Several factors drive up firearms sales | News

CAPE GIRARDEAU, MO (KFVS)- Several recent national shootings are driving up firearm sales in the Heartland.

In fact, this is reportedly a record-breaking year for gun makers.

Because of the demand, some store owners say some handguns are harder to come by.

They also say more women are buying guns; and they've seen an increase in first-time gun buyers.

Many also go to gun shops looking for tactical weapons for personal protection, not for hunting.

"We're no longer a nation of hunters. We've become a nation of shooters. The handguns, and the tactical stuff as you say is where it's at right now. The modern sporting rifles, as they call them," said Gene Colyer with Shooter's Gun Shop in Cape Girardeau.

Owners say fear of a local crime increase and personal protection are the main reason people are buying more weapons.

Others fear a potential change in gun laws, or they're afraid of an economic collapse.