Facts About the NRA
History of the National Rifle Association
Established in 1871, the National
Rifle Association of America (NRA) is a non-profit organization supported entirely by membership fees and by
donations from public-spirited citizens.
The NRA does not receive any
appropriations from Congress, nor is it a trade organization. It is not affiliated with any firearm or ammunition
manufacturers or with any businesses which deal firearms or ammunition.
Originally formed to promote
marksmanship training, the NRA has since reached out to establish a wide variety of activities, ranging from gun
safety programs for children and adults to gun collecting and gunsmithing. Hundreds of thousands of law enforcement
personnel have received training from NRA Certified Instructors in the firearm skills needed to protect themselves
and the public. In addition, clubs enrolled or affiliated with the NRA exist in communities across the nation,
teaching youths and adults gun safety, marksmanship, and responsibility while also providing recreational
activities.
The membership roster of the NRA
has included seven Presidents of the United States, tow Chief Justices of the U.S. Supreme Court, and many of
America's outstanding diplomats, military leaders, members of Congress, and other public
officials.
The NRA cooperates with federal
agencies, all branches of the U.S. Armed Forces, and state and local governments that are interested in training
and safety programs.
The basic goals of the NRA are
to:
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Protect and defend the Constitution of the United States, especially in regard to the
Second Ammendment right of the individual citizen to keep and bear arms. |
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Promote public safety, law and order, and the national defense. |
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Train
citizens and members of law enforcement agencies and the armed forces in the safe handling and
efficient use of firearms. |
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Foster and promote the shooting sports at local, state, regional, national, and
international levels. |
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Promote hunter safety and proper wildlife management. |
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