Gun Sales Spike During World Pandemic

By: Naomi Seifu

Photo Credit: Photo by Lukas from Pexels

Coronavirus, a global pandemic, has caused Americans to stock up on more than just toilet paper, and people are also stocking up on guns and ammunition.

Sales for gun stores have increased since late February by 30 to 40 percent, according to Roza Dizayee accountant at EMG Amo. Buzz Feed News said retailers were experiencing a surge in gun sales, body armor, and other tactical gear driven by a desire by “preppers” to keep themselves safe amid uncertainty.

Marymount students shared opinions on gun ownership and how the pandemic has affected their stance on guns. 

Marymount student Honoré Olson, from Chicago, said, “I do feel unsafe. I live alone in Virginia, and my family lives in Chicago so it’s hard being alone.” Olson said she would like to have a gun in her house because she lives alone, and as a woman who knows how to properly use a gun she would not oppose having one, but not “specifically for a pandemic.”  

“I do believe in having guns,” Olson said.

Although the pandemic has frightened many, she made it clear that she would like to have a gun in her house because she lives alone, and as a woman who knows how to properly use a gun she would not oppose to have one, but “not specifically for a pandemic.” 

A senior student Kobe Boateng said, “I don’t see the use of purchasing guns, you can’t kill a virus with a gun.” 

For every gun-related death due to self- defense, there are 78 suicides, 34 homicides, and two accidental deaths according to researchers at Random House, New York.