Service Handgun Market

Market Overview

The global service handgun market is estimated to grow at a CAGR of 2.45% during the forecast period (2024–2032). In recent years, with the escalating threats of terrorism, organized crime, and mass shootings, there have been heightened concerns regarding public safety, which has led to a growing emphasis on equipping law enforcement agencies with advanced firearms for effective counteraction, in turn driving the demand for service handgun. Moreover, the surging demand for these service handguns from emerging economies is estimated to create opportunities for market growth.

A service handgun is a firearm issued to law enforcement, military, or security personnel for duty use. These firearms are designed for reliability, accuracy, and ease of use in various operational scenarios. Typically, service handguns are semi-automatic pistols due to their capacity, quick reloading, and manageable recoil. They are often chambered in calibers like 9mm, .40 S&W, or .45 ACP, balancing stopping power with controllability. Features like rugged construction, ambidextrous controls, and accessory compatibility are prioritized for diverse user needs. Service handguns undergo rigorous testing to ensure durability and performance under stress, meeting stringent standards for safety and effectiveness. They play a critical role in law enforcement and military operations, providing personnel with a reliable means of self-defense and maintaining public safety.

Top 2 Key Highlights

• Pistol dominates the type segment
• North America is the highest shareholder in the global market

Market Dynamics

Market Drivers

Growing Concerns Regarding Public Safety

The escalating concerns surrounding public safety globally have become a primary driver for the service handgun market. Heightened threats of terrorism, organized crime, and mass shootings have spurred governments and law enforcement agencies to equip themselves with advanced firearms. For instance, as per the Global Terrorism Index (GTI), in 2023, the number of fatalities resulting from acts of terrorism rose by 22% to reach 8,352, marking the highest level observed since 2017. Thus, there has been a noticeable surge in the demand for service handguns due to increasing security apprehensions.

Law enforcement agencies, in particular, are under pressure to enhance their capabilities to respond effectively to diverse threats. Rising urbanization and population growth also exacerbate crime control and public safety challenges. Consequently, there is a growing consensus among policymakers and security professionals on the necessity of deploying modernized firearms to mitigate risks and safeguard communities. This driver underscores the critical role of service handguns in ensuring law enforcement effectiveness and preserving public order in an increasingly uncertain world.

Market Restraint

Stringent Regulations and Legislation

Regulations and legislation pose a significant restraint on the service handgun market. Stringent laws governing firearms sales, ownership, and usage can limit market growth. Changes in legislation, such as increased background checks, magazine capacity restrictions, or waiting periods, can directly impact the availability and accessibility of handguns.

Additionally, regulatory compliance adds complexity and costs to manufacturers and sellers. Heightened scrutiny of firearm-related incidents often leads to calls for tighter controls, influencing public perception and shaping future regulatory measures. Moreover, differing regulations across regions or countries can create barriers to market entry and expansion, further constraining the growth potential of the service handgun market.

Market Opportunities

Increasing Demand from the Emerging Economies

The burgeoning demand for service handguns in emerging economies presents lucrative opportunities for market expansion. Countries in regions like Asia-Pacific and Latin America are experiencing rapid urbanization, expanding law enforcement capacities, and a growing focus on counter-terrorism measures. This creates a substantial market for modernized law enforcement equipment, including service handguns. Manufacturers and suppliers are capitalizing on this demand by offering technologically advanced and cost-effective solutions tailored to the specific needs of these emerging markets, fostering growth and market penetration.

For instance, in January 2021, The Small Arms Factory in Kanpur, India, introduced a cutting-edge .32 caliber revolver called 'Prahaar'. When discussing the characteristics of 'Prahaar,' the General Manager of the AK Maurya plant stated that this product is being produced as part of the 'Make in India' initiative, and its trial has been deemed successful. The device has a maximum range of 50 meters and is coated with cerakote, a surface finish (black and titanium) that enhances its resistance to corrosion. The product features a wooden handle to enhance its ergonomics. Such factors are expected to create opportunities for market growth.

Regional Analysis

Based on region, the global service handgun market is bifurcated into North America, Europe, Asia-Pacific, Latin America, and the Middle East and Africa. 

North America is the most significant global service handgun market shareholder and is expected to expand substantially during the forecast period. North America is a dominant force in the global service handgun market, propelled by its robust military infrastructure, extensive law enforcement agencies, and a culture emphasizing personal and public safety. The United States, in particular, accounts for a significant market share, supported by its substantial defense budget and a strong tradition of firearm ownership. Firearms are profoundly embedded in the foundations of American society and are a prominent topic of discussion in the nation's political discourse. The Second Amendment of the United States Constitution ensures the right to own firearms. Similarly, law enforcement agencies across the continent prioritize equipping their personnel with cutting-edge service handguns to effectively combat crime and respond to security threats.

Moreover, North America's diverse security challenges, ranging from urban violence to border security concerns, drive the continuous demand for advanced firearms technology. As per the Global Terrorism Index (GTI), in 2023, the United States accounted for 76% of fatalities resulting from incidents of terrorism in Western democracies. Also, the presence of prominent firearms manufacturers and a thriving civilian market further contribute to the region's leadership in the service handgun market, making North America a pivotal hub for innovation and procurement in the industry. For instance, in April 2023, A technology company headquartered in the United States claims to have successfully developed the world's first biometric smart gun. Biofire Technologies has unveiled a 9mm handgun protected by fingerprint and 3D infrared facial recognition technology. Such advancements are estimated to boost the market expansion in North America.

The European region boasts a robust market for service handguns, driven by stringent security measures, counter-terrorism efforts, and substantial defense spending. For instance, according to the Stockholm International Peace Research Institute (SIPRI), in 2022, Europe experienced its most significant annual growth in military spending in at least three decades. Furthermore, in 2024, European NATO Allies will collectively allocate 380 billion US dollars towards defense expenditures. This represents 2% of their combined GDP for the first time, a six-fold increase since 2014.

Countries within Europe, such as Germany, France, and the United Kingdom, have well-established firearms manufacturing industries, contributing significantly to the regional market. These nations prioritize equipping their law enforcement agencies and military units with state-of-the-art firearms to ensure public safety and national security. Similarly, Europe's geopolitical landscape, marked by persistent security threats and border tensions, fuels the demand for advanced-service handguns. Thus, Europe remains a pivotal market for service handguns, with a strong emphasis on defense modernization and law enforcement capabilities.

Segmental Analysis

The global service handgun market is bifurcated into type, material, safety, and applications.

Based on type, the global service handgun market is segmented into revolver and pistol. 

The pistol segment held the highest market share. A pistol is a handheld firearm characterized by a single barrel and a chamber that holds ammunition. It is designed for one-handed use and is typically smaller and more compact than other firearms. Pistols are commonly used for self-defense, law enforcement, and military purposes due to their portability and ease of concealment. They come in various configurations, including semi-automatic, revolver, and single-shot models, each with its own loading and firing mechanisms. For example, semi-automatic pistols automatically load the next round into the chamber after firing, while revolvers rotate a cylinder to bring a fresh cartridge into position. Pistols are versatile tools, allowing users to quickly and accurately engage targets at close to moderate ranges, making them a popular choice for personal protection and combat situations.

Based on material, the global service handgun market is bifurcated into steel, aluminum, and polymer.

A service handgun made of aluminum material offers several advantages. As aluminum is lightweight compared to steel, it reduces the overall weight of the firearm, which can enhance handling and maneuverability, especially during extended use or in situations requiring quick reactions. Aluminum is corrosion-resistant, ensuring longevity and durability even in harsh environmental conditions. Moreover, aluminum is relatively easy to machine, allowing for precise manufacturing of intricate firearm components and contributing to overall reliability and accuracy. However, aluminum may not be as robust as steel, potentially leading to faster wear and tear under heavy use. Nonetheless, advancements in aluminum alloys and manufacturing techniques continue to enhance the strength and durability of aluminum firearms, making them increasingly popular choices for service handguns among law enforcement agencies and military units worldwide.

Based on safety, the global service handgun market is bifurcated into grip, drop, and manual.

Service handgun with grip safety refers to a firearm that has undergone modifications or enhancements to improve its ergonomics and handling characteristics, particularly in terms of the grip. This can involve alterations such as custom grip panels, stippling, or reshaping of the handle to fit the shooter's hand size and preferences. The goal of grip service is to optimize the firearm's comfort, control, and stability during shooting, ultimately enhancing accuracy and reducing fatigue or discomfort for the user. Grip modifications can also improve the shooter's ability to maintain a secure hold on the weapon under various conditions, such as recoil or adverse weather. Overall, a grip service handgun offers personalized adjustments tailored to the individual shooter, resulting in a more comfortable and effective shooting experience.

Based on application, the global service handgun market is bifurcated into military & defense and law enforcement.

Service handguns are crucial in military and defense operations due to their versatility and accessibility. These firearms are typically issued to soldiers, law enforcement personnel, and other defense forces for personal protection and close-quarter combat situations. In military contexts, service handguns are often carried by officers, special forces, and other personnel who may require a compact and reliable weapon for self-defense or as a backup to their primary firearm.

In defense scenarios, such as urban warfare or security operations, service handguns provide a portable and effective means of neutralizing threats in confined spaces where larger firearms may be impractical. Moreover, service handguns are utilized for training purposes to ensure proficiency in firearm handling and marksmanship skills. Overall, service handguns are essential tools in military and defense strategies, offering personnel a reliable means of defense in various situations.

Recent Developments

• October 2023- Taurus USA introduced the 856 and 605 Taurus Optics Ready Option (T.O.R.O.) revolvers, which are the first defensive revolvers designed to be compatible with optics.
• August 2023- India introduced its first long-range revolver, named Prabal. The revolver is produced by the state-owned company Advanced Weapons and Equipment India (AWEIL), which is located in Kanpur.