A pistol made of polymers, in common usage - plastic, was awarded the innovation of the year by a major law enforcement organization. The Smith & Wesson firearm has a polymer frame and a rigid stainless steel structure. The barrel is hardened stainless steel. Many safety features have been integrated into the pistol to make it safer and more compatible for wide adoption by law enforcement.
Implications - With the importance of gun and weapon control rising in the media and political campaigns, the gun industry has seen a downfall in consumption. The widespread fear of criminal and unsafe uses of these weapons that extend beyond self-control has a significant impact on the industry. As a result, weapon designers are attempting to redesign their products to optimize safety and cater to the mass concern voiced by the people and the media.
Plastic Pistol
Polymer Smith & Wesson is Innovation of the Year
Trend Themes
1. Polymer Guns - There is a trend towards developing guns with polymer frames and integrating safety features within designs.
2. Weapon Safety - The importance of safety in the gun industry will result in further innovations that cater to the concerns around weapon control.
3. Rigid Stainless Steel and Polymers - Manufacturing guns with rigid stainless steel and polymer frames is increasing in popularity within the industry.
Industry Implications
1. Law Enforcement - There is an opportunity for manufacturers to design safer, more user-friendly guns for use by law enforcement agencies.
2. Gun Manufacturing - Gun manufacturers can capitalize on the trend of integrating polymer frames, safety features and rigid stainless steel construction to meet consumer demands.
3. Weapon Control Advocacy - Innovations around weapon safety and control can help mitigate public concern and provide advocacy groups with new solutions for promoting responsible gun use.