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"Papa Says It's Safe": 20 Astounding Gun Ads

The firearms industry sure knows how to tempt its audience.

Mark MurrmannDec. 14, 2012 11:09 PM

Advertisements for guns have long been used to stoke fear, offer a little testosterone boost, or give the potential owners—particularly the core target audience of young men—a taste of the good life as a cowboy, cop, soldier, or videogame combatant. Here are some samples through the years beginning with Bushmaster, manufacturer of the rifle allegedly used in the Newtown school shooting. 

Bushmaster rifle ad in, where else, Maxim. Bushmaster
 

It's all about progress. Bushmaster

 

Start 'em young. Mattel

 

Sig Sauer

 

How many people buying a Sig would be stoked to win a Smart Car?
 
 
Subtle. Remington
 
Remington
 
Daniel Defense
 
Yes, there is a gun-maker called Savage Arms, and this is its logo. Savage Arms
 
Buy NOW, or else. USA Ammo
 
POF-USA
 
EAA Corp.
 
You're welcome, ladies. Taurus
 
Your trusty revolver vs. the well-dressed criminal. Smith & Wesson
The "home protection" theme goes way back. Smith & Wesson

 

On the other hand, safety used to be more of a marketing pitch. Colt
 
The original Homer Simpson bowling ball gift. Colt
 
Remington
 
Start him right. Winchester
...okay, start 'em REALLY young. "Papa says it won't hurt us." Iver Johnson
 
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