Michigan is witnessing a steady increase in the number of concealed pistol licenses issued, according to state data.
From Oct. 1, 2023, to Sept. 30, 2024, Michigan State Police issued 168,202 CPLs which marked a rise from the previous year’s 157,653. The trend reflects a growing interest in gun ownership across the state.
From Oct. 1, 2020, to Sept. 30, 2021, the number of Michiganders applying for a CPL exploded. The state issued 232,316.
| Applications Received | Applications Issued | Applications Pending | Applications Disqualified | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| OCT. 1, 2023-SEPT. 30, 2024 | 171,655 | 168,202 | 6,058 | 3,143 |
| OCT. 1, 2022-SEPT. 30, 2023 | 161,065 | 157,653 | 5,904 | 3,032 |
| OCT. 1, 2021-SEPT. 30, 2022 | 159,366 | 156,590 | 5,676 | 3,101 |
| OCT. 1, 2020-SEPT. 30, 2021 | 219,156 | 232,316 | 6,656 | 4,635 |
| OCT. 1, 2019-SEPT. 30, 2020 | 182,721 | 159,867 | 24,333 | 2,367 |
While the data does not specify the demographics of new firearm buyers, there is a noticeable influx of first-time gun owners.
Chad King’s daytime job is a cybersecurity auditor. In his spare time, he’s the president of the Black Bottom Gun Club in Detroit.
The chapter is one of three in the Great Lakes State affiliated with the National African American Gun Association.
King notes that the organization’s national membership is nearly half women, his chapter comprising 35 to 40 percent women.
Renee Hayward, a new gun owner, recently joined the Black Bottom Gun Club to gain competence with her firearm. Under the guidance of instructor Tamika Tilley, Hayward is learning the basics of handling and shooting a gun.
“I usually start with one bullet in the chamber and have her shoot it and just assess it from there just to make sure she’s comfortable, making sure that she’s OK,” Tilley said.
The rise in gun ownership is attributed to various factors, including self-defense and interest in shooting sports.
Grant Allen, owner of the Firing Line, observes a significant increase in female gun owners, with events like Ladies Night and a female shooting league gaining popularity.
The market now carries firearms in non-traditional colors such as Tiffany Blue and pink.
In Lansing, a proposed bill aimed at regulating the colors used for firearms to prevent them from resembling toys did not advance.
However, Senate Majority Caucus Chair Sen. Dayna Polehanki emphasized the importance of protecting children.
“To keep kids and families safe, real guns should not look like toy guns and toy guns should not look like real guns,” said the lawmaker in a released statement.
Meanwhile, King advocates for laws that support Black gun owners and stresses the need for responsible and safe handling of firearms.
Meanwhile, Hayward says she plans to be prepared to defend her home by practicing and becoming accustomed to the sound and recoil of her gun.
“I do have a guard dog, but we will practice,” she said. “He will get you first. But I’m coming right after him if you come in my house. That’s just the way it’s going to be.”
For those interested in learning more about firearm safety through the Black Bottom Gun Club, click here.
