The story of women getting more involved in hunting and shooting sports has really picked up over the past few years, and 2024 is no different. More women are diving into hunting, defense training, competitive shooting matches, and even Olympic events than ever before. Alongside this growth, there are now outdoor and shooting sports products made specifically for women, showing a big move towards inclusivity in a field that was mostly male-dominated just thirty years ago. Today, women are now vital and celebrated members of the shooting sports community, standing shoulder to shoulder with men and helping to shape the sport’s future.
The Rise of Women's Participation in Shooting Sports
The number of women participating in shooting sports has been steadily increasing. Here’s some supporting statistics:
- According to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) 2020 report, women made up 30% of the shooting sports community, with 6 million women participating in target shooting alone. By 2022, women accounted for 32% of all sport shooting participants, compared to 26% in 2009.
- In 2021, 33% of first-time gun buyers were women.
- The 2022 Special Report on Hunting and the Shooting Sports by NSSF revealed that 27% of participants in hunting and 32% in firearms target shooting sports were women, reflecting a 16% and 25% increase from a decade ago, respectively.
- As of 2022, the percentage of women who reported owning a gun increased from 15% in 2016 to 22%.
- During the record highs in gun sales in 2020, women accounted for 40% of all firearm purchases.
- Women make up 10-15% of all hunters, with this number continuing to rise.
- While rural areas have traditionally seen higher involvement from women in shooting sports, urban female participation is catching up rapidly. This growth is driven by the availability of indoor ranges and clubs that cater to urban lifestyles.
These stats highlight a growing acceptance and enthusiasm for the sport among women. However, despite the positive trend, there are still challenges that need to be tackled to further support and encourage women’s participation in shooting sports.
Challenges with Female Participation
Even though more women are getting into shooting sports, there are still some hurdles. A big issue is the low retention rate among female participants. While many women are trying out hunting and shooting sports, a lot of them aren’t sticking with it. A study by Responsive Management, conducted for the Sportsman’s Alliance under a grant from the US Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS), found that, on average, 51% of women only bought a hunting license once over a five-year period. Also, in some states, only about 10% of women are considered avid hunters, purchasing a license 4 or 5 times within that same period.
This data shows that the challenge isn’t so much getting women involved but keeping them engaged and reactivated. Many women who initially try shooting sports don’t stay involved over the long term.
Strategies to Keep More Women Engaged in Shooting Sports
Tackling the challenge of retaining female hunters and shooters requires focused efforts and smart strategies. Here are some effective approaches:
1. Women-Focused Programs
In the mentioned hunting license purchases report, one exemplary case was Maine, which has shown a nearly even gender gap in hunting license purchases: 32% of avid female hunters compared to 39% of avid male hunters. This success is due to several factors, including innovative women-centered messaging from the MDIFW and the Becoming an Outdoors-Woman program supported by the department. It’s worth noting that having Judy Camuso, a female commissioner, at the helm of the MDIFW also plays a role.
Interestingly, the Becoming an Outdoors-Woman program is based on research by Professor Christine Thomas from 1991, which found that women prefer to take part in hunting and shooting sports in a non-competitive setting with other like-minded women.
2. Supportive Organizations and Companies
Besides federal-level initiatives, it’s important to have supportive communities. In hunting, we have groups like the Wild Sheep Foundation, Artemis, and Doe Camp Nation, which provide training programs and retreats designed for female hunters.
Similarly, in shooting sports, plenty of organizations and companies focus on empowering women. Check out Shoot Like A Girl, A Girl & A Gun, and NRA Women, for example. Plus, organizations like the National Sporting Clays Association work hard to boost female participation by offering grants to initiatives that make women feel comfortable in the sport.
3. Women-Only Environments and Activities
Creating women-only spaces for training, socializing, and sharing experiences can make a big difference in comfort and interest levels. Female-only classes, events, and clubs offer places where women can connect, learn, and grow without the pressure of competing with or being judged by men.
4. Female Mentors and Instructors
Having female mentors and instructors can significantly boost women’s retention in shooting sports. These role models can provide guidance, share personal experiences, and create a more inclusive and supportive atmosphere.
5. Understanding Unique Needs
Organizations should aim to understand and cater to the specific needs of female participants. This means designing gear and apparel specifically for women, organizing family-friendly events, and making sure ranges and clubs are welcoming and easy to access.
6. Boosting Confidence and Independence
It’s important to help women feel comfortable, confident, and independent in their activities. Initiatives that focus on building skills, knowledge, and self-assurance can lead to better retention. Offering continuous learning opportunities and advanced training can also keep women engaged and motivated.
How GRITR Range Empowers Women to Participate in Shooting Sports
GRITR Range (Dallas-Fort Worth, Texas) is committed to helping women access women-only training programs, events, and shooting competitions where they can feel safe and confident.
For example, we offer specialized pistol classes for women at both basic and intermediate levels, so participants can build their skills progressively in a supportive setting. We also bring in female instructors to hold seminars, allowing women to learn from other women who can offer unique insights and tailored support. Plus, we host exclusive events for women, such as License to Kari, Personal Defense Class by Fieldcraft Survival, and Armed Women of America.
We also strive to make women comfortable at our co-ed events and classes. So if you live in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and are looking for a welcoming urban community to learn gun proficiency or defense skills, check out our Event Calendar and Gun Classes.
FAQs
Participating in shooting sports provides numerous benefits for women, including improved self-confidence, enhanced physical coordination, stress relief, and the development of self-defense skills. Additionally, it offers a sense of community and belonging, connecting women with like-minded individuals who share similar interests.
For women starting in shooting sports, it’s recommended to invest in comfortable and properly-fitted gear, including ear and eye protection, a reliable firearm that fits their needs, and appropriate apparel such as gloves and shooting vests. Many brands now offer gear specifically designed for women, ensuring better comfort and functionality. If you’re considering a pistol or rifle for sporting or concealed carry, check out our rental guns that you can try before you buy.
Shooting sports teach women vital skills that contribute to self-defense, including situational awareness, quick decision-making, and accurate shooting. These skills can be essential in scenarios where self-defense might be necessary. Additionally, the confidence gained from being proficient in using firearms can enhance women’s overall sense of security.
Women can overcome intimidation or fear by participating in women-only classes and events where they can learn in a supportive and non-judgmental atmosphere. Building skills progressively and receiving guidance from female instructors can also boost confidence. Additionally, connecting with other women in the sport for advice and encouragement can be immensely helpful.