When a firearms manufacturer reached out to us for a quote on suppressors, we could have politely said “no.” While we had the precision CNC machining technology to handle the job, we didn’t have the necessary certifications.
But as our customers know well, the word “no” isn’t really in our vocabulary.
Instead of turning them away, we took the steps necessary to secure our Federal Firearms License (FFL), Type 7, which allows for the manufacturing of firearms components. With steady demand across the firearms industry and more manufacturers looking for high-quality parts, this decision felt like a win-win.
Not only did it give our customers what they needed, but it also opened the door for us to support more work in a growing market.
A Large Industry That Continues to Grow
The U.S. firearms and ammunition industry remains a major force in North American manufacturing. In 2024 alone, it generated $91.7 billion—a 379% increase since 2008, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).
Much of this demand is driven by law enforcement and military applications, along with increasing interest in personal protection and safety.
The Shooting Industry’s 2025 Outlook found that 80% of recent consumer purchasers cite protection as their primary motivator for purchasing a firearm. This emphasis on protection is also reshaping the demographics of who is purchasing firearms.
At the same time, we’re seeing broader shifts in what manufacturers need from their machining partners: Increased interest in lightweight materials, more focus on coatings and durability, and a growing demand for customization.
As a full-service precision CNC machining partner, we combine advanced capabilities with deep material knowledge to meet that demand and support the next generation of firearms innovation.
Key Trends in Firearms Manufacturing
As we begin working with more customers in the firearms space, we’re noticing consistent trends in what manufacturers need:
The Rise of Suppressors
Suppressors are best known for reducing flash and sound, but their benefits go beyond stealth. Sound reduction helps protect against long-term hearing damage, especially with repeated use. They also cut down on recoil and improve accuracy—big advantages when it comes to reducing fatigue and maintaining control in military and law enforcement environments.
The Shift to Lightweight, Durable Materials
Firearms have come a long way from the wood and heavy metal components of the past. Today’s designs use lightweight materials like polymers, titanium, and aluminum to reduce fatigue while maintaining strength. In high-heat areas like barrels and suppressors, durability is just as important as weight.
Increased Customization
Modern firearms are built with modularity in mind. From rails and mounts to optics and other accessories, manufacturers are designing with flexibility and customization at the forefront. That makes precision even more critical, especially as aftermarket parts need to fit together perfectly.
To meet these demands, 5-axis milling has become increasingly valuable.
It allows for the creation of intricate features, enables part consolidation, and supports the complexity of modern firearm designs. As manufacturers push the boundaries of what's possible, they’ll need a metal manufacturer with the technology and the experience to keep up.
How ReNEW Manufacturing Solutions Supports the Firearms Industry
With three specialized facilities, experienced teams, and the right certifications, we’re ready to support firearms manufacturers and accessory brands.
Our three facilities are fully certified under the FFL and equipped to handle everything from complex components to high-volume production. Across our sites, we’ve built out a range of capabilities to meet the demands of firearms manufacturing:
- 3-, 4-, and 5-axis milling and turning centers for advanced part geometries
- Expertise in common firearm materials like titanium, aluminum, and polymers
- Experience with heat-resistant alloys, tight tolerances, and high-repeatability parts like suppressor baffles and other internal components
- Deep knowledge of coatings, anodizing, and finishing processes to help parts perform and last
Whether you’re looking for help with prototyping or need a partner who can scale with you, we’ve got the precision manufacturing services to deliver.
Want to see our metal manufacturing facility in action? We offer virtual tours of our Georgia, Ohio, and Texas locations so that you can see exactly how we bring your parts to life—without leaving your office.
Our team is excited to enter this high-demand industry and contribute to the future of modern firearms manufacturing. If you’d like to discuss how we can support your next project with our industrial manufacturing solutions, please contact us or reach out for a quote.
