Facts About the NRA

History of the National Rifle Association 

Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association of America (NRA) is a non-profit organization supported entirely by membership fees and by donations from public-spirited citizens.

The NRA does not receive any appropriations from Congress, nor is it a trade organization. It is not affiliated with any firearm or ammunition manufacturers or with any businesses which deal firearms or ammunition.

Originally formed to promote marksmanship training, the NRA has since reached out to establish a wide variety of activities, ranging from gun safety programs for children and adults to gun collecting and gunsmithing. Hundreds of thousands of law enforcement personnel have received training from NRA Certified Instructors in the firearm skills needed to protect themselves and the public. In addition, clubs enrolled or affiliated with the NRA exist in communities across the nation, teaching youths and adults gun safety, marksmanship, and responsibility while also providing recreational activities.

The membership roster of the NRA has included seven Presidents of the United States, tow Chief Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court, and many of America's outstanding diplomats, military leaders, members of Congress, and other public officials.

The NRA cooperates with federal agencies, all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, and state and local governments that are interested in training and safety programs.

The basic goals of the NRA are to:

Protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, especially in regard to the Second Ammendment right of the individual citizen to keep and bear arms.

Promote public safety, law and order, and the national defense.

Train citizens and members of law enforcement agencies and the armed forces in the safe handling and efficient use of firearms.

Foster and promote the shooting sports at local, state, regional, national, and international levels.

Promote hunter safety and proper wildlife management.