Firearm Industry News Archives | Page 4 of 46

May 26, 2021May 26, 2021

Hornady Earns Nebraska’s Safest Company Award

From Hornady

Hornady® is proud to announce they have earned the “Nebraska’s Safest Company” award from the Nebraska Chapter of the National Safety Council.

The National Safety Council, Nebraska Chapter, held its annual Celebration of Safety on May 19th, 2021. During the event, the Council recognized organizations that have demonstrated exemplary dedication to employee safety by designating them “Nebraska’s Safest Companies.” Every division of Hornady received the award, with the Reloading Tools Division earning the award with distinction for maintaining injury rates less than half the national average.

“During this time of unprecedented change and uncertainty, one this still remains certain, now is not the time to take shortcuts with safety,” said Eric Koeppe, president/CEO of the National Safety Council-Nebraska Chapter. “Winning the Nebraska’s Safest Company Award clearly illustrates a company’s commitment to ensuring that their team members return home safely to their families at the end of each workday.”

“With an unparalleled demand for our products and with our employees working extremely hard to meet the needs of our customers, it is especially pleasing to see the recognition for their continued dedication to maintaining a safe work environment.” said Jamie Lemburg, Hornady Safety Manager.

The National Safety Council – Nebraska Chapter was formed in 1924. Their mission is to promote safety and health by providing programs, resources, education, and advocacy to reduce both the personal and economic loss associated with injuries, accidents, and health hazards. The Council is a private nonprofit organization that partners with businesses, schools, law enforcement, firefighters, hospitals, and Nebraska communities to provide education and training focused on keeping Nebraskans safe.

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.

May 21, 2021May 21, 2021

NRA Responds to Rejection of Texas Bankruptcy

From NRA

In response to today’s dismissal of a prior bankruptcy filing, the National Rifle Association of America (“NRA”) announced that it will continue to fight on all fronts in the interests of its mission and its members.

The New York Attorney General and others had aligned against the NRA in opposition to the NRA’s reorganization plan announced on January 15, 2021. They sought to dismiss the NRA’s bankruptcy filing with prejudice or, in the alternative, appointment of a court-appointed trustee, to take control of the Association’s business and financial affairs. Importantly, a United States Bankruptcy Court in Dallas did not appoint a Trustee or examiner, even as it ruled the Association may not proceed with the chapter 11 case. The court dismissed the bankruptcy filing without prejudice, meaning the NRA does have the option to file a new bankruptcy case.

During a 12-day hearing that occurred over approximately four weeks, the NRA established that it had adopted new policies and accounting controls, displaced many “insiders” who had allegedly abused the Association, and accepted reparations for costs voluntarily determined to be excess benefits. The hearing proceedings focused on the NRA’s compliance efforts, and the organization’s renewed commitment to good governance.

In an opinion, dated May 11, 2021, the Hon. Harlin D. Hale, U.S. Bankruptcy Judge, Northern District of Texas, wrote, “In short, the testimony…suggests that the NRA now understands the importance of compliance. Outside of bankruptcy, the NRA can pay its creditors, continue to fulfill its mission, continue to improve its governance and internal controls, contest dissolution in the NYAG Enforcement Action, and pursue the legal steps necessary to leave New York.”

Underscoring the importance of the proceedings, Judge Hale previously said the NYAG motion contesting the NRA’s Chapter 11 filing was “the most important motion I’ve ever heard as a judge.”

The NRA remains determined to further streamline its legal and business affairs in the best interests of its constituents and members.

NRA CEO & EVP Wayne LaPierre said today’s decision – and the ongoing independence of the NRA – empowers the Association’s approximately 5 million members.

“The NRA remains committed to its members and our plan for the future,” says NRA CEO & EVP Wayne LaPierre. “Although we are disappointed in some aspects of the decision, there is no change in the overall direction of our Association, its programs, or its Second Amendment advocacy. Today is ultimately about our members – those who stand courageously with the NRA in defense of constitutional freedom. We remain an independent organization that can chart its own course, even as we remain in New York to confront our adversaries. The NRA will keep fighting, as we’ve done for 150 years.”

The NRA remains determined to confront NYAG Letitia James in her attempt to dissolve NRA. The NYAG seeks such remedies as part of a lawsuit she filed on August 6, 2020. In summer 2018, then NYAG candidate James called the NRA a “criminal enterprise” and “terrorist organization.” Her subsequent pursuit of the NRA has been characterized by many legal experts and constitutional scholars as a gross weaponization of legal and regulatory power.

“The NRA will continue to defend the interests of the Association in New York,” says William A. Brewer III, counsel to the NRA. “Our client has faith in its leadership, and its demonstrated commitment to good governance.”

“The record reflects the NRA undertook a ‘course correction’ with respect to its management,” says NRA President Carolyn Meadows. “The Association is strong and secure – once again moving forward above the objections of its adversaries and those who oppose Second Amendment freedoms.”

The NRA can still pursue establishing business operations in Texas, and the organization will continue to explore moving its headquarters there from Virginia. Texas is home to more than 400,000 NRA members.

The bankruptcy hearing became the nation’s highest-profile legal proceeding of its kind. The virtual proceedings, involving more than 20 witnesses, explored novel issues that define the roles and responsibilities of legal defendants subjected to the threat of dissolution. The NRA has maintained it is financially viable, following its current pathway, in part, to escape a toxic political environment in New York. The NRA was incorporated in New York in 1871.

The legal proceedings revealed the NRA’s commitment to good governance and efforts to follow the “principled path” with respect to its management practices, board oversight, and member obligations under Mr. LaPierre’s leadership. Mr. LaPierre remains at the helm of the organization, directing political affairs, grassroots activities and other functions essential to the defense of the Second Amendment.

“The record establishes that NRA members can have great confidence in this institution and its plans for the future,” says NRA First Vice President Charles Cotton. “The Association will work with members, vendors, and other constituents to continue the fight for freedom.”

“Our NRA is pressing forward with its plans, and remains determined to promote constitutional freedoms,” says NRA Second Vice President Lt. Col. Willes K. Lee, USA (Ret). “We will never shrink from the tough and principled stands we take on behalf of our law-abiding 5 million members.”

May 21, 2021May 21, 2021

SIG SAUER Academy to Offer Classes at American Police Hall of Fame Shooting Center

From SIG SAUER

Beginning in June exclusive SIG SAUER Academy course offerings will be taught by the world-renowned SIG SAUER Academy instructors onsite at the APHF Shooting Center. The course offerings are as follows:

Handgun 101: This comprehensive course provides hands-on training and the basic knowledge necessary to safely handle, load, fire, and maintain most types of semi-automatic pistols. Classroom and range time offer ample opportunity to achieve the skills for success in a casual, stress-free environment.
Handgun 102: This is step 2 in the SIG SAUER Academy foundational handgun series. Utilizing the principles of training in Handgun 101, this course takes students through the efficient and safe use of a handgun. Working from the holster, performing reloads, clearing stoppages, and correctly manipulating a trigger to maximize accuracy are all thoroughly taught in a relaxed, hands-on environment.
P320 Armorer Course: Learn the mechanical functioning, disassembly/reassembly, maintenance, troubleshooting, and field repair of the SIG SAUER P320 pistol. This is a hands-on class that guides students through the step-by-step armorer operations for the P320. Upon successful completion of the course a three-year factory armorer certification is issued to students.

To register and review the in-depth course outlines, pre-requisites, and equipment requirements for the SIG SAUER Academy courses at the APHF Shooting Center visit sigsaueracademy.com.

May 19, 2021May 19, 2021

Hoppe’s Brings Back the Classic Glass Bottle

From Hoppe’s

Hoppe’s, the No. 1 name in gun care products, is excited to announce the return of Hoppe’s No. 9 in its classic glass bottle. The return of the glass bottle comes after repeated requests on social media for Hoppe’s to “go back to glass”.

This nostalgic bottle comes complete with throwback artwork and label, and is sure to be a hit among shooters new and old. The bottle comes in the popular pint size, so gun owners can keep plenty of cleaner on hand at any given time. When the time comes for more Hoppe’s, the glass bottle can easily be reused year after year. This bottle is available in the United States only and comes with a child-resistant cap for safety.

The re-introduction of the Hoppe’s glass bottle is a direct result from numerous consumer requests. Hoppe’s faithful users have called, emailed, and reached out to the brand via social media to express their desire to see the glass bottle returned. “Too bad you still don’t use glass bottles,” wrote one fan. “I refill mine and use it over and over. Just seems like the right thing to do.” The team at Hoppe’s couldn’t agree more and everyone is excited to once again be able to offer this popular container.

Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner remains the most widely used remover of powder, lead, metal fouling and rust for firearms. The glass bottle features the same exact formulations found in standard bottles, so today’s gun owners can rest assure that their favorite firearms will remain protected.

To learn more about Hoppe’s No. 9 Gun Bore Cleaner or to see more Hoppe’s gun care products, visit hoppes.com.

May 18, 2021May 18, 2021

SIG SAUER Academy Hosts Introduction to Pistol, PCC for Women with Team SIG Lena Miculek

From SIG SAUER

SIG SAUER Academy, the leading provider of the highest quality firearms instruction and tactical training in the world, is pleased to announce the addition of Introduction to Pistol and PCC for Females with Lena Miculek to the upcoming course schedule.

This course is a one-day women’s specific introductory course to pistol and pistol caliber carbine (PCC) taught by the top 3-Gun competitor, Team SIG’s Lena Miculek. In this course, Lena will boil down the most crucial things she has learned as a female competitive shooter including experience, technique, and mindset. The course will focus on building a solid foundation of pistol and PCC fundamentals and students will learn personalized shooting techniques to fit your body and play to your strengths, effective training and practice techniques at home and on the range, and proper gear setup.

Lena Miculek is a third-generation professional competitive shooter and regarded as the top female 3-Gun competitor and PCC specialist in the world. At the age of 17 Lena won her first World Champion Title and has since earned more than 80 major wins and 8 world titles in 5 shooting disciplines. Lena is now focused on training primarily in PCC, teaches, and is actively working to introduce and increase female participation in the professional shooting sports. She was recently named a “40 under 40” by SHOT Business magazine, earned the prestigious Gundies “Most Influential Female” award, and is the co-creator of the Miculek YouTube channel with over 1.2 million subscribers.

Introduction to Pistol and PCC for Women with Lena Miculek is being offered on Friday, June 28, 2021. To register and review the course outline, or review the comprehensive course offering for SIG SAUER Academy visit sigsaueracademy.com.

May 18, 2021May 18, 2021

Comp-Tac QB Holster Used by Top U.S. General in Afghanistan

From Comp-Tac

U.S. Army Gen. Austin Scott Miller was recently shown wearing Comp-Tac’s® QB™ Holster in Afghanistan.

TheDrive.com highlighted Miller, commander of U.S. Forces – Afghanistan and NATO’s Resolute Support mission, wearing the versatile QB Holster while meeting Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin during his recent visit.

The article describes the general’s Glock, equipped with a red-dot optic and compensator. The sidearm is clearly photographed in the uniquely identifiable QB Holster. An experienced marksman, Miller has experience both as a special forces officer with Delta Force in the early ‘90s and early 2000s and as a competitive shooter.

The QB Holster is a multi-fit, outside-the-waistband holster specially designed to offer a wide range of functionality and diversity. The QB line consists of four sizes that accommodate nearly 85 percent of the most popular handguns. Comp-Tac’s multi-fit functionality does not require any special parts or pieces, only some slight user adjustment of the retention screws. In addition to multi-fit capabilities, the QB is designed for a wide range of diverse handgun modifications. A red-dot optic cut allows firearms to be used with red-dot sights and an open-ended design permits for the use of multiple lengths of handguns, threaded barrels, suppressors, compensators and similar modifications. Finally, the holster features the versatile Push-Button Locking Mount (PLM™), which fits a variety of belt widths, and has an ambidextrous design to support right- or left-handed users.

“As a holster manufacturing company, one of the things we hear from gun stores is that they have walls of holsters,” explained Gordon Carrell, Comp-Tac general manager. “With so many manufactures and models, it can be an overwhelming task to try to keep a good stock and variety of holsters on hand. Customers are buying guns and ammo, it makes sense to add a holster to that purchase. But if you don’t have one, you can’t sell one. The QB gives stores the ability to have a holster for nearly every handgun they have in stock on only four pegs. This creates an enhanced customer experience while making inventory management less complex.”

In addition to simplifying store inventories, handgun shooting instructors have found the QB to be an excellent option for on-hand supplies for training classes. The multi-fit functionality ensures that there is a quality loaner holster on hand for nearly any handgun a student might have.

The QB is also legal for use in the most popular competitive shooting sports, such as IDPA and USPSA. With an MSRP of $50.99, this holster is a great choice for single or multi-use setups. For more information, please visit www.comp-tac.com/qb-belt-holster.

March 31, 2021April 4, 2021

Guns.com personal information was not compromised

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021

FN Demonstrates Technology at 2021 Army Expeditionary Warrior Experiment

From FN America

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

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

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

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

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

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

# # #

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

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

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

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

March 9, 2021March 9, 2021

Vortex Edge Open For Business

From Vortex Optics

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

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

Our mission

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

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

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

Our state-of-the-art facilities

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

March 8, 2021March 8, 2021

Southwick Survey—Top Hunting, Shooting Brands in 2020

From Southwick Associates

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

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

·Traditional Rifles – Savage

·Handguns – Smith & Wesson

·Handgun Ammunition – Federal

·Shotgun Ammunition – Winchester

·Broadheads – Rage & Muzzy

·Crossbows – Barnett

·Reloading Presses – Lee Precision

·Reloading Dies – Lee Precision

·Reloading Powder – IMR

·Binoculars – Vortex

·Reflex/Red Dot Sights – Sig Sauer

·Laser Sights – Crimson Trace

·Non-powered Aftermarket Sights – Trijicon

·Apparel Camo Pattern Brand – Mossy Oak

·Trail Cameras – Wildgame Innovations

·Game Calls – Primos

·Hunting Knives – Buck

·Gun Case – Allen

·Magazines – Magpul

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