Thinh Le
BUSS407
Interest Group: NRA
The National Rifle Association (NRA) is one of the largest and most influential interest
group in the United States, headquartered in Fairfax, Virginia, near Washington DC.
According to an article by USA Today, as of May 2013, the Association’s membership has
reached the mark of five millions.
According to NRA’s website, the organization was first established in 1871 by Colonel
William C. Church and General George Wingate, after witnessing the lack of
marksmanship in their troops. Thus, the primary and original goal of NRA was to
“promote and encourage rifle shooting on a scientific basis”. The NRA developed and
maintains many programs specializing in training and encouraging the safe use of firearms
in the U.S such as the Eddie Eagle program for young children. It also host many events
related to competitive shooting in the U.S such as National Rifle and Pistol Matches,
National Muzzle Loading Championship and the Bianchi Cup. Before the establishment of
USA Shooting in 1992, NRA was also the only U.S governing body for competitive
shooting at the Olympic event. The NRA also cooperates with many other organizations,
both governmental and private, on issues related to firearm training and regulation. NRA
also operates its own online store specializing in firearm accessories.
Another facet of NRA’s operation is its lobbying activities. The NRA, and its lobbying arm
– The Institute for Legislative Action, which is a certified Section 527 organization, are