ATF Releases 2015 Report on Firearms Commerce in the U.S.

WASHINGTON – The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) today released the 2015 Firearms Commerce in the United States Annual Statistical Update. The report presents data drawn from a number of ATF records in one comprehensive document. The report also provides comparative data from as far back as 1986 for context, analyses of firearms manufacturing trends over the years, and a broader picture of the state of firearms commerce in the United States today.

The most recent findings in the 2015 report show an estimated increase in firearms manufacturing in the U.S. of more than 50 percent within a four-year period. In 2010, more than 5.4 million firearms were manufactured. That number climbed to more than 10.8 million in 2013. The most recent available firearm manufacturing statistics are through calendar year 2013. 

Pistols make up the bulk of the firearms manufactured, with 4.4 million produced in 2013. That is an increase of more than one million pistols produced compared to the previous year. The number of rifles manufactured also increased from 3.1 million in 2012 to 3.9 million in 2013.

Firearms import data and the number of federal firearm licenses is also reflected in the updated report through 2014.  In 2014, more than 3.6 million firearms were imported into the United States, with 2.1 million of those being handguns.

The most recent export numbers are reflective through calendar year 2013 with more than 393,000 firearms exported.       

The commerce report includes a state-by-state breakdown of the federal firearms licenses and a state-by-state breakdown of the National Firearm Act tax revenue information available through 2014. For a closer look, visit the ATF website at commerce report.