📅 2026 Update: Changes in Gun Safety and Laws

Since the original article was written, there have been several key updates in U.S. gun laws and safety measures. These changes affect everything from application fees for firearm licenses to the introduction of new safety laws in various states. The information below highlights these important updates relevant to gun safety, cleaning, and upkeep kits.

🌟 Federal Firearms License Fee Increase

In 2025, the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) raised the application fee for a Federal Firearms License from $200 to $300. This change may impact individuals and businesses looking to acquire or renew their licenses.

🚨 Introduction of Red Flag Laws

From 2024 to 2026, states like California and New York expanded or enacted "red flag" laws. These laws allow law enforcement to temporarily remove firearms from individuals considered a risk to themselves or others. This aims to improve public safety by preventing potential gun-related incidents.

💰 Current Background Check Fees

As of 2026, the fee for background checks through the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) is $25. This fee is relevant for firearm transfers and is part of the purchasing process for potential gun owners.

⏳ Processing Times for Permits

Processing times for concealed carry permits vary by state. For example, Florida typically processes applications within 90 days, while Texas may take up to 60 days. These timelines are crucial for individuals wanting to carry firearms legally.

📌 Key Points Summary

  • Federal Firearms License fee increased to $300.
  • Red flag laws enacted in states like California and New York.
  • Background check fee is now $25.
  • Processing times for concealed carry permits vary by state.
  • Changes aim to enhance gun safety and regulation.

💡 Tips for Gun Safety and Maintenance

Review your specific situation with your attorney to understand the laws that apply to you.

🔍 Understand Eligibility Rules

Know the federal and state eligibility criteria for firearm ownership. Individuals with felony convictions, certain misdemeanor charges, or restraining orders may be prohibited from purchasing firearms.

🛠️ Use Proper Cleaning Kits

Using the correct cleaning and upkeep kits can help maintain the functionality and safety of firearms. Proper cleaning extends the life of firearms and ensures they operate safely.

📉 Be Aware of Waiting Periods

Some states impose waiting periods for firearm transfers. For instance, California has a 10-day waiting period. Knowing these rules can help you plan your purchases.

📜 Stay Updated on State Laws

Gun laws vary significantly from state to state. Regularly check local regulations to ensure compliance with any recent changes, especially concerning concealed carry permits.

🏠 Secure Firearms Properly

Store firearms in a gun safe to prevent unauthorized access, especially by children. Proper storage is a critical part of gun safety at home.

🎓 Take Safety Training Courses

Participating in firearm safety courses is often required for concealed carry permits. These courses enhance responsible ownership and safe handling practices.

🏆 Gun Safety Services Ranked by User Reviews (2026)

This section reviews services related to firearms and safety, focusing on user ratings and feedback. The data comes from Trustpilot as of October 2026, and scores can change over time. Ratings provide insight into user experiences, but remember that unhappy customers tend to leave more reviews, affecting overall scores.

🥇 1. GunBroker.com

GunBroker.com has been rated 4.5 stars. It is known for being an online marketplace for firearms and accessories, providing a wide selection for buyers. However, some users have reported delays in customer service response times, which could affect user experience.

🆓 Free Government and Nonprofit Resources

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives offers free resources to help individuals understand firearm laws and regulations. Additionally, the National Rifle Association’s Institute for Legislative Action provides information on state-specific laws and updates.

🔎 What to Compare When Choosing Firearm Services

  • 🔍 User ratings and feedback from various platforms.
  • 🕒 Response times for customer inquiries.
  • 📦 Selection of products available for purchase.
  • 💼 Compliance with local laws and regulations.
  • 🔒 Safety features and quality of products offered.

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

❓ What are the federal eligibility criteria for gun ownership?

Federal laws prohibit firearm purchases for individuals convicted of felonies, domestic violence misdemeanants, those with restraining orders, and individuals deemed mentally defective.

⏳ How long does the background check process take?

NICS background checks are usually completed within minutes. If there is a delay, the transfer can be completed after three business days.

📝 What is the process for obtaining a concealed carry permit?

Typically, applicants must submit a completed application form, fingerprints, proof of residency, and, in some states, proof of firearm training.

📅 Are there waiting periods for firearm purchases?

Yes, some states require waiting periods. For example, California has a 10-day waiting period before firearm transfers are finalized.

🔒 How should firearms be safely stored at home?

Firearms should be securely stored in a gun safe to prevent unauthorized access. Keeping ammunition separate can also enhance safety.

🧑‍🎓 Are firearm safety courses mandatory?

Many states require safety training courses for concealed carry permit applicants. These courses are designed to promote responsible gun ownership.

⚖️ Recent Cases Related to Gun Laws

Recent court rulings have shaped the landscape of U.S. gun laws and regulations. These court decisions connect directly to topics of firearm safety and ownership.

For more recent rulings, check out the section more rulings on the news page.

End of October 2026 Update





Gun cleaning kits are sold for the sole reason of convenience. It complies all of the necessary gun cleaning equipment needed to carry out a successful gun cleaning. To further make things easier for a typical firearm owner, gun cleaning kits also are available in specific packages designated to specific firearm arms types or gun calibers. This eliminates the need to purchase separate bore brushes according to individual caliber sizes.

This is very convenient for those who may only own one or two firearms of the same caliber. Universal gun cleaning kits are ideal for those individuals that may have different firearms and types. While providing for the bare essentials, it also allows for the user to acquire the necessary brushes separately and provide for the wide array of gun cleaning equipment necessary to service several types of guns.

Those gun cleaning kits assigned to be used with specific firearms, such as rifles, shotguns, or handguns will often provide for gun cleaning equipment or tools that are designed to be used with that specific firearm that will make the cleaning process easier and faster. Regardless of which type of gun cleaning kit is to be used, they all contain a basic assortment of gun cleaning equipment that is necessary:

Gun Safety Cleaning and Upkeep Kits


     Bottle of solvent

     Bottle of lubricating oil

     Cleaning rod

     Jag

     Patches

     Patch Holder 

With the exception of brushes, this basic list of gun cleaning equipment makes up basic gun cleaning kit and provides for all the essentials. Many companies provide for the various kinds of gun cleaning kits while also adding a few modifications of their own. Using particularly designed tools or types of solvents, companies cater to all types of firearms and gun cleaning needs. Some of the best known gun cleaning kits are made by Hoppe's, Otis, Remington, Orvis, and Kleen-bore.

Some of these companies also manufacture their own line of gun cleaning solvents, such as Hoppe's and Kleen-bore, designed more efficiently break down the build up of copper and powder residue. Even though the choice of gun cleaning kits can be as personal and diverse as individual preference of firearms, they all offer the necessary tools needed to service and maintenance firearms adequately and proficiently.

All gun owners should own at least a universal gun cleaning kit and see to their firearms to be cleaned frequently. Though the verdict is out on the schedule or frequency that one should clean their firearms, it is agreed that in order for a firearm to function properly, it must be serviced. Some would recommend that a firearm be cleaned after every use, while others rarely or never do.

Keeping a gun clean and free of residue and build up is essential for the firearm's proper function. Build up will often cause weapons to jam in the loading process of a semi-automatic weapon, and in some cases, prevent from the trigger from working. Such things can be avoided with a regular cleaning schedule.

It is also strongly recommended that all firearm owners work and clean on their own guns as opposed to bringing them to a qualified dealer. In cleaning a gun, a person can have a first hand look of the components and how they function within the firearm itself. This may lead to be important for some quick repairs, or if the gun ever jams. Knowing how a firearm works internally may not be crucial to knowing how to shoot it, but it should be an important aspect to learn.