The National Shooting Sports Foundation reported that nearly five million Americans purchased a firearm for the very first time in 2020 and firearm manufacturers reported that 40 percent of sales were conducted to purchasers who have never previously owned a firearm.

Retailers noted that they are seeing a 95 percent increase in firearm sales and a 139 percent increase in ammunition sales over the same period in 2019 and background checks have set a record as the strongest ever each month since March of this year.

Another survey conducted of firearm retailers regarding buying trends estimated that 40 percent of sales were to first-time gun buyers and that 40 percent of first-time gun buyers were women.

Most commonly purchased were pistols and shotguns. Modern sporting rifles and traditional rifles were also purchased by first-time gun buyers.

Jim Curcuruto a spokesman for the Ntional Shooting Sports Foundation said, “We, as firearms owners, have the opportunity to engage and grow the shooting sports like never before. Shame on us for walking by our co-workers and neighbors and never asking them to shoot or hunt. Don't leave it up to someone else. It's up to each one of us to lead by example. If each one of us who enjoys recreational shooting and hunting for game would invite someone new to what we enjoy, it would be amazing to see how fast our ranks would expand.”

Hank Forester, assistant director Of the Quality Deer Association's Hunting Heritage Program, emphasized the value of hunting and putting wholesome food on the table. He said, “More than 80 percent of the public approves of hunting for food.”

There are a number of good resources available to help recruit those new to the shooting and hunting sports. Google the National Shooting Sports Foundation's “Let's Go Shooting or Hunting” program. You will find a wealth of information there. Also check out the foundation's “Plus One Program” that focuses on mentoring.

Yes women are buying guns mostly to defend themselves and their love ones and you certainly can't blame them.

Jack Danchak is the President of the Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs of Sullivan County.