Category: Firearm Industry News

Coverage of events for Fear and Loading by Guy J. Sagi and breaking news of interest to firearm owners.

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Meprolight Introduces MEPRO FT Pistol Sight to HLS and LE Markets

From Meprolight

Meprolight—a member of the SK Group and a leading manufacturer of electro-optical systems, thermal, night vision equipment, and self-illuminated sights for military, law enforcement and civilian applications—now introduces the Mepro FT Bullseye optical pistol sight to law-enforcement and HLS forces. FT Bullseye was originally developed for the civilian market. Its qualities, being the smallest optic sight and– fast target acquisition is unprecedented among other pistol-sights. That makes it particularly advantageous for law-enforcement professionals, for whom intuitive, accurate shooting in all/any lighting conditions is an operationally vital advantage. The sight’s compatibility to a variety of pistol models add versatility, simplicity and cost-effectiveness to the various forces with their existing arsenal.

Based on a compact optical illumination patent, the sight’s fiber-optic tritium combination creates a low profile, single rear sight. That enables instant and accurate shooting in all lighting conditions with no batteries needed. It is easily installed on an existing pistol dovetail and is activated from the moment the sight is installed on the pistol.

Here’s more on the civilian-available FT Bullseye Sight.

According to Mr. Ilan Abramovich, V.P. Sales & Marketing – Defense, “The Mepro FT Bullseye sight is an innovative addition to our ever-growing aiming solutions for pistols. Meprolight offers over 180 types of aiming pistol sights for daytime and night-time operations based on various illumination sources – tritium, fiber and reliable LED illumination sources. The Bullseye’s enhanced capabilities meet law-enforcement forces’ needs.”

Corporate VP Marketing & Sales, SK Group Mr. Ronen Hamudot noted that “Our advanced technologies serve all markets—civil, law enforcement, HLS and defense. We are proud of our flexibility to apply solutions to developing needs and keep loyal to our vision—always staying ahead, providing customers with the perfect answer to their new challenges.”

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NSSF PSAs Remind Recreational Shooters to Help Prevent Wildfires

From NSSF

With more than 23,000 wildfires having burned already this year—an increase of 20 percent over last year—NSSF reminds shooters and hunters to take precautions so they don’t accidentally ignite a wildfire.

Although fires that usually make headlines are those that scorch the arid West, all parts of the country can have destructive wildfires. The majority of wildfires are human-caused, and that means fires can be prevented by following safe practices. NSSF’s “Help Prevent Wildfires” campaign provides video and audio public service announcements and an updated infographic that urges recreational shooters and other outdoor enthusiasts to be mindful of their surroundings and how to take precautions.

Precautions include:

  • Being aware of restrictions on shooting and other activities in fire-prone areas.
  • Not using tracer rounds, exploding targets or ammunition that is steel-jacketed or contains steel-core components.
  • Knowing that a vehicle’s hot exhaust systems can ignite dry vegetation.
  • Making sure all campfires and smoking materials are properly extinguished.

“As gun owners, we care about safeguarding our communities and our natural resources. With the fire season upon us, we encourage everyone to do their part to not be the cause of a wildfire. Check the fire-danger levels in your area and take precautions before heading outdoors to target shoot, hunt or pursue other outdoor activities,” said Joe Bartozzi, NSSF President and CEO.

NSSF encourages individuals and organizations to share the “Help Prevent Wildfires” public service announcements and infographic on their social media networks and to use the #GunOwnersCarehashtag.

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Vista Outdoor Renews Sponsorship of NSSF’S Project ChildSafe

From NSSF

Vista Outdoor, a world leader in commercial, law enforcement and military ammunition and hunt/shoot accessories, has renewed its premiere sponsorship of NSSF’s Project ChildSafe program for 2020. The continued sponsorship enhances previous partnerships between the two organizations and advances their shared goal of promoting safe firearm handling and responsible storage.

“We feel very strongly about our partnership with Project ChildSafe,” said Jason Vanderbrink, President of Ammunition within the Vista Outdoor family. “It is the responsibility of all gun owners to ensure safe storage and proper handling. Project ChildSafe provides critical education and resources that advance each of these goals and promotes an enhanced culture of safety in the industry.”

NSSF launched Project ChildSafe in 1999 as a nationwide initiative to promote firearm responsibility and provide safety education to all gun owners. The centerpiece of the program is its free firearm safety kits, which include a cable style gun lock and safety brochure. To date, the program has distributed more than 38 million free gun locks through partnerships with more than 15,000 law enforcement agencies across the country and in five U.S. territories.

The program is almost entirely funded by NSSF member companies. In recent years, demand for the kits and program resources has more than quadrupled. Donations, grants and corporate sponsorships from partners like Vista Outdoor and its brands Federal and CCI Ammunition, Bushnell, RCBS, Hoppe’s, Champion, Blackhawk and Primos are helping NSSF keep up with the demand.

“At a time when so many Americans are buying firearms for the first time, efforts to promote firearm safety and education are essential,” said Vishak Sankaran, President of Hunt and Shoot Accessories within the Vista Outdoor family. “NSSF’s Project ChildSafe program is leading the way in this effort with consumers, industry and law enforcment; Vista Outdoor and its shooting sports brands are proud to continue our support.”

“Vista Outdoor and their shooting sports brands’ ongoing support helps Project ChildSafe put more free gun locks into communities and helps us spread the message of ‘Own It? Respect It. Secure It®.,’” said Joe Bartozzi, NSSF’s President and CEO and Chairman of the Project ChildSafe Foundation. “Storing firearms responsibly when they aren’t in use is the best way to help prevent firearm accidents, thefts and misuse, and we’re very honored to have Vista Outdoor’s continued support for this effort.”

Vista Outdoor’s previous support helped Project ChildSafe achieve substantial successes in 2019, including the launch of a focused firearm safety and lock giveaway program in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, and the creation of new educational videos and other resources.

Vista Outdoor made its donation to the Project ChildSafe Foundation, a 501(c)(3) charity that helps support the Project ChildSafe firearm safety program.

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Springfield Armory Hellcat: 20K Rounds & Counting

From Springfield Armory

The Springfield Armory Hellcat has taken the concealed carry market by storm since its introduction in late 2019. In addition to having all the features users want, the micro 9 mm pistol also proved its mettle in a 10,000 round test that same year, with every round fired documented on video. Now, that very same 10K Hellcat pistol has just topped 20K rounds in a follow-up test by Paul Carlson, owner of Safety Solutions Academy. And once again, the test documented every round fired.

With support from Federal Ammunition and Action Target, Carlson—a respected self-defense and personal-protection trainer—along with a team of shooters pushed the 10K round Hellcat (serial # AT234795) all the way through to 20K rounds. Over the span of a single 10-hour day, Carlson and his team of shooters discovered—and proved—what we here at Springfield Armory know: that the Hellcat possesses durability and strength beyond anything that should ever be reasonably expected from a micro 9 mm. From its cold hammer-forged barrel down to every last pin and spring, the pistol is built under strict quality control to the highest standards.

“We are very proud to see that the Hellcat once again proved its dominant position in the market as the finest and most durable micro 9mm available,” said Steve Kramer, Vice President of Marketing at Springfield Armory. “Carlson’s test held the Hellcat to a very high standard, and it once again showed that the pistol has what it takes to deliver the performance and capability concealed carry users should demand.”

Since its release, the Hellcat has built an enviable reputation for excellent quality and performance. Being the smallest highest-capacity 9 mm in the world, the +P-capable pistol packs in 11+1 rounds (13+1 with extended magazine) in a 3-inch-barreled micro pistol that weighs 18.3 ounces empty. And with the OSP version, you gain the ability to direct mount micro-sized red dot optics that will co-witness with the pistol’s excellent Tactical Rack U-Dot sights.

And if you’re curious how long polymer-framed handguns will last, I asked the experts.

“No one would ever expect a micro-sized pistol intended for CCW to be subjected to such an incredibly demanding test, but we never doubted the Hellcat would come out on top,” says Dennis Reese, CEO of Springfield Armory. “Quality is our number one priority and it always will be, and the Hellcat proved that during this test. We’ll be watching as it continues to prove itself for the next 10K rounds, and beyond.”

You can see the test for yourself here and the pistol is now available in FDE.  

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Ben Avery Shooting Facility Expanding Opportunities

From Arizona Game and Fish

Ben Avery Shooting Facility (BASF) customers will notice some changes that should make for a more efficient, enjoyable shooting experience beginning Wednesday, July 1.

On the heels of reopening the more challenging 15-station “Rattlesnake” sporting clays course last month, the Ben Avery Clay Target Center (CTC) will make available its eight-station “Quail” sporting clays course, which is geared for beginners. Customers can reserve shooting times at CTC, the archery range, or any rifle and pistol range, by visiting this web page.

As a reminder, CTC and the rest of the ranges are unable to accommodate walk-in customers. Any changes to this policy will be based on reopening guidelines for businesses and customers, as outlined by the Governor’s Office.

CTC also will schedule start times on both courses in 15-minute increments, beginning at 7 a.m. and ending at 11:30 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday (for example, 7 a.m., 7:15 a.m., 7:30 a.m. . . . ). CTC’s objective is to provide more customers with shooting opportunities during the cooler morning hours.

“Quail” course customers also should note:

  • Each shooter will receive a shooting card that is preloaded with a total of 50 targets ($20). The used cards can be placed in a drop-off box at Station 8 (all shooters start at Station 1).
  • There is no time limit. A shooter is finished once all 50 targets have been shot.
  • Shooters can purchase shotgun ammunition (two boxes per reservation), and eye and hearing protection, online when making a reservation. Note: A shooter may purchase rounds of sporting clays for others in their group.
  • No shotgun or cart rentals are available at this time.
  • Shooters should arrive no later than 15 minutes before their scheduled start time. Those who arrive later than 15 minutes after their scheduled start time will have their reservation canceled.

Gold Cards now accepted

The preloaded shooting cards, which are used to purchase targets for trap, skeet and sporting clays, are back.

At checkout, CTC customers can type “goldcardmember” in the field that asks for a “coupon code.” This will allow those customers to book shooting times without being charged for any additional targets.

In addition, customers now can have targets loaded on their Gold Cards by a customer service representative from 7-10 a.m. Wednesday through Sunday. The representative will be available just inside the OneAZ Credit Union Pavilion to assist customers one-on-one in accordance with social distancing and health guidelines. After paying a one-time fee of $15 for the card, targets then can be loaded on the card, payable by credit card only.

Meanwhile, the following opportunities will be available at BASF’s rifle and pistol ranges beginning Wednesday, July 1:

  • A total of 32 paper target positions will be offered on the main range. They will be available in 1.5-hour increments with two ceasefire periods.
  • To ensure public health and safety protocols are observed, a maximum of two shooters will be allowed per paper shooting table — and both must be members of the same household.
  • Steel targets out to 100 yards for rifle and pistol shooters will still be available, but the number of positions will be temporarily reduced to accommodate the addition of paper targets.
  • Shooters who make a reservation to shoot steel, but would prefer to shoot paper targets can contact BASF at 623-582-8313 to have their reservation adjusted.

All customers and staff are required to wear a face covering to enter any public restroom or building. A face covering is required for anyone who cannot maintain social distancing of six feet or more.

To maintain social distancing, safety officers cannot provide personalized instruction. For everyone’s safety, a “zero tolerance” policy will be strictly enforced. Any shooter who operates his or her firearm(s) or acts in an unsafe manner will be asked to leave the facility.

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Berger LRHT Bullets Dominate Nightforce Steel Challenge

From Berger Bullets

Congratulations to Jorge Ortiz, winner of the 5th Annual Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge! Jorge was running new Berger .30-caliber 220-grain Long Range Hybrid Target bullets through his Accuracy International ASR platform chambered in .300 Norma Mag. for the impressive win.

The 2020 Nightforce ELR Steel Challenge was held June 13 to 14 at Tillard 55 Ranch in Glenrock, WY. Nearly 200 shooters engaged targets from 700 yards to 2100 yards (1.2 miles) in extremely challenging conditions with wind gusts eclipsing 60 mph.

Jorge stated, “When it comes to Berger Bullets, especially the LRHT line, the consistency shows both during the measurements and downrange at the target. I simply selected Berger’s default G7 BC within my Kestrel 5700 Weather Meter with Applied Ballistics and was on target for the match.”

Berger Long Range Hybrid Target bullets feature a jump-tolerant hybrid ogive profile that is Doppler verified with less than 1% BC variation. A high BC is important for competitive shooting, however, shot-to-shot consistency is most critical when engaging targets to 1,000 yards and beyond. Visit NoBSBC.com and learn “why BC consistency wins” vs. the “highest BC is best” myth.

Another Berget Bullet shooter took top honors in a May match, as well.

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Bushnell Pros Continue Hot Streak on PRS Circuit with Elite Tactical Riflescopes

From Vista Outdoor

Bushnell wishes to congratulate pro shooters Mark Cooper and Melissa Gilliland for claiming two titles at the recent Alabama Precision Regional PRS Match. Cooper used his trusted Elite Tactical XRS II to win the Tactical Division and place 4th overall in the match, continuing his hot streak in recent PRS competitions. Fellow teammate Gilliland was successful in earning a second consecutive Top Lady title thanks in part to her Elite Tactical DMR II Pro.

For Cooper, his recent win at the Alabama Precision Regional marked his fourth consecutive title in the Tactical Division. Entering the match, Cooper was red hot, earning wins at the Pigg River H.A.M., Red Brush and the K&M Precision Rifle Series matches. Cooper currently sits atop the PRS leaderboard with a commanding lead in the Tactical Division.

“Over the last couple of months, everything has been in sync,” said Cooper. “My gear has been running flawlessly and every shooter knows having that confidence is often the determining factor. I’ve always trusted my XRS II, but after these last few matches my faith in it just keeps growing. Regardless of how rough I treat it or what the conditions are – whether dealing with mirage or just bad weather – it never loses zero and it consistently gives me those clear views so I can keep making impacts.”

Fellow teammate Melissa Gilliland also delivered a strong performance taking home the Top Lady title. Fresh off her win at the MPA Regional PRS Match, Gilliland opted to use the Elite Tactical DMR II Pro to begin this year’s season.

“This year I decided to change things up a little and go with the DMR II Pro vs the scope I normally use – the XRS II,” said Gilliland. “While at first it was different not having the higher magnification range of the XRS II, the increased eye box of the DRM II Pro has helped with identifying and picking up targets faster. Both scopes have outstanding glass so really, it’s just a personal preference. You can’t go wrong either way.”

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Remington Preparing for Bankruptcy Protection?

The Wall Street Journal reported yesterday that Remington “…is preparing to file for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection for the second time since 2018 and is in advanced talks for potential bankruptcy sale to the Navajo Nation…”  The article cites undisclosed sources close to the development and indicates official paperwork could be filed as early as next week. The news comes at a time when firearm and ammunition sales are at record levels, with much of the demand driven by widespread rioting and concern about the COVID-19 pandemic.

It’s not the first time the Native American tribe has made an offer to purchase America’s oldest gun company, though. The New York Times reported in 2018 that, “The Navajo Nation—which controls a $3.3 billion investment trust—sent a letter to Remington in May offering to buy the company for $475 million to $525 million…”

The alleged long-term plan, according to the Times story, was to end sale of modern sporting rifles to consumers and ultimately move manufacturing to the reservation in the Southwest. The firm would then concentrate on military and law enforcement sales, where federal requirements dictate a certain number of contracts be awarded to minority-owned companies. Profits would then roll into creation of “smart guns.”

The offer wasn’t accepted. Instead the Remington filed for chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in March 2018. Two months later it reached an agreement with creditors and emerged to business as usual.

Remington is America’s oldest gunmaker and has a storied history spanning more than 200 years. Its firearms have served on the front line of freedom for generations and likely taken more big game than any other. The company’s financial challenges first came to the attention of gun owners when Cerebus, a private-equity investment firm, purchased Remington in 2007 to combine it into a huge portfolio that included Para Ordnance, DPMS, Bushmaster, Advanced Armament Corporation and many others.  

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September NRA Shooting Competitions Canceled Due to Covid-19

From NRA

Due to the circumstances surrounding the Covid-19 pandemic and the many ensuing federal and state safety regulations and mandates, the NRA has made the difficult decision to cancel the NRA World Shooting Championship and the NRA National Police Shooting Championships. Both events were scheduled to be held in mid-September 2020 in West Virginia and Mississippi, respectively.

We share your disappointment that both these competitions that attract participants from across the globe had to be canceled. The NRA wishes everyone good health and the best of luck. Stay safe and healthy.

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King City (CA) PD Implements Viridian Gun Cameras

From Murray Road Agency

The King City, California Police Department has deployed the FACT Duty Weapon-Mounted Camera (WMC). As transparency in Law Enforcement once again becomes a critical need at this juncture in society today, Chief Robert Masterson and the department have the only technology and tool dedicated to capturing Officer Involved Shootings.

King City is in Monterey County of Central California and sits almost equidistant from several large, major California cities on the banks of the Salinas River. King City is the first department in California to complete implementation of the FACT Duty which is in various stages of testing and implementation in over 40 states across the country.

More and more companies are going wireless on their weaponlight and scope solutions, too. Here’s my look at the trend.

“The Weapon-Mounted Cameras were purchased and implemented to capture use of force incidents where officers drew their firearms or were involved in an Officer Involved Shooting,” said King City Police Captain Keith Boyd. “As we have all seen, the country, the community and the world expect objective and immediate evidence of Officer Involved Shootings. And this gun camera does just that. They complement our body worn cameras and we see them as a benefit in modern policing.”

Viridian has created an important category for law enforcement with the Weapon-Mounted Camera. This distinctive camera provides an unobstructed view of critical use-of-force events from the end of the firearm, addressing limitations officers can face with body cameras.

“We commend Chief Masterson and the King City Police for being on the leading edge of law enforcement,” Viridian President and CEO, Brian Hedeen, said. “California has one of the largest number of officers in the country, so this is absolutely needed. Our technology can be a supplement or alternative to body cameras as a mandatory evidentiary tool to provide the critical evidence in an officer involved shooting.”

The highly advanced WMC employs a 1080p full-HD digital camera with a microphone and 500 lumen tactical light. Viridian’s proprietary INSTANT-ON technology automatically activates the camera and microphone whenever the officer draws the firearm from its holster. Not only does this eliminate risk of failure to manually turn on the camera during a critical event, but it also keeps the officer from fumbling with cumbersome equipment.

The procurement by the law enforcement agency follows several in Texas.

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