Idaho Voters Will Select Official State Gun in November

Idahoans will weigh in on an advisory ballot measure to designate a specific firearm as an official state symbol.

Updated on Sept. 29, 2026 in Hunting

Isometric editorial illustration of a rifle silhouette placed on a stylized mountain range, representing a legislative ballot measure. — Idaho voters will participate in a non-binding ballot measure this November to select a historically significant firearm as the official state gun. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

Live Poll

Do you support using state ballot measures to select official cultural symbols like a state gun?

The Idaho Legislature has placed a non-binding advisory question on the November 2026 ballot to determine a state gun. Residents will select from one of six historically significant firearm options during the upcoming election.

Why it matters

Proponents of the measure argue that firearms have served a crucial role in the development and history of Idaho. The result of this vote will guide future legislative sessions regarding the official designation.

Voters will choose from six specific firearm options, including the Winchester Model 1894, Winchester Model 1873, Colt Single Action Army Revolver, Colt M1911, M1 Garand, and Remington Model 700.

The players

Idaho Legislature

This is the state's legislative body responsible for passing laws and authorizing ballot measures.

The details

Under House Bill 932, the Idaho Legislature authorized this ballot question to gather public input on which historic firearm best represents the state. While the measure is non-binding, lawmakers intend to utilize the results to inform their future deliberations on the designation.

The advisory question will appear on the ballot in November 2026.

Culture Shift

This move to formalize state symbols reflects a broader trend of states codifying historical identities through official designations. By engaging the public via House Bill 932, Idaho is positioning its legislative process to align with voter sentiment regarding regional heritage.

The ballot measure requires voters to participate in a selection process that will influence future state legislative decisions. Residents should review the list of six available firearms to inform their choice during the November 2026 election.

The takeaway

Voters should prepare to select their preferred firearm from the provided list to ensure their voice is heard in this non-binding process. Understanding the historical context of each model can help residents make an informed decision on this state symbol.