The Most Popular Firearms and Calibers Every Texan Prefers

The Hunter’s Perspective: A Vault of Choices

As an avid hunter, I can tell you that in my gun vault sit firearms I haven’t taken out in several years. No, I’m not a gun hoarder—it’s just that the right firearm depends on the type of hunting I’m doing. If I’m bird hunting, I need to bring out the shotgun. For deer hunting, one of my game rifles is essential. Varmint hunting? That calls for one of my semi-auto rifles. And if I’m heading to the range for a fun day of shooting, I’ll grab my favorite handguns.

The Big Question: What Are Texas’ Most Popular Firearms?

With the big gun show coming to the Coliseum, it got me thinking: What are the most popular firearms and calibers in the Lone Star State? Here in Texas, firearms are considered tools, not just weapons. Let me explain. When you have livestock birthing, coyotes and mountain lions often prey on the mothers and newborns. Similarly, feral hogs can pose a threat, even dining on cats, dogs, kittens, or puppies.

A Tool for Every Task

In Texas, whether it’s a pistol, handgun, rifle, shotgun, single-shot, or semi-auto, firearms are essential tools for protecting yourself, your livestock, and your pets. So, what are the most popular firearms? Are they single-action, pump-action, break-open, or semi-automatic? And another burning question: What’s missing from my own collection? Those questions can be answered at the upcoming big gun show at the Taylor County Coliseum. You will be able to check out the latest firearms and ammo at the gun show.

Here's How To Win Tickets to the Gun Show!

If you want to win tickets to the Silver Spur Gun & Blade Show on Nov. 22 and 23, simply send us a text message through this station's app saying, "I want to go to the gun show.” That's it! (See the photo below.) Use the “CHAT” feature on the station’s App. Winners will be drawn and contacted shortly.

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Texans’ Top Firearm Choices and Calibers

Nonetheless, what I discovered is there are three favorite calibers in each of the firearm categories every Texan should own. Let me explain, for every Texan to be well-outfitted, they should have a handgun, a rifle, and a shotgun, each of which has its own specific caliber or gauge.

The Most Popular Firearms Texans Own:

• A revolver, whether it’s western style like a cowboy’s or what police carry
• A semi-auto handgun, either full-size or compact for concealed carry
• A shotgun, the most popular is a pump, semi-auto, or a single-shot break-open
• A rifle, bolt-action, lever-action, or semi-auto, in that order

The Most Popular Calibers Texans Prefer:

• Revolver: .22 LR, .38/.357 mag, .45-Long Colt
• Semi-Auto: 9mm, .45 ACP, .380 ACP
• Shotgun: 12ga., 20ga., .410 ga.
• Rifle: .223/5.56x54mm, 6.5 Creedmoor, 308 Winchester

Sources: Texas Parks & Wildlife, Stone Creek Ranch

Safety First: Training and Familiarity Are Essential

Finally, before you go reaching for ANY firearm of any kind, do not touch it until you are well-versed, have had the correct training, practiced, and are very familiar with that tool. Most importantly, remember, the safety on every pistol, rifle, or shotgun is easily found in your hand. I always say, "Never! Ever! put your finger on the trigger until a few seconds before you shoot."

Happy hunting, y’all!