Over a period of three years, award-winning British photographer Zed Nelson documented America’s gun culture. These compelling images explore the paradox of why America’s most potent symbol of freedom is also one of its greatest killers – resulting in an annual death toll of almost 30,000 American citizens.
Since 1960, over half a million citizens have been shot to death in the streets and homes of the USA, and there are an estimated 240 million guns in circulation nationwide. The growing popularity of high-calibre, semi-automatic assault weapons and hand-guns has added to the carnage.

Gun Nation has been awarded 5 major photography awards including a 1st Prize, World Press Photo.

MILLINGTON, TENNESSEE Sarah Read, 10, at Top Brass Sports Inc. gun store. “I got a 410 shotgun form Santa Claus last year.” (Photo by Zed Nelson)