Does walmart still sell rifles?

Does Walmart Still Sell Rifles?

Walmart, one of the world’s largest retailers, has a long history of selling firearms, including rifles, at its stores. However, in recent years, the company has faced mounting pressure to reconsider its policy on gun sales. The shooting incidents and mass killings have raised concerns about gun safety and the ease with which people can access weapons.

Answer: Does Walmart Still Sell Rifles?

As of 2021, Walmart has taken the decision to STOP SELLING HANDGUNS at its stores in the United States, including rifles. This change is effective from February 28, 2021, and the company will stop selling handguns, including at its outdoor stores. The move is part of an effort to reduce gun violence in the country.

Why Did Walmart Decide to Stop Selling Rifles?

In October 2018, Walmart was affected by the largest mass shooting in its company history, when 49-year-old Devin Patrick Kelly killed 26 people at the company’s store in El Paso, Texas. This incident, which occurred on August 3, 2019, further increased pressure on Walmart to reconsider its policy on gun sales.

Prior to this incident, Walmart was already facing criticism and opposition to its policy of selling firearms, particularly following several mass shootings in recent years. The company received complaints from customers, activists, and advocacy groups, claiming that Walmart’s gun sales contribute to gun violence.

Some of the arguments put forward by critics of Walmart’s gun sales policy include:

• Guns being sold to people with red flags, such as restraining orders or mental health concerns
• The risk of stolen guns being sold illegally on the black market
• The potential for people with criminal records or previous gun-related offenses to buy firearms
• Walmart’s sales of high-powered semi-automatic rifles, often associated with mass shootings

Walmart’s decision to stop selling handguns and focus on the sale of more basic, hunting-style firearms may have been influenced by the desire to reduce criticism and negative publicity.

What Types of Firearms Does Walmart Still Sell?

According to Walmart’s website and current policy, the company will continue to sell certain types of firearms, including:

• Shotguns and hunting rifles: These weapons are designed for hunting and target shooting, with many having a fixed capacity for the number of cartridges or shells they can hold.

• Rifle parts and accessories: Customers will still be able to buy components and accessories related to rifles, such as gun scopes, silencers, and ammunition.

Please note that Walmart still honors state and federal gun laws and will require a background check for each sale, as well as abide by local laws regulating firearms.

Taken in Perspective: Gun Ownership in the United States

Guns have been a fundamental aspect of American culture, and many people own them for hunting, sport, and personal protection. The right to bear arms is protected by the Second Amendment of the US Constitution, but there is ongoing debate and controversy surrounding gun control laws.

According to a 2020 Gallup survey:

• 30% of Americans said they owned a gun or firearm
• 58% opposed making laws more restrictive, while 44% were in favor
• Younger adults (18-34 years old) were less likely to own guns than older adults (50-64 years old)
• 55% of rural residents owned a gun, compared to 35% of urban residents

While some may argue that fewer people would own guns without restrictions, others believe that these laws infringe on citizens’ rights and increase criminal activity.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Walmart has stopped selling handguns at its US stores, effective February 2021. The decision reflects the company’s willingness to address concerns about gun violence and adapt to the evolving national conversation on firearms.

As the debate continues around gun control laws, Walmart’s actions serve as an example of how businesses and retailers can respond to shifting societal values and concerns.

Sources:

• Walmart’s Corporate Social Responsibility Report (2021)
• Gallup News & Analysis (2020)