Not Just Slathered in Pink: Female Businesses at the Texas Gun Fest

Many firearms companies are aggressively seeking the female demographic, and rightfully so. The Second Amendment isn't just for a particular race or gender, and most in the community recognize female gun owners as the fastest growing demographic. However, some of their efforts have been rather tone deaf in the past.

Like this:

“Hey, let's just take this regular gun, dip it in bubblegum Barbie pink, and then say it's for women! Genius!”

If a woman (or man, for that matter) wants a pink or amaranth or magenta or fuchsia gun, more power to them. But when it's the default (and only) “girl” color by a manufacturer, it comes off as a token or throwaway gesture. I believe I understand the ‘pinkness' to a certain extent. It's a dichotomy of a very feminine color on something that's traditionally been a man's world. But shouldn't there be more?

Who better to understand that market demographic than women themselves? How about some businesses tailored towards women, that employs women, that's owned by women?  A couple weekends ago I attended the Texas Firearms Festival and was pleased to see a number of companies represented that did just that–and I hope this trend continues.

Without further ado:

The Well Armed Woman (TWAW)

TWAW was at the Texas Firearms Festival represented by the Cedar Creek Area Chapter. Started by Carrie Lightfoot because she couldn't find a one-stop resource for female shooters, the TWAW has grown to more than 200 chapters spanning 49 states.

You can visit TWAW online here or find a local chapter here .
Facebook & Instagram

Sure Shots Women's Pistol League

Sure Shots started in Texas back in 2010 by Niki Jones. Since that time they've brought in hundreds of shooters, more chapters, and a great magazine. Niki Jones herself was there representing the brand.

You can visit the Austin Sure Shots page here. For the magazine, follow this link.
Facebook & Instagram

Chicka Bomb

Chicka Bomb was started by Carrin Welch, who herself got involved with shooting via Sure Shots. It's a lifestyle brand that not only does shirts and jewelry, but also luxury gun cases and covert range bags that can do double duty for concealed carry.

You can visit Chicka Bomb online here.
Facebook & Instagram

A Girl & A Gun

Last but certainly not least was A Girl & A Gun. Founded by Julianna Crowder, they describe themselves as a club by women shooters for women shooters. Covering topics ranging from recreation, education, and all the way up to competition, A Girl and A Gun is all about empowerment and self-reliance. There are currently more than 90 chapters across the United States

You can visit A Girl & A Gun online here
Facebook & Twitter

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