Firearm Industry News Archives | Page 12 of 46

January 5, 2021January 5, 2021

Meprolight Increases Production and Warehouse Capacity

From Meprolight

2020 continued the unprecedented sales of guns, ammo and optics. First time buyers are at a record pace and there aren’t any signs of it letting up. In times of turmoil, individuals become more cognizant of the need to protect themselves and those around them, especially their families.

Meprolight® management recognized the signs early on and increased production to prevent shortages. Seeing no evidence of a let-up in demand, they recently increased production again in addition to expanding warehouse capacity in the U.S. “Seeing the increased demand for high grade optics and tritium powered, self-illuminating day/night sights , we increased our warehouse capacity in December to ensure our inventory levels will continue to meet demand. Our dealers can’t sell it if they don’t have it” says Bill Yerby, General Manager and V.P. Sales & Marketing, Meprolight U.S.

Meprolight® is the leading international industry manufacturer of high-grade electro-optics and self-illuminating day/night sights for pistols, rifles and shotguns. Products include the MEPRO RDS Pro V2, MEPRO Self-Illuminating Day/Night Sights and the ever popular MEPRO M21.

For more information or to find your local dealer visit Meprolight U.S. or call (717) 985-4482. You can also visit our online partners: OpticsPlanet, MidwayUSA or Focus Camera.

January 5, 2021January 5, 2021

Hornady Donates to GRACE Cancer Foundation and American Cancer Society

From Hornady

Hornady recently donated $44,955 to the GRACE Cancer Foundation in Grand Island, NE with a matching amount going to the American Cancer Society for a total donation of, $89,910 split evenly between the two organizations.

“We feel incredibly fortunate to have such a big-hearted supporter like Hornady, who believes so strongly in our mission to ensure that no cancer patient should ever have to choose between their treatment or their everyday expenses” said Sarah Koch, GRACE Executive Director.

The donation was calculated using a portion of each box sold of Hornady Critical Defense® Lite™ ammunition in 9mm and 38 Spl. Critical Defense Lite features a pink bullet tip and pink ribbon packaging to help showcase the fight against cancer.

“We are honored to support the GRACE Foundation and American Cancer Society” said Steve Hornady. “The assistance these organizations provide cancer patients and their families is remarkable” Hornady added.

The GRACE Cancer Foundation assists cancer patients who live within 40 miles of Grand Island, Nebraska, or are being treated at the Saint Francis Cancer Treatment Center or the Mary Lanning Healthcare – Morrison Cancer Center in Hastings. Help is available through several methods such as, gas cards, assistance with medical bills, household expenses and more.

The American Cancer Society’s mission is to free the world from cancer by funding and conducting research, sharing expert information, supporting patients and spreading the word about prevention.

Founded in 1949, Hornady® Manufacturing Company is a family-owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are made in the USA, Hornady® Manufacturing is a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool, accessory and security product design and manufacturing.

For further information regarding Hornady® products, visit the company web site at http://hornady.com.

January 4, 2021January 4, 2021

FBI NICS Checks for 2020 Shatter all Previous Records

The figures have just been released and there’s no denying the fact that FBI NICS checks for 2020 shatter all previous records. Last year the bureau conducted a total of 39,695,315. That number is nearly 11 million more than the previous highwater mark, which was set in 2019.

Bear in mind each FBI NICS check doesn’t necessarily reflect the purchase of a firearm. The system is also used for a variety of other administrative purposes, most notably approval of concealed carry permits and their renewal. The figures, however, are considered a relative barometer of the firearm industry’s economic health and rough measure of gun sales through licensed FFLs. In addition, it also does not reflect those guns purchased by holders of valid CCWs in regions where they are not required to undergo a redundant background check.

December’s total number of FBI NICS checks alone was 3,397,066. That also set an all-timerecord for the month in the NICS system, which launched in 1998.

January 4, 2021January 4, 2021

NRA Celebrates 150th Anniversary in 2021

From NRA

Founded in 1871 by Civil War veterans, the National Rifle Association has led the way ever since to protect our Second Amendment freedom, teach marksmanship and gun safety and pass self-defense laws across the country. In 2021, the NRA celebrates a momentous 150 years of service as America’s oldest civil-rights organization.

“The NRA has diligently protected our right to keep and bear arms longer than any other organization,” NRA President Carolyn Meadows said. “We are humbled to serve our more than 5 million members and all law-abiding gun owners. We invite you to join our organization as we celebrate this historic milestone.”

Throughout its century and a half of existence, NRA has served firearm owners across the nation through training, legislative action and other initiatives aimed at promoting avenues for shooting, hunting and personal protection. Today, the organization encompasses a wide range of programs all aimed at bettering the experience of the American firearm owner, whether it’s through competitive programs, hunter education, political action and more.

“Our Founding Fathers knew the value of all our freedoms and what it takes to defend those freedoms, and that’s why we have the Second Amendment,” said Wayne LaPierre, NRA executive vice president. “The NRA has always been the refuge of Americans who recognize how important it is to preserve the right to keep and bear arms, to be able to protect themselves and their loved ones, and to hunt, and we’re celebrating 150 years of our commitment to protect those sacred and noble rights.”

To mark the occasion, the NRA is highlighting its history in all four of its Official Journals: American Rifleman, American Hunter, America’s 1st Freedom and Shooting Illustrated. Each issue throughout 2021 features dedicated columns entitled “Milestones: NRA150” that spotlight significant events and leaders that shaped the organization and its mission.

“Our magazines have always been the conduit through which we reach our members, now 5 million strong,” said Doug Hamlin, executive director of NRA Publications. “Through these monthly magazines, our dedicated supporters have a chance to fully understand and appreciate the importance of this great organization. There’s never been a better time—or a more important time—to be an NRA member.”

In addition, the NRA will be publishing a showpiece, coffee-table-type book, “NRA—150 Years Strong,” in September 2021. This colorful retrospective takes a fresh look at the key events and achievements that have made the organization’s 150-year run such an indelible part of American history. Across 160 pages divided into seven themed chapters, this keepsake chronology will examine the turning points, personalities and anecdotes that defined the NRA’s critical role in defending the freedom that makes our nation the greatest ever conceived.

More than 425,000 hardbound and digital copies will be distributed to new NRA members and subscribers across the entire NRA Publications digital network. In addition, copies of the book will also be offered for sale at the NRA Store, NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits and the Great American Outdoor Show.

To take part in NRA’s 150th anniversary celebrations, be sure to sign up for a membership today at NRA.org or call 1-866-672-2020. You’ll have the pride of knowing that you’re one of more than 5 million members who’ve pledged to support and defend the Second Amendment.

Advertising slots in “NRA—150 Years Strong” remain available, with custom ad units and section sponsorships open for interested manufacturers. Orders close April 30, 2021.

January 4, 2021January 4, 2021

Riton Optics Expands Internationally

From Riton Optics

Riton Optics has continued to grow and has now expanded into the global market. From Canada to New Zealand, Riton Optics is now available from distributors in five of the seven continents.

Riton Optics has added these distributors to support their product around the world: Big Rock Canada, Optics Trade Slovenia, Sayad Najd Trading Est Saudi Arabia, Aussie Knives Australia, Verotest South Africa, Skenko International Eastern Block Countries, Intersec, and Integra New Zealand.

Todd Niece, Director of Sales says “Our goal is to continue developing and expanding our international distribution channels. We feel that the global market will help support our brand for future growth and global brand recognition.”

With increased domestic and international distribution, Riton Optics is sure to move into the new year with continued growth to become a major player in the optics industry.

About Riton

Riton Optics is the only Law Enforcement and Military Veteran-Owned optics company in the world, founded on the premise that customers should be able to buy quality optics and have the industry’s best service at every price point. Riton is passionate about offering high quality optics at the industry’s most competitive prices, and always putting the customer first. Every Riton optic goes through a rigorous dual inspection process in Tucson and is backed by the Riton Promise Warranty which includes rapid product replacement on all returns. For more information on Riton and to SEE THE DIFFERENCE, visit www.ritonoptics.com.

January 4, 2021January 4, 2021

Inter-Con Security Acquires Peacemaker National Training Center

From Inter-Con Security Systems

Inter-Con Security Systems, Inc. (“Inter-Con”), a global provider of premium security services, announced today the acquisition of the Peacemaker National Training Center (“Peacemaker National”) in Glengary, West Virginia. The acquisition of this world-class training facility positions Inter-Con as the industry leader in the provision of fully-customized, highly sophisticated security and training services.

At 800+ acres, Peacemaker National is one of the largest private shooting complexes on the Eastern Seaboard and is home to dozens of different ranges and training structures designed for handgun, mid- and long-range rifle, as well as shotgun training. Peacemaker National’s venues include two 1,000-yard rifle ranges and shooting areas used for numerous shooting events and competitions throughout the year. Inter-Con will continue these rich traditions and expand Peacemaker National’s offerings to include new shooting and training facilities.

“The acquisition of Peacemaker reflects Inter-Con’s commitment to providing superior security services to clients whose needs go above and beyond the abilities of traditional guarding companies,” stated Henry Hernandez, President of Inter-Con. “Not only will we see immediate gains through greatly expanded training offerings, but we will also see significant cost savings by eliminating the need to rent classrooms, training spaces, or shooting ranges.”

Inter-Con will support and grow Peacemaker National’s membership of 2,200 as well as expand the facility’s offerings to further enhance the member experience. Peacemaker National’s members can look forward to fully renovated shooting areas, upgraded armory offerings, and enhanced lounges to rest in between sessions. Peacemaker’s previous owner, Jennifer McCulloch stated, “Since the inception of Peacemaker over a decade ago, we’ve been dedicated to training responsible citizens to be safe and proficient with firearms. We’ve also been a major driver of economic growth in Berkeley County and the surrounding area. We’re excited to see that our employees, members and many sponsors will continue the tradition of Peacemaker through Inter-Con.”

About Inter-Con

Inter-Con Security Systems, Inc. is a global provider of fully customized, high-touch integrated security solutions. With over 30,000 employees performing services across North America, South America, Europe, and Africa, we are one of the largest security companies in the world. Inter-Con’s core business focus is providing embedded security solutions for sophisticated clientele whose needs exceed the capabilities of traditional security companies.

January 2, 2021January 2, 2021

Sportsman’s Warehouse Merging with The Great American Outdoors Group

Sportsman’s Warehouse issued a press release on Dec. 21 indicating it was merging with The Great American Outdoors Group, parent company of Cabela’s and Bass Pro Shops, among others.

“We are excited to be joining the Great American Outdoors Group,” said Sportsman’s Warehouse CEO Jon Barker. “This merger brings together the greatest brands in the outdoor industry. As we look to the future, the combined entities provide our passionate associates with greater opportunities to serve the outdoor enthusiast. I couldn’t be more proud of the nearly 8,000 Sportsman’s Warehouse associates and their success in building our brand over the last 33 years. We look forward to a smooth transition and building our partnership.”

The press release explains, “The driving force behind the partnership is the two companies’ similar histories and highly complementary business philosophies and geographic footprints. Both entities share a passion with their customers for fishing, camping, hunting, boating and other outdoor activities. Likewise, both are highly acclaimed retailers with well-deserved reputations for a broad offering of outstanding brand name and proprietary products, superior customer service, deeply knowledgeable team members and an unwavering passion for conservation. Uniting together represents an unprecedented “win-win” opportunity for outdoor enthusiasts.”

“Today is a happy day for our companies, outdoor enthusiasts and for the cause of conservation,” said Bass Pro Shops Founder and Great American Outdoors Group Leader, Johnny Morris. “As outdoor sports specialists with unwavering dedication to people who fish, hunt and enjoy the outdoors, we greatly admire the passionate team at Sportsman’s Warehouse for their commitment to their customers and the sports we all love. By combining our best practices, our aim is to give our customers a best-of-the-best experience while further uniting them to support conservation.”

December 24, 2020December 24, 2020

200 Remington Ilion Plant Workers Have Been Offered Jobs Back—Union Cries Foul

Nearly 200 Remington Ilion plant workers have been offered their jobs back by Roundhill Group—new owner of the factory—but officials from United Mine Workers Local 717, which represent most of the 585 employees laid off after Remington Outdoor filed for bankruptcy and closed the plant, have concerns. The headline for an article on Syracuse.com proclaims, “Union accuses Remington Arms’ new owner in Ilion of going around it with job offers.”

Letters sent to roughly a third of the employees out of work for weeks indicated they could come back to work at their regularly salary on Feb. 15, 2021. By that time Roundhill Group anticipates ATF will have approved its FFL to begin manufacturing firearms.

Phil Smith, a spokesperson for the union, told the newspaper it’s unclear how the people who received the offer were selected and the approach could violate the union contract that stipulates those with seniority are recalled first. “RemArms also drew the union’s ire by asking workers to waive various legal rights, including claims for separation pay and other benefits,” the article explains.

“Personally I’m not asking any ex-Remington employees to give up any rights they may have against the old company or estate,” Roundhill Group partner Richmond Italia said in a statement sent to News Channel 2. “The reality is there was a insistence from the estate that that language be put in the offer letter. My lawyer suggested that we comply with their request, all I could say is that if the employees give up that right or not, it will not affect our decision on hiring them.”

The TV station is also reporting that the nearly 200 Remington Ilion plant workers who have been offered jobs back have until Monday to let officials know if they accept. Since the plant’s closure—and despite new owners—former employees have been picketing in an effort to force their dissolved-in-bankruptcy former employer to pay vacation and severance benefits stipulated in the union contract. Roundhill purchased the Ilion, NY, plant and all Remington firearm assets, for $13 million during court proceedings and is working to resurrect the famed Remington firearm line.

“Our goal was at the very least to try and make 200 families a little more secure in this holiday season,” Italia told the Times Telegram. “We will not stop working towards bringing Remington back to the height of its operations in Ilion, New York.”

Photo courtesy of the Library of Congress

December 24, 2020December 24, 2020

Breaking News—ATF Officially Withdrew Request for Comments on Pistol Stabilizing Braces Becoming NFA Items

On Dec. 23 ATF officially withdrew request for comments on pistol stabilizing braces becoming NFA items. The solicitation for input was published in the Federal Register on Dec. 18, as reported previously.

Were the agency to include them on its official list, tens of thousands of law-abiding owners would be forced to decide whether to keep the pistol brace by going through a lengthy administrative process with additional background checks to purchase the tax stamp, or turn them in. Destruction of the brace , with documentation that would stand legal review, would be another option. Failure to do one of the three would constitute a felony if pistol stabilizing braces were declared NFA (National Firearms Act) items.

The notice explains, “Upon further consultation with the Department of Justice and the Office of the Deputy Attorney General, ATF is withdrawing, pending further Department of Justice review, the notice and request for comments entitled “Objective Factors for Classifying Weapons with ‘Stabilizing Braces’,” that was published on December 18, 2020. 85 FR 82516. As explained in the notice, the proposed guidance was not a regulation. The notice informed and invited comment from the industry and public on a proposed guidance prior to issuing a final guidance document. The withdrawal of the guidance does not change any law, regulation, or other legally binding requirement.”

December 21, 2020December 21, 2020

All I want for Christmas is Magazines and Ammo

Dear Santa: All I want for Christmas is magazines and ammo. As you can see in this video message from Federal, CCI, Speer And Remington President Jason Vanderbrink, it’s going to take North Pole elfin’ magic for cartridges to appear under my tree.

P.S. I have the same stocking hanging by the fireplace as last year, so, as you know, four of these Mission First Tactical magazines fit nicely. But the ammo, that’s another story.