Smart Guns and IoT Integration: The Future of Firearm Safety Technology in 2025
The firearms industry is experiencing a technological revolution that’s reshaping how we think about gun safety and ownership. Smart guns and IoT (Internet of Things) integration are poised to revolutionize safety and operational efficiencies, marking one of the most significant developments in firearms technology this decade.
What Are Smart Guns?
A smart gun is a personalized firearm that only its rightful owner can fire. These innovative weapons utilize advanced technology to prevent unauthorized use, addressing one of the most pressing concerns in firearm safety. Newer versions use biometrics instead of older RFID technology, scanning users’ faces, fingerprints, or both when they hold the gun to detect whether they’re the authorized owner, just like many smartphones.
The technology represents a significant leap forward from traditional firearms. When they work properly, smart guns offer a far safer alternative to traditional firearms and may not address every instance of gun violence, but they can eliminate a lot of it.
IoT Integration in Modern Firearms
The integration of Internet of Things technology into firearms extends beyond just smart guns. A new smart gun by Yardarm enables commanding officers to track a great number of statistics revolving around gun use, with sensors located in the handgrip tracking the time a gun is unholstered, the number of shots fired and the location of the shooting.
For law enforcement applications, this innovative use of technology will improve transparency into police activity, and the embedded LTE chipset will also provide additional safety for officers in the line of duty by guaranteeing a quick and reliable real-time connection so that backup can be sent if needed.
Market Growth and Consumer Interest
The Firearms Market grew from USD 8.28 billion in 2023 to USD 8.73 billion in 2024 and is expected to continue growing at a CAGR of 5.49%, reaching USD 12.04 billion by 2030. This growth is being driven partly by technological innovations in smart gun technology.
Key factors driving market growth include rising concerns over personal safety, technological advancements in weaponry, and the growth of shooting sports. The integration of smart technology addresses many consumer concerns about firearm safety while maintaining the fundamental rights of gun ownership.
Addressing Safety Concerns
One of the most compelling applications of smart gun technology is in preventing tragic accidents. The biggest way smart guns could address gun violence is by making teen suicide less likely, as suicide accounts for more gun deaths than any other category. This technology could significantly reduce unauthorized access to firearms by children and teens.
As biometric technology improves, these weapons will become more reliable and safe, and if more manufacturers implement that improved technology, they could save thousands of lives every year.
Challenges and Consumer Concerns
Despite the potential benefits, smart gun technology faces several challenges. Reliability is a concern, as gun owners, especially those who carry a weapon for self-defense purposes, don’t want to have to worry about the condition of a battery or the reliability of an electronic circuit board when their life is on the line.
Cost is another significant factor. Current smart guns on the market today cost anywhere from $1,399 to $1,999, and often require the purchase of a watch or wristband to complete the smart gun technology system, compared to a standard Glock 9mm, which can be purchased for under $600.
Long Island’s Role in the Smart Gun Market
For Long Island residents interested in exploring smart gun technology, it’s important to work with knowledgeable professionals who understand both traditional firearms and emerging technologies. There is no jeweler with better skill, honesty and integrity than what you’ll find at Gold Coast Jewelry & Pawn, and this same commitment to excellence extends to their understanding of evolving firearm technologies.
As the firearms market continues to evolve, consumers in Suffolk County are increasingly looking for reliable sources of information about new technologies. Whether you’re considering upgrading to smart gun technology or need to evaluate the worth of traditional firearms, visiting a reputable pawn shop with experienced professionals can provide valuable insights into market trends and technology developments.
The Future of Firearm Technology
Innovation can play a pivotal role, especially in the development of non-lethal self-defense products and enhanced safety mechanisms, such as biometric gun safes or personalized locking systems, and research into materials science to produce lighter yet durable firearms can also present unique selling propositions.
The integration of IoT technology into firearms represents more than just a technological advancement—it’s a potential solution to many long-standing safety concerns while preserving Second Amendment rights. It will be interesting to see how the average American’s tastes around guns evolve in the future – for now, smart guns are likely to stay on the fringe for quite some time.
As we move further into 2025, the conversation around smart guns and IoT integration will likely intensify. For Long Island residents interested in staying informed about these developments, partnering with knowledgeable local experts who understand both traditional and emerging firearm technologies will be essential for making informed decisions about personal safety and investment in firearms technology.