Hunt Smarter with Wildgame Innovations All-New HuntSmart App

Hunt Smarter with Wildgame Innovations All-New HuntSmart App

From Wildgame Innovations

Wildgame Innovations introduces the ultimate scouting app. The HuntSmart app’s Artificial Intelligence Management (AIM) system organizes and analyzes trail camera images automatically with advanced features for as low as $2 per month. Its built-in species recognition algorithm software identifies game by species, including buck vs. doe differentiation, turkey, coyote, elk, hog and more. The app uses weather data, moon phase information and analyzed trail camera images to predict the best time and location for you to hunt. HuntSmart learns from trail camera captures, and more data means better predictions. Critical intel about your property and its game increase your odds of bagging bigger bucks this fall.

Monitor cameras remotely and in real-time via Live Stream to the HuntSmart app from up to 150 yards away when using any Insite Cell or Insite Air camera. These two new models are Wildgame Innovations’ most advanced game cameras ever engineered – both are controlled and enhanced using the HuntSmart app. The app’s scouting features work with any trail camera you are currently running; use advanced tools like Hunt Predictor, Hit List Tracker and Buck Scoring with any standard SD card. Or manage all this intelligence wirelessly when using any Insite Cell camera model. Share your best photos and videos within your buddies through the ap and save locally on your phone

HuntSmart app unlocks a wealth of information from your trail camera arsenal and places it at your fingertips – predicting, planning and sharing your hunt has never been easier. Download the HuntSmart™ app in your device’s app store today to begin your 30-day free trial, and start hunting smarter.

HuntSmart App Features:

  • Free to download on any iOS or Android device
  • Use to remotely manage Wildgame’s new Insite Cell™ and Insite Air™ cameras
  • Automatically sorts and analyzes trail cam images/videos
  • Species recognition for deer (buck vs. doe), turkey, coyote, elk and hog
  • Separate null (blank) photos without wildlife present
  • Capture advanced weather data based on camera location
  • Customize image descriptions and search gallery contents
  • Manage battery life, available storage and camera settings
  • Self-learning; the more data it gathers, the better its predictions

Staccato 2011 Pistols Duty-Approved by Over 250 Agencies

Staccato 2011 Pistols Duty-Approved by Over 250 Agencies

From Staccato

Staccato 2011 LLC, announced today a company milestone: over 250 law enforcement agencies across the country have approved Staccato 2011 pistols for duty use. Law enforcement is embracing Staccato not only for the company’s high-performing pistols, but also for its ongoing support that includes training. Major departments approving Staccato include LA County Sheriffs, Riverside County Sheriffs, and the Long Beach Police Department.

“We forged our first law enforcement relationships under two years ago. In this short amount of time, the positive response for Staccato has been humbling; we are proud to serve thousands of officers who carry our pistols both on and off-duty,” said Marine Corps veteran Nate Horvath, CEO, Staccato.

“Departments are approving Staccato 2011® pistols for their superior performance in qualification tests that include pistol reliability, accuracy, and ergonomics/efficiency,” said Buck Pierson (USMC GySgt ret.), Staccato’s Director of Law Enforcement and Military Business. “Departments are also choosing Staccato for our partnership mentality and ongoing support. We provide free 2011® transition courses for law enforcement, a 2011® armorers course, and other specialized on-site department instruction. Instruction is led by senior Staccato team members like Mike Pannone [former US Marine Reconnaissance, Army Special Forces (Green Beret), 1st SFOD-D (Delta) and the Asymmetric Warfare Group)], Matt Little (former Army Special Forces and Chicago PD SWAT), and Master Gunsmiths,” said Pierson.

Blackhawk also has new duty holsters for the Staccato 2011.

Patrick Dougherty, Sgt. Long Beach Police Department, was a part of LBPD’s year-long evaluation of Staccato. Beyond pistol qualification, Dougherty explains that LBPD’s partnership with Staccato is valued deeply, especially in today’s climate. “LBPD appreciates everything Staccato has done for us, and the stance the company has taken alongside law enforcement when very few will publicly do that. Courage is the rarest of traits, and we thank Staccato for supporting us.”

Staccato provides law enforcement, military, and first responders a discount on pistols and magazines. As a veteran-led, Texas-based company that only uses American materials and parts, Staccato is proud to serve those who protect our freedoms daily.

Covid-19 Forces Cancellation of Archery Trade Association Show

Covid-19 Forces Cancellation of Archery Trade Association Show

Announcement from ATA

Despite the combined efforts of the Archery Trade Association Board of Directors, staff and the city of Indianapolis, your ATA Board of Directors made the tough decision to cancel the in-person 2021 ATA Trade Show, scheduled to take place Jan. 7-9, 2021, in Indianapolis.

We hold the ATA Trade Show to an extremely high standard, and it became clear that due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we wouldn’t be able to provide the trade show environment that you’ve all come to expect and enjoy.

Our goal is to deliver a first-class event that helps the archery and bowhunting industry succeed, while keeping health and safety as a top priority, and we share your disappointment over the outcome of this year’s Show. We would like to express our thanks and gratitude to all ATA members who booked booth space and registered to attend the Show through these unprecedented times. Your passion for this industry is evident.

As your ATA starts to shift focus, we’ll communicate updates regarding next steps, including virtual plans and offerings. ATA members should check their inboxes in the coming weeks for information regarding:

  • Virtual education opportunities
  • Virtual Show specials
  • Virtual Impact Awards

We ask for your patience as we adapt and begin the cancellation process. Anyone who registered for a badge will see a refund within 14 days. To all of our exhibitors, you can expect to hear from either Maria Lewis or Becky Lux within the next 5-7 business days.

Mark Copeland, chairman of the Board and store director of Jay’s Sporting Goods, said: “This was a very difficult decision to make, but as a father and a small business owner, we need to look out for the health and safety of our members’ staff and their families. At some point, you have to ask yourself, ‘What’s the long-term impact of a Show with less than 50% attendees and vendors?’ It’s the Board of Directors responsibility to look out for the industry, and as painful as this decision was to make, I believe it’s the right one.”

Jeff Adee, co-chair of the ATA Board of Directors and president of Headhunter Bow Strings, had similar thoughts. “We have members that have lost loved ones and employees to COVID-19,” he said. “It’s imperative that we keep all our members safe, and canceling the Show is the right thing to do. We also know the past six months have challenged our members in new ways. As such, taking care of their hard-earned money is more crucial than ever. The Show is a significant expense and many exhibitors are faced with a tough decision to attend during these difficult times, especially without knowing what the next 90 days look like. Therefore, the value of the Show would greatly diminish for all those involved.”

Additionally, James McGovern, co-chair of the Board of Directors and owner and marketing director of Rinehart Targets, said: “When I look to 2022, I know that we can continue to host an event that the industry is proud of. For me, that is what drove this decision. It came down to the continued viability of the ATA to serve the industry. I know that the ATA leadership team can navigate the organization to 2022 and I believe that we can host as great an event as you have come to expect. What I didn’t know was what would the ATA show look like in 2022 if we hosted an event in 2021 that did not live up to the standards our industry has come to know and appreciate. Canceling the show was difficult, but knowing that this was the right decision is not.”

How to Select Self-Defense Pistol Sight Color

How to Select Self-Defense Pistol Sight Color

Photo courtesy of HIVIZ Shooting Systems

Millions of Americans now have their first handgun for personal defense. Getting on target, quickly during a criminal attack is critical, so I asked an expert how to select self-defense pistol sight color.

I interviewed Trevor Young, director of sales at HIVIZ Shooting Systems. His comments follow, abbreviated for space. You may also be interested to read answers from a Truglo expert on the topic.

GJS—Is a black front sight ideal on a self-defense handgun?

TY—A black front sight on a carry/self-defense handgun is not necessarily ideal as it does not help front sight focus in all lighting conditions, especially in a situation of increased stress. That’s why we at HIVIZ Shooting Systems strive to create sights for every handgun on the market; to allow the user to have choices in handgun sights to best fit their situation.

GJS—Is there any time black is optimal?

TY—As with every type of sight, a black front sight on a carry/self-defense handgun can be ideal given the right lighting, target color and shooting conditions. However, the preference for most users should be the sight that gives the user the ultimate advantage in any conditions considering the purpose of the handgun and black would not be the best choice given other products on the market. We at HIVIZ Shooting Systems understand the importance of quick sight acquisition in any situation and that’s why we’ve come up with a broad range of sight options and colors to fit the need.

Why Color?

GJS—Is adding color an advantage for self-defense?

TY—Adding contrast to the front sight is always an advantage when it comes to self-defense, or any type of shooting where quick sight acquisition is important. Adding contrast is key as it helps acquire the front sight in your peripheral vison long before a solid black sight would. The result is that you can maintain a full view of the target and your front sight while moving the firearm into a shooting position and then transition into a sight picture in one fluid motion. Consequently, target engagement and accuracy will be better.

GJS—Is painting the front sight good enough to get the job done?

TY—In order to shoot accurately you must be able to align the sights. Adding contrast, or enhancing the sight, will aid in picking the sights up easier allowing for faster alignment of the sights. While paint will be better than a plain black sight typically, it would not work in all shooting conditions and has a limited lifespan. However, with few exceptions, a tritium/fiber optic sight will get the job done. That’s why we designed the HIVIZ LiteWave H3 Tritium/Litepipe Sight. It combines Tritium with the HIVIZ Litepipe technology for 24 hour illumination, for day and night performance, ensuring fast sight acquisition and a bright sight picture in any situation.

GJS—Do different colors perform better in different lighting conditions?

TY—The human eye can see a range of visible light and this changes in different lighting conditions however, green/yellow is the general color that the human eye can see first and the best in all light conditions. We offer several HIVIZ Litepipe options for several of our sights in this color as well as others, including orange and red. Orange tends to be next in line for color choices behind the green/yellow with red becoming the least desirable due to the fact that red is a more difficult color for the eye to pick up across multiple lighting conditions.

GJS—Why is tritium so effective, and why is it surrounded by a white ring?

TY—Tritium is an effective source for sights because they are reliable, provide a consistent sight picture regardless of lighting conditions and require no batteries or charging. Designed for nighttime and low-light conditions, tritium/fiber-optic sights, such as our HIVIZ LiteWave H3 Tritium/Litepipe Sight, give the user the best advantage at a true sight picture when it matters. The sights also include a white ring that fills the small void in sight clarity where tritium/fiber-optic is less effective allowing the sights to be more effective in these lighting conditions.

Personal Preference

GJS—What’s your self-defense pistol sight color?

TY—I personally have a preference for sights with orange Litepipes. That being said green is my default color as I know I will be able to see it in the toughest light conditions the best.

GJS—Is there anything I overlooked that you want to tell readers?

TY—We can debate about sight shape, blade width, adjustable, fixed and so on. One thing we can all agree on is that to be accurate you must be able to form a solid sight picture, and I believe that fiber-optic and tritium are unmatched in their ability to help all shooters achieve this goal. Because of this, we have worked hard to provide the best HIVIZ products to help advance the art of shooting. Our patented LiteWave H3 Tritium/Litepipe Sights provide the best performance for a carry gun ensuring fast sight acquisition and a bright sight picture day or night. We pride ourselves on being a leader in the shooting world and continue to provide the best sights on the market for the success and enjoyment of the shooting sports.

[Readers considering a laser for their pistol, should read my interview with experts on the advantages of green over red.]

New HammerDown Lever-Action Hunting Ammo from Federal

New HammerDown Lever-Action Hunting Ammo from Federal

From Federal

Federal Ammunition is proud to introduce the industry’s only ammunition truly designed for optimal cycling and overall performance from the time-tested, lever-action rifle platform. Shipments of this product have begun to arrive at dealers.

“Our goal for this new line of ammunition was to deliver enhanced performance in any lever-action rifle. HammerDown provides the velocity and terminal performance required to be an effective and ethical hunting round for medium game, especially with traditional handgun cartridges such as 357 Magnum or 44 Rem. Magnum being shot out of a rifle,” said Federal Ammunition Centerfire Rifle Product Manager Eric Miller. “We also ensured feeding performance in all lever-action rifles: tube feed as well as side gate firearms. To do this, we use modified case geometry to eliminate any feeding issues. HammerDown delivers those main benefits and much more.”

Velocities of all-new Federal Premium HammerDown loads are customized to produce superior ballistics and terminal performance through lever-action barrel lengths. The construction of the molecularly bonded soft point bullets has also been adjusted for the best accuracy and expansion at those velocities. The geometry of each round’s case, bullet and cartridge ensures flawless cycling through tubular magazine and typical lever-action feeding systems. Available in the most popular lever-action cartridges, including 30-30 Win., 357 Magnum, 327 Federal and 44 Rem. Magnum. Additional cartridges will be added to the lineup in 2021.

Features & Benefits

  • Specifically engineered for lever guns
  • Functions flawlessly in side gate loading and tubular magazines
  • Modified chamfered case for easier feeding
  • Bullets optimized for better terminal performance out of lever-action rifles
  • Designed in partnership with Henry Repeating Arms
  • Bullets provide best-in-class expansion and weight retention on impact
  • Increased velocities and performance in pistol cartridges
  • Nickel-plated cases for corrosion resistance

Part No. / Description / MSRP

LG3571 / 357 Magnum 170 grain, 20-count / $24.99

LG327F1 / 327 Federal 127 grain, 20-count / $30.99

LG441 / 44 Rem. Magnum 270 grain, 20-count / $28.99

LG30301 / 30-30 Win. 150 grain, 20-count / $26.99

LG45701 / 45-70 Govt. 300 grain, 20-count / $50.99

And if you’re looking for custom loads for other hunting cartridges, Federal has you covered. Here’s a look at the selection and how to order.  

Richmond Campaign Targets Illegal Gun Purchases

From NSSF

As part of an ongoing national effort to help prevent illegal “straw” purchases of firearms, the National Shooting Sports Foundation® (NSSF®) and the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) are reminding the Richmond public that stiff penalties are in place for individuals convicted of such unlawful purchases. The campaign is in its’ 20th year and is a cornerstone of the cooperative relationship of the firearm industry, law enforcement and retailers.

Billboard, radio, streaming audio and digital advertisements for the Don’t Lie for the Other GuyTM program have been purchased by NSSF in key locations throughout the region with the message: “Buy a gun for someone who can’t and buy yourself 10 years in jail. Don’t Lie for the Other Guy.”

The month-long public awareness campaign was officially launched today with a short program at Colonial Shooting Academy, in Richmond, Va. Present at the event were representatives of the ATF Washington, D.C. Field Division, the U.S. Attorney’s Office for the Easter District of Virginia and NSSF.

More than 3.2 million impressions will be delivered via billboards, digital, and social media advertising and 30-second radio spots airing on local stations and streaming audio services. Richmond was chosen for this special campaign by ATF. No taxpayer dollars are used. The program is funded in full by the firearms industry.

“As evidenced today, the firearms industry is proud of its longstanding cooperative relationship with the ATF and the entire law enforcement community by assisting them in their efforts to combat the criminal acquisition and misuse of firearms,” said NSSF Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel.

“Don’t Lie” is a cooperative program ATF and NSSF, the trade association for the firearms and ammunition industry. The effort was developed more than two decades ago to raise public awareness about the seriousness of the crime of purchasing a firearm for someone who cannot legally do so. The program also helps ATF educate firearms retailers to be better prepared to deter potential straw purchases. The public campaign drives home the message that anyone attempting an illegal firearm purchase faces a stiff federal felony penalty of up to 10 years in jail or up to $250,000 in fines.

To legally purchase a firearm, a person must be able to pass an FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check and fully comply with state and local laws. When a criminal knows he cannot pass this check, he may try to induce a friend or other person to make the purchase on his behalf, which is known as a straw purchase and is a felony.

This public awareness campaign constitutes only part of the Don’t Lie for the Other Guy outreach effort. The full Don’t Lie for the Other Guy program, which also involves educating firearms retailers to better detect and prevent straw purchases, has been rolled out in major cities throughout the country. In the retailer segment, federal firearms licensees are provided a Don’t Lie for the Other Guy retailer kit containing a training video and informational brochure for storeowners and staff, as well as point-of-purchase displays aimed to deter illegal straw purchases.

Learn more about Don’t Lie for the Other Guy at www.dontlie.org.

You can also learn more about the organizations “First Shots” program here.

Bass Pro and Cabela’s Hiring

Bass Pro and Cabela’s Hiring

From Bass Pro

Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s are gearing up for the holiday season across America, hiring 7,000 seasonal workers at a National Hiring Day event on Thursday, Oct. 15. As North America’s premier outdoor company with a significant commitment to conservation, Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s team members have earned a reputation as the “World’s Foremost Outfitters” for their role serving millions of customers with products and experiences that help connect people to nature. Candidates who want to share their passion of the outdoors with others are strongly encouraged to apply.

Last year, Reputation.com ranked Bass Pro Shops as the third “Most Reputable Retailer in America.” Forbes also named the retailer as, “One of America’s Best Employers” and “Most Reputable Companies.” Perks and benefits include flexible hours, merchandise discounts up to 45 percent, healthcare benefits, an award-winning team culture and much more.

Seasonal retail positions are available in all of the company’s U.S. locations, including its Retail Stores, Contact Centers, Distribution Centers and White River Marine Group Manufacturing Plants nationwide.

Additionally, seasonal positions are available throughout Missouri’s Ozark Mountains where noted conservationist Johnny Morris first founded Bass Pro Shops in 1972, including world-class conservation attractions and resort destinations. These include Big Cedar Lodge, Dogwood Canyon Nature Park, and Johnny Morris’ Wonders of Wildlife National Museum and Aquarium, which was recently voted as “America’s Best Aquarium” by readers of USA Today.

Interested candidates can apply in advance by visiting basspro.com/careers. Walk-ins also are welcome with on-site interviews taking place from 10 a.m. to 7 p.m. at all locations. While the majority of available positions are seasonal and part-time, qualified candidates can be considered for full-time employment. All applicants must be at least 18 years old. Bass Pro Shops is an equal opportunity employer and a drug-free workplace.

As recently as July the companies added 5,000 staff members.

SIG SAUER Announces Expansion of New Hampshire Operations

SIG SAUER Announces Expansion of New Hampshire Operations

From SIG SAUER

SIG SAUER, Inc., a leading New Hampshire manufacturer, is pleased to announce an expansion of its New Hampshire operations to the city of Rochester, New Hampshire.

Ron Cohen, President & CEO, SIG SAUER, Inc. began, “we are incredibly excited about completing the acquisition of a new facility in Rochester which gives SIG the much-needed flexibility to expand our manufacturing operations in the region and grow our workforce.”

SIG SAUER is poised to acquire a multi-building campus in Rochester, to relocate its Dover operation and expand overall New Hampshire operations, located within Crossroads Industrial Park situated on 35+ acres with up to 210,000 sq./ft. of space. This expansion is spurred by the need for additional manufacturing space and SIG SAUER’s continued market growth.

“The expansion of SIG SAUER’s New Hampshire operation is exciting and welcome news as our economy continues to grow,” said Governor Chris Sununu. “We pride ourselves on working hand-in-hand with our partners in the private sector to expand economic opportunity for working families across the Granite State – and this partnership between the State of New Hampshire, City of Rochester, and SIG SAUER does just that.”

The company’s come a long way since Fear and Loading posted our virtual tour of the company’s old facility (below) on our modest YouTube channel. .

“We’re thrilled to welcome SIG SAUER to Rochester. The new location will provide great job opportunities to our state’s workforce and offer advanced manufacturing capabilities to the region,” added Mayor Caroline McCarley, City of Rochester, NH. “I also admire their commitment to work with our high school students in the Richard W. Creteau Regional Technology Center to gain skills that can be transferred into a wide variety of career paths.”

The expansion of SIG SAUER operations in New Hampshire is a result of a collaboration with the city of Rochester and the state of New Hampshire, including the New Hampshire Business Finance Authority.

“This partnership with SIG SAUER provides an exciting opportunity for the City of Rochester and will bring in 300 new, high-quality jobs to the city,” said James Key-Wallace, executive director of the BFA. “We were pleased to work closely with the state of New Hampshire and the city of Rochester to make this happen. Our collaborative approach shows New Hampshire is committed to growing our businesses here in the state and is always looking at creative opportunities. We want Granite State companies to know they can count on us for innovative solutions when they are ready to expand their operations.”

SIG SAUER’s world headquarters is located at Pease International Tradeport in Newington, New Hampshire and the company operates six additional locations across the state of New Hampshire, in addition to operations in Arkansas and Oregon.

The quality of the company’s guns is driving the expansion, for obvious reasons, but don’t forget it also offers some striking custom firearms, like this one.

AR-15 Home Builder’s Parts Kit from White Label Armory

AR-15 Home Builder’s Parts Kit from White Label Armory

From White Label Armory

The new AR-15 Home Builders Parts Kit from White Label Armory has everything you need to maintain a safe full of AR-15 style firearms. This kit contains every small component necessary for keeping your personal armory running.

“The Home Builder’s Kit is perfect for everyone, from avid AR builders and preppers to that go-to guy at the range. It also comes with significant savings over buying parts individually,” Randi D’Ambrosia, Marketing Director.

Parts Right Where You Need Them

Parts right where you need them, when you need them. From magazine catch buttons to crush washers and hammers, you’ll have all the essentials in one convenient place. No longer worry about going down in the event of a parts break. The White Label Armory Home Builder’s Kit will keep you running, so you’re never caught with a dead rifle.

Packaging Designed to make Storage Easier

Not only are all components 100% made in the USA, but they also come in an organized and clearly labeled container. Sifting through a drawer or box of small unorganized parts to find the right spring, pin, or washer is a thing of the past. With our convenient, organized storage container—holding 283 small AR components—you’ll quickly and easily find all the small parts crucial for every home builder.

Taurus Raging Hunter Hunting Pack and Giveaway

Taurus Raging Hunter Hunting Pack and Giveaway

From Taurus

Taurus is now offering the popular Raging Hunter big-bore revolver in a “ready-for-the-field” complete hunting package and to celebrate its conducting a Taurus Raging Hunter Hunting Pack Giveaway.

The new Raging Hunter Hunting Pack was developed to provide consumers everything they need to start big-game hunting with a handgun. The Raging Hunter Hunting Pack is a limited production run while quantities last.

Central to the Raging Hunter Hunting Pack is a Raging Hunter six-shot revolver dressed in the Hunting Pack-specific Military Spec Green Cerakote finish accented with a matte black oxide cylinder and black rubber grip. Chambered in .44 Magnum, the Raging Hunter features an 8.37-inch barrel with factory-tuned porting to reduce muzzle flip and to promote fast target reacquisition.

The Raging Hunter Hunting Pack comes with a Leupold FX-II 4x28mm handgun scope and rings that can be installed onto the Raging Hunter’s Picatinny rail. Simply mount and head to the range for a quick zeroing and this revolver is ready to hunt.

Facilitating safe and easy transportation to hunting camp or the hunting stand is the modular Taurus Deluxe Carry Case FDE. This case features a muzzle pocket and two cinch straps to secure the revolver along with two speedloader pockets and two shellholders. Also included are two HKS 29-M speedloaders.

MSRP for the Raging Hunter Hunting Pack (PN 2-44008B1RH-HP) is $1,557.09.

To kick off the new Raging Hunter Hunting Pack, Taurus has launched the Legendary Hunter Giveaway in conjunction with Leupold and Hornady. From now through October 31, 2020, visitors to ShootOn.com can enter to win the Legendary Hunter Giveaway. No purchase is necessary. The Legendary Hunter Giveaway prize list includes:

  • Taurus Raging Hunter .44 Magnum Hunting Pack (MSRP $957)
  • Leupold FX-II Handgun Scope 4x28mm (MSRP $519.99)
  • Leupold PRW2 1-inch Medium Scope Mounting Rings (MSRP $79.99)
  • Leupold BX-2 Alpine 10x42mm Binoculars (MSRP $324.99)
  • Leupold GO Afield Binocular Harness (MSRP $129.99)
  • Leupold Packout Shadow Gray Shooting Glasses (MSRP $234.99)
  • Hornady 44 Mag 225 gr FTX LEVERevolution Ammunition, 1 case (MSRP $299.99)

The total prize value is $2,546.94. To enter, visit the Legendary Hunter Giveaway at ShootOn.com.

And Taurus also makes self-defense firearms, including its new G-series compact pistol.