How many illegally owned guns in the us?

Estimates suggest that there are millions of illegally owned guns in the United States, but precise numbers are difficult to determine due to the nature of illegal ownership. Some studies estimate that around 10% to 20% of firearms in the U.S. may be owned without legal authorization. Factors contributing to illegal ownership include theft, unregistered firearms, and purchases made without background checks. The lack of comprehensive data on gun ownership further complicates accurate assessments.