Advocacy organizations

Focus: Legal advocacy and litigation for Second Amendment rights
What they offer:

• Legal challenges to restrictive gun laws
   
• Educational resources and conferences
   
• Publications and policy research
   

Why they matter:
Unlike the NRA’s sometimes scattershot political efforts, SAF focuses on courtroom victories. They've been central in key lawsuits defending the right to carry and own firearms, especially in states with aggressive restrictions.

Focus: Legal and grassroots advocacy with a strong digital presence
What they offer:

• Aggressive legal challenges to gun control laws
   
• Fast-breaking updates via social media and email
   
• Public education on constitutional rights
   

Why they matter:
FPC has embraced a younger, more internet-savvy audience. They're known for fast responses to legislative threats, a strong libertarian streak, and unapologetic pro-rights messaging.

Focus: “No-compromise” Second Amendment advocacy
What they offer:

• Legislative lobbying
   
• Alerts and activism tools
   
• Ratings for politicians
   

Why they matter:
GOA brands itself as more principled than the NRA, often taking harder-line stances against even minor regulations. They’ve gained credibility among gun owners who feel the NRA became too political or too willing to negotiate.

 The Liberal Gun Club

Focus: Gun education and rights from a left-leaning perspective
What they offer:

• Firearms training
   
• Community-building for politically progressive gun owners
   
• Advocacy focused on root causes of violence, not just gun policy
   

Why they matter:
They disrupt the narrative that all gun owners are conservative, providing a welcoming space for left-leaning or moderate gun enthusiasts who still value the Second Amendment.

 A Girl & A Gun

Focus: Inclusivity and training for underrepresented groups
What they offer:

• Women- and minority-led gun safety and shooting classes
   
• Support networks and community events
   
• Education tailored to self-defense and empowerment
   

Why they matter:
These groups are expanding the face of gun ownership, offering safe, supportive environments for people historically marginalized or intimidated by the traditional gun world.

 Project Appleseed

Focus: Rifle marksmanship and historical education
What they offer:

• Clinics that teach traditional rifle skills
   
• Education on the American Revolution and the Second Amendment
   

Why they matter:
They combine history and marksmanship in a non-political way, appealing to families and new shooters interested in heritage and skill-building without the baggage of national politics or intimidated by the traditional gun world.

 National Rifle Association (NRA)

Founded: 1871
Focus: Firearms education, marksmanship training, political advocacy for Second Amendment rights.

The NRA began as a marksmanship organization but evolved into the most well-known and influential gun rights advocacy group in the U.S. It offers safety and training courses, supports shooting sports, and lobbies at the federal and state level to protect gun ownership rights.

However, in recent years, the NRA has faced internal controversies, declining membership, and legal challenges, leading to a reduced role in some areas of training and advocacy. Despite this, it still holds significant sway in the gun rights community.

Focus: Concealed carry training, legal protection, and self-defense education
What they offer:

• Nationwide CCW and defensive shooting training curriculum
   
• Legal defense insurance for members involved in self-defense incidents
   
• Online training library and in-person instructor network
   

Why they matter:
USCCA has positioned itself as a practical, professional resource for responsibly armed Americans. Their modern branding, clear legal focus, and online resources have made them especially appealing to new gun owners.