In 2013, Thermold Magazines announced it would relocate its headquarters and assembly operations from North Carolina to Fort Smith, Arkansas. Daisy Outdoor Products, makers of the iconic BB guns, are also headquartered and assembled in Arkansas and Remington Arms Company established an ammunition facility in 1969. The company has continued to see success in Arkansas and announced a $32 million expansion in 2013. Additionally, the International Defensive Pistol Association was founded in Arkansas in 1996.

With 42 registered firearms for every 1,000 residents, Forbes ranks Arkansas as America's third most gun-friendly state. Known as the duck hunting capital of the world, Arkansas embraces a culture of hunting and enjoying the outdoors.