The term “Fudd” within the gun community is an informal, sometimes pejorative, term used to describe a certain type of gun owner. The origin of the term can be traced back to the character Elmer Fudd, a hunter from the classic Warner Bros. Looney Tunes and Merrie Melodies cartoons. Elmer Fudd is known for his bumbling and comical attempts to hunt Bugs Bunny and Daffy Duck, often using a double-barreled shotgun.
In the gun community, the term “Fudd” has evolved to describe a gun owner who is generally conservative in their views on firearms and focuses on traditional hunting and sport shooting. Fudds typically prioritize shotguns, bolt-action rifles, and revolvers, often dismissing modern semi-automatic rifles and handguns, as well as any advancements or accessories related to these firearms.
Fudds are sometimes seen as out of touch with contemporary gun culture and may express little interest in self-defense or the broader implications of the Second Amendment. They may be more willing to accept certain gun control measures, such as restrictions on “tactical” firearms, magazine capacities, or suppressors, as they believe these regulations do not directly affect their own firearms of choice.
It is important to note that not all individuals within the gun community who prefer traditional firearms or have a more conservative approach to guns are accurately described as Fudds.
The term, in its derogatory use, specifically targets those who are dismissive or ignorant of other aspects of gun culture, the Second Amendment, and the diverse interests of modern gun owners.