The Powerhouses of U.S. Firearms: Ranking the 10 Largest Gun Makers

Daniel Whitaker

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October 24, 2025

Two Person Practicing Shooting

The strength of America’s firearm industry is best seen through the manufacturers that define it. These companies produce everything from precision hunting rifles and handguns to advanced weapons used by military forces across the world. Their innovation, engineering, and scale of production have shaped both national defense and recreational shooting. Each one represents a legacy of craftsmanship and influence that continues to impact American history, technology, and culture.

1. Smith And Wesson

Smith And Wesson Gun
Mitch Barrie/Openverse

Founded in 1852, Smith & Wesson remains a cornerstone of the firearm industry. Known for its revolvers and handguns, the company has built a reputation for reliability and accuracy. Its products are favored by law enforcement and civilians alike, reflecting a blend of classic design and modern innovation. The brand’s legacy continues to symbolize American craftsmanship in firearms.

2. Sturm Ruger And Company

Sturm Ruger And Company's Ruger Mark II Gun
Mitch Barrie/Openverse

Ruger stands as one of the largest firearm manufacturers in the United States, producing a wide range of rifles, pistols, and revolvers. Its focus on durable, affordable weapons makes it a popular choice among hunters and sport shooters. Ruger’s consistent quality and commitment to safety innovations have earned it long-standing trust in both civilian and professional circles.

3. Remington Firearms

Remington Arms' Gun
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Remington’s history dates back to 1816, making it one of America’s oldest gunmakers. Famous for its bolt-action rifles and shotguns, Remington has played a major role in hunting and sports shooting traditions. Despite periods of financial instability, the brand continues to carry strong recognition and respect among firearm enthusiasts for its craftsmanship and performance.

4. Colt’s Manufacturing Company

B. Franklin Conner and 'Carbine' Williams
Connecticut State Library/Openverse

Colt revolutionized firearms with the invention of the revolver and later became an essential supplier to the U.S. military. Its M1911 pistol and AR-15 rifle designs remain iconic. The company’s blend of historical significance and ongoing innovation keeps it a leading figure in American gun manufacturing and a symbol of precision engineering.

5. Winchester Repeating Arms

Black and white photo of a man adjusting a rifle scope indoors.
Tima Miroshnichenko/Unsplash

Winchester’s lever-action rifles are legendary, often referred to as “The Gun That Won the West.” The company’s long history is tied closely to American expansion and frontier culture. Today, Winchester continues to produce high-quality rifles and ammunition, maintaining its place as a trusted name for hunters and marksmen across the country.

6. Sig Sauer

Sig Sauer's Gun
Zorin Denu/Openverse

Sig Sauer combines American production with European engineering roots, producing firearms that are both rugged and refined. Known for its handguns and rifles used by military and law enforcement agencies worldwide, the company has earned a reputation for precision, performance, and tactical design. Its firearms balance modern technology with ergonomic craftsmanship.

7. Glock Incorporated

A first-generation Glock 17
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Glock has become synonymous with reliability and simplicity in the handgun market. Its polymer-framed pistols transformed the industry and remain a top choice for law enforcement and civilian defense. Although originally an Austrian company, its strong presence and influence in the U.S. market make it one of the most recognized firearm brands in America.

8. Browning Arms Company

Browning 1911-22 A1
Falcon® Photography/Pexels

Browning’s legacy stems from John Moses Browning, one of the most innovative gun designers in history. The company continues to produce high-quality shotguns, rifles, and pistols, maintaining its reputation for precision and craftsmanship. Browning’s designs have influenced nearly every major gun manufacturer, solidifying its status as a foundational name in firearms.

9. Mossberg And Sons

Mossberg .22 caliber post-war rifles
Kemal Berkay Dogan/Unsplash

O.F. Mossberg & Sons is best known for its shotguns, particularly the Mossberg 500 series, which is used by hunters, sport shooters, and law enforcement agencies. The company’s focus on reliability and value makes it a favorite among those who need dependable performance. Its continued innovation keeps it competitive in an evolving market.

10. Beretta USA

Beretta-APX-9mm
Waltherppx/Wikimedia Commons

As one of the oldest firearms manufacturers in the world, Beretta has blended centuries of tradition with modern production. Its pistols, shotguns, and rifles are widely used for both sport and defense. Beretta’s strong American presence and reputation for precision engineering make it an enduring influence in the U.S. firearms landscape.

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