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According to Fortune Business Insights™, the global rifles market size was valued at USD 3.44 billion in 2024 and is projected to grow from USD 3.54 billion in 2025 to USD 4.77 billion by 2032, exhibiting a CAGR of 4.35% during the forecast period. North America dominated the market with a 43.31% share in 2024, driven by high defense spending, a large civilian user base, and widespread adoption of advanced rifle systems.
What is a Rifle?
A rifle is a long-barreled firearm designed for shoulder firing, distinguished by spiral grooves (rifling) cut into the barrel. This rifling imparts spin to the bullet, enhancing stability, accuracy, and range. Widely used in military, law enforcement, hunting, and sport shooting, rifles offer unmatched precision over pistols and shotguns.
Key Companies Profiled
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Kalashnikov Group (Russia)
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Heckler & Koch GmbH (Germany)
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Remington Arms Company LLC (U.S.)
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Israel Weapons Industries (Israel)
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Colts Manufacturing LLC (U.S.)
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FN Herstal (Belgium)
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American Outdoor Brands Corporation (U.S.)
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Glock Ges.m.b.H. (Austria)
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Smith & Wesson Brands Inc. (U.S.)
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Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. (U.S.)
Source:
https://www.fortunebusinessinsights.com/rifles-market-112872
Market Segmentation
By Firing Type
The rifles market is categorized into non-automatic, semi-automatic, and automatic firing types. Among these, the automatic segment is anticipated to witness the fastest growth during the forecast period. This growth is primarily driven by the rising demand for next-generation weapons, increased civilian ownership in various regions, and widespread military modernization initiatives. Additionally, escalating geopolitical tensions are prompting nations to adopt more advanced and efficient firearm systems, further boosting the demand for automatic rifles.
By Product
Based on product type, the market is segmented into assault rifles, light machine guns, designated marksman rifles, general-purpose machine guns, and others. The assault rifle segment is projected to be the fastest-growing, owing to a surge in defense budgets, rapid advancements in weapon technology, and government-driven national security programs. Notably, collaborative efforts such as India’s joint venture with Russia to produce AK-203 assault rifles for its armed forces highlight the segment’s growing strategic importance across global defense sectors.
Market Dynamics
Market Drivers
One of the key drivers of the rifles market is the advancement in modern weapon technologies, which has transformed military operations by emphasizing lightweight, tech-enabled firearms. These innovations are improving combat efficiency and operational flexibility, leading to a surge in demand for sophisticated rifles across defense forces globally.
Another significant driver is the rising civilian demand for rifles, fueled by growing interest in personal protection, recreational shooting, and hunting. The COVID-19 pandemic amplified this trend, especially in the U.S., where gun purchases spiked due to public safety concerns. A notable example is India’s large-scale procurement of SiG Sauer rifles in 2024, which underscores the growing civilian and paramilitary interest in modern firearms.
Market Restraints
However, the market faces challenges due to inconsistent international firearms regulations, which vary significantly across countries. These regulatory disparities limit market expansion, affect international trade, and increase the complexity of compliance for manufacturers and distributors. Navigating these complex legal frameworks often results in delayed procurement cycles, reduced revenues, and legal risks, posing a major restraint to global market growth.
Market Trends
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Technological Integration: Smart targeting, modular rifle designs, RFID integration, and improved materials (like polymers) are shaping the future of rifle systems. These innovations boost operational flexibility and user experience.
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Defense Spending: Rising global defense budgets are directly enhancing procurement of advanced rifles and related accessories.
Regional Outlook
North America
North America will retain the largest market share through 2032, driven by high defense spending and active procurement programs. For example, SIG Sauer’s XM5 and XM250 rifles were selected in 2022 to replace the M4 and M249.
Asia Pacific
Asia Pacific is the fastest-growing region, led by India, China, South Korea, and Australia. Rising border tensions, defense spending, and India’s 71 million civilian weapons are fueling demand.
Europe
Europe will see moderate growth, supported by key manufacturers like Beretta, Thales Group, and Heckler & Koch, along with ongoing defense upgrades.
Rest of the World
Includes the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America. Growth is supported by political tensions and rising civilian firearm demand.
Competitive Landscape
The global rifles market is highly competitive, with companies focusing on innovation, strategic partnerships, and expanding product lines. Emerging technologies such as biometric-enabled triggers, smart optics, and digital integration are offering companies a competitive edge. Mergers and acquisitions are also key strategies used to gain market share.
Key Industry Developments
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August 2024 – India signed a USD 832 million deal with the U.S. to acquire 73,000 SiG Sauer SiG-716 assault rifles for frontline troops deployed along the China and Pakistan borders. This follows an earlier purchase of 72,400 units and comes amid delays in the domestic production of Russian-origin AK-203 rifles.
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January 2024 – Israeli firm ARI Arms secured a landmark USD 26 million contract to supply OR-4 assault rifles to the Israel Defense Forces (IDF), replacing the Tavor rifles. The deal marks a step toward standardizing infantry weapons and boosting Israel's local arms production.
Report Coverage
This market research provides an in-depth overview of the rifles market with data-driven insights across all key segments. It includes:
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Detailed market size and forecast
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Regional and product-based growth insights
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SWOT and Porter’s Five Forces analysis
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Competitive strategies and recent developments
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Adoption trends, demand dynamics, and regulatory impacts
