🔥 How Tariffs Are Impacting the Firearms Industry in 2025

As trade tensions heat up globally, the U.S. firearms industry is feeling the pressure. With new and increased tariffs on imported goods—including firearms, ammunition, and accessories—gun shops, dealers, and buyers are all seeing changes in availability and pricing.

Whether you're running an FFL, building your personal collection, or just planning your next purchase, here's how the latest tariffs might affect what’s in your safe… and your wallet.

📦 What’s Going On With Tariffs?

In 2024 and early 2025, the U.S. government introduced a wave of tariffs targeting countries like China, Turkey, and some EU nations. These tariffs—ranging from 10% to 35%—are applied to key goods including:

• Firearms

• Ammo

• Optics

• Steel and aluminum components

While the idea is to support U.S. manufacturing, the immediate effect is higher prices on many imported firearms and gear.

🌍 Imported Firearms Getting Hit Hard

Many popular and affordable firearms come from overseas. Here are some key examples and how tariffs are changing their price tags:

🇩🇪 Heckler & Koch VP9 – Germany

• Was: Around $650

• Now: $750–$800

• The VP9 is a popular duty pistol, but new tariffs on German-made firearms have driven up wholesale and retail costs.

🇹🇷 Canik TP9 Series – Turkey

• Was: $400

• Now: $500+

• Known for value and performance, Canik pistols are feeling the pinch. Tariffs on Turkish firearms are making them less of a bargain.

🇮🇹 Beretta 1301 Tactical – Italy

• Was: $1,300

• Now: Up to $1,600

• High-quality tactical shotguns like the 1301 are now premium-priced due to EU tariffs.

🏠 U.S.-Made Firearms Gaining Popularity

Domestic brands are seeing a bump as customers look to avoid tariff-related markups.

🇺🇸 Glock Pistols – Made in Georgia

• While Glock is Austrian, many models are assembled in Smyrna, GA—keeping them mostly shielded from import costs.

🇺🇸 Ruger American Rifle

• 100% American-made, these rifles are becoming a go-to for budget-conscious buyers avoiding imported brands.

🇺🇸 Smith & Wesson M&P15

• With parts and production entirely in the U.S., S&W’s AR platforms are now even more attractive to tactical buyers.

🎯 It's Not Just Guns — Ammo and Optics Too

Even if you’re buying American firearms, some essential gear is still impacted:

• Imported Ammo:
  Brands like Sellier & Bellot (Czech Republic) and Prvi Partizan (Serbia) are seeing rising costs and shipping delays.

• Optics from China:
  Popular brands like Holosun are facing up to 25% higher tariffs, while Trijicon and Leupold (U.S.-made) become more appealing—though pricier.

💡 What It Means for Gun Shops & Buyers

For Gun Dealers:

• Focus on U.S.-made firearms and accessories

• Expect customers to ask more questions about pricing

• Consider bundling products or offering promos on tariff-affected stock

For Gun Buyers:

• Domestic brands offer better value right now

• Consider buying ammo and imported optics sooner rather than later

• Ask your dealer what’s likely to go up in price next

🧠 Final Thoughts

The new tariff environment is reshaping the industry, and fast. Some of the most popular imports are now hundreds of dollars more expensive. At the same time, U.S. brands are seeing a surge in interest—both for quality and pricing stability.

We recommend keeping a close eye on what you’re buying, asking your dealer questions, and planning ahead—especially if you're after imported gear.

Got questions about how tariffs might affect a specific firearm or brand?
Stop by or contact us at On Target Guns — we’re always happy to help you find the right firearm at the right time, tariff or no tariff.