and is one of the top players in the industry. Their M&P (Military and Police) line, which targets law enforcement and military personnel, has been a huge success.

In contrast, Glock is renowned for its inventiveness in the handgun industry. It was the first company to introduce a handgun with a polymer frame, exemplifying dependability, durability, and lightweight construction.

Since 1816, Remington has been synonymous with quality and performance. It has established itself as one of the top players in the small arms market by utilizing the renowned Remington 700 rifle.

Top Key Players in the Small Arms Market

• Northrop Grumman Innovation Systems Inc. (Orbital ATK)
• Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation
• Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc.
• Freedom Group
• General Dynamics Corporation
• Forjas Taurus SA
• Glock Ges. M.B.H
• Heckler & Koch GmbH
• Herstal SA
• Beretta Holding S.p.A.

Recent Development

• In May 2020,  Colt Canada, a subsidiary of Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC, was awarded a contract by the Canadian Department of National Defense for the supply of 272 C20 semiautomatic rifles, the company's most recent semiautomatic rifle. The C20 is a versatile Intermediate Sniper Rifle with an 18-inch barrel designed to improve field precision and accuracy.
• The C20 semiautomatic rifle's two-stage, fully adjustable trigger permits a crisp, clear trigger draw. In addition, its lightweight, ergonomic design provides superior balance and accuracy. The technologically sophisticated features of this weapon make it optimal for use in a variety of mission environments, including urban and rural settings.
• The new contract arrives as Canada's investment in small arms technology increases. The nation's commitment to equipping its military with the most cutting-edge equipment accessible is reflected in the country's shift toward more sophisticated armament. In its ongoing endeavors to modernize its small arms arsenal, the Canadian military is employing a wide variety of weapons, including the C20 semiautomatic rifle.
• Colt Canada is proud to be at the vanguard of this technological revolution and is committed to providing the Canadian military with high-quality, dependable weapons. The C20 semi-automatic rifle exemplifies the company's commitment to innovation and quality, as well as its dedication to meeting the changing requirements of its consumers.

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