As the COVID-19 pandemic continues, people are becoming more worrisome. And instead of running out to buy essential products like bathroom tissue and food, people are stocking up on something that’s not so essential —guns.
Due to the state of the country, people are fearful for what is to come. With money being scare people are desperate to make a quick buck. This has been the motive for those purchasing guns.
According to a study done by CNN, it found that there was a nearly 309 percent increase in revenue for both ammunition and guns since the start of the COVID-19 pandemic.
In the Tallahassee area, there has been an increase in gun purchases of and ammunition. An employee at a gun shop in the Big Bend reported that they’ve seen a rise in both ammunition and gun sales.
“There has been a spike mostly for people wanting to defend their homes,” he said.
Since money is tight for some people, they have turned to scams to come up with cash.
“I do feel that things will go back to normal once this is over,” the store clerk continued. “People are scared of what they don’t know.”
Many of the gun purchasers are a mix of both first-time buyers and those who want to expand what they already have. In addition to buying firearms, many are also receiving training and permits.
Reggi Nelson is not a licensed gun-holder but she feels that now may be the perfect time to invest in it.
“As a college student, I feel like I must protect myself,” she said.
Nelson is one of the few people who were fortunate enough to still be able to go work. Since she works from home, she feels that it’ll be safer for her to have protection if anything was to arise.
The COVID-19 pandemic is still at an all-time high. States will be reopening businesses and jobs at their own discretion.