Guy J. Sagi/Fear And Loading

December 5, 2020December 5, 2020

Hunting the Western States: A Good Rangefinder + Ballistic = Successful Hunt!

From Ballistic

Outdoors Solutions: Hunting and Fishing Destinations specializes in sending clients on hunting and fishing trips. One of the company’s most requested outings is a Western States hunt for elk, mule deer or pronghorn antelope.

“For a lot of people, it is the hunt of a lifetime,” says Greg Ray, Outdoor Solutions founder and co-owner. “We warn them; given the wide-open spaces you will be hunting, you need to be able to make a shot out to 400 yards at least.”

He soon discovers; most clients haven’t shot deer-sized game much past 100 yards, and the 400-yard requirement scares them.

And notice that Greg tells clients, “at least” 400 yards.

If you are plan that hunt of a lifetime in the huge expanses of the West, do yourself a big favor and buy a quality range finder. Use it repeatedly before your hunt, and use it in conjunction with Ballistic, the Number 1 long-distance shooting app.

Distances can be very deceiving. So, once you get used to your range finder’s controls, locate a piece of higher ground and start picking out various objects in the distance with your naked eye. That tree, for example, you guestimate at 300 yards and that building at 650 yards. Then, use your range finder to how far away they are.

But, if I spot game at a distance, you say, I’ll use my range finder.

You will-if you have time, and the above practice session will give you the hands-on experience is doing just that.

Game animals are very unpredictable. A mule deer can suddenly stand up out of the brush or an elk may wander into sight just before dropping into a ravine. You may have to shoot at a moment’s notice, literally, and having done your due diligence; you will be able to tell yourself, “That’s a 350-yard shot,” and know the correct holdover.

How do you know the correct holdover to compensate for bullet drop at various distances? The best way to learn is by using Ballistic. You zeroed at 100 yards, using your hunting ammunition, of course, and then Ballistic calculated your holdovers needed out to whatever distance you are comfortable shooting.

Good luck is well, good. However, with Ballistic, a quality range finger and lots of pre-hunt practice will make your Western hunt of a lifetime a truly great experience!

December 5, 2020December 5, 2020

Primary Arms Online Adds Apparel Products From 5.11 Tactical

From Primary Arms

Primary Arms Online now carries tactical apparel products from 5.11 Tactical. Now, customers can shop a wider selection of tops, pants, and outerwear along with a lineup of bags and packs to supplement a tactical lifestyle. To view all the newest products, please visit the 5.11 Tactical brand page on primaryarms.com.

5.11 Tactical apparel is renowned through the industry for its blend of high-quality materials through both overt and covert styles. Whether you’re shopping for professional attire, range garb, or a combat uniform, 5.11 Tactical carries everything you need to set up your wardrobe for the mission ahead. As one of the fastest growing apparel companies in America, 5.11 Tactical has earned the trust of many in the firearms community, and Primary Arms Online is excited to bring their products to a new storefront.

“We are thrilled to announce the addition of 5.11 Tactical to our growing apparel and accessories product line. Considered by many as the tactical titans of apparel, this California-based company is a favorite among FBI agents, servicemen, and public safety professionals,” says Beth Singletary, Primary Arms’ Merchandising Manager for Soft Lines. “As a 5.11 authorized dealer, we are building on our goal to provide superior tactical apparel for all of our customers – whether law enforcement, tactical operators or reactional enthusiasts.”

In addition to 5.11 Tactical, Primary Arms Online has expanded their apparel offering with other top brands to give their customers a true one-stop shop. The growth of American gun culture is continually reflected in its fashion, and with tactical apparel on the rise, Primary Arms is pleased to bring companies like 5.11 Tactical to a new audience.

December 5, 2020December 5, 2020

New Guns & Gear for 2021—Pulsar Unveils Digisight Ultra LRF Digital Riflescopes

From Pulsar

Pulsar has unveiled two elite riflescopes to augment its impressive Digisight lineup; the Ultra N450 LRF and Ultra N455 LRF. These digital night vision scopes employ 4.5-18x magnification and powerful 1280×720 CMOS sensors to detect objects, day or night, with unique precision. With integrated laser rangefinders, the Digisight Ultras can spot objects up to 1,100 yards away. Their 1024×768 AMOLED screens display every image in stunning detail, and their technological implements are top-notch: Wi-Fi connectivity, built-in recording with sound, Picture-in-Picture digital zoom, compatibility with the Stream Vision App and ten variable electronic reticles.

Here’s what the experts had to say on the difference between etched and wire reticles in riflescopes.

Eminently durable, Digisight Ultras boast glass/nylon composite housing, IP67 waterproof and dustproof ratings, operating temperatures from -13F to 122F and a recoil rating of .375 H&H. The Digisight Ultras come included with a battery pack, charging kit, USB cable, IR illuminator, wireless remote control, QD weaver/picatinny rail, cleaning cloth, carrying case and Hex wrench.

December 5, 2020January 9, 2021

New Guns & Gear for 2021—Hawke Optics Adds Three New Rimfire Scopes to Vantage 30 WA Line

From Hawke Optics

Hawke® Optics, a world leader in high quality sporting optics with outstanding performance in the field at amazing value to consumers, happily announces three new rimfire-specific models in the Vantage 30 WA line. Hawke matched the value-packed features of the Vantage scope line with the all-new rimfire caliber-specific reticles. The end results are superior accuracy and scopes that are a must-have for any serious rimfire shooter. These exciting new scopes are a solid addition to Hawke’s popular rimfire optic line.

I interviewed the experts, and you’ll be surprised at the difference between an etched and wire reticles.

Available for .22LR HV, .17HMR, and .22LR Subsonic, Hawke’s exclusive rimfire reticles have pre-calculated aim points for each specific caliber. With each scope, you zero while on 16x magnification at 50 yards (100 yards for the .17HMR) and from there, all aim points are pre-calculated with easy-to-read yardage markings etched in the reticle. With these reticles, you will experience outstanding downrange accuracy unlike any other rimfire scope on the market today.

Each Vantage 30 WA SF 4-16X50 Rimfire scope is built on a 30mm mono-tube frame with ¼ MOA exposed and locking turrets and side focus with infinite parallax adjustment. Each scope has 11-layer, fully multi-coated lenses for excellent clarity and is nitrogen purged to be water-, shock- and fog proof. The scopes have a glass-etched reticle with adjustable red and green illumination, letting you select five levels of brightness. Lens covers and a battery are included. These scopes are worry free thanks to the Hawke No-Fault Lifetime Warranty. If you are serious about rimfire, you need a Hawke Vantage 30 WA SF 4-16×50 rimfire scope with either a .22 LR HV, .22 LR Subsonic, or .17 HMR reticle. Learn more on Hawke’s website.

Here’s my complete list of the best new guns and gear for 2021.

December 5, 2020January 9, 2021

New Guns & Gear for 2021—Meopta Introduces MeoStar B1 Plus Binoculars

From Meopta

Meopta is pleased to introduce MeoStar B1 Plus binoculars in 8×32 HD, 8×42 HD, 8×56 HD, 10×42 HD, 12×50 HD, and 15×56 HD models. The B1 Plus is the latest iteration of Meopta’s top binocular line and integrates numerous new features in one high-performance binocular. The innovative optical design, HD FL lenses with advanced coatings, central locking diopter, and upgraded rubber armoring for improved grip and ergonomics, deliver a truly superior user experience.

Razor-sharp images, improved resolution and contrast, color fidelity, and exceptional low-light performance are hallmarks of this line. The optical system with MeoBright lens coatings is optimized for twilight, giving hunters the advantage of seeing fine details more clearly at extended ranges in low light. The rugged B1 Plus also features an aluminum alloy body engineered to withstand the most extreme hunting conditions.

Here’s my complete list of the best new guns and gear for 2021.

“Our MeoStar binoculars have long been a favorite of guides and serious hunters who demand premium performance and appreciate value,” said Pavel Stastny, Senior Director of Sales and Marketing at Meopta. “We continue to deliver European optical quality across all of our product lines and back this with our outstanding U.S. warranty policy.”

Multi-stop, twist-up eyecups accommodate all users, and the eyecups are removable for quick and easy cleaning. Meopta’s MeoShield anti-abrasion lens coating offers added protection in rough terrain, and the MeoDrop hydrophobic lens coating repels rain, dust, and grease from lens surfaces.

The MeoStar B1 Plus binoculars are nitrogen purged, waterproof, fogproof and, like all Meopta optics sold in the United States, are backed by Meopta’s Lifetime Transferrable Warranty.

Retail Pricing: From $1,079.99 – $1,599.99

Follow Meopta on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube for the latest news and product announcements.

About Meopta

Meopta has been producing high-end European optics for over 87 years and is a leading manufacturer & partner to many of the world’s finest optical brands. Meopta conceives,

develops, and manufactures precision optical and electro/optical systems for semiconductor, medical, aerospace, and military industries as well as for consumer markets.

For more information regarding Meopta, please visit www.meoptasportsoptics.com.

December 5, 2020December 5, 2020

Benelli USA Makes Financial Contribution to NSSF for Industry Support

From Benelli USA

Benelli USA announces it will make a financial contribution of $50,000 to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) to support their leadership and advocacy in protecting the firearm business and ensuring the industry’s future. Their mission to promote and preserve recreational shooting and hunting has been evident during the COVID-19 outbreak. The NSSF worked tirelessly to ensure the firearm industry was categorized as an essential business.

“The NSSF is one of the most important groups in the firearms and outdoor industry,” said Benelli USA General Manager Tom DeBolt. “It is critically important to not only praise their dedication but support them financially as well. We appreciate the leadership of Joe Bartozzi, Larry Keane and their team who continue to advocate for our industry and lead the NSSF organization during these challenging times.”

This contribution comes on the heels of the donation of $100,000 to NSSF’s #GUNVOTE Voter Education Campaign from Benelli USA this past September.

“In the coming year, our industry will face many new challenges, and the support of firearm industry leaders like Benelli USA will help us meet and overcome those challenges,” said Joe Bartozzi, NSSF president & CEO. “We can’t say thank you enough to Benelli for this generous contribution and for its outstanding leadership in ensuring a strong future for our industry.”

The NSSF is the trade association for the firearms industry and plays a critical role in supporting the shooting sports, gun rights and hunting. With more than 13,000 members, the group annually hosts the industry with SHOT Show to facilitate business and bring together members of the outdoor industry.

To learn more about the Benelli USA and Benelli USA products, please visit www.benelliusa.com.

December 5, 2020January 9, 2021

New Guns & Gear for 2021—Chief Upland Launches Customizable Hunting Vest

News Guns & Gear for 2021—Chief Upland Launches Customizable Hunting Vest

From Chief Upland

Whether you enjoy hunting pheasant, chukar, quail, rabbits or any other upland or small game, Chief Upland’s NEW Over/Under customizable, front-loading vest is the answer to making your next hunt enjoyable, comfortable, organized, and most importantly—built just for you.

Chief Upland has teamed up with strategic developers, gear designers and apparel engineers across the globe to design and develop the Over/Under vest.

Here’s my complete list of the best new guns and gear for 2021.

“Through factory relationships with experts in the apparel industry, we’re able to produce and bring our market-disrupting gear to the hunting world at remarkably valuable and affordable prices,” said Jake Lindemann, founder and CEO of Chief Upland.

The Over/Under vest system allows the user to create as much storage as he or she wants by attaching pockets to the laser cut MOLLE/PALS compatible panels where you feel is easiest to access the items you carry out in the field. The vest is also versatile, lightweight and comfortably carries the weight on top of your hips to eliminate neck, shoulder and back fatigue.

Over/Under Vest Key Features:

Customizable storage
Universal fit (waist sizes ranging from 29” to 50”)
Durable materials include 1000D Cordura®, Hypalon and leather accents, and rip-stop lining
Lightweight at 2.56 lbs.
Waterproof and briar-proof
Colors: Blaze orange and Earth tone
MSRP: $159 (attachments sold separately)

December 5, 2020January 9, 2021

New Guns & Gear for 2021—Rival Arms Chassis System for 10/22 Style Barreled Actions

From Rival Arms

Rival Arms™, manufacturer of precision firearm components for do-it-yourself gun enthusiasts, announces all colors for the R-22 Precision Chassis System for Ruger® 10/22®-style barreled actions are now available. Rival Arms, known for premium handgun components, expands into the world of performance rimfire upgrades beginning with the R-22 chassis.

The Ruger® 10/22® barreled action is known in the rimfire rifle community to be prolific, reliable, and easily upgradable. Rival Arms enhances this platform with the R-22 Precision Chassis System. Designed for use with 10/22®-style barreled actions featuring a 1-inch maximum barrel diameter, the R-22 chassis is CNC-machined from billet aluminum for precise consistency, strength, and rigidity. Weighing in at only one pound, the aluminum maintains the lightweight design of the 10/22 platform. The chassis will soon be available through dealers and distributors in hard black anodized finish as well as a KG GunKote Flat Dark Earth (FDE) and Satin Gray finishes. Like all Rival Arms products, the R-22 Chassis is proudly made in the USA by American workers.

Here’s my complete list of the best new guns and gear for 2021.

The chassis includes scalloped texturing on the forend to enhance grip and includes 11 integrated M-LOK slots to mount accessories and to reduce weight. Tapping into the modularity of AR-15 components, the R-22 chassis accepts most vertical or angled AR-style pistol grips and is threaded to accommodate 1 3/16-16 mil-spec buffer tubes for a wide variety of stock options. The forend is also tapped to accept a sling swivel stud, positioned for sling or bipod use.

Upgrading to the Rival Arms R-22 chassis system is a project any DIY firearms enthusiast can accomplish at home, and the opportunity to apply most of the diverse AR-style grips and buttstocks on the market allows for numerous customization possibilities. Available through dealers and the new Rival Arms website.

For more information on Rival Arms precision-manufactured firearm components and accessories, visit rival-arms.com.

December 5, 2020December 5, 2020

Smith & Wesson Brands Reports Record Quarterly Results

From Smith & Wesson

– Record Quarterly Revenue of $249 Million

– GAAP EPS of $0.87/Share, non-GAAP EPS of $0.93/Share

– $0.05 per Share Dividend

SPRINGFIELD, MA – Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, today announced financial results for the second quarter of fiscal year2021, ended October 31, 2020. On August 24, 2020, the company completed the previously announced spin-off of its outdoor products and accessories business. Therefore, beginning with this quarter, all historical financial information for that business is reported as discontinued operations. Unless otherwise indicated, any reference to income statement items refers to results from continuing operations.

Second Quarter Fiscal 2021 Consolidated Financial Highlights

Quarterly net sales were $248.7 million compared with $113.7 million for the comparable quarter last year, an increase of 118.7%.
Gross margin for the quarter was 40.6% compared with 28.4% for the comparable quarter last year.
Quarterly GAAP income was $49.1 million, or $0.87 per diluted share, compared with $343,000, or $0.01 per diluted share, for the comparable quarter last year.
Quarterly non-GAAP income was $52.8 million, or $0.93 per diluted share, compared with $472,000, or $0.01 per diluted share, for the comparable quarter last year. GAAP to non-GAAP adjustments for income exclude costs related to the spin-off of the outdoor products and accessories business, COVID-19 related expenses, and other costs. For a detailed reconciliation, see the schedules that follow in this release.
Quarterly non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDAS was $78.9 million, or 31.7% of net sales, compared with $13.4 million, or 11.8% of net sales, for the comparable quarter last year.

Mark Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer, commented, “Today, I am pleased to report a second consecutive record-breaking quarter for our 168 year old company. These results are a testament to Smith & Wesson’s devoted team of employees, and their ability to deliver strong performance in the face of any challenge. Because of the hard work of our employees, who have been diligently following our safety protocols, we have been able to continue safely operating our business and, during these extremely difficult times when so many of our fellow Americans are out of work, we successfully created and filled 287 new jobs during our second quarter. Along with our existing employees, our new team members played a critical role in achieving these record-breaking numbers.”

Deana McPherson, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer, commented, “Smith & Wesson’s record-breakingfinancial performance enabled us to generate $49.1 million in net income, seed the outdoor products and accessories business with $25 million of cash at the spin date, repay the final $25 million on our revolving loan, and left us with $55.5 million of cash on hand, and zero bank debt, significantly sooner than our prior internal targets. Additionally, our Board again authorized a $0.05 per share dividend to shareholders of record as of December 17, 2020, with payment to be made on January 5, 2021.”

Reconciliation of U.S. GAAP to Non-GAAP Financial Measures

In this press release, certain non-GAAP financial measures, including “non-GAAP net income,” “Adjusted EBITDAS,” and “free cash flow” are presented. From time-to-time, the company considers and uses these supplemental measures of operating performance in order to provide the reader with an improved understanding of underlying performance trends. The company believes it is useful for itself and the reader to review, as applicable, both (1) GAAP measures that include (i) amortization of acquired intangible assets, (ii) transition costs, (iii) the tax effect of non-GAAP adjustments, (iv) COVID-19 expenses, (v) net cash used in investing activities, (vi) interest expense, (vii) income tax expense, (viii) depreciation and amortization, and (ix) stock-based compensation expenses; and (2) the non-GAAP measures that exclude such information. The company presents these non-GAAP measures because it considers them an important supplemental measure of its performance. The company’s definition of these adjusted financial measures may differ from similarly named measures used by others. The company believes these measures facilitate operating performance comparisons from period to period by eliminating potential differences caused by the existence and timing of certain expense items that would not otherwise be apparent on a GAAP basis. These non-GAAP measures have limitations as an analytical tool and should not be considered in isolation or as a substitute for the company’s GAAP measures. The principal limitations of these measures are that they do not reflect the company’s actual expenses and may thus have the effect of inflating its financial measures on a GAAP basis.

About Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality handgun, long gun, and suppressor products to the global consumer and professional markets under the iconic Smith & Wesson®, M&P®, Thompson/Center Arms™, and Gemtech® brands. The company also provides manufacturing services including forging, machining, and precision plastic injection molding services. For more information call (844) 363-5386 or visit www.smith-wesson.com.