I see this as nothing more than a typical fad/interest in guns that started post 94 AWB that eventually culminated in a dramatic appeal with 'black' guns, plastic pistols and overwhelming numbers of people becoming interested in 'self defense' and obtaining CCPs. This all seemed to peak in the 2012/13 time frame but began to drop off soon thereafter and is really being noticed now. Record numbers of used ARs/AKs on LGS racks, less numbers of CCL applicants. Bottom line is while the interest in 'black' guns and all that went along with it was obvious it was not sustainable. The nich, while seemingly vast was mostly impulsive, quick buys by the majority. Oh there are no doubt people who are longer term owners with more dedicated interests such as competition shooting but the fact remains the black gun interest ramped up quickly and is falling about as fast. Those of us who have grown up around guns and hunting and have always maintained an interest seem to be at about the same levels as I have always seen but the interest in 'modern firearms' is falling rapidly - and I doubt there will ever be a resurgence even if politics or attitudes change much.
For the third straight month, CPLs have declined in Washington State, losing about 10,000 since Jan. 1. Anyone care to take a stab at why? You may get quoted, so keep it clean.
