Booming US Firearms Industry Could Get 2026 Deregulatory Boost From Trump Administration

Prospective buyers get eye-on views of rifle scopes at the Triijicon booth, where the Michigan manufacturer’s scopes, sights, and optics were on display Jan. 21, 2026 at the SHOT Show, a three-day annual firearms trade show at the Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum in Las Vegas. John Haughey/The Epoch TimesLAS VEGAS—Record sales made the first year of the second Trump administration a profitable one for the nation’s $92 billion firearms industry, but the potential for federal regulatory rollbacks in his second year could provide manufacturers and retailers with long-term assurances they need to thrive.That is why state lawmakers need to act fast, South Dakota Gov. Larry Rhoden said, calling on Republicans in state capitols nationwide to “seize the opportunity we see right now with Trump” in the White House to adopt bills that protect gun owners’ rights.