Straight from our state-of-the-art facility in Jacksonville, Florida. As a proud U.S.-based manufacturer with roots in innovative Turkish engineering, we're dedicated to producing reliable, high-quality firearms that meet the needs of all shooters. Today, we're diving into a topic close to our hearts: the growing role of women in the world of concealed carry and gun ownership. We'll explore why more women are choosing to carry, debunk some common myths, highlight shifting trends in purchasing, and spotlight our DY9 and DY9Z models—pistols we've designed with women's preferences and practical needs in mind. At Derya Arms, we truly care about empowering women to protect themselves and their loved ones.

Why Women Choose to Carry: Beyond the Basics

Women aren't just joining the firearms community—they're leading a surge in ownership and concealed carry. According to recent data, women now make up about 25% of gun owners in the U.S., a significant jump from previous decades. But why? The reasons are as diverse as the women themselves, but here are some of the most common motivations:

• Self-Defense and Personal Protection: In an unpredictable world, many women carry for peace of mind. Whether walking alone at night, traveling for work, or protecting their homes, a firearm levels the playing field. Self-defense remains the top reason women are entering the gun market, with one-third of new buyers citing it as their primary motivation.
• Empowerment and Independence: Carrying a gun isn't just about safety—it's about feeling strong and in control. Women often report that owning and training with a firearm boosts their confidence and reduces vulnerability. As one expert notes, it "gives women a feeling of empowerment" in everyday life.
• Family and Home Protection: Moms, in particular, are increasingly arming themselves to safeguard their children and households. With more women living independently or as single parents, the responsibility of protection falls squarely on their shoulders.
• Recreational and Sporting Use: Not all carrying is about defense. Many women enjoy target shooting, hunting, or competitive sports as a hobby, and concealed carry allows them to integrate firearms seamlessly into their lifestyles.

These reasons highlight a shift: women are taking ownership of their safety, and the numbers back it up. Over 42% of women gun owners hold concealed carry permits, reflecting a commitment to responsible, everyday readiness.

Busting Myths: What Women Really Want in a Firearm

The firearms industry has long been plagued by stereotypes about female buyers, and it's time to set the record straight. One of the most persistent misrepresentations is that women prefer "girly" or colored guns—like pink or purple frames—to make them feel more approachable. In reality, most women opt for practical, standard colors like black or gray for their reliability, concealment, and professional appearance. Surveys and dealer insights show that female buyers "seldom care for the pink or purple options," focusing instead on functionality over flair. Overwhelming feedback from women shooters emphasizes that they want tools that perform, not accessories that stand out.

Another myth? That women need tiny, lightweight revolvers because they're "too delicate" for semi-autos. This outdated notion ignores the fact that modern women prioritize ergonomics, recoil management, and ease of use in compact pistols. At Derya Arms, we design with real feedback in mind, ensuring our guns fit comfortably without compromising power.

Shifting Trends: From Gifts to Self-Purchases

Historically, many guns for women were bought by men—often as gifts from husbands, fathers, or partners. While well-intentioned, this trend overlooked women's direct input. But that's changing rapidly. With women leading the charge in new gun purchases (over half of recent buyers are likely female), and concealed carry licenses skyrocketing among them, more women are heading to stores themselves. Ownership among women has swelled to over 20% in recent years, closing the gender gap as they exercise their Second Amendment rights independently. This decrease in proxy purchases means women are selecting firearms that truly suit their needs, from size and weight to caliber and features.

Spotlight on Derya Arms: DY9 and DY9Z—Built with Women in Mind

At Derya Arms, we're not just observing these trends—we're responding to them. Our Jacksonville facility is buzzing with innovation, and we're concentrating efforts on pistols like the DY9 and DY9Z, which are tailored for concealed carry and appeal to women seeking reliable, user-friendly options.

• The DY9: This compact 9mm striker-fired pistol is a game-changer for everyday carry. With a 15-round capacity, 4-inch barrel, and lightweight design (just 670 grams), it's patterned after proven platforms like the Glock 19 but enhanced for better ergonomics. Features include Truglo front and rear sights for quick target acquisition, multiple backstraps for customizable grip (perfect for smaller hands), and optic-ready plates for modern upgrades. Available in practical finishes like black nitride or gray ceramic, the DY9 prioritizes concealment and control—ideal for women who want power without bulk. It's versatile for self-defense, range time, or home protection, and its smooth trigger pull makes it accessible for all skill levels.

• The DY9Z: Our newest addition, the DY9Z takes compactness to the next level, drawing inspiration from slimline designs. It's even more concealable, with a slimmer profile for easier holstering under clothing—a top request from female carriers. Chambered in 9mm with similar high-quality sights and finishes, it offers reduced recoil and a comfortable grip for extended use. Notably, it accepts magazines for the Glock 43X, ensuring compatibility and easy access to reliable feeding options. Whether you're new to carrying or a seasoned pro, the DY9Z emphasizes discretion and reliability, making it a favorite for women-focused training classes. Early reviews hail it as a "budget-friendly alternative" that's "perfect for concealed carry."

Check out this video review of the DY9 and DY9Z:

These models reflect our commitment: Derya Arms cares deeply about women. We listen to your feedback, incorporating features like adjustable grips and low-recoil engineering to make shooting intuitive and effective. Our pistols aren't just tools—they're extensions of your strength and independence.

Final Thoughts: Join the Movement with Derya Arms

As more women embrace firearms for protection, empowerment, and fun, Derya Arms is here to support you every step of the way. From our Jacksonville headquarters, we're proud to manufacture American-made quality that puts women first. If you're considering your first gun or upgrading your carry piece, stop by our site or a local dealer to check out the DY9 and DY9Z. Remember, responsible ownership starts with education—get trained, stay safe, and own your power.

What are your thoughts on women in the firearms world? Share in the comments below, and follow us for more tips, reviews, and updates. Stay empowered!

Derya Arms – Innovating for a Safer Tomorrow.