Georgetown University’s Dr. William English just dropped the updated 2026 National Firearms Survey, and the data confirms what we see every day at the range: law-abiding Americans are exercising their Second Amendment rights in record numbers. After critics challenged his landmark 2021 study, English re-ran the survey with stricter parameters—and the new findings deliver a major reality check to anti-gun narratives.
AR-15s Are the Modern Standard
Despite intense political pressure, the AR-15 remains America’s rifle. An estimated 26.4 million adults now own an AR-15 or a similarly styled rifle. Furthermore, 44.5 million gun owners currently possess magazines holding more than 10 rounds, meaning over half of all gun owners rely on standard-capacity magazines for lawful self-defense and sport shooting.
Defensive Gun Use is Widespread
Far from being rare, defensive gun use is a daily reality. The refined 2026 data indicates firearms are used defensively 2.2 million times a year in the U.S. to protect life and property. This estimate actually went up from 2021 after correcting the methodology to capture a wider range of defensive encounters.
A Nationwide Surge in Concealed Carry
We are witnessing a massive cultural shift toward armed self-defense in public. Currently, 33.6 million Americans are “public carriers” who carry a concealed firearm at least occasionally—a staggering 60% jump in just five years. Fueled by new permitless carry laws in 12 states and shifting public perception, 70% of gun owners now report having circumstances where they carry a handgun for protection.
The Changing Face of the 2A Community
The Second Amendment is for everyone. The data puts old stereotypes to rest, showing a 3.5% increase in the proportion of female gun owners since 2021, with women now making up over 45% of validated gun owners. Ownership rates are also rising across diverse walks of life, proving that the right to self-defense transcends demographics. For a deeper dive into how this new survey validates everyday gun owners and dismantles anti-gun talking points, check out the full breakdown from Fox News.