Guy J. Sagi/Fear And Loading

October 28, 2020October 28, 2020

Federal Premium Force X2 Wins Best Ammunition Caliber Award

From Federal Premium

Federal Premium Force X2 Personal Defense Shotgun Loads has been presented with the Caliber Award in the Best Ammunition New Product category by the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW), in partnership with the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA).

“We are thrilled to have won Best Ammunition for our Premium Force X2 at the 4th Annual NASGW-POMA Caliber Awards,” said Federal’s Vice President of Sales Jim Bruno. “The Caliber Awards are chosen by a dedicated group of wholesalers and media members who stay on top of product trends and innovations year after year. We know these individuals truly saw the value of all the features and benefits Force X2 delivers to any customer looking for the most innovative and effective personal defense load for shotguns. We are incredibly proud of this award.”

Force X2 utilizes nine copper-plated 00 buckshot pellets—specially engineered to split into two equal-size pieces on impact—to create up to 18 wound channels which improves the transfer of energy from the payload to the target and minimizes the potential for over-penetration, reducing the risk to bystanders. Force X2 is also loaded for more manageable recoil, allowing the shooter to stay on target for faster follow-up shots and better accuracy in a self-defense situation.

Federal Premium Hydra-Shok Deep 380 Auto was also a finalist for the NASGW-POMA Caliber Award in the Best Ammunition New Product category. This new Hydra-Shok Deep offering for 2020 is the first expanding 380 Auto load to consistently penetrate beyond the FBI-recommended 12-inch minimum. Like all Hydra-Shok Deep loads, its bullet’s more robust center post and core design ensure it penetrates to critical depths through common self-defense barriers, without over-penetrating.

Here’s the announcement when Federal introduced its Force X2.

October 28, 2020October 28, 2020

Otis Technology the Hand Sanitizer Sponsor for Industry Day

From NSSF

For the first time in its history, Industry Day at the Range will have a Hand Sanitizer Sponsor at the most influential one-day range day event in the hunting and shooting sports industries. For 2021, Otis Technology will serve as the official Hand Sanitizer Sponsor of the 16th Annual Industry Day at the Range. Also the Hand Sanitizer Sponsor of the NSSF SHOT Show, Otis Technology will provide 3,000 bottles of hand sanitizer to Industry Day attendees, including media, buyers, manufacturers and staff.

Will there even be a SHOT Show?

“We’re extremely grateful to Otis Technology for taking on this new role for the 2021 event,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range Manager. “In these unusual times, it’s reassuring to know that there are companies, like Otis Technology, that truly make the well-being of others a priority. From invited media and buyers to our hardworking Industry Day staff, everyone will have access to hand sanitizer to help keep everyone safe.”

“We’re happy to do our part and help ensure Industry Day at the Range is held safely for our fellow exhibitors, buyers, media and staff. We look forward to seeing everyone in person out at the range,” said Heather Pleskach, Director of Marketing at Otis Technology.

With over 200 manufacturers exhibiting, and over 500,000 rounds of ammunition shot, Industry Day is the premier shooting event in the industry, giving outdoor media and buyers the opportunity to shoot and test new products for the upcoming year. With returning exhibitors showcasing newly launched product and new exhibitors displaying for the first time, the 2021 event is a can’t-miss event. Invited media and buyers are encouraged to act on their invitation as attendee registration is close to capacity.

For those interested in exhibiting in 2021, exhibitor spaces are extremely limited and approaching sell-out. Potential participants are encouraged to register as soon as possible. Exhibitor registration is expected to close on November 6, 2020 or when spaces sell out.

More information can be found at SHOTShowRangeDay.com.

October 28, 2020October 28, 2020

Savage Announces New Thumbhole 320 Shotguns

From Savage Arms

Savage Arms is pleased to announce the addition of three new models to their venerable Stevens 320 shotgun lineup. These new thumbhole stock pump-actions provide control and versatility and offer a new option for fans of the classic Stevens design and will be available this holiday season.

“Our Stevens shotguns have proven to be very versatile for hunters and home defense,” Jessica Treglia, Sr. Brand Manager at Savage Arms, said. “And now we’re adding the thumbhole option to our 320 line with a new Turkey gun, and two different defensive shotguns. These shotguns are light, highly ergonomic, and built on the tested pump action that makes Stevens shotguns so reliable.”

The new 320 Thumbhole Security provides a new level of ergonomics to the tested 320 action. The 320 Security Thumbhole model combines a 18.5” barrel with a matte black forend and aggressive stock texturing. Each is available with either ghost ring sights or a traditional front bead sight. Both options are chambered in 12 gauge and 20 gauge.

320 Thumbhole Security Features

• Pump action shotgun with dual slide bars and rotary bolt

• 12 & 20 Gauge Options

• Matte black synthetic stock and forend

• Thumbhole stock with ambidextrous cheek riser and rugged grip textures

• Chrome alloy steel 18.5” matte black security barrel

• 3-inch chamber

• Swivel stud on stock and magazine cap

• Bottom-loading tube magazine (5+1 Capacity)

• Recoil pad

• Ghost Ring Sight or Front Bead Sight models available.

Part No. / Description / MSRP

23246 / 320 Thumbhole BEAD, 12 GA. 18.5-inch barrel / $275

23247 / 320 Thumbhole BEAD, 20 GA. 18.5-inch barrel / $275
23248 / 320 Thumbhole GRS, 12 GA. 18.5-inch barrel / $305
23249 / 320 Thumbhole GRS, 20 GA. 18.5-inch barrel / $305

The reliable 320 pump action is now available in a thumbhole stock. The 320 Turkey also has an ambidextrous cheek riser. The olive drab stock and forend have built-in grip textures, and the receiver is drilled and tapped. It comes with an extended extra full turkey choke and adjustable fiberoptic sights. With its proven rotary bolt, and dual slide bars, the new 320 Turkey Thumbhole is ready to hunt.

320 Turkey Thumbhole Features

• Pump action shotgun with dual slide bars and rotary bolt

• 12 & 20 Gauge Options

• OD Green synthetic stock and forend

• Thumbhole stock with ambidextrous cheek riser and rugged grip textures

• Chrome alloy steel 22” matte black, ventilated rib barrel

• 3-inch chamber

• Swivel stud on stock and magazine cap

• Bottom-loading tube magazine (5+1 Capacity)

• Recoil pad

• Adjustable fiberoptic turkey sights

• Extended Extra Full Choke Tube (Win. Choke)

Part No. / Description / MSRP

23250 / 320 Turkey Thumbhole, 12 GA. 22-inch barrel / $323

23251 / 320 Turkey Thumbhole, 20 GA. 22-inch barrel / $323

And if you’re more into waterfowl hunting, take a look at the company’s new Renegauge shotgun.

October 28, 2020October 28, 2020

Primary Arms Government a Distributor of ASP Law Enforcement Products

From Primary Arms Government

Primary Arms Government is now a full distributor of ASP Inc. Law Enforcement products. ASP is a market leader in mission-critical Law Enforcement equipment, including expandable batons, restraints, tactical lightning, OC spray, and training tools. To see the full product offerings, visit the ASP page on the Primary Arms retail site.

ASP’s commitment to quality and innovation established them as the top choice for police groups across the country for over 40 years. The difference comes from ‘ASP DNA’, ASP’s process for designing, prototyping, and testing their newest products. ‘ASP DNA’ requires all products to provide innovative, practical solutions to real-world problems while performing to a best-in-class standard. ASP has seen extensive service with the Federal Bureau of Investigations, Chicago Police Department, Virginia State Police, and countless other leading law enforcement groups.

“ASP is one of those lines that, if you’re going to be a serious player in the LE sales world, you have to available to your customers. They are one of the premier product manufacturers in the expandable baton and handcuff markets. Their innovation and quality truly set them apart,” says Major Mathis, Primary Arms Government’s US Law Enforcement Sales Manager. “By supplying officers with such high-quality products, we’re able to deliver on our mission to improve the effectiveness and safety of Law Enforcement professionals.”

For more information on ASP products or Primary Arms Government, visit the Primary Arms Government landing page. From there, you can view all the major services and benefits of working with the Primary Arms Government team for all your equipment purchases. No matter your team’s needs, Primary Arms Government can help you find the right solution with testing and evaluation, trade-ins, and special pricing.

And take a look at the new ASP Tactical Response Kit the company is handling.

October 28, 2020October 28, 2020

New 3-Gun and Long Range Tool Kits from Fix It Sticks

From Fix It Sticks

Fix It Sticks, the industry innovator of modular firearms maintenance tools and torque limiters has introduced two new field-portable, comprehensive tool kits, the Long Range Kit and the 3 Gun Kit for long range shooters and multi-gun competitors respectively. Developed with input from competitive shooters in each discipline, both kits have an extensive array of the most useful tools, bits and torque limiters necessary to properly setup and maintain firearms for maximum accuracy and performance. These kits are capable enough to use on the bench and portable enough to use in the field.

The 3 Gun Kit has firearm specific tools and components multi-gun shooters need to keep their rifle, shotgun and handgun in top competitive condition on the range or at a match. The kit contains four of the most needed Fix It Sticks Torque Limiters to properly tighten scope rings, handguards, action screws and accessories. As well as having a wide selection of general use hex bits, The 3 Gun Kitcontains firearm specific tools and bits such as a bolt scraper (AR-15 and AR-10), a Glock site tool, a 1911 Bushing Wrench, AR-15 Castle Nut Wrench and Choke Tube Wrench. Also included is a multi-section cleaning rod and the new Fix It Sticks Take-Down Ratchet T-Handle. The 3 Gun Kit includes the following:
• Ratchet T-Handle • 65 Inch Lbs torque limiter • 45 Inch Lbs torque limiter • 25 Inch Lbs torque limiter • 15 Inch Lbs torque limiter • 1/2” Socket/Adapter • Mini Pry Bar • Pin Punch set • Bronze Scraper • Steel Pick • Cleaning Brush Bit • Set of two 8-32 adapters • Aimpoint Bit • .223 BCG Scraper • .308 BCG Scraper • A2 Sight Bit • Castle Nut Bit • Choke Wrench • 1911 Bushing Bit • Glock Front Sight Bit • Rod Set (.223-6.5-.30) • 24 Chrome Plated Bits • Magnetic Patch • Micro Fiber Lens Cloth • Soft Carrying Case

The Long Range Kit is designed to setup and maintain precision rifles anywhere at any time. Four of the Fix It Stick torque limiters are included to guarantee proper torque for action screws and scope mounts which is critical for consistency and repeatable accuracy. A set of bubble levels is on hand to eliminate canting the reticle while mounting optics. As well as the proper tools for setting up a rifle, theLong Range Kit has the components necessary to quickly maintain a precision rifle in the field including the Fix It Sticks steel cleaning rod system with brass bore protectors, a general cleaning brush, bronze scraper and lens cleaning cloth. The new Fix It Sticks Take-Down Ratchet T-Handle is included for portability and versatility. The Long Range Kit comes with the following:

•Ratchet T-Handle •65 Inch Lbs torque limiter •45 Inch Lbs torque limiter •25 Inch Lbs torque limiter •15 Inch Lbs torque limiter •1/2” Socket/Adapter •Mini Pry Bar •Pin Punch set •Bronze Scraper •Steel Pick •Cleaning Brush Bit •Set of two 8-32 adapters •Bubble Level Set •Rod Set (.223-6.5-.30) •3/16” Extended Action Bit •5/32” Extended Action Bit •24 Chrome Plated Bits •Magnetic Patch • Micro Fiber Lens Cloth •Soft Carrying Case

The soft carrying case for both new kits features molded-in bit holders designed to hold any bit / accessory with a standard 1/4″ Base (including Fix It Sticks Torque Limiters), and any 8-32 threaded component. The magnetic patch included with each kit keeps bits and small parts from being lost during use.

Like all Fix It Sticks tool kits the backbone of the system is the Fix It Sticks tool drivers and innovative torque limiters. The Fix It Sticks tool drivers work with any ¼” hex bit, are a takedown design for portability as well for using in different configurations. The preset torque limiters also use ¼” bits and tighten to the specified inch/lbs at which point they spin freely. Fix It Sticks bits and torque limiters will work with any ¼” bit driver.

The Long Range Kit and The 3 Gun Kit are also available with the new All-In-One torque driver in place of the four included torque limiters. The All-In-One torque driver can tighten fasteners anywhere between 15in/lb and 65in/lb with precise graduations laser marked at 15in/lb, 25in/lb, 35in/lb, 45in/lb, 55in/lb and 65in/lb. Both kits are now available.

The 3 Gun Kit: $416 P
The 3 Gun Kit with All-In-One torque driver: $350 MSRP
The PRS Kit: $434 MSRP
The PRS Kit with All-In-One torque driver: $368 MSRP

And be sure to check out the company’s riflescope leveling tool.

October 28, 2020October 28, 2020

Hawke Optics Adds Professional Steel and Cantilever Scope Mounts And Rings

From Hawke Optics

Hawke Optics, the leader in high-quality, high-value precision sporting optics and accessories, adds new scope mounts and rings to an already impressive lineup. The new Professional Steel and AR Cantilever Mounts and Rings will give you rock-solid accuracy for all of your shooting needs.

The best scopes in the world are only as good as the rings and mounts used to connect them to the rifle. As the makers of some of the finest sporting optics on the planet, Hawke Optics knows a thing or two about precision. That’s why they have added two new lines to their already impressive lineup of scope mounts and rings. The Professional Steel Scope Rings and Mounts have reversible Weaver rail mounting options and dual Torx-head screws. The rings include both quick-release levers and hex nuts for fastening, giving you multiple options for how you mount your optic. Solid steel construction means you get an unwavering mount. The Professional Steel Series comes in 1-inch and 30mm ring sizes, with low, medium, high and extra-high mounting options.

For AR-style rifles and platforms with a flat top rail mount, Hawke has added two new one-piece, high-mount Cantilever scope mounts, in a 1-inch and a 30mm option. These scope mounts have a 2-inch offset and measure one inch from the rail to the bottom of the scope ring. The rings use triple Torx screws for optimal strength and the entire mount is made from high-grade, machined aluminum.

These two new options add to Hawke’s impressive line of precision scope mounting options that has now grown to 79 different skus, including 1-inch, 30mm and 34mm rings and multiple heights and types of mounts. There is a Hawke ring and mount combination to meet the needs of every shooter. Whatever optic you choose, Hawke has the right way to mount it to your firearm. For more information, go to the Hawke Optics website.

The company also has new red-dot and reflex sights that it introduced earlier this month.

October 27, 2020October 27, 2020

SIG SAUER Introduces SIG Custom Works Equinox Series

From SIG Sauer

SIG SAUER is pleased to announce the continued expansion of the SIG Custom Works series of pistols with the introduction of the SIG Custom Works Equinox Series of pistols for the P226 Equinox and P229 Equinox.

“This is an exciting addition to the SIG Custom Works series of pistols, and a must-have for SIG aficionados and collectors alike,” said Tom Taylor, Chief Marketing Officer and Executive Vice President, Commercial Sales. “SIG Custom Works has recreated the popular two-tone, contrasting Equinox finish originally introduced over a decade ago for the iconic P226 and P229 pistols. These throwback limited-edition builds have the same look and feel of their predecessors that made the Equinox series a consistent request of SIG fans.”

The SIG Custom Works P226 and P229 Equinox pistols are 9mm hammer-fired pistols that each feature a black anodized metal frame and a Nitron stainless steel slide to achieve the two-tone equinox finish. The pistols are equipped with X-RAY 3 Day/Night Sights, Hogue classic contour SL G-10 grips, a short reset trigger, and pistol ships with (3) magazines. Exclusive SIG Custom Works feature includes logo engraving on the slide, a Negrini SIG Custom Works case, challenge coin, and an official SIG Custom Works Certificate of Authenticity.

P226 Equinox Specs:

Overall length: 7.7 inches
Overall height: 5.5 inches
Overall width: 1.5 inches
Barrel length: 4.4 inches
Sight Radius: 6.3 inches
Weight (w/magazine): 34 oz.

P229 Equinox Specs:

Overall length: 7.1 inches
Overall height: 5.5 inches
Overall width: 1.5 inches
Barrel length: 3.9 inches
Sight Radius: 5.7 inches
Weight (w/magazine): 34 oz.

The SIG Custom Works Equinox Series is now shipping and available at retailers. To learn more about the SIG Custom Works P226 and P229 Equinox Series or watch the product video with Phil Strader Pistol Product Manager, visit sigsauer.com.

The SIG Custom Works series of pistols includes the P320 AXG Scorpion, the classic line Nightmare Series, the Equinox series.

October 27, 2020October 30, 2020

Pandemic Resurgence May be the Final Nail in the SHOT Show Coffin

Fifty thousand professionals across the globe are finalizing plans to attend the firearm industry’s largest annual event. The January gathering takes place in Las Vegas, but the latest COVID-19 pandemic resurgence may be the final nail in the SHOT Show coffin.

Update: SHOT Show has been cancelled

There are a variety of business reasons the National Shooting Sports Foundation likely hasn’t cancelled SHOT Show yet. I’ve covered some of them earlier this month in another article. Things have changed, though, and not for the better. The Nevada Governor’s Office will announce modified guidelines sometime in November and the odds are it will be bad news.

The Sept. 29 guidelines mandate a crowd-size limit of 1,000 people. They must attend in separate groups or rooms of 250. There are too many other requirements to mention here, but they are restrictive.

Changing Pandemic Landscape

The total number of documented COVID-19 cases in the state of Nevada on Sept. 25 was 602. On Oct. 26 that figure was up to 762. The jump’s significant, yet nothing compared to elsewhere.

Hospitals nationwide are once again filling to capacity with pandemic patients. Last week set an all-time high for new cases across the nation.

The SHOT Show attracts manufacturers, retailers, wholesalers and media from across the globe. And, according to the New York Times, “…the number of new cases is growing faster than ever worldwide, with more than 200,000 reported each day on average.”

That means the odds are better than ever that each attendee is a carrier. If you were governor would you be comfortable welcoming a convention this size? The Consumer Electronics Show scheduled scarcely a week before SHOT already cancelled. So did Safari Club International. The NRA has cancelled its Great American Outdoor Show.

National and international travel restrictions may come into play. The odds of nearly empty international aisles at the SHOT Show are increasing daily.

Final Nail in the SHOT Show Coffin?

It’s the odds working against the 2021 SHOT Show. And Vegas knows a lot about working statistics in its favor.

Chances are good things won’t improve dramatically by the time the Governor issues new guidelines in November. In fact, it’s looking like the timing of this latest pandemic resurgence may be the final nail in the SHOT Show coffin.

Those, like myself, who’ve already received confirmation of their credentials for the SHOT Show, may’ve overlooked this notice. I know I did.

October 27, 2020October 27, 2020

Red Arrow Weapons RAW15 300 Blackout Pistol

From Red Arrow Weapons

Perhaps one of the most versatile firearms in the Red Arrow Weapons lineup, the 300 Blackout Pistol is ready for just about any challenge you can throw at it. Available in RAW’s two staple color packages, midnight bronze and black with red accents, the RAW15 300 AAC pistol is as sexy as it is accurate. Forged 7075 T6 Aluminum upper and lower receivers complimented with a Tailhook Mod 2 brace and slew of other performance parts complete this serious Turn ‘Em Red pistol package.

The 300 AAC pistol package from Red Arrow Weapons features a 10” barrel and a 9” M-Lok RAW-Rail. The Diamondback barrel features 4150 Chrome-moly construction with a black nitride coating process and operates with a 1:8 twist rate. A drop in 3.5 lbs single-stage trigger and a Mil Spec 8620 magnetic particle, nitride coated bolt carrier group complete this high-performance package.

The RAW15 in 300 AAC pistol is capable of a wide range of applications. The shorter pistol frame makes it a very desirable personal defense option- the perfect “truck gun” or home defense firearm, plus it is a tournament shooter’s dream option for 3-gun competitions and, even though it is shorter, it’s still an extremely viable hunting firearm option. The fit and function of this premium Red Arrow Weapons package, is sure to become one of your favorite go-to firearms for many years to come.

About Red Arrow Weapons

Red Arrow Weapons was started by hunter and outdoorsman, Kip Campbell. Host of the multi-network, multiple award-winning Red Arrow TV show, Kip is the perfect example of the work hard, play hard, Made in America type- AND he’s always had the highest standards when it comes to his equipment. That’s why each rifle RAW produces is designed to his exact specifications. Available in .223/5.56, .308 Win, .300 BLK, and 6.5 Creedmoor, you won’t find an AR-style rifle that comes out of the box with a better fit, finish, and functionality than those from Red Arrow Weapons.

October 27, 2020October 27, 2020

True Velocity Ammunition Advances to Shortlist for Australian LAND 159 Force Modernization Program

From True Velocity Ammunition

Australia-based NIOA, a company specializing in the supply and sustainment of weapons and munition systems to the Australian Defense Force (ADF), has invited Texas-based True Velocity to the next stage in the LAND 159 Lethality Systems Project procurement process. The LAND 159 project will equip the men and women of the ADF with next-generation pistols, assault rifles, machine guns, sniper rifles, direct fire support weapons, and ammunition. True Velocity, which manufactures composite cased ammunition for military, law enforcement and civilian use, will specifically participate in the narrowed search for next generation ammunition solutions.

“Being added to the shortlist for the LAND 159 program is clear acknowledgment of the benefits that composite ammunition can deliver to the warfighters of the future,” said Chris Tedford, President of True Velocity. “The composite casings we produce provide advantages on the battlefield through improved accuracy, reduced wear and tear on firearms, and a significant reduction in the weight of the ammunition itself compared to traditional brass. True Velocity also offers NIOA and ADF a partner that can put unmatched innovation in ammunition production technology to work benefitting overall logistics and spending.”

In collaboration with the Commonwealth of Australia, NIOA serves as Prime Contractor for the LAND 159 program. NIOA’s role includes identifying and approaching market providers such as True Velocity on behalf of the Commonwealth to identify and evaluate Sniper and Close Combat weapon systems and provide acquisition and support recommendations for future defense needs. Program participants ultimately selected will deliver next generation weapons and ammunition to the ADF in three phases or “tranches” over the next decade.

“For NIOA, the LAND 159 program is all about the next generation of Australia’s defense industry and, most importantly, the next generation of the ADF,” CEO Robert Nioa said. “The work of these young men and women is entrusted to all of us involved in the LAND 159 program. Their safety, and their ability to successfully complete missions is of the utmost importance and is why we must ensure that the ADF has the best equipment and ammunition available for years to come.’’

For more information on True Velocity, visit tvammo.com. And here’s a look at the company’s submission for the U.S. Army 6.8 mm solicitation.

About True Velocity

True Velocity is an advanced technology and composite manufacturing company based in Garland, Texas. Founded in 2010, True Velocity has more than 250 patents pending or issued on its products, technology and manufacturing processes. Initially, the company is focused on revolutionizing the ammunition industry. True Velocity products are manufactured in the U.S. in a state-of-the-art, 66,000-square-foot facility and are currently available to public agencies, with consumer products available soon. True Velocity’s proprietary composite cartridge provides significant logistical advantages over traditional brass-cased ammunition and gives end users unmatched accuracy, repeatability, and reliability, all in a light-weight cartridge.