PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887141
PUBLISHER: Fortune Business Insights Pvt. Ltd. | PRODUCT CODE: 1887141
The global rifles market continues to advance due to rising demand from defense forces, law enforcement agencies, and civilian users. According to the latest assessment, the market size reached USD 3.44 billion in 2024, is expected to rise to USD 3.54 billion in 2025, and is projected to reach USD 4.77 billion by 2032. This reflects steady growth supported by evolving combat requirements, defense modernization programs, and an expanding civilian firearms sector. North America held the largest share at 43.31% in 2024, driven by high military spending, large-scale procurement initiatives, and strong civilian firearm ownership.
Market Overview
Rifles are long-barreled firearms featuring internal rifling, which enhances bullet stability and accuracy. They are used across military, law enforcement, hunting, and sports shooting environments due to their superior precision compared to other firearm types. The market includes diverse categories such as assault rifles, semi-automatic rifles, sniper rifles, designated marksman rifles, and general-purpose machine guns.
Global market growth is influenced by rising geopolitical tensions, the modernization of infantry weapons, and increasing participation in shooting sports. Civilian demand-especially in the U.S., India, and China-continues to play a critical role in shaping purchasing trends.
Impact of the Russia-Ukraine Conflict
The Russia-Ukraine war has significantly influenced the global rifles market by reshaping defense procurement patterns. Russia's strained defense production and sanctions have disrupted international arms exports, creating opportunities for other countries-particularly China-to increase their market presence. Nations across Europe and NATO's eastern flank are increasing defense budgets, accelerating procurement of modern small arms, and replacing outdated systems. This conflict has also caused supply chain disruptions, contributing to contract delays and higher demand for non-Russian alternatives.
Market Drivers
The shift from traditional combat strategies to modern, technology-enabled warfare is driving extensive upgrades in infantry weapon systems. Militaries are transitioning to more advanced calibers, improved targeting systems, and lighter yet more durable materials. The U.S. is developing the Next Generation Squad Weapon (NGSW), adopting rifles like the XM5 and XM250, while ammunition innovators such as True Velocity are producing advanced 6.8mm rounds that offer improved range and accuracy. India's switch from 5.56mm to 7.62mm rifles and new procurements such as 73,000 SiG Sauer rifles in 2024 further demonstrate global modernization momentum.
Civilian firearm purchases remain a major growth driver. Personal safety concerns, rising interest in recreational shooting, and expansion of shooting ranges contribute to rising sales of rifles, shotguns, and semi-automatic weapons. Pandemic-era uncertainty particularly boosted sales in countries like the United States, where firearm ownership continues to influence market expansion.
Market Restraints
The market faces complexities due to inconsistent international regulations governing gun ownership, export controls, and defense procurement policies. Variations in licensing laws, technology transfer restrictions, and anti-corruption regulations can delay procurement programs and limit international arms trade, placing pressure on manufacturers to comply with multiple regulatory frameworks.
Market Trends
The market is witnessing rapid integration of technologies such as smart optics, digital scopes, improved recoil systems, modular rifle platforms, and advanced ballistics. Lightweight polymer weapon frames, improved ergonomics, and customizable rifle components are increasingly preferred by both military and civilian buyers. Rising defense spending in countries including the U.S., China, India, and European nations continues to accelerate adoption of next-generation rifles.
By Firing Type
The automatic rifles segment is expected to grow fastest due to rising modernization requirements, greater need for rapid-fire capability, and increasing adoption among military and paramilitary forces.
By Product
The assault rifle segment leads the market, supported by new procurement programs such as India-Russia AK-203 production and rising global demand for reliable, versatile combat rifles.
North America - USD 1.49 billion in 2024
North America remains the dominant market, supported by military contracts (e.g., SIG Sauer's supply of XM5/XM250), extensive civilian ownership, and an expanding industrial base that includes companies such as Colt, FN America, and Smith & Wesson.
Asia Pacific
The region is growing rapidly due to rising border tensions, modernization drives in India, China, and South Korea, and increasing civilian firearm ownership. India alone has 71 million civilian-owned firearms, while China has 49 million.
Europe
Growth is moderate but steady, supported by advanced firearm manufacturers such as Heckler & Koch, Beretta, and Thales, along with NATO-driven upgrades.
Rest of the World
Regions in the Middle East, Africa, and Latin America show rising demand due to political instability, increased security needs, and expanding domestic firearm production.
Conclusion
With the global rifles market increasing from USD 3.44 billion (2024) to USD 3.54 billion (2025) and expected to reach USD 4.77 billion by 2032, continued modernization, geopolitical tensions, and civilian demand will sustain industry growth. Technological innovation and defense investments remain the defining forces shaping the future of the rifles market.
Segmentation By Firing Type
By Product
By Region