The New York Times reports on efforts by gun manufacturers to promote firearms use and ownership among young people, a campaign conducted largely through the industry’s nonprofit trade association.

The Newtown, Conn.-based National Shooting Sports Foundation has been a driving force in gun firms’ youth efforts, which have included spending millions of dollars on giving weapons, ammunition, and grants to youth groups; lobbying states to lower legal hunting ages; and developing a target-shooting video game that promotes brand-name guns.

Amid a long-term decline in participation in shooting sports, the foundation has also sponsored research to assess teenagers’ attitudes about guns and develop strategies for building their acceptance of firearms.