Amidst an increase in cases of abuse, stalking, and witnessing crime, women across the nation are turning to guns as a means of self-defense, according to an NRA instructor. Robin Evans, founder and owner of the self-defense training company Chicks with Triggers, has seen a surge in demand for her services as more women seek to become “their own first responders.” Evans believes that the dangerous world we live in today has prompted women to take their safety into their own hands.
Chicks with Triggers was launched by Evans during the pandemic as a way to train women in gun safety and self-defense. Initially expecting it to be a small side hobby, the business quickly expanded, now holding classes for 25-30 women each weekend in South Carolina, North Carolina, and Georgia. Evans noted that approximately 60% of her clientele have experienced dangerous and violent situations themselves, such as domestic abuse, rape, or kidnapping.
The success of Chicks with Triggers can be attributed to its focus on creating a safe and comfortable environment for women. Evans has eliminated the stressors that women often encounter when purchasing a firearm and enrolling in classes. Many women prefer not to attend male-dominated classes and feel uncomfortable being surrounded by men or being mansplained about guns. Evans aims to offer a no-pressure atmosphere where women can learn at their own pace.
In a video shared exclusively with Digital, several women who trained through Chicks with Triggers expressed their newfound confidence and empowerment. They highlighted how the training helped them feel more comfortable handling and shooting guns, as well as understanding gun laws. One client stated, “Any threat that comes my way now, I feel like with my gun, I can handle it.”
The NRA has shown support for Chicks with Triggers, recognizing the importance of empowering women to defend themselves. Wayne LaPierre, NRA’s Executive Vice President and CEO, commended Robin Evans for her efforts in training over 4,500 women and serving as an ambassador for self-defense education. LaPierre emphasized the crucial role NRA instructors play in empowering citizens to exercise their Second Amendment rights responsibly.
Interestingly, Chicks with Triggers initially attracted a predominantly Black clientele. However, Evans has observed an unexpected increase in interest from Asian American, Hispanic, and White women. She believes that the uptick in gun ownership among women, especially minority women, is driven by a desire to protect themselves in a justice system that may not always support them.
Gun ownership has experienced significant growth among women, with about half of firearm customers being women between 2019 and 2021. The Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health found that women were the fastest-growing demographic for gun ownership during those years. Robin Evans believes that women want to have a solid understanding of gun ownership and safety before carrying a firearm. She even offers a “try before you buy” service, allowing women to become familiar with different firearms before making a purchase.
Overall, the increasing number of women turning to guns for self-defense reflects their desire to take control of their safety in a world where they feel let down by the justice system and law enforcement. With Chicks with Triggers and similar initiatives, women are becoming their own first responders, ready to protect themselves when needed.
Sources:
– NRA
– Digital
