Ruger Reports Q3 Earnings

From Ruger

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR) announced today that for the third quarter of 2020 the Company reported net sales of $145.7 million and diluted earnings of $1.39 per share, compared with net sales of $95.0 million and diluted earnings of 27¢ per share in the third quarter of 2019.

For the nine months ended September 26, 2020, net sales were $399.6 million and diluted earnings were $3.31 per share. For the corresponding period in 2019, net sales were $305.4 million and diluted earnings were $1.37 per share.

The Company also announced today that its Board of Directors declared a dividend of 56¢ per share for the third quarter for stockholders of record as of November 13, 2020, payable on November 27, 2020. This dividend varies every quarter because the Company pays a percentage of earnings rather than a fixed amount per share. This dividend is approximately 40% of net income.

Chief Executive Officer Christopher J. Killoy commented on the strong financial results for the third quarter of 2020, “Consumer demand showed no signs of letting up during the quarter as concerns about personal protection and home defense were stoked by civil unrest in some cities around the United States, the call, by some, for the reduction in funding and authority of law enforcement organizations, and the continuing COVID-19 pandemic. As a result of this unprecedented demand, inventories remained significantly reduced at all levels in the channel during the third quarter.”

Mr. Killoy reaffirmed the Company’s commitment to the health and safety of its employees, “We suspended hiring from the onset of COVID-19 in March until June when we resumed hiring at a modest, albeit growing, rate to ensure the health and safety of everyone involved. This action has hampered our ability to ramp production, but we know the long-term benefits of maintaining a healthy workforce and clean facilities are well worth any short-term, adverse impact on our operations. And I am happy to report that despite the self-imposed limits on the size of our current workforce, the hard work and commitment of our dedicated employees allowed us to increase production 15% from the prior quarter and 50% from the third quarter of 2019.”

Mr. Killoy provided an update on the Company’s recently announced approval to purchase substantially all of the Marlin firearms assets for $30 million, “We are excited to broaden our catalog of rugged, reliable, and exciting products with the addition of Marlin rifles, and the new product lines will be well-supported in our existing facilities. Customer response to our purchase has been overwhelmingly positive, reinforcing our assertion that the Marlin lineup is an excellent fit for Ruger. We anticipate closing on this purchase in the fourth quarter of 2020 and look forward to re-introducing shooters to Marlin rifles in the second half of 2021.”

Mr. Killoy made the following observations related to the Company’s third quarter 2020 performance:

  • The estimated unit sell-through of the Company’s products from the independent distributors to retailers increased 50% in the first nine months of 2020 compared to the prior year period. For the same period, the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (“NICS”) background checks (as adjusted by the National Shooting Sports Foundation) increased 68%. These substantial increases are attributable to increased consumer demand for firearms in the first nine months of 2020, and have likely been constrained due to limited available inventory in the distribution channel.
  • Sales of new products, including the Wrangler, the Ruger-57, the LCP II in .22 LR, the PC Charger, and the AR-556 pistol, represented $87.9 million or 24% of firearm sales in the first nine months of 2020. New product sales include only major new products that were introduced in the past two years.
  • During the third quarter of 2020, the Company’s finished goods inventory remained near historic lows. Distributor inventories of the Company’s products decreased 26,700 units, or 31% during the quarter.
  • Cash provided by operations during the first nine months of 2020 was $82.0 million. At September 26, 2020, our cash and short-term investments totaled $133.6 million. Our current ratio is 3.2 to 1 and we have no debt.
  • In the first nine months of 2020, capital expenditures totaled $8.0 million. We expect our 2020 capital expenditures to total approximately $20 million, most of which relate to new product introductions.
  • In the first nine months of 2020, the Company returned $104.1 million to its shareholders through the payment of dividends, reflecting the customary quarterly dividends and a special dividend of $5.00 per share that was paid in August.
  • At September 26, 2020, stockholders’ equity was $241.3 million, which equates to a book value of $13.79 per share, of which $7.64 per share was cash and short-term investments.

Today, the Company filed its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the third quarter of 2020. The financial statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are attached to this press release. – View Release.

Tomorrow, October 29, 2020, Sturm, Ruger will host a webcast at 9:00 a.m. ET to discuss the third quarter operating results. Interested parties can access the webcast at Ruger.com/corporate or by dialing 855-871-7398, participant code 7593918.

The Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the third quarter of 2020 is available on the SEC website at SEC.gov and the Ruger website at Ruger.com/corporate. Investors are urged to read the complete Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the third quarter of 2020 to ensure that they have adequate information to make informed investment judgments.

About Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc.

Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. is one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of rugged, reliable firearms for the commercial sporting market. With products made in America, Ruger offers consumers almost 800 variations of more than 40 product lines. For more than 70 years, Ruger has been a model of corporate and community responsibility. Our motto, “Arms Makers for Responsible Citizens®,” echoes our commitment to these principles as we work hard to deliver quality and innovative firearms.

The Company may, from time to time, make forward-looking statements and projections concerning future expectations. Such statements are based on current expectations and are subject to certain qualifying risks and uncertainties, such as market demand, sales levels of firearms, anticipated castings sales and earnings, the need for external financing for operations or capital expenditures, the results of pending litigation against the Company, the impact of future firearms control and environmental legislation, and accounting estimates, any one or more of which could cause actual results to differ materially from those projected. Readers are cautioned not to place undue reliance on these forward-looking statements, which speak only as of the date made. The Company undertakes no obligation to publish revised forward-looking statements to reflect events or circumstances after the date such forward-looking statements are made or to reflect the occurrence of subsequent unanticipated events.

Sturm, Ruger & Co., Inc. “Arms Makers for Responsible Citizens”

Bushnell Elite Tactical Lightweight Modular Spotting Scope

Bushnell Elite Tactical Lightweight Modular Spotting Scope

From Bushnell

Bushnell, an industry leader in performance optics, has taken its professional-grade Elite Tactical compact spotting scope to an even higher level with the new 8-40x 60mm LMSS2.

The Elite Tactical LMSS2 combines compact elite-quality HD glass with a military-grade riflescope optical design. It builds on the original Lightweight Modular Spotting Scope (LMSS) with features including upgraded exterior lens coatings, updated HORUS reticle options and a power-change throw lever as well as other user control enhancements. Military personnel, law enforcement officers, competitive shooters and hunters can employ the LMSS2 to complement their Elite Tactical optics or other MIL-based riflescopes.

Ideal for training and competitive shooting that requires long-range target acquisition, the LMSS2’s key features include:

  • ED Prime (HD) glass and fully multi-coated optics paired with ultra-wide-band coatings to allow for more light transmission in low-light situations, providing superior image brightness and color resolution
  • Compact and lightweight HDOS system enables low-profile, lightweight construction without sacrificing resolution or contrast
  • Aluminum alloy chassis construction is rugged and meets IXP7 waterproof standards; heavy-duty rubber overmold ensures that the glass and mechanical components are both secured and protected to maintain optical performance for years of use
  • Bushnell’s exclusive EXO Barrier molecularly bonds to exterior lens surfaces and repels water, oil, fog, dust and debris so the user can see the target in any condition
  • Throw Hammer PCR lever speeds up magnification changes and target engagements

The LMSS2 Elite Tactical is available with the H322 or the TREMOR4 spotting scope reticle. The H322 is designed as a companion to the H59 and H58 riflescope reticles, and is ideal for spotting with any MRAD-based riflescope reticle or where real-time measured targeting information is required. Its 0.2 milliradian (MRAD) Horus Grid and patented Rapid Range Bars make it well suited for those looking for robust wind and drop compensation, target range estimation and follow-up shot spotter communication capabilities. The TREMOR4 builds on the H322 and is designed as a companion to the TREMOR2, TREMOR3 or TREMOR5 riflescope reticles. It is also an exceptional reticle for spotting with any MRAD-based riflescope reticle. With its 0.2 mil Horus Grid and patented time of flight wind dots, it can be used with any ballistics and in any environmental conditions for excellent follow-up shot spotter communication capabilities.

With a minimum magnification of eight power – an ideal setting when employed with night vision – and a maximum of 40 power, the LMSS2 Elite Tactical is one of the most versatile premium spotting scopes on the market. It comes with a detachable (3 user selectable positions) picatinny rail, giving users the ability to quickly and easily mount red dot sights for faster target acquisition or laser rangefinders. An optional, third party rail kit designed as a direct-connect, OEM system further expands the scope’s accessory compatibility. Other features contributing to versatility, performance and ease of use include a twist-up eyecup, fast-focus diopter, integral ¼-20 tripod connection and bottom accessory rail connections.

The 8-40x 60mm LMSS2 Elite Tactical measures 12.7 inches in length and weighs 37 ounces without rail. Color is flat dark earth and black. Manufacturer’s suggested retail price is $1,749.99. Lens caps and cleaning cloth are included.

All Elite Tactical optics are covered by Bushnell’s Iron Clad Lifetime Warranty. For more information on the company’s full line of binoculars, spotting scopes and other optics, visit www.bushnell.com.

And don’t forget to take a look at Leupold’s new SX-2 Alpine HD spotting scope.

SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEOZero Wins NASGW POMA-Caliber Award

SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEOZero Wins NASGW POMA-Caliber Award

From SIG Sauer

SIG SAUER, Inc. is pleased to announce the SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMEOZero has been awarded the 2020 NASGW POMA-Caliber Award for “Best New Optic.”

The NASGW-POMA Caliber Awards are a partnership between the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) and the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA) to recognize new and innovative products within the sporting goods industry. Products for the NASGW-POMA Caliber Awards are submitted by the manufacturers for the various product categories and are evaluated for uniqueness, market need, value of the product, ingenuity, and presentation.

“This is an exciting award for the ROMEOZero and underscores the new innovation that SIG SAUER Electro-Optics has brought to the concealed carry market,” said Andy York, President, SIG SAUER Electro-Optics. “With sub-compacts and red dot optics gaining unprecedented popularity for everyday carry, the ROMEOZero provides quick target acquisition that you can rely on at an affordable price.”

The SIG SAUER Electro-Optics ROMOEZero is a micro open reflex sight that’s optimized for everyday concealed carry like the P365XL, and pistols with slim slide profiles such as single stack 1911’s and sub-compact firearms. The sight features a ruggedized, WeaponsGrade™ textured polymer body and the Spectracoat™ HD Polymer lens system. The ROMEOZero is available in 3MOA or 6MOA and features eight daytime illumination settings, MOTAC™ (Motion Activated Illumination System), and a 10-year battery life.

The ROMEOZero is designed, engineered and assembled in the USA at SIG SAUER Electro-Optics facility located in Wilsonville, Oregon. The optic is available for purchase at retailers nationwide and online at the sigssauer.com webstore.

Turner’s Outdoorsman to Acquire Second Amendment Sports Locations

From Turner’s Outdoorsman

Turner’s Outdoorsman announced today the opening of 4 new stores in the Second Amendment Sports locations bringing the popular chain to 32 stores in CA and 1 in Arizona. Established in Long Beach, California in 1971, Turner’s Outdoorsman today is California’s leading hunting, shooting, and fishing specialty retailer.

Second Amendment Sports operating in Bakersfield, Palm Desert and Tucson, Arizona, was started in 1993 by Matt and Dana Janes. Their love for the outdoors and personal passion for the outdoor industry quickly forged a loyal customer base wherever the Janes set up shop. The move into the former Second Amendment locations allows Turner’s Outdoorsman to reach enthusiasts in new regions and to continue to offer loyal customers the superior products, exceptional value and outstanding customer service that both these brands are known for.

“Over the last 49 years Turner’s has grown throughout California and is excited to enter these new markets. Turner’s Outdoorsman has long established relationships with all of the leading manufacturers and our expert sales associates provide customer service and local outdoor experience unmatched in the industry.” said Bryan Harris, Turners President and CEO. “Turner’s Outdoorsman welcomes the opportunity to serve Second Amendment Sports customers under our banner, offering a great depth across all product lines and with the exceptional customer service today’s consumer demands.” He added, “We will continue to look for opportunities in new markets to further our expansion inside and outside of California.”

Survey finds a quarter of respondents purchased four or more guns after lockdowns began

Survey finds a quarter of respondents purchased four or more guns after lockdowns began

From SecureIt Tactical

SecureIt Tactical, the largest supplier of weapons storage systems to the U.S. military and a leading civilian gun storage and education company, today released the results of its COVID-19 gun safety survey. The survey found that gun sales are being driven by the need for personal safety, compelling a majority of respondents to buy two or more firearms, and in nearly a quarter of cases, four or more.

“Gun safety and buying habits were the focus of our COVID-19 firearm trend survey where we polled more than 1,100 gun owners from around the country to get their take on how and why they are buying, storing and training with their weapons,” said Tom Kubiniec, president and CEO of SecureIt Tactical. “What we found is that they don’t want to be victims and are taking serious steps to prevent that from ever happening.

Here are some tips to survive if social unrest knocks on your door.

“One of the takeaways is that SecureIt’s message of decentralized storage and the use of smaller modular gun safes over old fashioned bid heavy safes is catching on,” said Kubiniec. “Many people keep their guns in a variety of places to prevent theft, keep kids safe and to allow for fast access in times of emergency.” 

Key Survey Takeaways:

  • Personal Safety: Year over year, strong majority (74.4 percent) of respondents said they were either much more or somewhat more concerned with personal safety. And nearly half (47 percent) bought guns for protection.
  • Additional Training: An equally strong majority (74.1 percent) of owners plan on taking additional gun safety courses and/or practice time at the range. 97.6 percent have already taken some form of training.
  • Gun Buying: About half of respondents (49 percent) have made one or more gun purchases since the lockdowns began in March. A majority (61.7 percent) bought two or more guns and of that number, nearly a quarter (22.3 percent) bought four or more firearms. Types of firearms bought were a majority long guns (57.6 percent) with the rest being handguns.
  • Gun Safes: Only a minority (12 percent) believe gun safe manufacturers are always truthful in their fire protection and safety claims. An even smaller number (nine percent) believe their guns will always be protected in a traditional gun safe during a fire.
  • Storage Locations: Gun owners store their firearms in a variety of places. Top spots include:
    • Office (79 percent)
    • Basement (79 percent)
    • Vehicle (72 percent)
    • Guest Room (72 percent)
    • Hall Closet (71 percent)
    • Garage (70 percent)
    • Master Bedroom (60 percent)

The entire survey can be viewed here. 1,128 people from across the United States participated.

Pulsar Unleashes the Accolade 2 LRF XP50

Pulsar Unleashes the Accolade 2 LRF XP50

From Pulsar

Pulsar, the world leader in thermal and digital night vision technology, is proud to announce the release of the Accolade 2 LRF XP50. These sleek binoculars boast a wide range of cutting-edge features, justifying why Pulsar is the most respected brand in the industry. With an enhanced sensor of <40mK, the Accolade 2 provides perfect detail recognition in rain, fog, ice or other adverse conditions. It also has a full-color 640×480 AMOLED display for vivid, flawless imaging and power conservation. Additionally, the Accolade 2’s laser range finder (LRF) detects adult-sized objects up to 1000 yards in zero light, one of the most powerful LRFs on the market today.

The highly-sophisticated Accolade 2 also features a built-in camera and video recorder, Wi-Fi connectivity, direct image streaming, picture-in-picture and 8x variable digital zoom, to keep hunters connected and informed while they ply their trade. Further, the Accolade 2 also has an IPX7 waterproof rating and rechargeable batteries, for durability and convenience.        

Upgraded Features:

  • Enhanced Sensor for viewing in adverse weather conditions
  • 3-second startup
  • Longer battery life

And in case you missed the news, the company’s products are being used by RMEF in Pennsylvania elk surveys.  

Winchester Promotions and Conservation Support Fall Waterfowl Season

Winchester Promotions and Conservation Support Fall Waterfowl Season

From Winchester

Millions of hunters throughout the United States have waited patiently throughout a less-than-regular 2020 for another fall duck and goose season. It’s here and once again, so is Winchester — the industry leader in ammunition offerings for waterfowl hunters and conservation support. 

“Winchester is at the very core of the waterfowl hunting tradition, and we continue to support this historic pastime in many ways,” said Matt Campbell, vice president of sales and marketing for Winchester Ammunition. “Millions of duck hunters have shot our Blind Side®, Drylok® and Xpert® shotgun shells, which continue to be some of our most sought-after ammunition products.” 

In 2020, Winchester Ammunition continues its support of duck and goose hunters, conservation, and the waterfowl hunting tradition.

Winchester Ammunition Waterfowl Rebates

Between August 1, 2020, and December 31, 2020, earn up to: 

  • $100 back on Blind Side waterfowl ammunition 
  • $50 back on Drylok waterfowl ammunition
  • $40 back on all Xpert high-velocity waterfowl ammunition

Visit a local Winchester dealer in your area or Winchester.com for more information. 

Official Ammunition of Ducks Unlimited and Ducks Unlimited Films

For decades, Winchester has been a devout supporter of conservation and organizations such as Ducks Unlimited. As the official ammunition of Ducks Unlimited, Winchester continues its support of Ducks Unlimited Films, a series for those who have fallen in love with wetlands and waterfowl, duck calls and retrievers, decoys, and shotguns. This film series captures the essence of what it means to be a waterfowler. https://www.ducks.org/media/du-films

As for the quality the company ensures goes into everything it touches, here’s a news release about it recently taking over the Lake City Ammunition factory that produces our military ammo.

Primary Arms GLx 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope

Primary Arms GLx 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope

From Primary Arms Optics

Primary Arms Optics has released a brand new long-range precision optic designed for use with 6.5 Creedmoor and .224 Valkyrie cartridges: the GLx 4-16x50mm FFP Rifle Scope with ACSS Apollo 6.5CR/.224V Reticle [MPN: 610116]. This scope is part of Primary Arms’ GLx line, which brings premium technology and materials into an approachable price range. This is the first GLx rifle scope to feature the proven ACSS Apollo reticle, which provides instantaneous firing solutions for 6.5 Creedmoor, one of the most popular long-range cartridges, as well as .224 Valkyrie.

If you’re looking for something for close-range use, take a look at the company’s NTOA-rated 1-5×24 mm scope.

Available now for $699.99, the GLx 4-16x50mm FFP Rifle Scope has earned a stellar reputation for its performance at long range, and the release of the ACSS Apollo reticle will be a major draw for fans of the 6.5 Creedmoor and .224 Valkyrie cartridges. With build-in target ranging, range-adjusted wind holds from 5mph to 20mph, and a finely tuned first-focal plane BDC, the ACSS Apollo is one of the fastest long-distance reticles on the market, allowing for quick corrections while moving between targets hundreds of yards apart. Even at close range, the Apollo’s infinitely precise center chevron allows for unerring precision with a clear point of impact. In addition to the BDC, the ACSS Apollo features an integrated MIL system for MIL/MIL exact firing solutions.

This reticle is backed with a cutting-edge optic that allows for full effectiveness, even in adverse conditions. The GLx 4-16x50mm FFP Rifle Scope is relatively lightweight at 23.5oz, while the 50mm objective lens offers superior clarity with premium low-dispersion glass. GLx scopes are also known for their locking, zero-resettable turrets, which feature steel-on-steel adjustment rings for true lifetime durability. GLx turrets track with exceptional accuracy, and each click is crisp and predictable for making fine adjustments. Combined with the reticle’s center chevron and supporting MIL sections, this optic allows for quick holds or precise adjustment as necessary.

“The GLx 4-16x50mm FFP Rifle Scope is one of our best-selling long-range scopes, and the inclusion of ACSS Apollo helps bring it to the next level,” says Terry Mears, Primary Arms’ Director of Product Marketing. “As 6.5 Creedmoor and .224 Valkyrie continue to grow in popularity, we expect this scope to become a fast favorite for those looking to improve their agility and precision at extended distances.”

To order the GLx 4-16x50mm Rifle Scope with ACSS Apollo 6.5CM/.224V Reticle, please visit the product page on the Primary Arms retail site or visit your preferred Primary Arms Optics authorized retailer.

Nightstick Adds Green Laser

Nightstick Adds Green Laser

From Nightstick

Nightstick, a global manufacturer of innovative, professional lighting products is pleased to announce its newest TCM-Series compact LED handgun weapon light with a daylight-visible 532nm green aiming laser for maximum visibility in all conditions. The light shares the same intuitive dual rear-facing switches already a standard feature on the TCM-550XL and XLS (strobe) models, providing the shooter tactile, click actuation in momentary or constant-on use.

The TCM-550XL-GL features a compact TIR (Total Internal Reflection) lens delivering a 550-lumen bright white beam, rated for 2.5 hours that illuminates objects up to 136 meters (446 feet) away. Weighing in at a featherweight 2.5 ounces, constructed of aircraft-grade aluminum and rated as IP-X7 waterproof, this weapon light is engineered to provide robust illumination and bright laser aiming point during critical low-light threat identification and target discrimination. The light, laser, or light & laser modes can be deployed on demand by holding one switch down while toggling through the modes with the alternate. The laser is easily zeroed to the user’s preferred distance with built-in elevation and windage adjusters. The weapon light also features a bezel-activated ‘safe mode’ battery lockout, eliminating accidental activation of the light and laser during storage or transportation.

“Based on great feedback from our successful launch of the TCM-550XL, we heard an overwhelming demand for a green laser version of the same weapon light,” says Russell Hoppe, Marketing Director for Nightstick. “Consulting with our engineers, we accepted the challenge and designed a one-piece, fully-machined aluminum weapon light body that incorporated a rugged and powerful day-light visible green laser. The green aiming laser adds alignment confirmation and added peace of mind in a defensive or tactical situation when life depends on light™.

Designed to fit a broad range of handguns, the newest TCM features a spring-loaded rail clamp and convenient coin-cut screw head for toolless installation. Ready to install out of the box, the light includes five handgun-specific rail inserts, laser adjustment Allen wrench, and one CR123 lithium battery. The TCM-550XL-GL is backed by a limited lifetime warranty. To learn more, please visit www.nightstick.com.

If you’re looking for lighting on your long gun, here’s a look at the company’s kit that may work for you.