Top Firearms Trends in 2026 | What Shooters Are Buying & Why
Posted by Quick Draw Gun on Feb 4th 2026
The Latest Firearms Trends in 2026 — What Shooters Are Buying and Why
The firearms industry evolves every year — and 2026 is no different. From shifting consumer preferences and technological advancements to broader cultural influences, today’s firearm buyers are shaping the market in exciting new ways.
Whether you’re a seasoned shooter, a first-time firearm owner, or a longtime customer of Quick Draw Gun, understanding current firearm trends helps you make smarter buying decisions and stay ahead of the curve.
In this blog, we’ll cover the most significant firearms trends of 2026, including what’s driving demand, what’s gaining popularity, and how Quick Draw Gun continues to serve shooters with the products, services, and expertise they need.
1. Compact & Concealed Carry Pistols Continue to Dominate
Concealed carry remains one of the strongest drivers in the firearms market.
What’s Trending in 2026:
- Micro-compact 9mm pistols like the Sig Sauer P365 and Glock™ 43X
- Enhanced ergonomics and grip options
- Striker-fired platforms with improved trigger designs
- More optics-ready models for red dot use
Why it matters: Shooters want reliable, everyday carry guns that balance concealability with shootability. These small-format pistols are easy to carry, simple to train with, and offer excellent defensive performance.
Quick Draw Gun stocks one of the largest selections of compact carry pistols in the region — with accessories like holsters and red dot-ready options to match.
2. AR-Style Rifles Remain a Top Choice (With New Caliber Trends)
Although AR-15 rifles have been popular for years, the platform continues evolving.
AR Trends in 2026:
- Caliber diversification — .300 Blackout, 6.5 Grendel, 7.62x39, 6mm ARC
- Increased popularity of AR pistols (state restrictions apply)
- Growth in Pistol-Caliber Carbines (PCCs) for range fun and competition
- More modular designs and factory upgrades
- Increased demand for budget-friendly starter AR-15 rifles
The AR platform remains one of the most versatile choices for range, hunting, and defensive setups. Many shooters are customizing rifles with better triggers, upgraded barrels, handguards, and optics.
3. Long-Range Precision Shooting Keeps Growing
Long-range shooting continues to expand beyond competitive shooters to hunters and recreational marksmen.
Popular Long-Range Rifle Trends:
- Precision rifles chambered in 6.5 Creedmoor, 7 PRC, .300 Win Mag, and .300 PRC
- Threaded barrels for suppressors
- Adjustable stocks and match-grade triggers
- Higher demand for premium optics
At Quick Draw Gun, we carry rifles and accessories built for precision shooters who want to push performance to the next level.
4. Suppressors & NFA Items Are More Popular Than Ever
Suppressors remain one of the fastest-growing categories in 2026.
Suppressor Trends in 2026:
- More hunters using suppressors to protect hearing
- Increased interest in multi-caliber suppressors
- Shooters seeking reduced recoil and improved shooting comfort
Quick Draw Gun offers NFA support and transfer services and helps customers understand the steps involved so the process is smooth and stress-free. Plus, we have a large selection of the top-selling suppressors in stock.
5. Optics Are Now Standard for Many Shooters
Optics continue to be one of the biggest trends in firearms for 2026 — especially pistol optics.
Optics Trends in 2026:
- Red dots on concealed carry pistols becoming the norm
- LPVO optics for AR rifles
- Precision scopes with advanced reticles
- Better budget optics options than ever before
Modern optics allow faster target acquisition and improved accuracy, which is why more shooters are upgrading their setups immediately after purchase.
6. Cerakote & Custom Firearm Finishes Continue Rising
Firearm owners want both protection and personalization.
Why Cerakote is Trending in 2026:
- Superior corrosion resistance and durability
- Custom color options and patterns
- Tactical finishes, hunting camo, and unique builds
Quick Draw Gun offers Cerakote services, allowing customers to customize and protect their firearms with professional-quality finishes.
7. Accessories Remain a Major Driver of Firearm Builds
Accessories are more than add-ons — they’re essential parts of modern firearm setups.
Top Accessory Trends in 2026:
- Weapon lights and mounting systems
- Optic-ready upgrades
- Slings and enhanced stocks
- Extended magazines (where legal)
- Cleaning kits and maintenance supplies
Quick Draw Gun carries a large selection of firearm accessories in-store and online so you can build the setup you want.
8. Why Local Gun Shops Still Matter in 2026
Even with online buying options, local gun shops remain essential.
The Local Shop Advantage:
✅ Personalized service from real firearm experts
✅ Help with selection and fitment
✅ Services you can’t get online
✅ A trusted place to ask questions and get support
Quick Draw Gun provides:
- Gun cleaning services
- FFL transfers
- NFA help
- Cerakote
- A huge selection of firearms and accessories
Quick Draw Gun — Serving Southwest Missouri Shooters
Quick Draw Gun is proud to serve the firearms community in Southwest Missouri with trusted service and real support.
Whether you’re buying your first firearm or adding to your collection, we’re here to help you find the right fit, answer questions, and support you after the sale.
FAQ – Latest Firearms Trends in 2026 (Quick Draw Gun)
Q: What are the biggest firearms trends in 2026?
A: The biggest firearms trends in 2026 include increased demand for micro-compact concealed carry pistols, continued popularity of AR-style rifles, growth in long-range precision shooting, rising interest in suppressors/NFA items, and more shooters upgrading to red dot optics and modern accessories.
Q: Why are micro-compact 9mm pistols so popular in 2026?
A: Micro-compact 9mm pistols are popular because they offer a strong balance of concealability, capacity, and shootability. Many 2026 models are also optics-ready, making them ideal for everyday carry and defensive use.
Q: Are red dot sights worth it on pistols in 2026?
A: Yes. In 2026, red dot sights are one of the most common upgrades for pistols because they can improve target acquisition speed, accuracy, and confidence—especially during defensive training and rapid shooting drills.
Q: What AR-15 calibers are trending in 2026 besides 5.56?
A: In 2026, shooters are increasingly choosing AR-15 rifles in calibers like:
- .300 Blackout
- 7.62x39
- 6.5 Grendel
- 6mm ARC
These calibers offer different benefits such as improved performance in shorter barrels, better energy, or longer-range capability.
Q: What makes .300 Blackout popular in 2026?
A: .300 Blackout remains popular because it performs well in compact platforms, offers excellent versatility, and is widely used with suppressors (where legal). It’s a top choice for shooters who want more power than 5.56 in certain setups.
Q: Why are suppressors becoming more popular in 2026?
A: Suppressors are growing in popularity because they improve shooting comfort by reducing:
- Sound signature
- Recoil
- Muzzle blast
Many shooters also use suppressors for hunting and training to protect their hearing and reduce fatigue. - No More $200 Tax Stamp Expense
Final Thoughts: Stay Ahead of 2026 Firearm Trends
From concealed carry pistols and AR platforms to precision rifles, suppressors, optics, and custom finishes — 2026 continues to bring innovation and demand across every category.
No matter what trend you’re following, Quick Draw Gun is here to provide the products, services, and expertise you need.
Shop online: QuickDrawGun.com
Visit us in-store 601 S Kyler St, Monett, MO, and support local Southwest Missouri firearms service.