Atlanta Black Women Have Joined Gun Clubs

Local firearm organizations are seeing rapid growth as more Black residents seek safety training.

Updated on Oct. 7, 2026 in Hunting

Bold vector editorial illustration of professional ear protection resting on a flat surface, representing community safety training. — Rising interest in personal safety has led to a surge in membership for Atlanta-area gun clubs and survival skills organizations. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Black women in Atlanta are increasingly joining gun clubs and pursuing firearms training. This trend reflects a growing interest in personal safety and survival skills across the local community.

Why it matters

Interest in gun ownership is rising due to concerns over personal safety and uncertainty regarding the national political climate. These groups offer specialized training to help members feel more secure.

Black Americans accounted for 32% of all new target shooters in 2024. Locally, the Bass Reeves Gun Club now counts 700 active members, while the Atlanta chapter of A Girl & A Gun is nearing 200 members.

The players

Bass Reeves Gun Club

This organization provides firearms training and community support for members in Atlanta.

A Girl & A Gun

This national organization operates a local chapter in Atlanta focused on training for women shooters.

The details

Organizations like the Bass Reeves Gun Club and A Girl & A Gun are providing structured training sessions to meet this surge in demand. Members are actively participating in both firearms and survival skills workshops.

The Bass Reeves Gun Club Facebook group grew from roughly 300 to 1,400 members since 2017.
Georgia enacted permitless concealed carry legislation in 2022.
Black Americans accounted for 32% of new target shooters in 2024.
The Atlanta chapter of A Girl & A Gun has tripled in size over the past two years.
Gun clubs saw a renewed increase in membership interest over the last year.

Culture Shift

This movement follows the 2022 Georgia permitless concealed carry law which fundamentally changed the state's firearms landscape. The trend reflects a broader societal shift toward individual self-reliance and community-led safety initiatives.

Residents interested in these organizations can expect to commit time to regular training sessions and safety workshops. These clubs provide a structured environment for those looking to improve their proficiency with firearms.

The takeaway

Members should ensure they are familiar with state-specific regulations even in permitless carry jurisdictions to maintain safe handling practices. Participating in community-based groups provides both the necessary skills and a supportive network for new shooters.