Gun Ownership Survey: Insights from Georgetown Professor’s Findings
A recent study by Georgetown professor William English has delivered significant insights into gun ownership, challenging commonly held narratives by gun control activists. The professor’s study, known as the National Firearms Survey, is the most comprehensive examination of gun ownership ever conducted. The findings sparked controversy among gun control advocates, who criticized the study’s conclusions.
In response, English addressed their concerns and conducted a revised survey. The updated results, released in 2026, disproved the criticisms and provided further insights:
Possession of ‘Assault Weapons’ More Prevalent
Despite attempts to restrict ‘assault weapons’ and high-capacity magazines, new data reveals increasing ownership. The survey asked respondents about current ownership of AR-15 rifles or similar semiautomatic weapons. Findings show that ownership has risen to an estimated 26.4 million adults, an increase from the 24.6 million identified in 2021.
Defensive Gun Use Higher than Estimated
The original survey found 1.67 million instances of defensive gun use annually, but new data suggests the number could be higher. The revised survey reports an annual average of 2.2 million defensive gun uses, partly thanks to questions about protection against animal attacks.
Growth in Public Carry
The updated survey shows a spike in gun owners reporting carrying handguns for self-defense. Seventy percent of gun owners now carry guns in specific circumstances, up from 56% in 2021. This increase coincides with states enacting permitless carry laws and a Supreme Court decision supporting public carry rights.
Diversity Among Gun Owners
The 2026 survey reveals a broader demographic among gun owners, with increased representation from groups traditionally less likely to own guns. Despite initial assumptions, female gun ownership rose by 3.5% compared to 2021. Women were able to distinguish between household guns and personal ownership.
This extensive study provides substantial evidence contradicting some narratives held by gun control activists. The findings showcase a shifting landscape in gun ownership and the exercise of Second Amendment rights, with implications for policy debates and public perceptions.