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As of July 1, 2026, the population of America is about 343 million people. Concurrently, it is estimated there are between 500 to 540 million civilian-owned firearms here. Yes, we are a gun-loving culture immersed in the Second Amendment’s "right of the people to keep and bear arms.” Of course not all of us own guns.
Estimates show there are 107 million individuals, or roughly 32% of the population, who own at least one firearm. Reasons for ownership include personal protection (72%), recreational shooting, competitive shooting, collecting, hunting, required by occupation, display or decoration, getting rid of animal pests and protecting farm animals.
The National Rifle Association is the most influential and politically powerful organization in the USA involved in protecting our gun rights.
In addition to membership perks, the NRA is directly involved in marksmanship training programs, firearms safety programs, competitive shooting, gun clubs, collecting, producing publications, monitoring legislative actions, conducting litigation, lobbying, self defense training, and the like. Unfortunately, its membership totals a mere 5.5 million members, which amounts to just over 5% of gun owners.
The population of the Altoona metropolitan area totals about 125,000 residents. Applying the statistics above, there are some 40,000 local gun owners of which there are only 2,000 NRA members. Okay, maybe even 4,000 at a 10% level. If gun ownership is such a precious right that many enjoy, you would think NRA membership would reach at least a 67% majority to protect same.
Donn C. Drummond
Altoona