Reluctant Owners and Unwanted Guns: Exploring Motivations for Relinquishing Firearms at Gun Buybacks in Michigan

Background: Firearms are frequently transferred through inheritance and other non-purchase pathways, leaving many individuals in possession of unwanted guns and limited options for safe disposal. This study examined the characteristics and motivations of individuals relinquishing firearms at community gun buyback and destruction events in Michigan to inform understanding of firearm divestment and disposal pathways. Methods: We conducted an explanatory sequential mixed-methods study of six faith-based gun buyback and destruction events held in southeastern Michigan between June and October 2024. Quantitative surveys (n = 109) captured participant demographics and firearm characteristics. Follow-up qualitative interviews (n = 7) explored participants' experiences and motivations using inductive-deductive thematic analysis. Results: Across six events, 151 individuals relinquished 318 firearms, most of which were handguns. Nearly one-third of participants disposed of firearms on behalf of others, and two-thirds of personally owned guns had been obtained through non-purchase transfers, most commonly inheritance. Participants frequently expressed anxiety about storing unwanted firearms and relief after safe disposal. The most common motivations were concern about misuse (59%) and fear of theft (54%). Interviews identified five intersecting themes: inheritance and unwanted firearms, safety and family protection, evolving views on ownership, barriers to legal disposal, and emotional relief and closure after relinquishment. Conclusions: Many individuals become firearm owners through inheritance or other non-purchase transfers rather than intentional acquisition. Their experiences reveal that unwanted firearms can generate sustained unease and moral responsibility, motivating voluntary divestment when safe, non-punitive options are available. Results: Across six events, 151 individuals relinquished 318 firearms, most of which were handguns. Nearly one-third of participants disposed of firearms on behalf of others, and two-thirds of personally owned guns had been obtained through non-purchase transfers, most commonly inheritance. Participants frequently expressed anxiety about storing unwanted firearms and relief after safe disposal. The most common motivations were concern about misuse (59%) and fear of theft (54%). Interviews identified five intersecting themes: inheritance and unwanted firearms, safety and family protection, evolving views on ownership, barriers to legal disposal, and emotional relief and closure after relinquishment. Conclusions: Many individuals become firearm owners through inheritance or other non-purchase transfers rather than intentional acquisition. Their experiences reveal that unwanted firearms can generate sustained unease and moral responsibility, motivating voluntary divestment when safe, non-punitive options are available.