TYLER — Gun sales are at an all time high in the United States.

According to the National Rifle Association, almost 45 percent of American households own a gun. and that number is only growing.

Mack Woods has been in the gun business more than 35 years.

He's the first to tell you, guns are not just for men, however, many women shy away from the sport after a bad experience, usually from their husband or boyfriend.

Woods says one husband told him, "I took my wife out to shoot with a .44 magnum', that's a huge gun, 'no ear protection, no eye protection.' And she shot the thing, and she pretty much messed up her pants."

But that's not the case anymore.

More women than ever before are not only showing interest in firearms, but they're learning how to shoot, the right way, and applying for their concealed license.

In such a masculine environment, Heather Gatlin provides a comforting buffer between women and the cold hard metal behind the counter.

Gatlin says, "I'll approach them. I ask them what they're here for. And as we go out on the range, I will stand beside them and be their safety officer. They are put at ease when they see a female behind the counter."

Click here to apply for your Concealed Handgun License in the state of Texas.

Sing up for classroom and range instruction at Shootist Gun & Knife Shop or Lock & Load. Both are located in Tyler and were used during the shooting of this special report.