How Much Does a Gun Cost? Tables and Figures

Guns come in a wide range of styles, sizes and costs. With over 393 million firearms estimated to be in civilian possession in the United States, guns remain in high demand for purposes like self-defense, hunting, sports shooting and collecting. This high interest means many first-time buyers wonder, how much does a gun cost?

The answer depends on many factors – the type of gun, brand, materials used, features, customization, and intended purpose all play a role. Prices can range from as little as $100 for basic handguns or .22 rifles to over $50,000 for specialized competition guns or collectibles. While guns can be a big investment, understanding typical price ranges and cost factors will help buyers find the best value.

So Give it to me straight How Much Does a Typical Gun Cost?

You can expect to spend $300-$1,500 for a basic handgun, $500-$3,000 for most rifles, and $400-$1,000 on basic shotguns. Premium target and tactical firearms approach $2,000-$8,000 or beyond.

While that is the short answer.

The real answer depends on ALOT of factors.

Like the most obvious. What type of gun are we talking about?

Are we talking about a simple .22 or a Russian Assult Rifle?

The Devil is in the details. So lets get into it. We broke down the cost of a gun for over 20 different types that we roughly classified.

Cost of a Hand Gun or Pistol

Handguns and Pistols

Handguns range widely in price from around $100-$150 for the most basic .22 LR pistols to over $4,000 for highly customized competition handguns. But most quality handguns from reputable brands cost between $400-$1,500. The huge selection can be broken down into two main types – semi-automatic pistols and revolvers.

Some Background on handguns

Handguns are designed primarily for self-defense purposes where maneuverability in close quarters is needed. This contrasts their use from rifles suited for hunting and distance shooting.

The two main handgun types are semi-automatic pistols and revolvers. Semi-autos use a magazine to feed cartridges into the firing chamber. Revolvers use a rotating cylinder to align each successive round.

Semi-automatic operation allows for much faster follow-up shots as the slide cycles the next round automatically. However, revolvers are simpler mechanically with fewer parts to fail or maintain.

Handguns are intended for targets within close range – typically 50 yards or less. There is a huge variety in sizes from small pocket pistols to full-size duty handguns. Common calibers range from .22 LR up to .45 ACP and .357 Magnum.

Prices run the gamut from $300 entry level handguns to $4000+ for premium brands and customized competition guns. Factors like materials, brand, and features impact pricing significantly.

Popular semi-auto models include:

• Glock – Arguably the most prolific handgun manufacturer today, Glocks are widely used in law enforcement and civilian self-defense. Their lightweight polymer construction costs less than traditional steel frames, ranging from $500-$750. Glocks are known for reliability, ease of use, and aftermarket customization options.
• Sig Sauer – Renowned for extreme accuracy and quality engineering, Sig Sauer supplies many elite military and police units. They offer a wide range of styles and prices, generally $800-$1,200. Sig handguns are precision made with tight tolerances and coveted triggers.
• Smith & Wesson M&P – Used by many major police forces, S&W M&P deliver reliable performance at a more affordable price than other brands, usually $500-$800. The M&P features a mild recoil system to reduce muzzle flip.
• Springfield Armory XD Series – Originating from Croatia, the XD combines proven design with attractive pricing in the $400-$700 range. The XD is a good choice for those wanting robust construction without breaking the bank.
• Beretta – With a 500 year history supplying militaries, Beretta is known for durability and legacy. Most models cost between $600-$1,000. Beretta’s open-top slide design aids in reliable feeding.

Pistols:

How much for a Revolver?

Common revolver prices range widely from around $300 for basic models to $2000+ for premium brands like Colt or Smith & Wesson. Top quality materials and craftsmanship commands higher pricing.

Background

Revolvers are one of the two major types of handguns along with semi-automatic pistols. Rather than a magazine, revolvers use a rotating cylinder to align cartridges for firing.

Cylinder rotation can be either single action or double action. With single action, the hammer must be cocked manually between each shot. Double action rotates the cylinder and cocks the hammer automatically with the trigger pull.

Compared to semi-autos, revolvers have a simpler mechanical design with fewer moving parts. This can make them more reliable and easier to maintain for some shooters. However, their ammunition capacity is limited to 5-6 rounds in the cylinder before reloading.

Revolvers are often selected for their ease of use and reliability in stress scenarios where fine motor control may be impaired. But reloading is slower than a semi-auto with extra loaded magazines.

• Smith & Wesson – The gold standard of revolver brands, S&W focuses on premium quality and performance at higher prices of $800-$1,200. Meticulous fitting and finishing ensures smooth cycling.
• Ruger – Providing a budget-friendly alternative to S&W, Rugers offer a wide selection of revolvers from $300-$700. Ruger revolvers are built like tanks with utilitarian finishes.
• Colt – Dating back to the 1800s, Colt remains an iconic brand. But their revolvers are more collectible than practical for modern use at $800-$1,500. Colts carry historical prestige, especially Single Action Army models.
• Taurus – Taurus competes on price, with affordable Brazilian revolvers starting around $250-$500 with a lifetime warranty. Their quality control can be hit or miss.
• Charter Arms – Focusing on concealed carry, Charter makes lightweight snub-nose revolvers from $300-$500. Charters offer basic functionality for personal protection.

The choice between semi-auto, revolver, and brand depends on your priorities. Semi-autos hold more ammunition while revolvers are simpler to maintain. Premium brands command higher pricing but promise heirloom longevity and performance.

Revolvers:

Derringers

In the modern era, derringers have seen a revival for their deep concealment capabilities despite very limited range and capacity. Models from companies like Bond Arms and Cobra run $200-$600 in price. Derringers also hold collector interest as niche firearms.

Derringers are small pocket-sized pistols with one or two barrels. They were popular as a last-resort self defense weapon in the 19th and early 20th centuries. Today, modern derringers have seen a resurgence for backup and deep concealment uses.

Background

Derringers are very compact pocket sized pistols, historically made with one or two barrels. Easily concealed, derringers were a last-resort self defense weapon in the 19th century American West.

With space for only 1-2 rounds, derringers are suited solely for emergency close quarters self defense. They require extensive practice to aim and control the heavy double action trigger pull.

Legal restrictions on derringers exist in some locales due to concealment concerns. Proper permitting and responsible usage are mandatory for civilian ownership.

Derringer Features

• Ultra compact size for easy concealment
• Short barrels under 3.5 inches
• Single-action or double-action triggers
• .22, .25, .38 and 9mm calibers common
• Limited 1-2 round capacity
• Designed for close range self defense

Popular Derringer Models

• Bond Arms – Texas company producing sturdy stainless steel derringers from $400-$600
• Cobra – Affordable lightweight polymer and aluminum derringers for about $150-$250
• American Derringer – Classic stainless steel double barrel derringers for $800+
• NAA – Mini .22 magnum and .380 ACP mini-revolvers starting around $200
• Remington – Historical manufacturer, today’s RP9 model around $400

Derringers appeal to those seeking an ultra compact last-ditch self defense weapon or nostalgic collector’s piece. But their limited firepower warrants caution. Practice extensively with any derringer to ensure effective operation.

How much for a Shotgun?

Shotguns are valued for versatility across hunting, home defense, and recreation. Entry-level models start around $200, while premium offerings reach $2,000+. The average cost of a basic shotgun from an established brand is $500-$800.

A Little bit about shotguns

Shotguns are a unique type of long gun that fire shells containing pellets, balls, or slugs rather than bullets. This gives shotguns a wider spread, which is useful for hitting fast moving targets like birds in flight or clay pigeons.

The barrels of shotguns are smooth, meaning they do not have rifling inside like rifles and handguns. Rifling causes bullets to spin in flight, which improves accuracy at longer ranges. The smooth shotgun barrel allows the shot or pellets to spread out in a scattering pattern as they travel.

Shotguns come in a variety of gauges, with 12 gauge being the most common and having the widest selection of ammunition available. Other popular shotgun gauges are 20 gauge, 28 gauge, and .410 bore. The gauge refers to the diameter of the barrel and correlates to the shell size.

Shotgun Types

• Pump Action – The most popular action type – cycled manually by moving the forend to eject a spent shell and load a new one. Reliable, affordable, and smooth to operate after some break-in. Around $400-$600 for models like the Mossberg 500, Remington 870, Winchester SXP.
• Semi-Auto – Gas cycling ejects spent shells and loads new rounds automatically. Faster follow up shots. $800-$1,200 typical pricing. Benelli, Beretta, and FN lead the segment.
• Double Barrel – Two barrels side-by-side. Classic style, often with ornate engraving. $1,000-$1,500 for basics, luxury models over $50k.

Popular shotgun gauges are 12 gauge and 20 gauge for hunting and defense. .410 bore provides very light recoil but limited range. Ammunition cost plays a role – 12 gauge is most abundant, 20 gauge is moderate, .410 is expensive.:

Pump-Action Shotguns:

Semi-Automatic Shotguns:

Double-Barrel Shotguns:

The cost of a Rifle

Rifles vary greatly in cost based on their intended purpose, features, and capabilities. Basic bolt-action rifles can be found for $300-$500. At the other end, specialized competition rifles run $5,000+. Between those extremes, most rifles from reputable brands fall between $800-$2,000.

A little bit about Rifles

Rifles are designed for shooting at longer ranges with greater accuracy and impact than handguns or shotguns. They achieve this through higher muzzle velocities and spinning projectiles.

The barrels of rifles contain spiral grooves called rifling. As a bullet travels down the barrel, the rifling causes it to spin very rapidly. This stabilization allows the bullet to fly straight and true without tumbling.

There are many types of rifle actions including bolt action, lever action, pump action, semi-automatic, break action, and others. Bolt action is the most common and affordable rifle action today. It offers smooth, reliable operation and lends itself to precision shooting.

Rifles utilize a much wider range of ammunition types compared to handguns or shotguns. Rifle ammo is measured by caliber, indicating the diameter of the bullet such as .223 Remington, .308 Winchester, 30-06 Springfield and many more.

Medium to long range rifle shooting requires an optical sight like a scope. Expect to budget $200 to $500 for a decent scope, with high end optics running over $1,000. The magnification level depends on your intended use.

Hunting Rifles

A quality hunting rifle is an essential tool for hunters pursuing big game like deer, elk, bear and other large animals. While many factors impact the cost of a hunting rifle, expect to spend $500-$1,000 for a good mid-range model from a trusted brand.

Popular action types for hunting rifles include bolt action, lever action, and semi-auto. Of these, bolt action rifles tend to provide the best balance of affordability, reliability and accuracy which are crucial for clean ethical kills. Common bold action brands include Remington, Winchester, Browning, Tikka, and Ruger.

Hunting rifles come in a wide range of calibers optimized for different game. Calibers like .308 Win, .30-06 Springfield, .270 Win, 6.5 Creedmoor and .300 Win Mag are very common big game hunting rounds. Be sure to select a caliber suited for your target species.

Many states prohibit the use of high capacity semi-auto rifles for big game hunting. Features like synthetic stocks, all-weather finishes, and a good optic sight round out a quality hunting rifle package.

While budget hunting rifles under $500 exist, it is worth investing in the $800-$1000 range to get superb accuracy, reliability and longevity from a firearm you can trust with your life in the field. Practice regularly with your hunting rifle at the range to ensure ethical proficiency.

Used for hunting game, common options are:

• Bolt Action – Simple manual operation. Accurate and affordable around $500-$1,000
• Lever Action – Faster cycling lever for follow up shots. $800-$1,500 range.
• Semi-Auto – Quicker rate of fire. Pricier at $1,200-$2,000.

Popular hunting calibers are .308 Winchester, .30-06 Springfield, .270 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, and .300 Winchester Magnum. Scope costs can add $300-$1,000 depending on magnification and quality.

Tactical/Modern Sporting Rifles

Semi-auto rifles like AR-15s provide versatility for defense, competitions, etc.

• AR-15 Platform – Most popular rifle in America. Huge array of options from $800 for entry level up to $2,500 for premium brands. Custom builds can cost much more.
• AK Platform – Iconic Russian rifle known for affordability and reliability. Available from $600-$1,200.
• SIG MCX, FN SCAR, HK MR556 – Higher end alternatives to AR-15 with premium pricing of $2,500-$3,500.

Sniper Rifles

Specialized long range firearms for military and law enforcement applications. High precision equals high prices of $3,500-$8,000+ such as:

• Remington 700P – Legendary bolt action design. $4,000-$6,000.
• Barrett M82A1 – Anti-material semi-auto .50 BMG rifle. $12,000+
• Accuracy International AXMC – Cutting edge chassis system. $7,000-$10,000.

Rifles:

Bolt-Action Rifle:

Semi-Automatic Rifle:

Cost of an Assult rifle

Assault rifles are selective fire rifles optimized for military combat operations. Capable of both semi-automatic and fully automatic fire. Restricted ownership for civilians but desired by collectors.

Some background

Assault rifles are selective fire rifles designed specifically for military use in frontline combat scenarios. They are optimized to accurately deliver lethal fire on enemy combatants.

A key distinction of assault rifles is their ability to fire in both semi-automatic mode and fully automatic mode. Full auto provides heavy suppressive fire by continuously discharging the entire magazine with one trigger pull.

Assault rifles utilize intermediate power cartridges such as 5.56x45mm NATO. This allows controllable fully automatic fire with less recoil compared to larger battle rifle cartridges.

Nearly every military worldwide has adopted an assault rifle as their standard issue for frontline troops. Some iconic examples include the American M16/M4, Russian AK-47/AKM, Belgian FN FAL, and German HK G36.

Modular design with mounting rails allows accessories like optics, lasers, grips to be added and configured depending on the mission profile. 30 round detachable box magazines enable rapid reloading critical for infantry assaults.

• M16/M4 (AR-15) – U.S. military’s current service rifle platform. Iconic Eugene Stoner design from the 1960s. Civilian semi-auto only versions around $1,000+.
• AK-47 (AKM) – Legendary Soviet design known for simplicity and ruggedness. Still in service globally. Unmodified models start around $3,000.
• FN SCAR – Modern Belgian assault rifle with modular design. Used by special ops forces. Civilian SCAR 17S around $3,500.
• HK G36 – German engineered rifle with polymer construction. Rapidly becoming a collector’s item at $2,000.

How much does a Sniper Rifle cost?

With no sporting or civilian applications, ownership of true sniper rifles is heavily regulated and limited. Entry level pricing typically starts around $5,000 and rapidly increases.

Background

Sniper rifles represent specialized firearms developed for extreme long range shooting and precision. Used in military and law enforcement applications.

Robust heavy barrels, precision machined actions, and customized triggers all contribute to sub-MOA accuracy from sniper rifles. Top models include the Remington 700, Barrett M82A1, Desert Tech SRS, and Accuracy International AXMC.

High magnification optic systems with windage turret adjustments are vital for shots past 500+ yards. An intricate assessment of range, wind, mirage, and ballistics informs every shot.

Mastering the multitude of factors for successful long range precision shooting requires immense skill developed over years of dedicated practice and learning.

• Remington 700 – Bolt action rifle serving as U.S. military sniper rifle for 5 decades. Sub-MOA accuracy with good ammunition. $1,200-$1,800.
• Barrett M82A1 – Famous large caliber semi-auto anti-material rifle firing .50 BMG rounds. Civilian pricing starts around $12,000.
• Desert Tech SRS – Bullpup chassis design with quick change barrel calibers. Around $4,000.
• Accuracy International AXMC – Cutting edge modular sniper system. $8,000-$10,000.

How much are Carbines?

Semi-automatic only clones offer a similar experience for civilians without the full auto fire rate. Models like the Ruger PC Carbine and Beretta Cx4 Storm retail for $700-$1000. Using pistol caliber ammunition can be more economical.

Background

Carbines are lightweight, short-barreled versions of full-size assault rifles optimized for maneuverability and close quarters use. Their compact size provides an advantage in confined spaces like vehicles.

Iconic examples adopted by militaries include the M4 carbine and AK-74U. Their select fire capability makes civilian ownership of originals virtually impossible.

Carbines excel at home defense given the faster handling from their short profile. Adding accessories like lights and optics can further complement their capabilities.

While not a replacement for proficiency with handguns, carbines can add an additional layer of versatility to a defensive firearm collection when training and safe practices are paramount.

Short barreled, lightweight rifles ideal for CQB, vehicle/aircraft crews. Derived from full sized service rifles.

• M4 Carbine – 14.5″ barreled version of M16/M4 platform. Widely fielded for frontline operations. $900-$1,200.
• AK-74U – Compact AK-74 carbine under 25″ overall. Issue to special forces. Unmodified models around $20,000.
• MP7A1 – Ultra compact 4.6x30mm PDW carbine made by HK. Rare and expensive for civilians at $40,000+.

How much does a Machine Guns cost?

Modern machine guns range in price from $10,000 for older designs used as crew weapons to $60,000+ for rotary aircraft cannons. Ownership requires extensive ATF licensing and taxes that are rarely approved.

Background info

Machine guns are firearms capable of fully automatic fire, designed to provide sustained high rates of suppressive fire. They were first adopted during World War 1 and saw widespread use in global militaries and law enforcement in the 20th century.

Firing hundreds of rounds per minute, machine guns excel in scenarios demanding overwhelming firepower. Water-cooled barrel systems or quick change barrels prevent overheating during automatic fire.

Civilian ownership of modern machine guns is strictly regulated under the National Firearms Act. Access is effectively limited to certain vintage or deactivated examples like the Thompson submachine gun or Maxim gun.

Due to immense lethality, responsible usage of machine guns is legally limited to firearms manufacturers testing and military/law application. Civilians must focus on semi-automatic firearms and maintain marksmanship skills.

Machine Guns

Fully automatic firearms able to quickly spray high volumes of ammunition. Restricted ownership means very high prices:

• Submachine Guns – Compact like handguns. Iconic examples are the Thompson “Tommy Gun” at $20k+ and the Uzi around $15k.
• Medium/General Purpose Machine Guns – Portable automatic firepower for infantry. M60, MG42, FN MAG, etc from $10,000 into the hundreds of thousands.
• Heavy Machine Guns – Mounted or vehicle weapons like Ma Deuce 50cal at $20k+, the Vulcan 20mm cannon costing $250k+, and the Phalanx CIWS close-in defense system nearing $15 million.

Sources Consulted

Gun Value References:

• gunbroker.com
• gunsinternational.com
• bluebookofgunvalues.com

Magazines:

• americanrifleman.org
• shootingtimes.com
• gameandfishmag.com

Forums:

• ar15.com
• snipershide.com
• calguns.net

Associations:

• nra.org
• nssf.org