Some reports estimate the total number of guns in the United States to be slightly higher than the total population, but such a figure is questionable as it only measures gun sales without accounting for guns which have broken or lost.
It becomes even more difficult to declare exactly which guns are most popular, as it is impossible to determine how many guns are purchased by each individual — but there are some statistics concerning how many guns are manufactured and sold which allow for a rough estimate. Based on data from 2016 there is a reasonable expectation of gun popularity by type.
Pistol: Smith and Wesson M&P Shield
Although many people might expect the Glock to be the most popular pistol as the favorite among police officers, it actually only rates at fifth in popularity based on manufacturing and sales data. The Smith & Wesson M&P Shield actually rates number one. It is available in a number of different popular chamberings, including 9mm, .380, .22LR, and .45 which provides for anyone’s favorite round in a relatively small weapon appropriate for either home defense of concealed carry.
Revolver: Heritage Arms Rough Rider
As a revolver, the Heritage Manufacturing Rough Rider sees the largest sales numbers, even more than the .38 caliber Colt Police. Technically, the gun is a modernized replica of the old Colt Navy, and is a really well designed revolver capable of continued performance under the roughest of conditions. In a standard .22 configuration, the weapon is perfectly capable for self defense and also works well for rodents and pests such as snakes or nuisance animals.
Rifle: Smith and Wesson M&P15
The AR-15-style rifle is commonly called the most popular gun in America, and the saying proves to be true. The data concerning manufacturing and sales numbers suggest the Smith & Wesson M&P15, and Ar-15 platform, is indeed one of the most popular guns available to Americans. The rifle is an efficient all purpose weapon, and light enough for daily use by law enforcement with proven military performance.
Shotgun: Kel-Tec KSG
As far as shotguns are concerned, many people might expect either the Mossberg, Remington, or Winchester models to be the most popular as all three are great guns appropriate for casual sport shooting or hunting purposes. However, although all three are in the top five list of popular shotguns, the Kel-Tec KSG topped the charts for sales in 2016. The interesting bullpup design makes for gun which is more maneuverable in tight spaces such as needed for home defense, and with a 13 round capacity in its standard design, the gun is well prepared for a fight.
In spite of popularity, the best gun for you is the one you’re most comfortable with. However, best selling guns have a proven reputation for reliability and performance, and are therefore worth consideration when you are interesting in buy a new gun either as part of a collection or as your first weapon.
~ Firearm Daily
You believe that the Keltec shotgun is more popular than the Remington 870? The 870 has sold over 10 million shotguns since it’s inception. How many has keltec sold? You have lost any credibility you thought you had.