The National Rifle Association (NRA) is a U.S.-based membership organization founded in 1871 that advocates for Second Amendment rights, provides firearms safety and marksmanship training, offers shooting-sports programs and publications, and conducts public education and political advocacy on firearms-related issues.
Typically advances pro-Second Amendment and gun-rights policies, supports concealed-carry and state-level firearms prerogatives, promotes firearms safety, training, and hunting interests, and opposes many federal and state gun-control proposals while engaging in lobbying, candidate endorsements, and public campaigns.
Primarily funded by membership dues and fees, individual donations and fundraising events, publication and merchandise sales, program service revenue, and contributions to affiliated political committees.
Key affiliated entities include the NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA), the NRA Political Victory Fund (NRA-PVF), the NRA Foundation, the organization’s publishing operations (e.g., American Rifleman), a network of state-level NRA affiliates, and a history of high-profile supporters and spokespeople.
Non-profit organization with affiliated educational and political entities (includes charitable 501(c)(3) components, a 501(c)(4)-style advocacy arm, and an affiliated political action committee).
