August 31, 2026
Idaho Is Picking a State Gun
Yes, Really!
By: ID Senator Tammy Nichols
As I talk to Idahoans about the upcoming election, most have no idea this question will be on their November ballot.
When Idaho voters head to the polls on November 3, 2026, there will be plenty of serious decisions to make. Candidates, constitutional amendments, Proposition One, and then something you probably weren’t expecting:
Which gun should become the official State Gun of Idaho?
Yes, that’s really on the ballot.
Earlier this year, the Idaho Legislature passed House Bill 932, placing an advisory question before Idaho voters asking them to choose from six firearms. The bill passed the House 68-0 and the Senate 32-0 and was signed into law by Governor Brad Little on April 2.
The idea came in part from America’s 250th anniversary. The legislation recognizes the role firearms have played throughout American history, from the Revolutionary War and westward expansion to hunting, ranching, self-defense and recreational shooting.
That history certainly fits Idaho.
Firearms have long been part of Idaho’s culture and heritage. Hunters have depended on rifles to put food on the table. Ranchers and farmers have used them to protect livestock and property. Generations of Idahoans have grown up learning firearm safety, marksmanship and responsible gun ownership.
So, which firearm best represents Idaho?
Here Are Your Six Choices
Winchester Model 1894 (.30-30)
One of America’s classic hunting rifles. Introduced in 1894, this lever action rifle became one of the most popular hunting rifles ever made.
Winchester Model 1873 (.44-40)
Often called the “Gun that Won the West.” It became closely associated with pioneers, ranchers and America’s western expansion.
1873 Colt Single Action Army Revolver (.45 Colt)
Better known as the “Peacemaker.” Cowboys, lawmen, soldiers and civilians all carried versions of this legendary revolver.
M1 Garand (.30-06)
This one represents a very different chapter of American history. The M1 was the standard U.S. military rifle during World War II and continued serving during the Korean War.
Colt M1911 (.45 ACP)
Adopted by the U.S. military in 1911, this semi-automatic pistol served America’s armed forces for decades and remains extremely popular today.
Remington Model 700 (.30-06)
A classic bolt-action rifle introduced in 1962 that became widely used for hunting and precision shooting.
Something else to point out. This isn’t a binding vote.
The ballot question is advisory. Idaho voters are essentially telling the Legislature, “This is the gun we think should represent our state.”
After the votes are counted, the Legislature would still need to pass legislation officially naming the winning firearm as Idaho’s State Gun.
And according to the legislation’s fiscal note, adding the question is expected to have no direct impact on the state’s General Fund, with only a minimal additional ballot cost because election funding is already in place.
Which One Says “Idaho” to You?
This may not be the most consequential question on November’s ballot, but it may be one of the most interesting.
Idaho already celebrates the things that make our state unique through official symbols representing our wildlife, agriculture, landscape and heritage. Selecting a State Gun gives Idahoans another opportunity to recognize a piece of our history, and this time, the Legislature isn’t making the choice for you.
You are.
Before November 3, take a look at the six choices.
Maybe you’re a hunter and the Winchester 1894 or Remington 700 gets your vote. Maybe America’s military history makes the M1 Garand or 1911 the obvious choice. Or maybe nothing says the American West quite like the Winchester 1873 or Colt Peacemaker.
Whatever your choice, don’t get to the voting booth and wonder:
“Why am I voting on a gun?”
Now you know.
So, Idaho, what should our State Gun be?
In Liberty,
Senator Tammy Nichols
District 10
