MIDDLEBURY, Conn. – November 1, 2024 – The Outdoor Industry Communication Council (OICC) shares the latest research on the growing popularity of AR-platform rifles, also known as Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs) in the article, “Use of AR-platform Firearms for Hunting Shows Significant Increase.” The research used in this article comes from the Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) and surveys conducted on its behalf.

The article from OICC shares the notable increase in the use of ARs for hunting from 25 to 41 percent in the past decade. As shown in this article, hunters have recognized the broad capabilities of ARs, with more hunters taking interest in them as time passes. Respondents suggest that interest in ARs for hunting will continue to grow, making an impact on the outdoor industry.

The survey, conducted by Responsive Management, included more than 500 hunters across diverse demographics and geographic locations to provide a comprehensive look at current hunting practices and perceptions. Some questions included favorite firearm for hunting, preferred type of game to hunt and how likely respondents are to hunt with ARs.

“The growing use of ARs for hunting is on the rise, which does not surprise me,” said OSCF executive director Jim Curcuruto. “The survey showed that over half of hunters who do not currently use ARs have expressed interest in using them in the future. This statistic is encouraging, and shows great market potential.”

This article highlights current firearm trends within the outdoor industry while also opening up space to discuss the future of hunting practices. This piece provides excellent research that can be helpful when forecasting upcoming trends in the industry.

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To access the article and for more information about OICC and OSCF visit www.OutdoorStewards.org, Instagram, Facebook or YouTube.

About OSCF:

Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) is a 501c3 nonprofit organization that works with all facets of the outdoor industry to improve cultural acceptance of gun ownership, hunting, fishing, trapping and target shooting. We use research-based communications and engagement programs that help recruit the next generation of HATS (Hunters, Anglers, Trappers and Shooters) and promote the fact that HATS are primary funders and stewards of conservation in America. To learn more about OSCF programs; “Fill A Bag While Filling Your Tag”, “Come With!”, “Donate a Deer”, “Connecting with Conservation” and the “Outdoor Industry Communication Council,” please visit www.OutdoorStewards.org or contact Jim Curcuruto at (203) 450-7202, jim@stewardsofconservation.org.

About the Outdoor Industry Communication Council (OICC):

Formed around the commitment to educate all Americans about the origins of conservation funding in America, the Outdoor Industry Communication Council (OICC) is managed by Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) and Wildlife Management Institute (WMI). OICC works with outdoor writers to develop informative content that is available to all outdoor organizations and media at no cost. A primary goal of the OICC is to better inform and promote the positive contributions that wildlife agencies, industry manufacturers, NGO’s and end users such as hunters, anglers, trappers and target shooters make to conservation. Outdoor organizations interested in conservation are welcome to use any OICC content to expand the reach of messages created by the OICC. To become a member of the Outdoor Industry Communication Council, contact Jim Curcuruto of OSCF (203) 450-7202 jim@stewardsofconservation.org or Jon Gassett of WMI at (502) 330-9025
jgassett@wildlifemgt.org. There are no costs involved to become a member of the OICC. Members may utilize OICC materials as they see fit with no restrictions. For additional information visit https://www.outdoorstewards.org/outdoor-industry-communication-council-oicc/.