Guns are as American as the Pilgrims, pioneers, and pratfalls of contemporary politicians. From frontier legend to contemporary defense, guns have pervaded everything. Few companies have done more than just make guns—they’ve shaped the culture, fueled innovation, and defined the industry. From traditional lever-actions to tech-savvy handguns and modular rifles, these manufacturers stand for tradition and innovation. Whether you’re a hunter, a collector, a law enforcement officer, or simply someone who respects craftsmanship, understanding who leads the firearms world in the U.S. offers a clear picture of where things stand today. Here are the ten most influential firearms makers in America.
10. Heritage Manufacturing
Being part of the Taurus Holdings company, Heritage Manufacturing has built a name for itself with its Old West–themed revolvers. Since the company started in 1922, it has maintained the tradition of the classic wheel gun alive and kicking while providing frugal, dependable models. More than 300,000 Heritage revolvers were made in 2022 alone, indicating that value and nostalgia still hold tight in the current marketplace.
9. Henry Repeating Arms
Few are as iconic in American firearm history as Henry. Founded in 1860, Henry Repeating Arms is nearly synonymous with the lever-action rifle—a gun forever linked to the American frontier. The company produced over 365,000 rifles in 2022, each stamped with its proud slogan: “Made in America, or not made at all.” Henry’s adherence to tradition and craftsmanship means that its rifles continue to be in strong demand by sport shooters and hunters alike.
8. Mossberg
In regard to shotguns, Mossberg is the first name that comes to mind. O.F. Mossberg & Sons, the company renowned for its 500 and 590 pump-action shotguns, has been serving hunters, homeowners, and law enforcement agencies for generations. In 2022, Mossberg manufactured over 450,000 firearms, supporting its position as one of the most trustworthy shotgun manufacturers in the country. With practical models for hunting, sport shooting, and self-defense, Mossberg’s influence penetrates far past the duck blind.
7. Glock
Glock is an Austrian-born design that today is one of America’s most dominant gun brands. Its polymer pistols created new standards for ruggedness and simplicity and are still a favorite among civilian firearms owners and police officers today. Glock has manufactured more than 465,000 guns in the United States alone in 2022. As much as its popularity with criminals has earned it unfavorable criticism, the record-breaking dominance of the handgun market is unstoppable.
6. Palmetto State Armory
South Carolina’s Palmetto State Armory, or PSA for short, has become a giant in the modern sporting rifle industry. Its production of budget-friendly AR- and AK-pattern guns allows enthusiasts to personalize their firearms without depleting their savings. Producing over 550,000 guns in 2022, it rode the popular wave for modularity. Its combination of affordability and functionality has made it a staple of the trade.
5. Springfield Armory
Named after a legendary U.S. armory, Springfield Armory blends tradition and new style. Famous for its XD line of pistols and M1A rifle, Springfield made more than 560,000 guns in 2022 alone. Though some models are imported, its made-in-the-USA line of firearms is the shooter’s gun of choice. By blending the classic feel of yesterday with the advanced defensive capabilities of today, Springfield strikes a balance between the two.
4. Savage Arms
For more than 125 years, Savage Arms has supplied reliable rifles, shotguns, and handguns that prioritize accuracy and functionality. During 2022 alone, more than 720,000 Savage guns were manufactured, a reflection of its solid reputation among rivals, hunters, and experts alike. Known for no-frills, just-work products, Savage is now a go-to, go-trust brand for shooters that prioritize reliability without frills.
3. Smith & Wesson
Established in 1852, Smith & Wesson is one of the most recognized names in American guns. Its revolvers, pistols, and rifles have been issued by soldiers, police officers, and civilians for centuries. In 2022, the company produced nearly one million guns, remaining a market leader. Although frequently visible in the public discourse regarding the use of guns, Smith & Wesson remains a staple of law enforcement and civilian shooter communities.
2. SIG SAUER
SIG SAUER has established a reputation for innovation and performance and manufactures some of the world’s most legendary handguns and rifles in the world today. Most famous for its P320 and P365 pistols, SIG has become a favorite of military and police tactical teams and civilian pistol enthusiasts. SIG made more than 1.1 million firearms in America in 2022, with its modular pistol platforms being game changers. Its impact is felt far beyond sales, setting the tone for design and use of new guns.
1. Ruger
Leading the pack is Ruger. Marking its 75th year in business in 2024, Ruger remains at the forefront of the U.S. firearms market with record-setting production figures—over 1.5 million firearms in 2022. From handguns and revolvers to hunting rifles and modern sporting rifles, it makes them all. With the addition of Marlin lever-action rifles to their product offerings, Ruger has continued to expand its presence. Acclaim for innovation and rugged American manufacturing is what Ruger is all about, and its presence on the firearms landscape is unparalleled.
These ten companies are the majority of businesses in gun sales. They power supply chains, arm military and police forces, and outfit government civilian shooters with dependable guns. Their capacity to blend tradition with innovation will keep constructing the industry for centuries to come. Power comes with a price, and how these makers meet that challenge will go down in history as their enduring legacy.