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Gun sales are soaring, often exceeding 2 million units per month. Although it’s unlikely that sales will surpass the record-breaking numbers of 2016, we are still witnessing a strong surge in firearms. The media would have you believe that “assault rifles” are skyrocketing, but the figures tell a different story. That being said, let’s take a look at the best-selling firearms of 2018.

Shotguns

Shotgun sales are continually escalating primarily due to their remarkable versatility. Scatterguns are used around the world in wide-variety of applications, including hunting and home defense. However, shotguns are also one of the most popular firearms for competitive and sporting shooting.

Benelli M2 Field

Benelli is one of the biggest names in the shotgun industry part and parcel to their M2 Series. While the M2 is used by militaries across the globe, the admired firearm is also a tremendous hunting companion. Benelli has garnered quite a reputation and is considered a top name in the industry, though much of their success is attributable to being a part of the Beretta Group.

Model: Benelli M2 Field Compact
Caliber: 12 or 20 Gauge
Capacity: 3+1
Barrel Length: 21”, 24”, 26” 28”
Overall Length: 42.5”, 44”, 45.3”, 45.5”
Weight: Ranging from 5.6 lbs. to 7.3 lbs.
Finish: Black Synthetic, Realtree APG, Realtree Max-5
Sights: Mid-Bead, Red-Bar Front
MSRP: $1,449

Mossberg 590

Mossberg is arguably the most notable shotgun manufacturer in the industry so it’s no wonder to see them continue to outsell the competition. The Mossberg 590 and its many variants are continually making record sales, especially since they keep upping the ante. Recently, the iconic gunmaker launched the 590 Shockwave, which was met with instant success.

Mossberg has built a name for themselves for crafting dependable long guns that are remarkably effective and affordable. In fact, most of their firearms are loaded with premium features you’d expect to see on shotguns twice their value. Like the Benelli M2, the Mossberg 590 is also a military and law enforcement favorite around the world. Though this certainly helps boost their sales, there’s no denying their prevalence in the civilian market.

Model: 590 Tactical Shotgun
Caliber: 12 Gauge
Capacity: 8+1
Barrel Length: 20”
Overall Length: 41”
Weight: 7 lbs.
Finish: Black Synthetic
Sights: Front Bead, Ghost Ring
MSRP: $599.99

Handguns

We’ve seen a significant rise in the number of concealed carry permits being issued so it’s no wonder that handgun sales are up. However, there are so many high-quality brands and models out there sharing the profits, it’s surprising to see Sig topping the charts in the top two spots. Although Glocks are still more well-known, the sales speak for themselves.

Sig Sauer P365 Nitron Micro Compact

The Micro Compact line of Sig Sauers offers the ultimate balance of EDC size and high capacity capabilities. Sig wanted to create a versatile pistol that could be carried every day of the year, giving insight into the P365 moniker. The striker fired CCW provides shooters with impeccable Sig Sauer performance plus a solid array of premium features. In addition to a sweet sight system, the P365 is +P rated and remarkably lightweight and ergonomic.

Model: P365 Nitron Micro Compact
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 3.1”
Overall Length: 5.8”
Weight: 17.8 oz.
Finish: Nitron & Stainless Steel
Sights: X-RAY3 Day & Night Sights
MSRP: $599.99

Sig P320

The Sig Sauer P320 is one of the newest guns on the market yet has already sealed its place in history. The popular handgun made headlines when it was chosen by the U.S. Military to become their new service pistol, taking down the reigning Beretta M9. You can imagine that the P320 must be pretty impressive just by virtue that it was capable of beating out some of the most noteworthy pistols in the world, such as the FN FNS, Smith and Wesson M&P, and Glock 17.

The sturdy shooter was built with a distinct frame and overall construction which enables it to be reconfigured in the blink of an eye. This highly modular design offers interchangeable slides, grips, and even calibers. Plus, the easy disassembly functions with a simple three-point takedown for quick field stripping.

Model: P320 Nitron Compact
Caliber: 9mm
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 3.9”
Overall Length: 7.2”
Weight: 26 oz.
Finish: Nitron & Stainless Steel
Sights: SIGLITE
MSRP: $679

Rifles

If I were to tell you that AR-15 platform rifles don’t top the sales charts, you might not believe me. Although the media will have you believe otherwise, it’s actually two traditional-style Rugers that make the most sales. In fact, their semi-auto 10/22 and PC Carbine plus their bolt-action American are consistently on top of the charts.

Ruger American

The Ruger American rifle is the epitome of modern bolt-action performance. The affordable Ruger is remarkably simple yet tremendously accurate, dependable, and user-friendly. The ergonomic rifle features some pretty sweet features, including the crisp Marksman Adjustable trigger and Power Bedding integral bedding block.

Model: Ruger American Rifle Standard
Caliber: 30-06 Springfield
Capacity: 4
Barrel Length: 22”
Overall Length: 42.5”
Weight: 6.2 lbs.
Finish: Black Synthetic
Sights: N/A
MSRP: $489

Ruger 10 22

The Ruger 10/22 is renowned for its impeccable performance, so it should come to no surprise to see it on this list. The semi-automatic rimfire rifle is not just one of the best .22LR shooters, it’s simply one of the most impressive and versatile (small game) hunting rifles. The 10/22 is loaded with a contoured butt pad on its adjustable tactical stock plus a strong aluminum receiver and lightweight polymer trigger housing. Additionally, they are shipped with the famous reliable and detachable rotary magazines. Oh, did I mention you can get one for under $400?

Model: Ruger 10/22 Tactical
Caliber: .22 LR
Capacity: 10+1
Barrel Length: 16.12”
Overall Length: 36.25”
Weight: 4.3 lbs.
Finish: Satin Black
Sights: N/A
MSRP: $359

Don’t miss out on our picks for the Best CCWs of 2018

Sam M

Sam is an avid firearms enthusiast who loves sharing his knowledge and experience with fellow gunivores.

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1 Comment

  1. Most traded on Armslist: G19x. Are buyers less than impressed and moving on to something else?

    Least asked for in trades: “no .40 S&W”. More .40 for 9×19 trades requested.

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