Gun Appreciation Day is observed on January 19 every year across the U.S. The holiday originally started as a protest against potential gun control measures, but like all special days, how this day is observed is up to the people. Guns are powerful machines that need to be treated with respect and handled with care. Gun Appreciation Day is a great way to discuss how to look after guns. Many accidental gun deaths can be prevented by knowing how to handle and store guns safely, away from the reach of children.
History of Gun Appreciation Day
Guns have a long history around the world. A weapon close to a gun was first produced in the 1800s and was further developed over the two World Wars into the guns we recognize today. There are a lot of different types: military guns, handguns, hunting guns, machine guns, autocannons, artillery guns, tank guns, rescue equipment like flare guns, entertainment guns like nerf guns, and energy guns. Each of these guns is a weapon that must be treated respectfully.
Guns have played an important role in the development of America. The Revolutionary War was the crux that defined the country’s attitudes towards guns, where they were seen to be necessary for the country’s freedom and future. Until the 1800s, there was a standing militia instead of an army. This militia was once drafted, but it later became voluntary to join. Guns became important symbols of the country’s growth, especially the development of the Wild West.
In the 2000s, there was a growing movement for gun control measures because of the multiple shootouts in the country. Gun owners were worried about the lack of measures in place to ensure that these weapons were handled with the respect they deserved. Other people began to worry that the rules would take things too far and organized Gun Appreciation Day as a protest against the gun control movement. Since then, this day has been observed in different ways by the American public, the most important being to respect gun ownership and guns, ensuring that they are kept and used safely.
Gun Appreciation Day timeline
After becoming a voluntary institution, the civilian militia starts to fade away.
The first successful rapid-fire firearm is invented by Richard Gatling and used by the Union Army during the Civil War.
The popularity of gangster films puts guns into focus more than ever.
Gun Appreciation Day is instituted on January 19 to protest gun control.
Gun Appreciation Day FAQs
How can I appreciate my guns?
Take care of them, respect that they are weapons and they can do damage, and use them only for what you bought them for — hunting or protection. Don’t be careless with them.
Will there be deals at gun ranges or stores?
There may or may not offer deals at gun ranges or gun stores, but visiting them is a great way to show your appreciation for guns. It’s also a great opportunity to check out the latest in gun technology!
What is the most famous gun?
About 75 million AK-47 guns have been produced and are in circulation today, making it the most famous, ubiquitous weapon of all time. Popular because it’s a simple gun, reliable, and easy to use and repair, it is also the deadliest weapon ever built. It is said to be capable of killing more people than nuclear weapons.
How to Observe Gun Appreciation Day
Attend a gun-safety class
The best way to appreciate guns is to understand exactly what they can do. Learn the best ways to handle them safely and without accidents by attending a class.
Host an appreciation event
Get the gun enthusiasts in your community together to compare notes and show off your guns. Also, discuss the best ways to educate the greater community about gun usage.
Clean your guns
Guns are weapons that need to be cared for to make sure they work when they need to. Take your guns apart, clean and oil them, then put them back safely so that when you need them, you know they’re ready.
5 Facts About Guns That Will Surprise You
America owns 46% of the world’s guns
This % is significant because America only has 4% of the world’s population.
American civilians own the most guns
Civilians own 100 times as many firearms as the U.S. Army.
'Gun-culture' was invented in 1970
Historian Richard Hofstadter came up with the term to discuss American attitudes to guns.
The Supreme Court guaranteed gun ownership
In 2008, the Supreme Court affirmed that people have the freedom to own guns in America.
Child mortality rate and guns
Events associated with guns have killed the third-highest number of American children.
Why Gun Appreciation Day is Important
We want people to use guns safely
Guns are weapons and shouldn’t be thrown around like an average work tool. We believe guns should be treated with respect.
We like to talk about our guns
Guns can be fun to discuss. We love to show off the specifications of our newest firearms.
People need more information about guns
It takes some training to use guns correctly. We want people to learn this correct usage without hurting themselves or other people, or damaging their guns.
Gun Appreciation Day dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2025 | January 19 | Sunday |
| 2026 | January 19 | Monday |
| 2027 | January 19 | Tuesday |
| 2028 | January 19 | Wednesday |
| 2029 | January 19 | Friday |
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