The story of Anderson Manufacturing began in 1955, when William C. Anderson opened a precision machine shop in Hebron, Kentucky. For decades, the company specialized in contract machining, building a reputation for quality and reliability. The 2008 recession and a shifting firearms market prompted a pivotal change: Anderson pivoted to producing AR-15 parts, quickly becoming a major supplier of lower receivers and components. By 2010, the company was manufacturing complete AR-15 rifles, offering American-made products at prices that undercut much of the competition. Anderson's focus on affordability and domestic production fueled rapid growth, with the company ranking first in the U.S. for miscellaneous firearms production by 2017. Major investments in automation, including a state-of-the-art barrel facility, enabled Anderson to maintain high quality while scaling output. The launch of a Custom Shop in 2023 further diversified its offerings. Despite challenges, including market volatility and the complexities of firearms regulation, Anderson remained family-owned and operated until its acquisition by Ruger in 2025. The Anderson legacy endures through its impact on the AR-15 market and its commitment to making firearms ownership accessible to a wider audience.