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Firearm Ownership in the United States

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Firearm Ownership in The United States
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Firearm Ownership in The United States

“A well-regulated militia, being necessary to the security of a free state, the right of the people to keep and bear arms, shall not be infringed.” The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution has given Americans the right to firearm ownership since 1791. The exercising of this right has been part of how our society has been formed. Gun ownership in America has affected our economy, lifestyle, and politics throughout our history and continues to be a hot topic of discussion today. The economic impact of firearm ownership in America is not a defining one. This industry does not make or break our economy, but the contributions the industry and related industries make can be seen in the form of jobs and sales of goods. Companies who make items for the industry are located throughout the world and make a wide variety of products. These products include firearms, accessories, ammunition and gear. Many firearm manufacturers make accessories for their firearms to try and cash in on both markets. Some of the best-known manufactures throughout the world are Glock, Colt, Benelli, and FN Herstal. These companies not only make firearms for civilian use, they also compete for government contracts to provide weapon systems for the various militaries and police agencies worldwide. The firearm industry is one of the few industries that have grown during the most recent economic slump. According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s news release (Apr. 29, 2010), the industry grew by 17,224 jobs between 2008 and 2010 increasing wages paid to employees by almost two million dollars a year. Sales of firearms also mean taxes paid, and the NSSF reports a near five hundred million dollar increase in tax revenue generated between 2008 and 2009. Time magazine contributes the

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