Guns.com personal information was not compromised

Update: Guns.com has informed Ammoland that its investigation—along with that of its insurance company—determined no user personal information was accessed by hackers. The story is here, and explains “…the hackers were able to get access to a single folder and obtain its test database. It seems like that is what the hackers are selling on the Dark Web marketplaces.” Plus, financial details, according to the report, is not stored on the company’s website, which makes it impossible for that information to have been compromised.

Late March reports from numerous Internet security-related news claim the hacking that took Guns.com offline earlier this year may’ve been more than a simple case of political monkeywrenching. The criminal or criminals, according to the stories, have posted a database with personal details of registered users of the victimized website—including addresses, phone numbers, passwords and even bank details—for sale on the dark web.

Security Boulevard’s warning is the most ominous. It states, “The abundant data contains both administrator and user information including user IDs, full names, an estimated 400,000 email addresses, password hashes, physical addresses, ZIPcodes, city, state, Magneto IDs, phone numbers, account creation date and other personal details.” According to it one folder, “…includes customers’ bank account details including full name, bank name, account type and Dwolla IDs.”

Gizmodo explains how the situation unfolded. “Back in January,” it reports, “a hacker temporarily disabled the company’s website, interfering with the site’s retail operations and forcing the weapons peddler to apologize to its confused customers for the whole debacle.” The story admits, however, there is no proof the current laundry list for sale was stolen during the early 2021 cybercrime. The writer explains even if the financial details aren’t available, it places users at risk of identify theft, phishing attacks and their home addresses becoming known to criminals.

According to Tech Times, the files currently being offered are on a Dark Web site named Raid Forums. The report also indicates that information on firearm providers was also stolen during the cybercrime.

Hacking and cybertheft are increasing in frequency, and Guns.com is allegedly just the latest victim in a long, and growing-by-the-day list. There’s no doubt other firms in the firearm industry have been, or will be, targeted. Last year’s Utah Gun Exchange incident from last year is an example. To put things in perspective, the volume of users whose information that may have been compromised in this incident pales by comparison to the Adobe hack of 2013, when the personal details of 153 million people was stolen, or Equifax in 2017 (147.9 million), Marriott International (500 million from 2014 to 2018) or Adult Friend Finder (2016, 500 million). There are many others, and odds are good at least a portion of your personal information has been stolen from government or corporate websites already. Remember the federal government’s Office of Personnel Management hack of 2015?

The incident is a good reminder to change passwords on any website frequently, make them long and complicated enough to border on cumbersome, never use the same one twice or on another URL, and religiously monitor activity on all your financial accounts. Take advantage of double authentication for log-ins, when made available and use a credit card, not debit card, for all online purchases. At least then you can contest charges you didn’t make.

Galco’s Switchback Belt Holster

Galco’s Switchback Belt Holster

From Galco

A general-purpose hybrid design that combines the best elements of leather and synthetic, the Switchback is fully ambidextrous and can be carried in the strongside or crossdraw positions. The main body of the holster is constructed of layered synthetics, beginning with an outer layer of durable black ballistic nylon. Beneath that is closed cell foam that imparts structure to the holster body and protection for the firearm in the field. Finally, a layer of 420 denier gunmetal-colored packcloth lines the holster.

An ambidextrous “exoskeleton” made of top grain steerhide allows the belt to be threaded through either side of the holster body in strongside or crossdraw positions, for right or left hand draw. The retention strap is reversible for ambidextrous use.

The Switchback is a perfect way to pack a full-size pistol or revolver in the great outdoors or on the range. Available in black finish, it retails for only $52.

See all of Galco’s belt holsters!

FN Demonstrates Technology at 2021 Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment

FN Demonstrates Technology at 2021 Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment

From FN America

FN America, LLC, maker of the world’s most battle-proven firearms®, is pleased to announce that the company has been selected to participate in the U.S. Army’s Expeditionary Warrior Experiment (AEWE), taking place March 9, 2021, at Fort Benning, Georgia.

Following a highly successful AEWE demonstration of the company’s emerging technology last December, FN will further exhibit their e-Novation suite of revolutionary weapon enablers that provide innovative and disruptive technology that resonate and align with the U.S. Army’s modernization efforts.

“For the past 130 years, FN has delivered small arms solutions to militaries worldwide. At the heart of our business is the goal of improving and enhancing solider capabilities,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “This demonstration for AEWE allows us to further showcase our newest technology that facilitates training solutions and enables new possibilities in battlefield situational awareness. We are looking forward to demonstrating these emerging technologies for the U.S. Army.”

“We are extremely proud to have been invited to demonstrate our e-Novation solutions,” said Todd Smith, Vice President for FN’s military operations. “FN leads the way in integrating enablers onto the weapon platforms and the technologies we are demonstrating at AEWE directly meet the U.S. military’s requirements and approach to Soldier as a System.”

The Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment (AEWE) assesses Cross Domain Maneuver (CDM) concepts and capabilities at the lower tactical echelon in support of Multi Domain Operations (MDO). The Experimentation Force (EXFOR) will employ mutually supporting lethal and nonlethal capabilities across multiple domains(air, land, space, and cyberspace), the electromagnetic spectrum, and the information environment to create a synergistic effect that increases relative combat power and provides overmatch. It is the Army’s primary venue for Small Unit modernization, providing capability developers, Cross Functional Teams (CFTs), PEO’s, Army Science and Technology (S&T) community, and industry a repeatable, credible, rigorous operational experiment supporting both concept and materiel development.

FN’s e-Novation product line encompasses solutions addressing marksmanship training, aiming devices and small arms management. To learn more on these products or FN’s full military portfolio, please visit fnamerica.com.

# # #

Carry the Future.® | FN America, LLC, the U.S. subsidiary of Belgium-based FN Herstal, S.A. provides U.S. military, law enforcement and commercial customers with a complete range of state-of- the-art, groundbreaking solutions developed around small caliber firearms and associated ammunition under the FN brand name.

FN Herstal is the Defense & Security entity of Herstal Group that also includes a Hunting & Sports Shooting entity (Browning and Winchester Firearms’ brand names) and operates globally.

FN product lines include portable firearms, less lethal systems, integrated weapon systems for air, land and sea applications, remote weapon stations, small caliber ammunition, as well as modern and cutting-edge solutions to provide enhanced combat, logistics, maintenance and communication capabilities.

For more information on FN’s latest products, visit us at www.fnamerica.com or follow us on FacebookTwitter and Instagram.

Sauer Partners with Kinsey’s Inc.

Sauer Partners with Kinsey’s Inc.

From Blaser Group

Blaser Group is pleased to announce its Sauer 100 rifles are now available through Kinsey’s, Inc., a leading distributor serving the outdoor hunting industry. This new partnership will give Kinsey’s customers – more than 4,600 retailers nationwide – access to the S100 line of bolt-action rifles from renowned German gunmaker J.P. Sauer and Sohn.

Designed for precision hunters and shooters, these accurate, rugged, reliable Sauer rifles deliver guaranteed five-shot sub-MOA performance and feature a crisp, user adjustable single-stage trigger, detachable magazine, three-position safety, and German steel cold hammer-forged Sauer barrel.

“We are proud to partner with Kinsey’s and know their widespread relationships with retailers throughout the country will help us continue to meet consumer demand for these Sauer 100 rifles, known for their performance and value,” said Jason Evans, CEO, Blaser Group.

Backed by a 10-year warranty, the Sauer 100 line is available in a wide array of calibers, including 6.5 Creedmoor and 6.5 PRC, and comes in variety of models. The S100 Classic features a traditional wooden stock and matte burnished barrel surface while the S100 Classic XT has a polymer stock; the S100 Ceratech is coated with a cerakote surface for ultimate durability; the S100 Pantera features a highly ergonomic stock, a semi-weight fluted barrel, adjustable comb and sculpted pistol grip designed for long-range shooting; the S100 Fieldshoot is the long-range specialist rifle using a laminate stock with adjustable comb, vertical grip, and heavy match barrel; the S100 Cherokee has a synthetic digi-camo stock with soft touch and tundra green cerakoted barrel and action designed to blend seamlessly into darker terrain.

MSRP: From $799.99

For further information, visit: www.jpsauer-usa.com 

Vortex Edge Open For Business

Vortex Edge Open For Business

From Vortex Optics

Vortex Edge, our 55,000-square foot state-of-the-art training facility, is ready to accommodate shooters of all skill levels. The Vortex Edge™ team—drawing on decades of experience—has been hard at work developing courses to help every shooter take the next step in their training.

For a first look at everything Vortex Edge™ has to offer, check out this walk through video.

Our mission

“Whether it’s optics and accessories, apparel, or working closely with customers, our goal is to create memorable experiences that exceed our customer’s expectations with every interaction. Vortex Edge™ is an extension of that goal,” said Joe Hamilton, CEO of Vortex Optics.

The Vortex Edge curriculum reflects this commitment to be a training destination for all shooters, with courses providing instruction for beginners in topics like concealed carry and hunting with a rifle, and more advanced courses covering multiple topics. For those unable to make the trip to the facility, the team will be rolling out videos and firearms training content so every shooter can experience Vortex Edge™.

“We are always trying to push the envelope on how we can engage our customers, empower them to use their firearms effectively and responsibly while delivering a world-class experience along the way. Therefore, we dedicated ourselves to providing a facility and a team of instructors committed to helping every shooter be confident in their skills, with safety and a focus on education at the forefront,” Hamilton said. “With Vortex Edge™, we think we’ve done that.”

Our state-of-the-art facilities

Not only do we offer one of the only 100-yard indoor ranges in the country—and the only one in the Midwest—we also have two tactical ranges, consisting of a 50-yard indoor range and a 25-yard indoor range, that allow shooters to move around the room for live fire exercises with programmable targets.

Our 3,400 square foot shoot house contains over 100 moveable wall, window, and door panels to simulate a variety of encounters, and catwalks and an integrated video system allow for targeted reviews and performance-based instruction. To further simulate intense encounters, our simulator room contains a VirTra 300® interactive video simulator, allowing participants to experience a wide variety of tactical scenarios.

To help long-range shooters advance their skills, we have a 360-acre property with a 1000-yard outdoor shooting complex a short drive from the main campus.

Vortex Edge™ also offers ample classroom space, and firearms cleaning spaces and locker rooms, plus a retail showroom where you can get the optics and apparel you need. While the showroom is open to the public, the range and shooting facilities are currently not available outside of Vortex Edge™ courses. We encourage shooters interested in using the facilities to view our available classes for more information.

For high-resolution images and other helpful content, check out the Vortex Edge™ media portal.

To learn more about Vortex Edge™, please reach out at [email protected] and be sure to follow Vortex Edge™ on InstagramFacebook and YouTube.

About Vortex Optics: American owned, veteran-owned, Wisconsin-based Vortex Optics designs, engineers, produces, and distributes a complete line of premium sport optics, accessories, and apparel. Dedicated to providing unrivaled customer service and exceptional quality, Vortex® backs its products with the unconditional, transferrable, lifetime VIP Warranty. Built on over 30 years of experience in the optics industry, Vortex® has emerged as a leader in the optics market.

SIG SAUER Announces Custom Works 1911 Equinox

SIG SAUER Announces Custom Works 1911 Equinox

From SIG Sauer

The limited-edition SIG Custom Works 1911 Equinox pistol is chambered in .45 ACP and features a stainless steel frame and a Nitron stainless steel slide with custom machined sides to achieve the unique Equinox two-tone finish. This pistol is equipped with SIGLITE Night Sights, and Hogue classic contour SL G-10 grips. Exclusive SIG Custom Works features includes logo engraving on the slide, a premium Negrini SIG Custom Works case, Custom Works challenge coin, and an official SIG Custom Works Certificate of Authenticity.

Taurus Introduces the G3 T.O.R.O and G3C T.O.R.O.

Taurus Introduces the G3 T.O.R.O and G3C T.O.R.O.

From Taurus

Taurus, manufacturer of premium handguns for defense, hunting, and sport shooting introduces the new Taurus G3 T.O.R.O and G3C T.O.R.O.

Given the growing penchant for shooters to include micro red dots on their semi-autos—be it for personal defense, recreational shooting, or competition work—Taurus brings the G3 series pistols into the optic arena for 2021 with the release of the full-size G3 T.O.R.O. (Taurus Optic Ready Option) and the compact G3c T.O.R.O.

Both the G3 T.O.R.O. and the G3C T.O.R.O. are similar to the G3 and G3C, respectively, except for their slide configuration. The slides for the T.O.R.O. series feature a factory optic cut so that consumers can immediately add their choice of micro red dot without the expense of custom gunsmith work or “downtime” of their handgun. What’s more, the T.O.R.O. system’s design accommodates a broad range of popular optics on the market today, thanks to an ingenious interchangeable plate mounting system.

Four different mounting plates, along with four different sets of screws and L-Key are included with the G3 T.O.R.O. and G3C T.O.R.O.—each with a different mounting pattern that is specific to common aftermarket optics.

Optic systems compatible with the G3 T.O.R.O. and G3C T.O.R.O. (but not limited to):

• Trijicon RMR

• Noblex-Docter

• Vortex Venom

• Burris FastFire

• Sightmark Mini

• Holosun HS407C

• Leupold Delta Point

• C-More STS2

• Bushnell RXS-250

• TRUGLO TRU-TEC Micro

The G3 T.O.R.O. and G3C T.O.R.O. come from the factory with a steel slide cover plate to provide a “clean” slide surface when employing the installed open sights. To add an optic, remove the cover plate and install the appropriate mounting plate for the desired optic brand. The Owner’s Manual includes easy, step-by-step instructions for installing an optic system on the G3 T.O.R.O. and the G3C T.O.R.O., which the consumer can do themselves with basic tools and supplies.

Since many shooters who install optics on their pistols also prefer to run elevated open sights for backup, the G3 T.O.R.O. and G3C T.O.R.O. rear dovetail cuts are machined to accept common elevated- or suppressor-height aftermarket sights, depending on the manufacturer’s specifications.

With the introduction of the G3 T.O.R.O. and the G3c T.O.R.O., Taurus rounds out the G3 series of 9mm semi-auto striker-fired pistols with a model for every need and with performance and a price point to meet every budget. Whether intended for personal protection, recreational shooting, or competition, the G3 T.O.R.O. and G3C T.O.R.O. deliver factory-tuned performance while providing customizing options for individual shooter’s tastes.

Taurus G3 T.O.R.O. Specifications

Caliber: 9mm Luger

Capacity: 10, 15, or 17 (with extended magazine)

Finish: Matte Black / Matte Stainless

Grip/Frame: Polymer

Firing System: Single Action with Restrike Capability

Action Type: Striker

Safety: Manual and Trigger Safety, Striker Block, Visual Loaded Chamber Indicator

Sights Front: Fixed (White Dot)

Sights Rear: Drift Adjustable Serrated Matte Black

Slide Material: Carbon Steel

Slide Finish: Matte Black

Optic-Compatible Steel Cover Plate: Cover plate, four mounting plates, and hardware

Overall Length: 7.30″

Overall Width: 1.20″

Overall Height: 5.20″

Barrel Length: 4.00″

Weight: 25 oz. (unloaded)

Magazines Included: 2×10, 2×15, or 1×15 and 1×17

Packaging Size: 12.5″ x 6″ x 1.75″

Packaging Weight: 2.75 lbs.

Additional Feature: Picatinny Rail (Mil-STD 1913)

MSRP: $408.77

Taurus G3c T.O.R.O. Specifications

Caliber: 9mm Luger

Capacity: 10 or 12 rounds

Finish: Matte Black / Matte Stainless

Grip/Frame: Polymer

Firing System: Single Action with Restrike Capability

Action Type: Striker

Safety: Manual and Trigger Safety, Striker Block, Visual Loaded Chamber Indicator

Sights Front: Fixed (White Dot)

Sights Rear: Drift Adjustable Serrated Matte Black

Slide Material: Carbon Steel

Slide Finish: Tenifer Matte Black

Optic-Compatible Steel Cover Plate: Cover plate, four mounting plates, and hardware

Overall Length: 6.30″

Overall Width: 1.20″

Overall Height: 5.10″

Barrel Length: 3.2″

Weight: 22 oz. (unloaded)

Magazines Included: 3×12 or 3×10

Packaging Size: 9.8″ x 6″ x 1.8″

Packaging Weight: 33.20 oz.

Additional Feature: Picatinny Rail (Mil-STD 1913)

MSRP: $408.77

For more information on the Taurus G3/G3C T.O.R.O. and the complete line of Taurus products, visit TaurusUSA.com.

Galco Speed Master 2.0 for the FN Five-seveN & Ruger 57

Galco Speed Master 2.0 for the FN Five-seveN & Ruger 57

From Galco

Galco’s Speed Master™ 2.0 is now available for the FN Five-seveN and Ruger 57 – along with over 70 other handguns!

The highly versatile Speed Master 2.0 gives the wearer the choice of two carry methods: the convenient paddle design or the stable and traditional belt slot. These dual attachment methods are quickly and easily interchangeable by the end user. A flat-headed screwdriver is the only tool needed to swap one attachment for the other.

The Speed Master 2.0 features an open top design for a fast and simple draw, while the tension screw allows the user to micro-adjust the feel of the draw. Available in black or tan and constructed of premium steerhide, the Speed Master 2.0 fits belts up to 1 3/4″.

See all Galco’s paddle holsters at galcoholsters.com!

Southwick Survey—Top Hunting, Shooting Brands in 2020

Southwick Survey—Top Hunting, Shooting Brands in 2020

From Southwick Associates

As record numbers of Americans enjoyed the outdoors amid the pandemic in 2020, purchases of hunting and shooting equipment soared as well. Southwick Associates completed 15,000 hunter and recreational shooter surveys in 2020 through their online HunterSurvey and ShooterSurvey consumer panels and identified the top brands in the market.

A sampling of some of the most frequently purchased brands in 2020 include:

·Traditional Rifles – Savage

·Handguns – Smith & Wesson

·Handgun Ammunition – Federal

·Shotgun Ammunition – Winchester

·Broadheads – Rage & Muzzy

·Crossbows – Barnett

·Reloading Presses – Lee Precision

·Reloading Dies – Lee Precision

·Reloading Powder – IMR

·Binoculars – Vortex

·Reflex/Red Dot Sights – Sig Sauer

·Laser Sights – Crimson Trace

·Non-powered Aftermarket Sights – Trijicon

·Apparel Camo Pattern Brand – Mossy Oak

·Trail Cameras – Wildgame Innovations

·Game Calls – Primos

·Hunting Knives – Buck

·Gun Case – Allen

·Magazines – Magpul

Results of the Southwick Associates consumer tracking study are available in the Hunting & Shooting Participation and Equipment Purchases Report. This in-depth resource tracks hunting & shooting participation and equipment purchases for approximately 100 products. Purchase information includes the percentage of sales across different types of stores, brand purchased, price paid, and demographics for hunters and shooters buying specific products. Additional participation information tracked includes total days spent per activity, type of hunting/shooting activity, preferred species, and where they hunt. Reports are available both as a single annual report, or as a subscription to quarterly reports through the year. Separate reports are also available focusing on the participation and equipment purchases of Deer Hunters, Turkey Hunters, and Waterfowl Hunters.

Smith & Wesson Announces First-Ever Virtual Event

Smith & Wesson Announces First-Ever Virtual Event

From Smith & Wesson

Smith & Wesson is excited to announce that it will be hosting a direct-to-consumer virtual event on March 15, 2021 at 8:00PM EST. Smith & Wesson’s first-ever virtual event will give viewers a behind-the-scenes look at the 169-year old company, a new branding unveil, and new product announcements that will be sure to excite attendees. Smith & Wesson fans are invited to tune in to hear directly from Smith & Wesson President and CEO Mark Smith, brand ambassadors, and other members of the Smith & Wesson team.

Kyle Tengwall, Vice President of Marketing, said, “With the cancelation of many regularly attended trade shows and events in 2020 and early 2021, we wanted to find ways to connect with our consumers in this new virtual world. We’re excited to be able to share the latest company news with viewers and connect with customers in ways we’ve never done in the past.”

The 2021 Smith & Wesson Virtual Event is open for pre-registration and will stream on March 15, 2021 at 8:00PM EST.

To pre-register for the 2021 Smith & Wesson Virtual Event, click here.