AJ+'s documentary series Guns in America explores how fear and power define Americans' relationship with guns. The six-part series examines the controversy over assault rifles, guns in schools, the rise of concealed carry, the NRA's new agenda, smart guns and record shooting rates in Chicago.
Part 1 - Inside Trump's Era Of Guns: The NRA, Silencers And Deregulation
Deregulating silencers, broadening concealed carry and undercutting state gun laws are just a few likely changes after the National Rifle Association supported President Trump to an unprecedented level. Now, the Trump era of gun rights is here, and the NRA is looking to capitalize on their election investment. (15mins)
Part 2 - The AR-15: Exploring America's Most Wanted Rifle
A shooting in Washington State provides a window into America’s obsession with the AR-15. In the summer of 2016, a 19-year-old in a Seattle suburb gunned down three peers with a rifle that he called “a symbol of power.” Increasingly popularized by movies and video games, the AR-15 has become a weapon of choice in some of America’s bloodiest mass shootings. (15mins)
Part 3 - Arming The Classroom: The Fight Over Guns In America's Schools
The national debate on whether to allow guns in schools is heating up. Across the country, students are coming down hard on either side. Citing an uptick in school shootings, teachers weigh in on whether to carry guns into their classrooms. (16mins)
Part 4 - Chicago’s Struggle With Gun Violence
It's easy to buy a gun on the streets of Chicago, where violence has recently soared to records highs. Despite some of the strictest gun laws in the country, the city is inundated with guns from out of town and out of state. This past summer exposed a relentless string of shootings and a city struggling to find solutions. (14mins)
Part 5 - Smart Guns Are Here: The Battle Over High-Tech Guns In America
Smart guns are here – is America ready for them? An inside look at the highly controversial push to bring new models of smart guns to the public and the police, including an exclusive look at the new Armatix iP9 9MM. (15mins)
Part 6 - Driven By Fear: Handguns And The Rise Of Concealed Carry
The number of concealed-carry weapon holders in America has skyrocketed over the last decade, from under 5 million to over 13 million today. More and more people see carrying a gun as the best way to stay safe, but others believe the influx of guns in public spaces is making the country more dangerous. (14mins)