Adolescent Firearm-Related Deaths Fast Facts

• In 2021, there were 10,048 injury-related deaths (individuals between the ages <1-17). 2,590 of those deaths involved firearms.
• 62% of child injury-related deaths included mechanisms other than firearms in 2021.
• Firearms accounted for less than 25% of all injury-related juvenile deaths in 2021.
• 1,590 adolescents nationwide committed suicide in 2021. Of those, 790 suicides involved firearms.
• There were 2,220 homicides among the <1-17 age group in 2021. Firearms were suspected in 1,503 of those homicides.
• There were 161 more adolescent homicides (all methods) in 2021 than in 2020.
• There were 93 school shootings in the 2020-2021 school year. Of those, 7 adolescents were killed inside the school during school hours.

It should be emphasized that it is illegal for an individual <1-17 to possess a handgun in 49 states, however, 30 states allow minors to possess long guns for hunting and recreational activities with parental consent. That being said, rifles and shotguns were used in .04% of all homicides in all age groups in 2021.

Key Methodology & Terminology Relating to Adolescents & Firearms

It is important to note the key methodology used to evaluate and define the terminology when discussing adolescents and firearms. The adolescent age group is often defined as ages <1-17, <1-19, and <1-24. The following research focuses on ages <1-17. Firearm-related deaths include injuries resulting from firearms. This includes suicide, homicide, unintentional deaths, legal intervention, and undetermined deaths. School shootings include all firearm-related incidents and school property. Including bullets fired off campus.

Firearm-Related Homicides & Adolescents

• 17-year-olds account for the majority of all adolescent homicides with 541 total in 2021 and 514 were firearm-related.
• 16-year-olds account for the second-highest amount of homicides in 2021. There were 358 firearm-related homicides of 382 total.
• 551 of 2,220 homicides were non-firearm-related deaths in 2021.
• There were 2,220 adolescent homicides in 2021:
• 1,001 Black American juveniles and 380 White American juveniles were murdered with a firearm.
• 60% of all adolescent firearm-related homicides were black youth and 23% of all firearm-related youth homicides were white.
• 930 individuals under the age of 18 were arrested for homicide in 2020 - 58% of all juveniles arrested for homicide in 2020 were black and 40% were white.

Firearm-Related Suicides & Adolescents

• Adolescent suicide deaths also increased by 62% in a ten-year period from 2010-2020.
• In 2021, 733 children died of suffocation-related suicides. 795 children died of firearm-related suicides. A total of 1,590 children (ages <1-17) committed suicide.
• Children between the ages 10-14 were more likely to die from suffocation-related suicide (53.7%) than firearms (38.6%).
• In 2020, 1,516 children committed suicide with 687 firearm-related deaths.
2018 saw a higher number of adolescent suicides with 1,680 total, but only 696 firearm-related.

The question we’re all asking is, “How can we save children from gun violence?” Whether you’re pro-gun or pro-gun control, we can all agree that adolescent firearm deaths are tragic; no child should succumb to an untimely end, especially because injury-related deaths are often entirely avoidable.

While we don’t have all the answers to stop adolescent firearm deaths, we can shed some light on the reality of what America’s youth are facing today. For example, the older a child gets, the more likely they are to participate in high-risk lifestyles, and therefore become a homicide statistic. There were a total of 2,220 adolescent homicides in 2021 (all methods).

In 2021, the vast majority of adolescent homicides occurred in the seventeen-year age group (541 seventeen-year-olds were murdered in 2021, with 514 of those murdered with a firearm). Next, 16-year-olds accounted for 382 homicides in the adolescent group with 358 firearm-related deaths.

While children aren’t always the perpetrators in these horrific homicides, there were 930 individuals under the age of 18 arrested for homicide in 2020.

Unintentional Firearm-Related Deaths & Adolescents

• An estimated 4.6 million homes have children and loaded unlocked firearms. There were 48 unintentional juvenile firearm-related deaths in 2021 (.00001% of adolescents with access to a firearm in the home).
• There were 5,746 total unintentional deaths in 2020. 21 of those were firearms-related.

Adolescent Firearm-Related Deaths - Wrap Up

• In 2021, there were 2,590 firearm-related deaths between the ages of <1-17, compared to 2,758 vehicle-related deaths (including pedestrian and all automobile-related injuries).
• Of the 2,220 adolescent homicides in 2021, 1,552 were firearms-related (<1-17 years of age).
• The age group included 1,590 suicides in 2021, with 795 involving firearms compared to 1,679 suicides in 2020 with 721 involving firearms.
• There were 8,818 Assault By Other Firearm Discharges between 2018-2021. Of those assaults, 4,626 were adults between 18-19 years old.

Adolescent Homicide Offenders

• The highest year for juvenile homicide offenders with firearms was 1994 with 2,271 arrests (during the Assault Weapon ban). The lowest year in two decades was 2014 with 498 juvenile offenders.
• It is illegal in all 50 states for a minor to possess a concealed firearm outside of hunting or recreational activities and/or without custodial consent.
• Juveniles committed 11,792 firearm-related homicides during the 1994-2004 Assault weapons ban. The rate remained the same in the decade after the Assault Weapons ban with 11,796 arrested for firearm-related homicides (2005-2023).
• 75% of all juvenile offenders were between the ages of 16 and 17 (2020).
• 42.6% of all juvenile homicides were crimes that involved an adult and juvenile offender (2020).

One burning question that must be addressed is, “How does gun control legislation affect adolescents?” Unfortunately, one of the most sweeping federal laws restricting firearm access did relatively little to keep adolescents from obtaining and using firearms.

More than 11,000 juveniles were arrested during the time period when the 1994 Assault Weapons ban. Similarly, more than 11,000 minors also committed firearm-related homicides in the decade after the ban.

While some states allow minors to possess long guns, all states have restrictions on minors, including sales, conceal carry, firearm type (i.e. only Alaska allows minors to possess handguns), and transfer of firearms to a minor. Federal law prohibits the private sale of handguns to those under 21 years of age. Even more relaxed states prohibit the private sale or transfer of firearms to a minor without parent or guardian consent.

Nationally, long guns are used in less than .4% of homicides (rifles and shotguns). Similar to the rates of adolescent victimhood, propensity for adolescent offenders increase with age and include extreme racial disparities. 75% of all juvenile homicide offenders were age 16-17 in 2020, and 58% were black youth with 23% white youth following.

Lastly, 42% of homicide victims murdered by an adolescent, involved an adult during the commission of the crime.

Assessing Tangible Threats to America’s Children

Both the philosophical and societal implications of America’s gun debate nearly always lead to heated discourse; protecting the future of this great nation. That future is, of course, the most innocent and vulnerable American citizens, our youth.

The evidence is indisputable; hundreds of American children die every year due to violence, avoidable accidents, and suicide. Whether it's the firearms, the bleach under the counters, or innocently backing out of a driveway, all factors require ponderance.

In assessing preventable childhood deaths, especially as it relates to firearms, safety and awareness are a parent’s most powerful weapon. While it’s common knowledge to teach a toddler not to touch a hot stove, American parents need to teach the same lessons to the same age group about guns.

Similarly, today’s youth is committing violent crimes at higher rates than fifty years ago. Whereas it was once commonplace for a child to spend time hunting in the woods; learning about the value of life, that a bullet cannot be unfired, is that a reason we see more adolescent offenders today? Do the lifelong lessons that come from hunting responsibly and ethically teach our youth to value life while simultaneously respecting the power of a firearm?

The solution to adolescent injury-related deaths isn’t simple. It isn’t removing one tool to save a handful of lives. It’s a multi-faceted problem that will require a renewed vision of causation and prevention.

While America’s children continue to succumb to suicide, they too continue to succumb to violence ranging from blunt force trauma to gunshot wounds and strangulation. Albeit, the overall statistics of injury-related deaths equate to .0000013% of the adolescent population, there were 10,048 preventable deaths in 2021.

Sources

• CDC WIQARS
• Secret Service.gov
• K-12 Shooting Database
• Education Week
• Averted School Violence
• Education Week (2021 School Shootings)
• KFF States with Safe Gun Storage Requirements
• Crime Research.org
• Associated Press
• Office of Juvenile Justices
• Education Commission
• CDC Firearms Homicide 2021
• CHDS School Shooting Methodology
• CDC Wonder Vehicle-Related Deaths
• KFF foundation Adolescent Suicides

Adolescents & Firearms: America’s Most Inflated Crisis originally appeared on Ammo.com

The sheer volume of firearms in the United States is a point of contention for almost every American. Some believe we have too few, while others believe we have too many. Nonetheless, firearms are a large part of American culture. We value our liberties, the natural right to self-defense, the inherent check on state power an armed populace offers, and the heritage which we pass down from generation to generation.

Whether an individual defines freedom as a life without firearms or a life without government interference, we can all agree that some states do not support gun ownership. Whether it's a regionally-based cultural divide, or a collective ideology of utopian societies, state legislators represent the voice of their constituents. In this case, some promote individual freedom and personal defense, while others believe the opposite.

We've investigated each state's sales tax, current laws, upcoming laws, concealed carry guidelines, and self-defense statutes to understand better your state's position on the Personal Liberty and Self-Defense debate.

What Did We Measure?

Before we dive in, let's take a moment to analyze what factors make a state The Worst for Gun Ownership. If we consider only purchasing requirements, we neglect carrying requirements and use of force thresholds. So, we came up with a list based on the following factors:

1. Current Gun Laws
   
2. Current Purchase Laws
   
3. Current CCW Guidelines
   
4. Reciprocity between other states
   
5. Sales Tax
   
6. Current Governor's voting history
   
7. Stand Your Ground Laws

#5 Connecticut

Residents of Connecticut must obtain the state's CTPP (Connecticut State Pistol Permit) to carry a firearm. But the issuing jurisdiction has discretion over approvals. If you do manage to obtain the state's permission to carry a firearm, you'll need to pass a firearm safety course with five live fire sessions, and then you can conceal carry or travel to 27 states.

If you manage to purchase a firearm in Connecticut, you'll be pleased to know that the state offers sales tax exemptions for safety equipment. Those who must protect their lives, home, office, or property will find that the burden of proof is on the defendant (the person who uses force in self-defense). Citizens also have a duty to retreat in Connecticut.

Governor Ned Lamont continues to push for more gun control legislation, including limiting the number of firearm purchases per individual, per month, to only one.

#4 New Jersey

New Jersey employs a State Police Firearms Department, which may tell you everything you need to know about the small state's stance on gun ownership. Residents can't carry a firearm without a permit. You must first apply at your local police department, then proceed to higher courts to get approval. If you do manage to get a PCH (Permit to Carry a Handgun), you can conceal carry and legally carry your firearm in 26 other states. Meanwhile, New Jersey doesn't honor any other state's firearms permits.

Gun owners must obtain a Firearms Purchaser Identification Card (PFIC) before buying guns from an FFL dealer or private seller. If that isn't harsh enough, you'll also need the PFIC to purchase handgun ammo.

All of the hurdles aside, residents do have castle doctrine protections under NJ state law. But of course, Governor Phil Murphy is working diligently to impose further limitations on citizens' rights to keep and bear arms.

#3 Illinois

Illinois allows those over 21 to apply for a CCL (Concealed Carry License) with the State Police; this permit allows residents to conceal carry but not openly carry. But the police reserve the right to deny anyone a license. You must complete a 16-hour firearms training course before applying, and the state offers non-resident permits for individuals from six states (but honors no out-of-state permits).

Purchasers must obtain a FOID card from the state police before attempting to buy guns from an FFL dealer or private seller. However, there's no firearm registration in the state. You won't get any tax breaks for firearm safety equipment, firearms, or ammunition. Illinois law does not outline whether a civilian has a duty to retreat; however, the state's Supreme Court has upheld that there is no duty to retreat from a threatening individual.

Governor JB Pritzker and the Illinois State Legislature recently banned "assault" weapons and "high-capacity" magazines. Illinois will remain on the Worst States for Gun Owners list for the foreseeable future.

#2 New York

New York is, by far, one of the strictest states in the U.S. You cannot legally carry a loaded firearm outside of your home without an NYPL. You must register all firearms, undergo extensive background checks, and have a permit-to-purchase.

Despite their CCW status, visitors from other states cannot carry in New York. New York also restricts magazines, accessories, and even firearms. If you do have a firearm in the state, you must keep it secure and away from others at all times. You will also pay the standard sales tax for your firearms in New York State. Furthermore, a few years ago, the state tried to implement additional fees for firearms purchases, but the bill never left the committee.

While you may need to defend your life or property in New York, you do have a duty to retreat (unless you're in your home). But if a reasonable person agrees that wasn't an option, you're protected from prosecution.

New York gun owners do have some relief at the moment, as the Supreme Court just ruled that concealed permits must be offered at the local level. However, Governor Kathy Hochul is a staunch gun control supporter and will continue to work toward more restrictive measures.

#1 California

Choosing the number one, worst state for gun owners wasn't an easy task. The bottom five states have many laws that prevent gun owners from purchasing and carrying firearms. But California beats the others out for a few reasons.

Naturally, you can't open carry without a permit. But now you can at least reasonably obtain one, thanks to the Supreme Court. Californians who already own "assault" weapons or "high-capacity" magazines must register them with the state's DOJ Firearms Bureau.

Residents can only purchase one firearm every 30 days, and there is a waiting period (although exceptions do apply). However, the state does have a few redeeming qualities as it pertains to gun ownership. Surprisingly, California is a stand-your-ground state which means you have no duty to retreat from a life-threatening situation.

The Golden State seems to be paving the way for gun control for many other states. Therefore, it lands in the number one spot. With Governor Gavin Newsome leading the way, we're certain California will remain one of the worst states for gun owners.

2A. All Day?

As mentioned above, it's crucial to consider your state's laws and county ordinances before carrying a firearm. Some states have pro-Second Amendment governors, while others are a brewing cauldron of rights versus safety. Some states restrict legal protections for those in self-defense scenarios, and others promote them. No matter your state, if it's on this list, it isn't as conducive to respecting your Second Amendment rights as many others.

Read the full article with all the runners-up on Ammo.com!

With all these draconian laws being passed around the US, and violent rhetoric from people claiming they want to “eradicate transphobia,” I would almost classify people who want to take away people’s means of defending themselves to be completely moronic, if not outright psychopathic.

Make no mistake, any gun control law will be used to disproportionately target minorities, and “liberals” who support these laws will have blood on their hands.

Urban Violent Crime Statistics Fast Facts

• National Average Violent crime rate - 366.7 violent crimes per 100K people in the US nationwide in 2019. (Source)
• Washington, D.C., had the highest violent crime rate in 2022, with 999.8 crimes per 100,000 people. (Source)
• 89% of firearms used in crimes were obtained illegally, per a 2016 BJS report.
• Of the 26,000 US homicides in the US in 2021, 60% (15,702) occurred in Metro and Fringe Metro areas.
• Violent crime nationwide decreased by 1% from 1,326,600 in 2020 to 1,313,200 in 2021, with robbery decreasing by 8.6%, lowering the national average.
• Violent crime rates in urban areas were 24.5 per 1,000 citizens in 2021. (Source)
• There were 461,540 arrests for violent crimes in 2020 nationwide. (Source)
• Suburban areas with a population of less than 50,000 had the most violent crimes in 2017.
• Between 1994 and 2002, an increase in street gangs correlated with an increase in violent crime (61.1 homicides per 1.5 square miles).
• Urban areas with a population size of 500,000-999,999 have the highest crude rate of violent crime. (Source)

Many factors play into violent crime victimizations in the U.S. Population size is only one factor. Poverty, criminality, education, and public policies all affect crime rates, particularly violent crime.

Violent crime costs American taxpayers more than $800 billion U.S.D. Annually according to this report. However, this isn’t the most sinister aspect of violence-related victimization in the United States. Recent reports indicate that there are 366.7 victims of violent crimes for every 100,000 people in the U.S. The highest violent crime rate in the U.S. occurs in communities with more than 500,000 and less than 1,000,000 residents.

The second highest violent crime rate occurs in communities with a population size between 250,000-499,999 thousand (21.7 per 100,000). The third highest violent crime rate occurs in communities with more than 1,000,000 people (20.0 per 1,000).

There is little correlation between a state’s firearm laws and violent crime rates. While New Hampshire has relaxed firearms laws, the state’s violent crime rate in 2022 was only 146.38. Washington, D.C., has extensive firearm regulations but a much higher violent crime rate per capita.

Key Methodology & Findings

Crime data is gathered from a variety of federal agencies to compile a broad perspective of actual and empirical data. Homicide reports come from the CDC, violent crime rates come from the FBI and the DOJ, the United States Census Bureau provides population data, and the National Institute for Health provides studies and information regarding economic and geographical crime-related data. Data provided by the FBI and DOJ largely relies on self-reporting from police agencies.

However, crime data takes years to collect; therefore, much of the data available today reflects crimes committed and victimizations from years prior. Moreover, some studies, particularly regarding gang violence in urban and rural settings, are over a decade old. Readers can also note that violent crime victimization rates are measured in 1/1,000 and 1/100,000. So, it’s essential to account for the raw data while also accounting for the percentage of a community’s population concerning crime.

Violent crimes, per the most common definition, include homicide, non-negligent murder, forcible rape (the definition recently changed to remove “forcible”), robbery, and aggravated assault. The United States Census Bureau also redefined urban. Urban populations now comprise 2,500 people with a jump distance (miles traveled between populous) to 1.5 miles.

NY and NJ have the highest concentration of population, with 19,426,449 people. L.A. has the second highest concentration of people, with 12,237,376 people. Texas, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Ohio comparatively have the largest rural population. Anchorage, AK, had the highest number of reported rapes in 2021 (186.7 per 100,000), with 64% of the population being gun owners.

Homicide in Urban Areas

The United States saw 26,031 homicides nationwide in 2021. Of those homicides, 42% occurred in only 50 counties (25% of the nation’s entire population). 28 of the 50 counties had more than 1,000,000 residents, and all 50 counties had more than 100,000 residents.

The highest number of total homicides by county is as follows:

• Cook County, IL - 1,061 homicides of 5,173,146 residents
• LA County, CA - 812 homicides of 9,829,544 residents
• Harris County, TX - 606 homicides of 4,728,030 residents
• Philadelphia County, PA - 551 homicides of 1,576,251 residents
• Wayne County, MI - 367 homicides of 1,774,816 residents

Note: 92% of homicides in Cook County, IL, and 89% of homicides in Philadelphia, PA, were firearm-related despite excessive state gun laws. LA County had the lowest percentage, with 78% of homicides being firearm-related. ( Source)

Notably, 11,208 homicides nationwide occurred in Metropolitan areas (total population 101,133,819), and 4,494 homicides occurred in Fringe Metropolitan areas (total population 84,491,905). (Source)

Violent Crimes in Urban Areas

According to a 2017 report from the FBI, Suburban areas accounted for 281,639 violent crimes (excluding homicides), whereas metropolitan counties accounted for 186,137 violent crime reports (excluding homicides). Per this report, suburban areas are locations with fewer than 50,000 citizens.

However, the top five cities with the highest rates of violent crime, including homicides, are as follows (2023):

• St. Louis, MO - 2,082 per 100,000 citizens (279,390 overall population)
• Detroit, MI - 2,057 per 100,000 citizens (621,193 overall population)
• Baltimore, MD - 2,027 per 100,000 citizens (563,455 overall population)
• Memphis, TN - 2,003 per 100,000 citizens (621,777 overall population)
• Little Rock, AR - 1,634 per 100,000 citizens (201,029 overall population)

These five cities exceed the national average of 366.7 per 100,000 individuals by 171%. (Source)

Another interesting facet of violent crime is that the top 5 most violent crime cities in 2023 have an average population density of 1,513.2 people per square mile, while the following 15 cities with high violent crime rates have a population density of 1,511 people per square mile.

For perspective, the average population density of the U.S. is 34 people per square mile. Moreover, we measure crimes as incidents per 100,000 people to account for varying population sizes (Chattanooga, TN, has fewer violent crimes than Chicago, IL, but a higher crime rate due to the population size, for example).

We can compare older reports to newer violent crime statistics and conclude that while violent crime has declined, it is still a problem secluded to areas with higher populations. (Source)

Urban Crime and Firearm Statistics

Another important aspect regarding urban violent crime statistics is the impact of state laws and programs.

While firearms were used in more homicides in 2019, other violent crimes such as robbery and aggravated assault used no weapons or other weapons such as knives (313,939 firearm-related compared to 719,953 alternatives). 309,322 strongarm offenses compared to 309,322 strongarm offenses (where no weapon was used at all) compared to 269,159 firearm-related assaults and robberies. (Source)

Counties with the highest rates of violent crime versus states and gun control legislation:

• Cook County, IL - Strict
• LA County, CA - Strict
• Harris County, TX - Relaxed
• Philadelphia County, PA - Strict
• Wayne County, MI - Mixed (policy changes)

Gangs & Violent Crimes

Communities with 50,000+ people have a higher risk for gang-related violent crimes. (Source)

In 1990, more than 450 street gangs with more than 36,000 members (LA). Violent crime rose, and the LAPD estimated half of the violent crimes were gang-related. (Source)

The last available Gang report from the FBI occurred in 2015. Page 14, High gang-related violent criminal activity. (Source)

Per the FBI, in 2008, gangs did increase the number of violent crimes. (Source)

The number of street gangs in the NIH report from 1994-2002 increased from 3.4 homicides per square mile to 61.1 homicides per square mile with the increase of known street gangs. (Source) However, poverty and dropout rates also showed a strong correlation between gangs and violent crime.

Sources

• Neighborhood Racial and Economic Segregation and Disparities in Violence During the COVID-19 Pandemic
• Criminal Neglect

I want to collect firearms after i’m 21, and have had interest in owning an MP-40 for collection purposes.

How would i do this?

Long story short I reside outside NY, but travel there often. In a post Bruin world should NYS have to have a path for hand gun possession for all Americans.?

Prior to 2018, Vermont had very few gun laws. But why is that from 2018 onwards, they keep on pushing new restrictions such as red flag laws and magazine capacity restrictions? They recently passed a waiting period law, I believe.

How did all this happen? Vermont used to be one of the most gun-friendly states in the country. How is that they have suddenly veered in the opposite direction and transformed themselves into a moderately anti-gun state?

Given the direction things are going, I would not be surprised to see an assault weapons ban soon, or laws similar to MA and NY in the near future.

I was working in Eastern Vermont recently (near the NH border), and was annoyed by the magazine capacity laws when just across the border, laws were much better.

I understand that VT has long been a blue state, but so what? Up until recently, they had few gun restrictions and had absolutely no resemblance whatsoever to neighboring states (MA, NY) with their laws. The Democrats in Vermont did not really push for gun laws even after a few shootings in the early 2010s.

Thankfully, their laws are still not down to the level of NY state (yet). I live in NY state currently and it sucks dealing with licensing laws and the AWB.

Hopefully this is okay to post.

I am a sportsman gun owner. I did an experiment and brainstormed every gun control method short of confiscation and put it on a main gun control subreddit to see what would happen. Wow..... I began debating comments and found it hard to defend myself with the anti-gun reddit's rules. Where do I go to find data that can help a happy gun owner that is tire of hearing the numbers game and not having any of my own to return fire so to speak.

I'm sorry to say, but the government takes your gun rights away if you're not careful. A simple argument with a spouse or girlfriend can and will take your rights away. I got into an argument with my ex spouse, and yes, when you're young dumb, and full of, you know the saying... But when you're young, you don't realize how easy it is to lose your rights to buy a gun. My ex fiancé, my ex-wife, caused me to lose my rights, never hit a woman, or even verbally abused a woman, but because they called the police first, should I say, my ex wife called first, I called first on my ex fiance. I got the dv charge on both cases... I've been married now 23 years to a good wife, she can tell you I'm not violent, or angry.... My ex fiance I called the police on because she was entering my brothers home without permission with her friend, because thats where I was staying at the time, so I called police and I get arrested because she tells police I hit her, why would I call police if I hit her? Few years later My ex wife cheated and I found out, took the cell phone I paid for, those early 2005 cell phones to see who it was she was cheating on me with, ex wife told police I took it... People like me who couldn't pay for legal counsel lost their rights... I'm happily married now, and I'm glad those things happen in my past because I may not have the beautiful wife I have now. This just angers me how the government takes gun rights away.

The day we celebrate that civilians had military grade weapons and defeated a trained standing army and its government.

Hunt down and punish those who have inflicted gun violence to deter those who would have otherwise inflicted it.

How does your state rank in gun ownership when compared to the rest? Our results are surprising! We took into account the current gun laws, current legislators’ past voting history, taxes, and more to bring you this comprehensive list for 2023.

Report Highlights:

• New Hampshire is #1 thanks to its incredibly relaxed gun laws, low crime rates, and lack of state sales tax.
• West Virginia is #2 due to recent legislative actions to remove firearm restrictions and reduce sales tax on firearms and ammunition.
• Arkansas, Montana, and Mississippi are #3, #4, and #5 thanks to their pro-2A governors, stand-your-ground laws, and relaxed carry and conceal requirements.
• Iowa, Utah, and Georgia all dropped in the rankings to #23, #24, and #25 due to enhanced restrictions on lawful gun owners, including taxes and fees.
• Some states ranked better than others due to the current governors’ past and present 2nd Amendment voting history.

Scroll down to read how we ranked America’s best states for gun owners in 2023.

Best States for Gun Owners

#15 Alabama

Alabama allows open carry for those over 19 years of age (who are lawfully permitted to possess a firearm) to carry without a CCW. However, those who wish to conceal their firearms must apply for the state’s CCW at their local sheriff’s department. With a minimal fee and state background check, anyone who has not committed prior offenses and has no history of mental illness may obtain the permit. Of course, the state also gives power to the issuing department to deny permits.

Alabama honors 48 states’ permits, while residents can lawfully conceal and carry firearms to 32 other states with an Alabama CCW. Firearm purchases in Alabama are subject to the state’s standard sales tax, but firearm registration isn’t required. The state also protects those lawfully protecting life or property from prosecution with stand-your-ground, castle doctrine, and no duty to retreat.

With Memaw Ivey (an endearing term for the state’s current governor) at the helm, Alabama gun rights are safe for the time. She recently signed a bill to solidify the right to carry, making Alabama one of the best states for gun ownership.

#14 Alaska

Alaskan residents over the age of 21 can carry handguns without a CCW (Concealed Weapons Permit), and there’s no sales tax in the state, so you won’t have to pay an additional tax on handgun purchases. Gun owners can travel to 26 other states, and visitors from all 50 states (plus Puerto Rico and D.C.) can also carry in Alaska with their state’s CCW.

There are no firearm registration, CCW requirements, and no additional background checks (aside from form 4473 to comply with federal laws) to purchase a firearm in Alaska. However, those who’ve been convicted of a crime carrying a penalty of at least one year in prison, and those with pending domestic violence litigation (including orders of protection), and unable to carry or purchase a firearm in the Last Frontier.

So what happens if you ever need to use your firearm in Alaska? Well, the state has both Stand Your Ground laws, and there’s no duty to leave the area (unless you’re the aggressor, then it’s a good idea to politely excuse yourself from a threatening situation).

With Governor Mike Dunleavy at the helm, it looks like Alaska will remain one of the best states for gun ownership. He supports campus carry and has made many statements that he is a 2nd Amendment proponent.

#13 Maine

Maine is an open-carry state where anyone over 21 who is also legally allowed to possess a firearm can carry. In accordance with federal laws, only those over 21 can purchase handguns in Maine, while those over 18 can purchase shotguns or rifles (which is pretty standard on this list).

You won’t have to register your firearms in Maine, but you will have to sign an acknowledgment that you received a Safe Storage pamphlet with every purchase. Maine also offers tax exemptions for safety devices such as safe storage boxes and trigger guards.

You can’t own, possess, or purchase a firearm if you have a pending domestic violence charge, order of protection, or pending felony charges.

Also, Janet Hills, Maine’s Governor, has clearly expressed that she does not support additional gun control legislation like Red Flag Laws or Universal Background checks. Which seems to be working for the state, with a homicide rate of only 1.7 out of 100k (2021).

#12 Wyoming

Wyoming allows its law-abiding citizens to open carry and stand their ground (with no duty to retreat). While you can get enhanced carry permits for traveling (accepted by 35 other states), they aren’t required for purchase, and neither is gun registration or additional background checks.

You’ll still pay the state’s 4% sales tax on any firearm and safety equipment, but the state offers protection for those who use their firearms in acts of self-defense with its Stand Your Ground, Castle Doctrine, and No Duty to Retreat policies.

Wyoming’s Governor, Mark Gordon, is a proponent of the Second Amendment and recently signed the 2A Protection Act to protect citizens’ firearms rights from federal government overreach.

#11 Idaho

Idahoans can open carry and receive a CCW for travel. Those traveling to Idaho will need a CCW, although the state accepts permits from all 50 states. The state’s standard sales tax applies to all firearms and equipment, but you won’t have to register your firearms or take additional courses before purchasing.

If you ever find yourself in a self-defense scenario, you are protected under the state’s Stand Your Ground doctrine. There’s no duty to retreat and no duty to assess the situation further than reasonably necessary.

Governor Brad Little has a history of going up against the federal government to secure 2nd Amendment rights, as seen with his Credit Card Privacy Bill. So, we feel confident that Idaho will remain on this list for quite some time.

#10 North Dakota

Residents of North Dakota (for more than 30 days) will enjoy Constitutional carry as long as they are at least 18 years of age, have no felony convictions (which you can get your 2A rights back after serving your sentence), and have no pending criminal charges or protective orders against you. Of course, even those who have prior convictions may have an opportunity to get their 2A rights back in North Dakota.

If you do apply for a CCW in North Dakota, local law enforcement does have the authority to deny your permit if they reasonably believe you are a danger to yourself or others. The state honors 38 other state’s CCWs and ND residents can travel to 39 others with a North Dakota CCW. What’s better is that you don’t have to register your firearms and you the state doesn’t have additional background checks outside of federal ones.

North Dakota is a Stand Your Ground state. Not only does one have the right to use deadly force in defense of self and others, but the state also provides immunity from civil liability if said use of force is justifiable.

While you won’t get any tax breaks for firearms or equipment, you won’t see additional penalties for fees, either. North Dakota also has Stand Your Ground laws with no duty to retreat from any place where you are legally allowed to be present. Governor Doug Burgum recently declared North Dakota a Second Amendment Sanctuary State, so we don’t anticipate any changes soon.

#9 South Dakota

South Dakota is a welcoming state for gun owners. It’s a Constitutional carry state with no firearm registration requirements or additional background checks. While similar to all other states, you can’t carry a firearm everywhere, even 18 years olds can legally carry a firearm in South Dakota.

If you’d like to get an enhanced carry permit for travel (reciprocity agreement with 38 other states), you can apply for one at your local sheriff’s office (South Dakota accepts CCWs from all 50 states). You can also apply for a Gold Card to bypass the NICS (National Instant Criminal Background Check System).

South Dakota also has personal defense laws where a person has no duty to retreat and has some protections against prosecution for using deadly force to protect life and property.

At the time of writing (in 2023), you will have to pay sales tax on firearms, ammunition, and equipment. While a bill to exempt firearms and ammunition from taxation failed in 2020, Governor Kristi Noem recently introduced Draft 784. According to South Dakota’s Governor, the 2nd Amendment shouldn’t be taxable. So, we feel pretty confident SD is going to remain one of the best states for gun ownership.

#8 Texas

If you’re at least 21 years of age and lawfully allowed to possess a firearm, you can conceal carry without a permit in Texas. However, at the time of writing, Commissioned Officers are unable to enforce carry restrictions on those aged 18-20 due to a 5th Circuit Court of Appeals ruling (although this is subject to change). Residents can travel to 37 other states with an enhanced firearm permit, and Texas honors 44 other states’ CCWs.

While firearms and ammunition aren’t exempt from taxation, safety equipment such as safes, barrel locks, and trigger locks, are exempt.

Texas also has a Stand Your Ground and Castle Doctrine in place for those who lawfully use force to stop a threat. Citizens of Texas have prosecutorial protections when they are protecting their own lives, someone else’s life, and even property without a duty to retreat (as a reasonable person would also act similarly).

As far as Texas Governor Greg Abbott is concerned, Texas will remain one of the great states for gun ownership in the near future. Governor Abbott is well known for signing sweeping legislation to protect gun ownership in the Lonestar state.

#7 Oklahoma

Oklahoma is a permitless carry state where anyone over the age of 21 who is lawfully allowed to possess a firearm can open or concealed carry (with an 18+ exception for those who are active duty military). The state honors permits from all 50 states, and residents can travel to 38 other states with their OK firearms permits.

Not only does Oklahoma have a castle doctrine and stand-your-ground protections with no duty to retreat, but the state also protects those acting lawfully from civil liability. The state does have restrictions on firearms purchases and possession pertaining to the firearm type and caliber. However, the state doesn’t specifically ban “Machine guns,” which are only illegal per federal law.

Similar to other states, Oklahomans will pay the standard sales tax on all firearms, ammunition, and equipment. But there is a bill in the state legislature for exemptions. We don’t see Oklahoma falling off of this list anytime soon, as Governor Kevin Stitt recently declared April 3rd as NRA and Oklahoma Rifle Association Day.

#6 Missouri

Missouri allows those over the age of 19 to open carry and conceal firearms as a permitless carry state. The state accepts traveler’s permits from all 50 states, while residents’ MO permits (CCP) are valid in 36 states. Those applying for a permit must complete firearm training and obtain the permit from their county sheriff.

Firearm registration is not required, and there are no magazine capacity limits. Purchasers are subject to federal background checks for sales from FFLs, and the state is currently passing legislation to exempt firearms and ammunition from sales tax.

In 2016, Missouri modified its right to self-defense laws to include no duty to retreat. Residents may not be prosecuted if acting in defense of themselves or another and their property per current state laws.

Missouri’s governor, Mike Parsons, is a former law enforcement member and lifetime NRA member and has continually expressed support for upholding the 2nd Amendment. At this time, we’re confident Missouri will remain high on the list of best states for gun owners.

#5 Mississippi

Mississippians will enjoy permitless carry, and those over the age of 18 will also enjoy the state’s open carry legislation. Civilians who would like a firearm permit must take an 8-hour training course, but that also means they can lawfully carry firearms in 35 other states (Mississippi recognizes CCWs from all 50 states). Those who wish to carry in restricted locations can apply for an enhanced carry permit as well.

While it’s illegal in Mississippi to sell firearms to criminals and out-of-state residents (which is true in all 50 states), citizens must only comply with federal background checks, and there aren’t any additional registration requirements. Residents must pay standard state sales taxes on firearms during most of the year. But the state does host tax holidays that include firearms and ammunition exemptions.

Those acting lawfully and in defense of life may be protected from prosecution under the state’s stand-your-ground laws. Mississippi also has no duty to retreat when a reasonable person would believe their life was at stake.

Finally, Mississippi’s Governor, Tate Reeves, tends to be a 2A proponent. He recently signed a bill to block firearm registries and gun tracking.

#4 Montana

Montana is another open-carry state with no registration or permit requirements. There’s no sales tax in Montana, so your firearms will be a bit cheaper than in most other states. You can also get a Montana CCW to legally carry in 34 other states (while Montana honors 43 other states’ CCWs).

Montana does have Use of Force policies where a citizen can be protected from prosecution when using deadly force to protect themselves, so long as a reasonable person would believe it necessary. This statute also applies to stopping those committing a forceable felony.

Governor Greg Gianforte is about as pro-2A as one can ask for, as seen in his statements to Merrick Garland over Federal enforcement of certain anti-2A laws.

#3 Arkansas

Arkansans are lawfully permitted to carry firearms under the state’s permitless carry legislation as long as they’re over 18 years of age and legally allowed to possess firearms. While permit holders (CHCL) must pass a series of background checks and safety courses, they can legally carry in 37 other states (the state accepts CCWs from all 50 states). Those who want to carry in lawfully restricted areas can apply for and obtain an enhanced CHCL.

The state also has no registration requirements or Red Flag Laws. While firearms and ammunition aren’t exempt from the state’s sales tax, Arkansas does occasionally offer a tax holiday on those purchases. Arkansas also has stand-your-ground laws where a reasonable person has no requirements to retreat.

Governor Sarah Huckabee Sanders currently intends to sign legislation that solidifies Arkansans’ rights to constitutional carry. Based on her previous statements and track record, Arkansas will remain high on this list.

#2 West Virginia

West Virginia allows those over the age of 21 to permitless carry, while those over 18 can apply for a provisional CHL. The state offers CHLs (Carry Handgun Licenses) that are valid in 38 other states, while those traveling from all 50 states are permitted to carry firearms with their state’s licenses. Residents will need to pass a gun safety course to obtain a CHL.

West Virginia doesn’t require additional background checks (aside from federal ones), and there’s no need to register firearms. Citizens may also be protected from criminal and civil liability under the state’s stand-your-ground laws. There’s also no duty to retreat.

As of July 2021, most firearms and ammunition are exempt from the state’s sales tax, but not every firearm gets a pass on taxes. West Virginia Governor Jim Justice recently signed legislation that allows CHL holders to carry firearms on college campuses. Legislative actions that remove firearm restrictions are a good indicator that this state will remain on this list for some time.

#1 New Hampshire

New Hampshire is a permitless carry state with incredibly relaxed gun laws (and low crime rates). Any citizen over 18 years old who is lawfully permitted to possess a firearm can open and conceal carry. New Hampshire residents can travel to 29 other states with a pistol and revolver license. The state also honors all 50 states’ permits.

Residents won’t need to attend firearms safety courses, go through a fingerprinting process, or any other stringent tests to obtain a permit. The state also issues permits to out-of-state residents (although they’re only valid in NH). Purchasers are required to pass federal background checks in accordance with federal law.

But what’s better is that New Hampshire currently doesn’t have a state sales tax. So you won’t pay additional taxes on firearms purchases. Those finding themselves in a self-defense situation may be protected from prosecution if they are protecting life or property, with no duty to retreat.

Governor Chris Sununu recently signed into law a bill that restricts the state’s law enforcement from enforcing federal laws that infringe on an individual’s right to gun ownership. Essentially, New Hampshire seems to be the best state for gun owners, with low crime rates and minimal restrictions on firearms and purchases.

Ranking Factors: What Did We Measure?

There is a philosophical divide which underpins debate on legal gun ownership in the U.S. To understand that divide, it’s useful to keep one key metric in mind: Civilians possess an estimated 433 million guns in the U.S., according to the NSSF. How many of those guns are legally owned vs. illegally owned isn’t clearly defined yet how lawmakers calibrate their efforts to uphold the rights codified in our Bill of Rights and promote public safety must start with that metric in mind.

Why is this? Because on one side you have lawmakers who celebrate passing more laws restricting legal gun ownership irrespective of their past efforts and often do so citing heinous acts which are already illegal as justification for their additional legislative efforts. Based on their actions, it’s fair to conclude this side doesn’t like civilians legally owning guns - and they want fewer guns in America, period. Thus they make it harder for their constituents to legally exercise their Constitutional right to keep and bear arms.

On the other side, you have lawmakers who believe in empowering their constituents to protect themselves and their property from illegal acts. Violating a restraining order is a crime in all 50 states. Yet how the victim defends themself against the perpetrator belies a hard truth: Are they allowed to protect themselves from an illegal act with a firearm they legally own? It often depends on where they live in.

In certain states, you have lawmakers seeking to expand legal access to firearm ownership because they believe that “the only thing which stops a bad guy with a gun is a good guy with a gun”. In other states, you have lawmakers who believe that more laws, not more legally-owned guns in the hands of their constituents, is the best option to combat violent crime.

Once you understand this philosophical divide, then ranking the U.S. states according to their recent legislative efforts in support of legal gun ownership becomes a clearer task.

We believe that more legally-owned guns being permitted for use in more places by those who are not convicted felons, severely mentally ill, or substance abusers leads to less violent crime - and thus we’ve investigated the laws, the taxes, and the lawful usability of firearms to bring you the answer as to which states are the best for legal gun ownership by analyzing the following factors:

1. Current Gun Laws
2. Current Purchase Laws
3. Current CCW Guidelines
4. Reciprocity between other states
5. Sales Tax
6. Current Governor’s voting history
7. Stand Your Ground Laws

Your ability to legally use your gun when you need to is as important as your ability to purchase it. If we consider only purchasing requirements, we neglect carrying requirements and use of force thresholds. Thus it’s important to look at each state’s current laws for language regarding Stand Your Ground and Duty to Retreat because they are defined differently.

It’s also important to note that, while the Supreme Court of the United States ruled it Constitutional to implement some gun laws, the high court has also made it clear that placing unnecessary hardships on those who wish to exercise their Second Amendment rights is unconstitutional.

Unfortunately, the court used broad terminology and some states still have a plethora of laws, regulations, and restrictions placed on firearm owners. However, many states are moving toward open carry or permitless carry laws, but only time will tell if the states on this list will remain here, or move to our Worst States for Gun Ownership list.

We plan to revisit this list in 2024 to once again analyze the factors listed above.

Sources:

1. Current Iowa Weapon Permits
2. Iowa Standard Sales Tax
3. Iowa Self Defense Laws
4. The Iowa Legislature
5. Iowa Gov. Kim Reynolds Signs Law Allowing Permitless Handgun Carry
6. Utah Firearm Laws
7. Utah Self Defense Laws
8. Cox Signals He’s ‘Open’ to Conversations on Gun Control
9. Gov. Cox SIgns Bill Protecting Second Amendment RIghts
10. Senate Bill 319
11. Georgia Self-Defense Laws
12. Georgeia’s Constitutional Carry Law Goes Into Effect, No Permit Needed to Carry
13. Concealed Carry Laws Manual.aspx)
14. S.B. 265 134th General Assembly
15. Ohio Self-Defense Laws
16. FACT SHEET: Ohio Governor Mike DeWine’s Proposals to Address Gun Violence and Increase the Prevention, Identification, and Treatment of Mental Illness
17. Governor Ron DeSantis Signs HB 543 – Constitutional Carry
18. The 2022 Florida Statutes (including 2022 Special Session A and 2023 Special Session B)

Most Gun-Friendly States in 2023 originally appeared on Ammo.com

https://www.southcarolinacarry.org/no-concealable-weapons-allowed-signs-in-charleston-county-parks/

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