Why More Women In Texas Are Choosing Firearms For Safety

Texas Women Are Changing the Gun Industry, One Caliber at a Time

For the past few years, more women in Texas have been stepping up to the firing line, literally. According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), women are now outpacing men when it comes to purchasing firearms for personal protection, with the trend gaining serious traction since 2022.

Get our free mobile app

A Rise in Crime Leads to a Rise in Confidence

As violent and personal crimes have continued to rise over the last three years, more women have decided not to wait for protection, they’re becoming their own first responders. That means heading to local gun stores, enrolling in firearm safety courses, and yes, even outshooting the men in their lives.

I'm not surprised. When I married my wife over 40 years ago, we were living in a neighborhood that was, let's just say, not the safest. I encouraged her to consider arming herself. Not only did she take me up on it, but she’s been hooked ever since. She’s become a regular at the gun range and has taken multiple concealed carry classes, where, I must admit, she beat me both in the written test and at the range.

Gun Safety First, But Style and Fit Matter More

With more education comes more informed decisions. Interestingly, the caliber of firearms women are choosing has changed, too. While men often make their selections based on price, many women opt for what fits them best, regardless of cost.

As my wife always says, “Get what you want and you won’t be dissatisfied. I don’t care what it costs if it’s the best way to protect myself and our family, cost is NOT an issue.” That mindset is becoming more common, according to local gun shop owners and gun show vendors across Texas.

Caliber Shifts: From Small to Serious

When I first introduced my wife and daughters to firearms, we started with smaller calibers like .22s, .25s, and .380s. But it didn’t take long before my wife graduated herself to a 9mm, and then to a .40. Her favorite? The Beretta 9mm, thanks in part to a certain '80s action flick. Yep, Mel Gibson’s character in Lethal Weapon sealed the deal. Thankfully, he wasn’t packing a .50 cal!

Read More: How Abilene's New Zoning Laws Affect Local Shops

Gun Shows Now Cater to the Ladies

With the upcoming Texas Gun and Knife Show happening August 16th & 17th at the Abilene Convention Center, you’ll notice a clear shift. More tables are showcasing concealed carry purses, fashionable holsters, jewelry with hidden compartments, and fanny packs designed for firearm storage. The once male-dominated atmosphere is evolving, and rightfully so.

Texas Gun & Knife Show hours are 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday, and 10 AM to 4 PM Sunday. Tickets are available at the door.

So, whether you’re a first-timer or a seasoned shooter, one thing is clear: Texas women are changing the game when it comes to self-defense and smart firearm choices.