Why? Women gun owners on the rise

SCOTTSDALE, AZ - Carrying guns has always been a hot topic in Arizona, and it appears more women are exercising their right to own one.

A new survey shows 23 percent of women in the U.S. have a gun.

That's up from 13 percent in 2005.

Darcie Edelkraut has been a gun owner and member of the Scottsdale Gun Club since 2009.

"I had never seen a gun, held a gun and didn't know much about shooting," she said.

The Arcadia mom and marketing specialist said she was tired of playing tennis and her other activities, so she sought out a new challenge.

"I am told I don't look like the typical woman who would have a gun," Edelkraut said. "I don't know exactly what that means."

According to the NRA, the largest demographic increase in gun ownership during the past three years goes to women.

And, a recent survey by the National Shooting Sports Foundation found 61 percent of retailers saw an increase of female customers from 2009 to 2010.

Like many female gun owners, Edelkraut initially got into shooting for sport.

She now has another reason to carry.

"It gives me a lot more confidence, that I know how to protect myself and my family," she said.

In the time since Edelkraut's become a gun owner, there have been two attempted break-ins at her home.

During the last encounter, Edelkraut racked the action on her gun and the guy took off.

"It's personal safety," she said. "I think women should know how to shoot a gun."

An indicator of the growing number of women who own guns here in the Valley, is the number of classes geared toward them.

The Scottsdale Gun Club's monthly Ladies of Liberty class sells out two months in advance.

For more information on gun safety and handling classes for women, visit SCG's website .