Gun owners come in all shapes, sizes, and attitudes. Some carry because they believe in preparedness, while others just enjoy the craftsmanship of a well-made firearm. Some train religiously, while others are convinced their grandpa’s revolver is all the protection they’ll ever need. Whether you’re a seasoned expert or someone who just bought their first pistol, chances are you fit into one of these six categories.
Let’s dive into the different types of gun owners you’re bound to run into – and see which one sounds like you.
1. The Tactical Warrior (or “Tacticool” Operator)
This is the gun owner who looks like they’re on their way to a special forces mission – except they’re just heading to the grocery store. Decked out in 5.11 tactical pants, a plate carrier, and sunglasses that haven’t left their face since 2014, this person treats every day like a live-fire exercise. Their concealed carry? More like a covert carry, since they’re also packing a backup gun, a fixed-blade knife, three tourniquets, and at least two extra magazines.
Are they well-trained? That depends. Some of them are legitimate experts, having served in law enforcement or the military, while others have learned everything they know from YouTube videos and Call of Duty. Either way, they’re fun to watch at the range – especially when they start doing mag dumps into a target at five yards.
2. The Show-and-Tell Collector
You know this guy. He walks into the range with a rolling suitcase full of pistols, rifles, and shotguns, each one stored in a velvet-lined case like the Crown Jewels. He doesn’t just own guns – he curates them. He knows every historical detail about each one and will tell you all about it before he ever pulls the trigger.
When he finally does shoot, it’s not about hitting targets – it’s about feeling the nostalgia of a gun designed decades ago. Don’t expect rapid-fire drills or tactical reloads; he’s here to enjoy the craftsmanship and maybe, just maybe, impress you with his mint-condition WWII-era 1911.
3. The EDC No-Nonsense Carrier
This is the gun owner who treats carrying like brushing their teeth – it’s just a part of life. They wake up, strap on their firearm, and go about their day without a second thought. No flashy gear, no unnecessary accessories, just a reliable gun in a worn-in holster.
They’ve put in the training, but they’re not out to prove anything. They shoot to stay sharp, carry for protection, and blend in with society like any other law-abiding citizen. If you meet one of these folks, you probably won’t even realize they’re armed – until you see the grip of a well-loved pistol peek out from under their T-shirt.
4. The Constitutional Purist
This gun owner believes in the right to bear arms – and that’s about as far as their interest goes. They aren’t concerned with training courses, competition shooting, or fancy upgrades. They bought a gun because they believe in self-defense, and as far as they’re concerned, that’s the end of the discussion.
Most of the time, they own a single firearm, often a revolver or a basic shotgun, stored somewhere in the house or glovebox. If they do carry, it’s probably in a $10 holster from a bargain bin. To them, owning a gun is a statement of principle, and they have no intention of letting anyone take that right away.
5. The Old-School Know-It-All
This is the gun owner who’s been shooting longer than you’ve been alive – and he will make sure you know it. He’s convinced that real guns are made of steel and wood, that .45 ACP is the only respectable caliber, and that if you carry anything other than a 1911, you’re doing it wrong.
You’ll usually find him wearing jeans, a button-down shirt, and an old leather holster. His gun? Probably an heirloom revolver that’s been passed down for generations. He’ll tolerate your “plastic” Glock, but don’t expect him to approve. If you’re lucky, he’ll even let you in on his wisdom, which mostly consists of stories about “back in his day” when men were men, and none of this tactical nonsense existed.
6. The Professional Shooter
This is the guy who treats shooting like a sport, and he’s really good at it. Whether he’s into IDPA, USPSA, or long-range precision shooting, he spends more time training than most people spend watching TV.
His gun isn’t just a tool – it’s a finely tuned machine, customized to perfection. The trigger is polished, the sights are precise, and every piece of gear he owns is optimized for performance. If you ever see one of these folks at the range, just step aside and watch. They’ll probably hit more targets in 10 seconds than you do in an entire hour.
Gun Ownership: More Than Just a Label
Gun owners are as diverse as the guns they carry. Some take their training seriously, while others just want a reliable tool for self-defense. Some collect guns as a hobby, and others see them as a way of life.
But no matter what kind of gun owner you are, one thing is certain – responsibility is key. Whether you’re a casual shooter or a dedicated competitor, knowing how to handle your firearm safely and effectively should always be the priority.
Training and Experience Make the Difference
Some gun owners spend hours honing their skills, while others barely take their firearms out of the safe. But no matter where you fall on the spectrum, investing in training is never a bad idea. Shooting isn’t just about having the right gear – it’s about knowing how to use it when it matters most.
Even the most casual gun owner can benefit from learning proper grip, stance, and trigger control. And for those who take their firearms seriously, advanced courses in self-defense tactics and marksmanship can make all the difference in a real-life situation.
The Great Holster Debate: Function vs. Fashion
One of the most amusing debates among gun owners isn’t about caliber or firearm brand – it’s about holsters. Some swear by Kydex for its retention and reliability, while others insist that only a fine leather holster gives a gun the respect it deserves. Then there are the appendix carry enthusiasts who live on the edge (literally) and those who prefer the classic outside-the-waistband approach.
No matter where a gun owner falls on the spectrum, one thing is certain: the holster you choose says a lot about your personality. Whether it’s a no-frills IWB rig for daily carry, a competition-ready race holster, or a hand-tooled leather masterpiece, a holster is more than just an accessory – it’s part of the identity of a gun owner.
The Ever-Changing Gun Culture
Gun culture in America is constantly evolving. With new technology, changing laws, and shifting attitudes, the way people approach firearms today is very different from how it was 50 years ago. Some embrace the latest advancements, while others stick to time-tested traditions.
No matter where you fall on the list, one thing is for sure – being a responsible gun owner means understanding your rights, training regularly, and staying informed. Whether you’re here for self-defense, competition, or collecting, the firearms community has a place for you.
So, which type of gun owner are you?
UP NEXT: “Heavily Armed” — See Which States Are The Most Strapped
Image Credit: Survival World
Americans have long debated the role of firearms, but one thing is sure — some states are far more armed than others. See where your state ranks in this new report on firearm ownership across the U.S.
Ed spent his childhood in the backwoods of Maine, where harsh winters taught him the value of survival skills. With a background in bushcraft and off-grid living, Ed has honed his expertise in fire-making, hunting, and wild foraging. He writes from personal experience, sharing practical tips and hands-on techniques to thrive in any outdoor environment. Whether it’s primitive camping or full-scale survival, Ed’s advice is grounded in real-life challenges.