2024 SHOT Daily - Day 3 by SHOT Business

DAY 3 DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

THE LEGENDARY L9A1 HARKS BACK TO THE ORIGINAL HI POWER See page 4 for more info

ELECTRONICS & TECHNOLOGY

RESHAPING THE HUNTING AND SHOOTING SPORTS EXPERIENCE

KNIVES 2024

INNOVATION REMAINS TOP OF MIND WITH KNIFE MANUFACTURERS

THE RETURN OF INGLIS

SEE PAGE 4 FOR MORE DETAILS

SHOOTING STARS INDUSTRY INNOVATORS WHO BLAZE NEW PATHS

FYI

A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER

SILENCER CENTRAL:

WALTHER:

MOULTRIE MOBILE:

BROWNING:

SILENCERS MADE SIMPLE

THE FEATHERLIGHT PD380

EDGE PRO TRAIL CAM

THE ALL-NEW 20-GAUGE A5

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NIGHT STALKER SERIES With two all-new signature models to choose from, the Night Stalker series boasts thoughtful design, rugged styling and a long list of impressive yet standard features designed to elevate your shooting experience.

1911DS Available in 9mm

PX9

Available in 9mm

1911

Available in 9mm, .45 ACP and 10mm

TISASUSA.COM

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ATC /STC

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Contents DAY 3

FEA TURES 52 • TOP TRENDS IN TURKEY GUNS By Phil Bourjaily

ADVERTISING SALES TEAM w DON HARRIS w TOBY SHAW w BRAD BISNETTE

KNIVES 2024

PRESIDENT, COLE PUBLISHING w JEFF BRUSS PRESIDENT, GRAND VIEW OUTDOORS w DERRICK NAWROCKI

RESHAPING THE HUNTING AND SHOOTING SPORTS EXPERIENCE

See page 4 for more info

EDITORIAL & CREATIVE EDITOR w SLATON L. WHITE GROUP MANAGING EDITOR w HILARY DYER ART DIRECTOR w TOD MOLINA

ELECTRONICS & TECHNOLOGY

DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

THE LEGENDARY L9A1 HARKS BACK TO THE ORIGINAL HI POWER

Day 3

COLE PUBLISHING ADMINISTRATION INNOVATION REMAINS TOP OF MIND WITH KNIFE MANUFACTURERS

THE RETURN OF INGLIS

NSSF ADMINISTRATION PRESIDENT & CEO w JOSEPH H. BARTOZZI

SEE PAGE 4 FOR MORE DETAILS

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT & CCO w CHRIS DOLNACK

SHOOTING STARS INDUSTRY INNOVATORS WHO BLAZE NEW PATHS

VICE PRESIDENT, MARKETING w BILL DUNN

FYI

A CHANGE FOR THE BETTER

SILENCER CENTRAL:

WALTHER:

MOULTRIE MOBILE:

BROWNING:

SILENCERS MADE SIMPLE

THE FEATHERLIGHT PD380

EDGE PRO TRAIL CAM

THE ALL-NEW 20-GAUGE A5

SENIOR VICE PRESIDENT FOR GOVERNMENT & PUBLIC AFFAIRS, ASSISTANT SECRETARY & GENERAL COUNSEL w LAWRENCE G. KEANE VICE PRESIDENT, HUMAN RESOURCES & ADMINISTRATION w DEB KENNEY VICE PRESIDENT & CFO w JOHN SMITH

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MANAGING DIRECTOR, MEMBER SERVICES w JOHN MCNAMARA

ON THE COVER

SHOT BUSINESS is published six times a year: January/February, March/April, May/June, July/August, September/October, and November/December by COLE Publishing, Inc., 1720 Maple Lake Dam Road, Three Lakes, WI 54562 and is the official publication of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Flintlock Ridge Office Center, 11 Mile Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470-2359.

Cover image by Inglis The return of Inglis.

C O L U MNS

05 • DAILY UPDATE

20 • FIVE MINUTES WITH Silencer Central

22 • FYI Nation’s Best Sports

60 • SUPPORTING CAST By Andrew McKean

30 • SHOT DAILY NEWS FEED

COLE Publishing is not responsible for researching or investigating the accuracy of the contents of stories published in this magazine. Readers are advised that the use of the information contained within this magazine is with the understanding that it is at their own risk. COLE Publishing assumes no liability for this information or its use. COLE Publishing assumes no responsibility for unsolicited editorial, photography, and art submissions. In addition, no Terms and Conditions agreements are recognized by COLE Publishing unless signed and returned by the Editor. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: SHOT BUSINESS P.O. BOX 220, THREE LAKES, WI 54562.

D E P A R TM ENTS 24 • KNIVES 2024

ADVERTISING: Advertising inquiries should be emailed to shotbusiness@colepublishing.com. No responsibility will be assumed for unsolicited materials. SHOT BUSINESS is a registered trademark of NSSF. Contents copyright ©2024 by NSSF. All rights reserved. Reproduction in whole or part is prohibited unless expressly authorized by publisher.

40 • ELECTRONICS & TECHNOLOGY 2024 64 • NEW PRODUCTS

MEMBER/SUBSCRIBER SERVICES: membership@nssf.org

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DS 3 5 NIGH T VISION SCOPE

C O M E C H E C K U S O U T AT

SHOT SHOW 2024 BOOTH # 40756

* O N S E L E C T I N V E N T O R Y W H I L E S U P P L I E S L A S T*

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COVER SPONSOR

THIS ISSUE’S COVER BROUGHT TO YOU BY:

INGLIS RETURNS Originating in Canada in 1859, the John Inglis Company began producing steam engines and boilers. During WW1, Inglis supplied gun parts, gun carriages, and artillery shells for the war effort. In 1936, Inglis was purchased from bankruptcy to manufacture guns for the British military, and by 1940 Inglis was on its way to becoming one of the largest ordnance factories in the Commonwealth when it began producing the Bren light machine gun. Days after Inglis submitted their first production Bren for government approval, the German Blitzkrieg rolled up Belgium and the FN Herstal factory. FN engineers skipped town for London minutes ahead of the Wehrmacht, taking the data needed to recreate the P35. After months of high-level negotiations between the Canadian, British, and Belgian (in exile) governments, Inglis began making the High Power. Highly successful, the Inglis High Power would push the Webley revolvers and 1911s out of Commonwealth service to be adopted as the Inglis MK 1*. In 2023, the Military Armament Corporation secured the rights to import the resurgent Inglis High Power. Designated L9A1, the new Inglis pistol replicates the late production workhorse of British military fame. In British Commonwealth service, the L9A1 replaced the wellworn World War II Inglis MK I*s in 1962. Widely used by all Commonwealth forces, the L9A1 was also issued to the British Special Air Service throughout the Cold War era, serving until 2013 when replaced by the Glock 17. Like the original, the Inglis L9A1 features a lanyard loop, durable polymer grips, and a rugged military-grade finish. The slide and frame are machined from forgings and all parts are machined in-house, meaning no MIM or cast parts are used. When asked about the resurgence of interest in the High Power, Military Armament Corporation CEO Tim Mulverhill said, “I’ve always been a fan of the High Power. My daily carry has often been an upgraded MK III, and I’ve been working to get it into production since Browning dropped it from their lineup. Browning was never able to fully develop the platform due to politics with FN Herstal, so there is a ton of potential.” To commemorate the return of the Inglis brand, Inglis intends to release a small number of limited-edition boxed sets that will include a color case-hardened L9A1, individually numbered from 1 to 100, and a matching numbered Fairbain knife in a wood presentation case. Inglis will be giving one away at the 2024 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, Nevada. Booth #10732

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DAILY

UPDATE N E WS

❚

PR O MO T I O N S

❚

AWAR D S

Outdoor Edge Expands Into EDC

utdoor Edge knives have been a staple of hunters for years. The replaceable blade technology that OE is known for has helped hunters make quick work of field dressing game of all varieties. Now OE is applying that same innovative technology to a whole new consumer demographic with the introduction of its new Razor VX line of everyday carry knives.

“This is really going to turn some heads at the SHOT Show this year,” says William Morgan, director of marketing and product management for Outdoor Edge. “It’s a huge step forward for us, and it’s going to change the way people look at Outdoor Edge.” Moving from an almost exclusive hunting base into the competitive EDC market is no small feat, and it’s not one that OE took lightly. “This has been many months in the making,” Morgan says. “We did extensive market research, and at the end of the day we knew we had something we could offer consumers that filled a very specific need.” That need, it turns out, is an EDC that is customizable based on varying situations. For many EDC loyalists, blade type is more than a simple preference—it’s a matter of practicality. A straight blade is the most generalized blade and by far the easiest to sharpen and maintain. But there are times when the cutting ease of a serrated blade makes so much more sense. With the OE’s RazorSafe replacement blade system, users can quickly and easily switch between a straight edge and half-serrated blade depending on individual needs. Adding to the ver-

satility of the Razor VX knives is the option of straight or half-serrated replacement utility blades with a Warncliff-like tip. “The blade ecosystem with this line gives you the ability to drastically change the personality of the knife in an instant,” Morgan says. “And that’s exactly what we were shooting for.” The Razor VX collection includes five different knives aptly named VX 1-5. Three of those knives (VX 1-3) include two different versions, creating a total of seven different options for consumers to choose from. Each of the knives offers a combination of features designed to help consumers pick the handle, finish, and opening mechanism that best suits their preferences. Among the options are opening mechanisms using either ceramic or stainless-steel ball bearings, stainless-steel or black oxide blade holders, and G-10 or micarta handles. For customers who are looking for even more options, the VX-1 features a stylish anodized aluminum handle and a spring-assisted blade deployment. It is available in either a black oxide or stainless-steel option. The collection also includes two options for customers who are looking for EDC

❚

OU T R EA CH

By Christopher Cogley  The VX2 is part of a new five-knife Razor VX EDC collection from Outdoor Edge.

with carbon-fiber handles. In keeping with what has almost become the standard size in EDC, all of the Razor VX knives have a 3-inch blade and a convenient lock button to make it simple to release the replacement blades and lock them back into position. Deep carry clips, liner locks, and ambidextrous one-finger openings are all standard on every knife. “We made sure to include all the features that most people have come to expect in their EDCs,” Morgan says. “When you combine that with the versatility that the replacement blade system provides, we’re really upping the bar on quality and fashion with this collection.” Morgan says that Outdoor Edge is committed to making a big splash with the launch of the Razor VX collection both at the SHOT Show and with retail partners across the country. And don’t expect this line to be a one-hit wonder for OE. “We are fully committed to the EDC category, and we have so much more to come,” Morgan says. It certainly seems like they’re off to a good start so far. Booth #70933 (outdooredge.com)

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DAILY UPDATE

COVERT CARRY, REIMAGINED Walther’s new PD380 is designed to elevate the concealed-carry experience.

n the world of concealed carry, Walther has long been synonymous with precision, reliability, and unmatched craftsmanship. With a legacy that spans generations, Walther has once again set a new standard with the PD380, a compact .380 ACP pistol that embodies the perfect fusion of power and ease of use. At the heart of the PD380 lies its unrivaled ease of use. Boasting minimal recoil and an effortless-torack slide, the PD380 becomes an ideal companion for everyday carry, even for those new to shooting. Weighing in at a featherlight level, the PD380 slips effortlessly into a holster, pocket, or purse. Its compact dimensions, designed to balance comfort and concealability, make it an excellent choice for anyone seeking a reliable, high-performance pistol. The PD380 includes a number of features designed to enhance the shooting experience. A performance duty-grip texture, for example, has been

designed to provide a secure hold while Superterrain slide serrations allow for quicker and more responsive hands-on engagement with the pistol. An ambidextrous paddle magazine release allows the user to swiftly reload. The overall magazine design gives the PD380 9+1 capacity. The PD380 also benefits from versatile shooting options with the Double Action/Single Action (DA/ SA) trigger system, allowing for both rapid follow-up shots and the option to carry with the hammer down. The ambidextrous slide-mounted safety lets the user engage or disengage the safety mechanism using either hand. “At Walther, our team continuously engineers every firearm with reliable precision, state-of-the-art craftsmanship, and the Walther legacy,” says Jens Krogh, vice president of marketing and product development for Walther Arms, Inc. “The PD380 was designed with an unrivaled sense of comfort and

ease, concealment, and features that build confidence with each shot. The compact dimensions provide a balance between innovation and concealability, making it an excellent choice for a beginner or a seasoned expert seeking a reliable, high-performance pistol that doesn't compromise personal protection.” Booth #12469 (waltherarms.com)

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6 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

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12/21/23 8:18 AM

Introducing the New TIBET EVO Series

THE EVOLUTION OF AN ICON

TIBET EVO GTX HI

TIBET EVO 400 GTX Women’s model also available.

TIBET EVO GTX Women’s model also available.

We’ve updated our best-selling TIBET series with a new VIBRAM sole package for greater comfort underfoot, a more protective rand and a sleek, modern look. The result is the new LOWA TIBET EVO collection of premium mountain hunting boots that excel when you have to cover rough terrain and long distances with a heavy pack. As always, LOWA Mountain Hunting boots are handcrafted in Germany, with the attention to detail that has earned us ISO 9001:2015 status for the highest standards in manufacturing & process standards. Visit BOOTH #10162 to see the LOWA 2024 Mountain Hunting & Task Force Collections GORE-TEX, GTX, GORE, GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY and design are registered trademarks of W.L. Gore & Associates Inc. PrimaLoft® is a registered trademark of PrimaLoft, Inc. VIBRAM®, ARCTIC GRIP, the Octagon Logo, and the Yellow Octagon Logo and the color Canary Yellow are registered trademarks of Vibram S.p.A. © 2024 LOWA Boots, LLC.

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DAILY UPDATE

USING END CAPS TO BOOST SALES To many, gun cleaning is an activity as exciting as watching paint dry. It is, nevertheless, a critical part of gun ownership, and gun owners are in constant need of gun cleaning components. And that is why retailers need to stock up on these items, which range from bore cleaners to disposable wipes. A key element to increasing sales is where and how these essentials are positioned in your store. That’s where end cap displays can make a big difference. In the past year Remington helped Fleet Farm Stores and Dunham’s increase sales of Remington gun-cleaning products through the installation of Remington end caps. In both cases, these retailers saw dramatic double-digit increases in year over year point of sale purchases. All of which begs the question: why are end caps so productive? “End caps not only allow a manufacturer to showcase best sellers and pair items together to increase purchases, but end caps also grab a consumer’s attention, helping them find what they need faster. And that can also trigger impulse buys,” says Eric Labelle, senior national account manager at Vista Outdoor Shooting Sports. “We find that on average, end caps lift gun-cleaning accessory sales between seven and 12 percent.” Labelle also notes that end caps serve another important purpose as well. “Education on the end cap via a QR code that leads to gun cleaning videos ensure consumers are buying the right products for the intended result, which drives product satisfaction. It also reminds customers to clean their firearm more often. That drives frequency, which is important in this category.” Remington will customize end caps to a particular retailer’s space and product-mix needs, but as for location Labelle says, “Gun cleaning is a solid bridge

between ammunition and firearms, so locating the Remington Gun Care end cap here can be very beneficial. And because end caps can drive impulse buys, locating them in areas close to the checkout counter can also help.” Ammo end caps, which Remington also will provide to retailers, are another way to boost sales. Labelle says that retailers can expect to see, on average, a significant lift in ammo sales with specialized ammo end caps. “In many situations, we’ve seen a more than a 10 percent lift in ammo sales.” Like with gun-cleaning end caps, Remington will customize its ammo end caps to fit the product mix and merchandizing needs of the retailer. And just like what you see in real estate, location is everything. “Ammunition on an end cap near the checkout counter or inside the entrance of the store during the various hunting and shooting seasons makes it easy for the consumer to easily find what they need for their shooting activity,” Labelle says. Another excellent location for an ammo endcap is near the firearm sections of a store; once a gun is sold, the sales associate can point the customer to the endcap to buy ammo for it. “End caps are nothing new,” he says. “But if you truly want them to increase sales, they must be used creatively." Booth #11838 (remington.COM)

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8 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

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DAILY UPDATE

Trends in Concealed Carry

By Logan Metesh

nfortunately, the world isn’t getting any safer, and more people are waking up to this uncomfortable fact of life every day. On the one hand, it’s sad that more people are feeling threatened and unsafe; on the other hand, thankfully there’s never been a better time to jump into the world of concealed carry. The market has never been as accommodating to concealed carriers than it is right now. Here are some of the most notable current trends in the world of concealed carry.

NICHE CALIBERS

With more companies coming out with pistols chambered in 5.7x28, it was inevitable that people would start carrying them concealed. Between the Smith & Wesson M&P5.7 (Booth #12427), FN Five-SeveN (Booth #12805), Ruger-57 (Booth #72327), PSA Rock 5.7 (Booth #14843), and others, the caliber has moved out of the pistol caliber carbine market and

solidly into the world of carry guns. With the ability to carry at least 20 rounds in a single magazine, it’s an easy choice simply by the numbers.

SMALLER GUNS

Walther’s PD380 has created new interest in smaller calibers. The .380 ACP was a standard selfdefense caliber in the early decades of the 20th century, but it fell out of favor and was replaced largely by 9mm and .45 ACP. New advancements in ammo have made the .380 ACP a contender in the self-defense market once again. The PD380 pairs the modern PDP-series top half to the classic PK380 frame. (Booth #61502)

 Crossbreed appendix-carry holster.

 Walther PD380.

 Smith & Wesson M&P5.7.

An added benefit to the PD380 is its slide that is very easy to manipulate. When paired with modern defensive .380 ACP ammo, this gun is a solid choice for concealed carry among smaller, older, or weaker shooters. This is something that Smith & Wesson learned a few years ago with their Shield EZ, and it’s nice to see other makers adapting to this part of the market.

APPENDIX CARRY

 Ruger-57.

One of the largest shifts in concealed carry is the rise of the appendix carry position, and this is easy to attribute to smaller carry guns. To clarify, the 3 o’clock to 4 o’clock position isn’t going anywhere, but make no mistake: appendix carry is not a fad. It has become incredibly popular and holster makers have answered the call for comfortable appendix holsters. CrossBreed Holsters’ Appendix Carry holster (Booth #15052) was purpose-built with this

carry position in mind with use of small- and medium-frame guns. It’s made with a Kydex shell and a leather, cowhide, or horsehide backer. Their Reckoning system is also ideal for appendix carry, and the ability to add their Accomplice magazine holder to the setup makes carrying a reload easier than ever.

OPTICS-READY SLIDES

The rise of red dot optics on carry guns has also led to the introduction of many handgun models being available from the factory with optics-ready cuts already present on the top of the slide. For many potential buyers, if a new gun doesn’t come already cut for optics, it can lead them to consider a different gun altogether, simply for the sake of convenience. If, however, a concealed carrier’s preferred gun isn’t available cut from the factory, there’s an equally large supply of aftermarket slides with optics cuts and plenty of machining companies that are willing and able to cut an existing slide for an optic. Things come and go, but our industry as a whole is pretty good at staying on top of consumer trends—especially when it comes to concealed carry. If your customers are in the market to buy a subcompact pistol in a smaller caliber and want to carry it appendix style, then the world is their oyster right now.

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DAILY UPDATE

CONCEALED CARRY HANDBAGS

Gun Tote’n Mamas, an affordable line of concealedcarry handbags, was inspired and developed by women for women. The company does not make this statement lightly, as its parent company, Kingport Industries LLC, has been a “Certified Women Owned Business” since 2004. In 2008 Gun Tote’n Mamas exhibited at the SHOT Show for the first time. Being in the travel goods and accessory leather products industry for over 35 years, it displayed and demonstrated an array of products, which included handbags. “We were not prepared for the overwhelming response from instructors, law enforcement, and security personnel (men and women) asking if our handbags were made for concealed carry,” says Claudia Chisholm, president of GTM. “That aha moment proved how important it was to provide reasonably priced, high-quality and multi-tasking concealed-carry bags without compromise on design, construction, and, most important, leather.” Retailers will see two new products at SHOT Show this year. The GTM-116 Sling Waist Pack, made from cowhide, is designed to be worn on either the left or right side, front or back. It also has

side- or angled-draw capability. The standard holster is compatible with the Sig Sauer 938, 365X, 365XL; Walther PPS M2 and PPK 380; Smith & Wesson M&P 9mm Shield and M&P Equalizer; and Springfield Hellcat Pro and Hellcat Micro compact. The waist pack fits waists from 24 to 50 inches (the larger sizes will need to use the e==xtender). The bag also has an RFID-protected interior zippered pocket, and the gun compartment features special padding that prevents imprinting. It is Crossbreed holster compatible. The lightweight cowhide GTM-51/LAV Town Tote features two hand-carry handles with a drop length of 51⁄2 inches. Fully extended, the strap is 55 inches; shortest length is 33 inches. The main compartment offers an RFID-protected interior zippered pocket, slash-resistant adjustable/removable shoulder strap embedded with 11-ply steel cable and includes a standard holster that was tested with the Springfield Hellcat, Smith & Wesson M&P Shield EZ, Glock 19 compact and Glock 26 sub-compact, Walther PPK, and Sig Sauer SIG P365 and SIG P938. “Our new products are specifically designed to meet the needs of women demanding an off-body

carry option that is a practical and stylish solution to carrying their firearm,” says Chisholm. “At Gun Tote'n Mamas, we know what women want. Each of our bags undergoes rigorous testing by some of the top instructors in the country. These new bags combine functional design with the latest trends.” Booth #43005 (gtmoriginal.com)

 GTM-116 Sling Waist Pack.

 GTM-51/LAV Town Tote.

CHANGING THE GAME

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DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ 11

12/19/23 7:40 AM

DAILY UPDATE

NSSF Fights Gun Control Headwinds on Capitol Hill

By Larry Keane

he challenges of working for the firearm and ammunition industry’s interests in Washington, D.C. in 2023 have been challenging to say the least. The dysfunction of Capitol Hill is a frustration for nearly all Americans. Still, NSSF’s Government Relations-Federal Affairs team has been working steadily as a bulwark against President Joe Biden’s attacks. The work by NSSF’s Government Relations teams was recently recognized as the top trade association in the country, achieving this distinction for lobbying, member mobilization, and industry reputation steward by Capitol Hill staff and influential policy makers. NSSF is proud of this recognition, especially in the midst of a challenging political environment. NSSF has been on defense and offense. Below is just a sample of what’s happened over the past year. Some of those attacks include targeting SHOT Show. The U.S. Commerce Department— as of this writing—suspended firearm exports for 90 days for all by select countries to review export policies. The Biden administration intends to include a human rights component for firearm and ammunition exports, despite the fact that the U.S. Munitions List to Commerce Control List (USML-CCL) reforms have end-to-end user checks for each and every license. The Commerce Department was also reviewing their participation in SHOT Show. The firearm and ammunition industry is the only industry that this review is affecting, highlighting the administration’s antipathy against our industry and guns. President Joe Biden continued his attack on lawful gun ownership throughout the year. The Biden administration attempted to deny federal school funding for scholastic-based hunter education and archery programs. NSSF fought back and President Biden was forced to backtrack. The NSSF-supported Protecting Hunting Heritage and Education Act, introduced by U.S. Reps. Mark Green (R-TN) and Richard Hudson (R-NC) was signed into law. The White House stood up an Office of Gun Violence Prevention, giving in to demands by gun control groups for an office adjacent to the Oval Office. The new gun control office is staffed by former gun control lobbyists and activists. The Biden administration has been using all levers of government to chip away at the lawful commerce in arms. President Biden knows he cannot advance gun control legislation through a divided Congress, so he’s been issuing executive orders, adopting anti-industry internal policies,

and issuing constitutionally dubious federal rules. And the administration is dragging its feet on implementing industry beneficial provisions of the Bipartisan Safer Communities Act (BSCA) that allow licensees to run employment checks and to search to see if a used gun has been reported stolen. The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) proposed a new definition of “engaged in the business,” which would require nearly all private firearms sellers to obtain a federal firearms license. That’s not only unconstitutional, since Congress sets the definition, but also unworkable. NSSF is working with Congress to deny federal funds from enforcing these unconstitutional measures that attempt to bypass Congress and the will of voters. U.S. Rep. Roger Williams (R-TX), Chairman of the House Small Business Committee, is investigating. NSSF is keeping up the fight against the ATF’s “zero tolerance” policy. U.S. Sens. Joni Ernst and Chuck Grassley, both Iowa Republicans, are demanding answers from the ATF of the overzealous policies that are seeing businesses closed and licenses revoked for minor clerical errors. NSSF continues to highlight how this policy is counterproductive to stopping firearms from getting into the wrong hands. Firearm retailers are the first line of defense for blocking sales to prohibited individuals. They are ATF’s friend and main source of illegal firearms trafficking tips. They are not—as President Biden says—the “enemy.” Sen. Grassley is also delving into allegations of ATF employees illegally funneling gun parts to Mexico. He’s also demanding answers as to why ATF denied funding for programs to dismantle criminal networks that illegally smuggle guns to Mexico. NSSF continues to work with Congress to end discrimination against our industry. Sen. Ted Cruz (R-TX) directly addressed the illegal discrimination of banks and payment processors when he forced Intuit to backtrack on their policy of denying services to firearm industry members. NSSF is working to bring legislation forward to stop the practice. NSSF hailed Rep. Andy Barr’s (R-KY) introduction of the Fair Access to Banking Act, H.R. 2743, just one day after NSSF’s Fly-In when firearm industry executives met with Congressional lawmakers. NSSF applauded Sen. Kevin Cramer’s (R-ND) introduction of the Fair Access to Banking Act, S. 293, which would end the discriminatory lending practices of major banking institutions that

seek to circumvent the legislative process. and set social policy from the boardroom. NSSF welcomed the introduction of S. 428, the Firearm Industry Nondiscrimination Act, by U.S. Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) and the House version, H.R. 53, the Firearm Industry Nondiscrimination Act by Rep. Jack Bergman (R-MI). U.S. Sen. John Thune (R-SD) introduced the NSSF-supported Merchant Category Code (MCC) Neutrality Act, S. 898, legislation that would prohibit the IRS from auditing taxpayers based primarily on the MCC used by their business. U.S. Rep. Alex Mooney (R-WV) introduced H.R. 3021, The Protecting the Second Amendment in Financial Services Act, to prohibit financial institutions and credit card companies from using a newly created Merchant Category Code (MCC) to track and categorize gun and ammunition purchases at firearm retailers and sporting goods stores that offer firearms. Sen. Mike Crapo (R-ID) led an NSSFsupported effort demanding answers from freight carriers’ discriminatory policies targeting the firearm and ammunition industry that interfere with the lawful commerce of firearms and infringe on the Second Amendment rights. U.S. Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC) issued a letter to the Department of Transportation and ATF for answers and protections for the firearm industry against any attacks on the right to bear arms by the Biden administration as they seek to crack down on loss and theft with freight carriers and shippers. More attacks came from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) when it issued anoth-

12 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

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DAILY UPDATE er Final Rule to ban the use of traditional ammunition on National Wildlife Refuges (NWRs). The rule opens more hunting opportunities, but doesn’t rely on site-specific peerreviewed scientific evidence to support a ban. NSSF supports Rep. Rob Wittman’s (R-VA) and Sen. Steve Daines (R-MT) Protecting Access for Hunters and Anglers Act, which would require the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture to provide site-specific peer-reviewed scientific data in cooperation with state agencies that demonstrates traditional lead ammunition or fishing tackle is causing detrimental wildlife population impacts before prohibiting their use by hunters and anglers. NSSF is working to do more than just defend against attacks on hunting and recreational shooting. Sen. Joe Manchin (D-WV) and John Barrasso (R-AR), the Chairman and Ranking Member of the Senate Energy and Natural Resources Committee, introduced S. 873, the NSSF-supported Bipartisan America’s Outdoor Recreation Act. The legislative package would increase and improve outdoor recreation opportunities across the nation while improving infrastructure and driving economic growth in

rural communities. Among several initiatives, the legislation would require the U.S. Forest Service (USFS) and Bureau of Land Management (BLM) to ensure that both agencies have at least one qualifying recreational shooting range in each National Forest and BLM district. U.S. Rep. Blake Moore (R-UT) introduced H.R. 1614, the Range Access Act, to promote and expand access to safe recreational target shooting practice. NSSF welcomed the bipartisan introduction of the Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) Protection Act, S. 1907, introduced by Sen. Lindsey Graham (R-SC). The bill would strengthen and enhance criminal penalties for thefts of firearms from federally licensed firearm retailers. NSSF welcomed the bipartisan introduction of the Federal Firearms Licensee (FFL) Protection Act, H.R. 2620, by Reps. John Rutherford (R-FL) and Henry Cuellar (D-TX). Sen. Graham also introduced S. 840, the Respect for Second Amendment Act, which would codify the standard from U.S. Supreme Court’s Bruen decision into federal statutory law. NSSF commended Sen. John Cornyn’s (R-TX) introduction of S. 214, the Constitutional

Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act. NSSF wholeheartedly welcomed U.S. Rep. Richard Hudson’s (R-NC) introduction of the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2023, H.R. 38. Rep. Jeff Duncan (R-SC) introduced H.R. 152, the Hearing Protection Act, which would remove firearm suppressors from the 1934 National Firearms Act. The NSSF-supported legislation would treat the firearm accessory, which is legal for possession in 42 states and legal for hunting in 41 states, as the safety product it is. On top of all that, the firearm industry is working to bring more liberty-minded candidates to office. The Protect Liberty PAC was launched with the express goal of electing candidates who are dedicated to preserving and protecting liberty, freedoms, and the Constitutional rights of all Americans, especially the Second Amendment. The Protect Liberty PAC is open to all who want to support candidates dedicated to preserving freedom in America. NSSF PAC continues and is open to firearm industry members to support candidates for federal office that will protect the firearm industry, Second Amendment, and America’s hunting and shooting sports heritage.

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Shooting Stars The November/December 2023 issue of SHOT Business profiled leaders in the firearm and shooting sports industries. What follows is an excerpt from that article that focuses on eight individuals you may see walking the halls of the 2024 SHOT Show. AARON DAVIDSON

An engineer and automobile enthusiast, Aaron Davidson, CEO of Gunwerks, began applying his talents to firearms 20 years ago. After earning a patent for a ballistic turret in 2006, he built a rifle. Then he founded a company. “Gunwerks emerged to help shooters hit at very long range,” he says. “A narrow focus works for us. The industry is crowded with companies bent on filling every niche. We wanted to excel in one.”

He notes that long-range enthusiasts buy actions, barrels, stocks, and scopes, then spend more to test handloads in the resulting rifles. They switch out parts to print tighter groups. It’s a costly, time-consuming journey. Davidson believes Gunwerks has developed a better approach. “We build and market shooting systems,” he says. “Our rifles have top-shelf components. Our range-compensating Revic scopes make the most of them. We’ve done the hard work, even load development. Our systems are ready for a hunt or a long-range match right out of the hard cases we supply with them.” Gunwerks builds rifles on its own GLR action, in stainless steel or titanium. The Climbr, Magnus, and Verdict have an NP3-coated, two-lug bolt with twin cocking cams and an extractor that sends empties at a low angle to clear blocky scope turrets. A flush floorplate and an internal magazine make for a clean profile and easy top-loading from low positions. Davidson minds such details, his focus ever on what makes the rifles easier to use and more effective. Vertical integration—by producing all major parts inhouse—frees him of many supply-chain delays. “And

because those components are of our design, we needn’t compromise the function of one component to pair it with another,” he says. Booth #11460 (gunwerks.com)

JUSTIN SITZ

When your house burns to the ground, taking everything you own with it, your first impulse naturally would be to focus on a rebuild. Justin Sitz, founder of Versacarry, forged a different path. He purchased a handgun. Dissatisfied with the available concealedcarry holsters, he began tinkering with several options, eventually coming up with the patented Zerobulk holster. “I instantly knew this holster was revolutionary, so much so that I diverted from rebuilding my house and focused all my time and funding into building Versacarry instead,” he says. Zerobulk helped jump start his company, and now the Texas-based manufacturer offers of a wide variety of OWB and IWB concealed-carry holsters. Sitz understands that comfort and concealment are high on the list for most concealed-carry users, and he feels Versacarry meets both of those needs through its Comfort Flex Deluxe and Comfort Flex Custom lines. “We have seen that if a holster isn’t comfortable, people won’t carry it. Our padded hybrid holsters combine a custom-molded polymer front, durable water buffalo leather, and a pillowed foam back. The combination of these materials securely holds the firearm in place for confident draws, but allows for more comfort in all-day wearing.” Always passionate about design, he is happiest when knee deep in prototypes and patents. “No matter what role I play at the company, I continue to find myself drawn toward R&D,” he says. “I’m still

amazed I can build a growing business, employ hardworking Americans, and work in an industry I love.” Booth #12211 (versacarry.com)

ROB GEARING

“My DNA is to find elegant solutions to problems,” says Rob Gearing, a straight-talking Brit who founded Spartan Precision Equipment in 2013 and is now managing director. And part of that DNA is finding how to shave bits of weight where you can without sacrificing performance.

In this case, it was the five-ounce detachable Javelin Bipod designed to replace the cumbersome fixed rifle bipod, a bedeviling piece of gear for backcountry hunters who ascend to the sky in search of big game. The Javelin Bipod began as an art project centered around the nose cone of a decommissioned Concorde SST mounted to an old engine bearing. To cover the bearing, Gearing added a clamshell cover held in place with two tiny rare-earth magnets. He liked what he saw and then wondered whether those super-strong magnets could be the foundation for a more user-friendly bipod. After a few iterations, the Javelin Bipod was born, a lightweight bipod that can easily be popped on and off a gun without fiddling with attachments. The idea was—and is—that the bipod could be stowed in a pocket or backpack sleeve until needed, then quickly and quietly deployed by engaging its male prong with a female receptacle fixed to the gun. The bond is assured with those rare-earth magnets. The Javelin Bipod remains the company’s

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DAILY UPDATE most recognized product, accounting for about 80 percent of Spartan Precisions’ sales. Booth #41141 (javelinbipod.com)

JIM CHANDLEY

There’s an old saying: when handed a lemon, make lemonade. Which is just what buying group Nation’s Best Sports (NBS) did in the wake of COVID-19. The pandemic, along with supplier shortages, stood the shooting sports industry on its head and forever changed the way many manufacturers and retailers do business. Prior to COVID, the Fort Worth-based purchasing group supported their members largely through annual in-person events. When public gatherings were suspended, the long-time industry leader pivoted and developed a new business model, which has generated growth and enabled NBS to better serve retailers. For decades, NBS hosted three to four buying events each year. The shows featured a variety of brands and products as well as the largest manufacturers in the shooting sports industry. Then, all of a sudden, the company’s business model was taken away from it. “We had to figure out how to continue with our business and do things completely different than we've ever done before—and it actually worked out quite well,” says Jim Chandley, president of NBS. “We learned how to do a lot of events away from our traditional timeframes, which turned out to be a huge advantage to us.” Although NBS has returned to holding in-person events, the structure has dramatically changed. Before 2020, members would devote their time at a show to researching products and writing several months’ worth of orders. It was exhausting, to say the least. Now, NBS events have become more of a social gathering where dealers can enjoy themselves while they build their businesses. “It used to be that almost everything happened within three to four weeks of the show. Today, we have 12 months of regular events that actually have become much better for us, and much more efficient for the membership,” Chandley says. “It's just turned

into a totally different way that we run our business. It actually improved our business and our efficiency.” Booth #14649 (nationsbestsports.com)

BRANDON MADDOX

Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Silencer Central is the largest firearms silencer dealer in America with locations in the 42 states where silencers are lawful. Founded by Brandon Maddox, the company began life in 2005 as South Dakota Silencer, an events-based business. The goal was to reach the underserved hunting and sport shooting market by simplifying the silencer ownership process. It became Dakota Silencer and finally rebranded as Silencer Central in August 2020.

The impetus to start a silencer company came from Maddox’s passion for hunting the grasslands of the Dakotas. He was interested in using suppressed firearms for hunting, and in trying to procure a suppressor realized the process to acquire one was laborious, which, in his mind, explained why so few hunters were purchasing silencers. He made a career pivot, dedicating himself to streamlining and simplifying the process to buy a silencer. He did this mostly by working directly with regulators to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the federal, state, and local compliance requirements. Maddox has, and continues to be, active in legislative issues impacting his business and his customers. He founded the South Dakota Firearms Industry Association and has testified at numerous state congressional hearings on firearms-related issues. He was recently named to the board of directors of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, where he will contribute his experience, insight, and commitment to preserving the future of the American Sportsman. Booth #75237 (silencercentral.com)

HEATH PUTNAM

Bringing industry-leading firearms into the world requires a well-oiled machine made up of designers, engineers, and other professionals deploying some of the most advanced manufacturing techniques and

tools available. Development and production at Ruger Firearms are unparalleled, thanks in large part to long-time team members such as chief manufacturing engineer Heath Putnam. With more than 30 years of engineering experience, Putnam plays a key role in creating and refining strategic engineering and manufacturing processes at Ruger. Ruger Firearms employs lean manufacturing, a method that minimizes waste while maximizing productivity and value for Ruger’s customers. It’s an approach that Putnam has helped implement and hone during his 10 years with the company. “Lean manufacturing is something I'm really passionate about. It's doing more with less, so we try to provide our customers with as much value as possible,” Putnam explains. “We want to help our folks work more efficiently. We want to use fewer machines, less tooling, and less time to manufacture our firearms.” As chief manufacturing engineer, Putnam spends a lot of time training and mentoring Ruger’s engineers and operations personnel. In addition to sharing lean manufacturing concepts, he teaches manufacturing and design analysis software, problem solving, cutting-tool technology and selection, and more. “I'm really passionate about lean. I'm really passionate about engineering in general. It's nice to be able to give some of that knowledge and history back to younger engineers,” Putnam says. “When I was younger, I had some really good mentors, and I think that's another reason why I like to help young engineers. I've grown personally by mentoring newer, younger engineers and, hopefully, they've gained something from me.” Booth #72327 (ruger.com)

DERICK COLE

As vice president of sales for PARD USA, Cole is responsible for the company’s sales and marketing strategies. He also manages customer relationships as the night-vison and thermal-optic manufacturer widens its footprint in this mushrooming market sector. For Cole, one of the most important parts of selling thermal- and night-vision products is consumer education. “Interest in the thermal and night vison space has exploded in recent years,” he says. “There

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are a lot of technical elements that must be considered when comparing brands, models, and features. The challenge has been explaining and simplifying the technical performance elements to make it easy to understand so that end users can make an intelligent decision when purchasing a device.” He’s also a believer in customer service, an area that he says has been overlooked by many in the industry. “Too many brands have looked past this important part of building consumer trust and retail partnerships,” he says. “Our technical support department is in our corporate office in Reno, Nevada. We have in-house personnel that correspond directly with consumers to help identify and correct any issues that may arise. Our customers will not have to deal with overseas phone trees or sub-standard response times.” Finally, he’s committed to bringing back profitability to the retailer in this category. “PARD offers margins that are in some cases 10- to 15-percent

higher than other brands. This is a game changer. We understand that while many of us are in this industry because we love it, none of us do it for free. It is important to be profitable.” Booth #40756 (pard.com)

MARK SMITH

Company CEOs need a skill set that includes the ability to keep a lot of balls in the air at the same time. And, if the company is publicly owned, as is the case with Smith & Wesson, those balls include investors, the SEC and other government regulators, along with, of course, shareholders, Wall Street analysts, dealers, and customers. Mark Smith, president and CEO of Smith & Wesson, knows this well. A busy man, he is currently overseeing the company’s move to Tennessee as well as the rollout of the new products that are so vital to the company’s ongoing financial health. If all this isn’t enough on his plate, Smith also had to deal with the U.S. House of Representatives Oversight and Reform Committee. He was unable to attend in person, but he delivered a robust defense of the industry in a forceful statement that was posted on the company’s Twitter account: “Some have had the audacity to suggest that after they have vilified, undermined and defunded law enforcement for years, supported prosecutors who refuse to hold criminals accountable for their actions, overseen the decay of our country’s mental health infrastructure,

and generally promoted a culture of lawlessness, Smith & Wesson and other firearm manufacturers are somehow responsible for the crime wave that has predictably resulted from these destructive policies. But they are the ones to blame for the surge in violence and lawlessness, and they seek to avoid any responsibility for the crisis of violence they have created by attempting to shift the blame to Smith & Wesson, other firearm manufacturers and law-abiding gun owners. “We will continue to work alongside law enforcement, community leaders and lawmakers who are genuinely interested in creating safe neighborhoods. We will engage those who genuinely seek productive discussions, not a means of scoring political points. We will continue informing law-abiding citizens that they have a Constitutionallyprotected right to defend themselves and their families. We will never back down in our defense of the Second Amendment.” Booth #12427 (smith-wesson.com)

THERE ARE AMMO PLANTS CAPABLE OF PRODUCING NEARLY FOUR MILLION ROUNDS A DAY. THAT’S NOT US. WE ARE A CRAFT AMMUNITION MAKER,

and you can’t automate craft.

Our process is slow, e. on purpos H EACH ROUN D

SLOW SO WE CAN WATC EVER Y SING LE BEIN G MAD E. SLOW SO THAT ECTE D ONE CAN BE HELD AND INSP OUR NAM E. BY HAND BEFO RE EARN ING

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more is not better. better is better.

OUR PRODUCT HAS BEEN COMPARED TO HANDMADE JEWELRY, BECAUSE IT’S MADE BY PEOPLE WHOSE CRAFT TOOK YEARS TO DEVELOP. AND YOU CAN’T

recreate craft in any kind of artificial way.

ALMOST NO AMMUNITION MANUFACTURER INSPECTS EVERY SINGLE ROUND, BUT WE DO. IT TAKES EXTRA TIME AND COST TO HUNT FOR THE SMALLEST IMPERFECTION,

18 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

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but we wouldn’t do it any other way.

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by robert FIVEa sadowski MINUTES

WITH ... management. In addition, he furthered his business acumen by obtaining an MBA from Duke University. The impetus to start a silencer company came from Maddox’s passion for hunting the grasslands of the Dakotas. He was interested in using suppressed firearms for hunting, and in trying to procure a suppressor realized the process to acquire one was laborious, which, in his mind, explained why so few hunters were purchasing silencers. He made a career pivot, dedicating himself to streamlining and simplifying the process to buy a silencer. He did this mostly by working directly with regulators to ensure a comprehensive understanding of the federal, state, and local compliance requirements. Maddox has, and continues to be, active in legislative issues impacting his business and his customers. He founded the South Dakota Firearms Industry Association and has testified at numerous state congressional hearings on firearms-related issues. He was recently named to the board of directors of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, where he will contribute his experience, insight, and commitment to preserving the future of the American Sportsman.

SHOT Daily: What do you see as the biggest challenges facing the industry in the next five years?

Brandon Maddox, CEO Silencer Central

Brandon Maddox: We know the biggest barrier that keeps consumers from buying silencers is the perceived obstacles surrounding the ATF paperwork. This also is the key challenge a dealer needs to overcome before a customer is willing to purchase a silencer. SD: What opportunities do you see?

Silencers Made Simple Silencer Central is dedicated to making the process of obtaining a silencer easier for target shooters and hunters.

BM: I have been doing this for almost 20 years,

and I have yet to meet a customer who did not absolutely fall in love with a silencer—once they were able to obtain and use one. Silencer

randon Maddox is the founder and CEO of Silencer Central. Headquartered in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, Silencer Central is the largest firearms silencer dealer in America with locations in the 42 states where silencers are lawful.

The company began life in 2005 as South Dakota Silencer, an events-based business. The goal was to reach the underserved hunting and sport shooting market by simplifying the silencer ownership process. It became Dakota Silencer and finally rebranded as Silencer Central in August 2020. Maddox took a circuitous route to the silencer market. After graduating from the University of North Carolina, he obtained a pharmacy license and began work at Glaxo, a multinational pharmaceutical and biotechnology company. His time at Glaxo gave him invaluable exposure to a variety of disciplines, including sales, sales training management, marketing management, and sales

The Banish Backcountry utilizes six baffles to reduce noise levels.

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engineer left the Northeast U.S. to come to Sioux Falls to lead our development efforts. In a state where so many residents hunt and fully embrace the Second Amendment, we have limited issues recruiting top talent that seek a career in what they enjoy and believe to be their hobby and ideology every day.

SD: Can you give us an update on the e-form The Silencer Central head office is located in Sioux Falls, South Dakota, a Second-Amendment-friendly state.

Central has revolutionized the process of buying a silencer by mail. This is a major step forward in what is perceived by consumers as an arduous process.

is a good example of that.

SD: When you get up in the morning, what gets

sively tactical in application and appearance. We wanted a product for hunters. Banish focused on alltitanium construction to reduce weight. The design also allows multi-caliber applications. The units are also easily and quickly disassembled for cleaning. Hunters also want super-quiet operation, whereas tactical shooters often seek only hearing-safe operation. Banish products cover a wide range of calibers, from a .17 HMR to a .458 SOCOM.

you excited about your work?

BM: Without doubt, educating consumers on

the many benefits of using a suppressor for hunting or target shooting. Once a customer uses a suppressor, they are not only hooked indefinitely, but they also get enthusiastic about bringing their friends to the silencer party.

SD: How did your Banish line come to be? BM: The silencers on the market in 2005 were exclu-

SD: How will you meet the expectations of your customers?

SD: How will your new facilities in Sioux Falls

BM: This is an every day challenge. Amazon has

BM: South Dakota is a very pro-business state that

done a remarkable job setting the bar high for consumers on delivery times and turnkey service and ordering. As a federally regulated business, our hands are tied in many ways, which makes the process even more challenging. The key is active communication with the customer; you have to really over communicate to ensure the customer knows what is going on throughout the entire process. We hired a director of customer experience to ensure this is top of mind—all day, every day. Our key to success today and in the future will be our customers’ experience in how we simplify the process of buying a silencer.

help product design and delivery?

attracts conservative-minded individuals. Our lead

ATF process?

BM: Prior to e-forms, a transfer from the manufac-

turer to the wholesaler to the dealer often took six months to complete. Needless to say, it’s difficult to run a business when you have a six-month delay before you can get the products to the consumer. The ATF e-forms platform originally became available for silencer transfers to consumers in 2014, though the program ended abruptly in 2015. The ATF relaunched a technically enhanced version in December 2021. During the pandemic, silencer sales soared, which created a massive backlog of silencer transfer paper forms that the ATF needed to work through before working on new e-forms submissions. ATF focused almost solely on clearing the paper forms backlog before working on the electronically submitted e-forms. The e-forms process is currently taking about eight months, but the good news is that the paper forms backlog has been cleared, and the ATF team reports they are focused on e-processing e-forms almost exclusively. We anticipate the wait times to decrease throughout 2023. Booth #75237

(silencercentral.com)

The Banish line of products covers a wide range of calibers, from .17 HMR to .458 SOCOM. Each silencer features alltitanium construction to reduce weight. The units are also easily and quickly disassembled for cleaning.

SD: In a very competitive world, how does Silencer Central stay ahead of the pack?

BM: You must be an expert in your field. We have

spent almost 20 years thoroughly understanding the ATF requirements to buy and transfer a suppressor to the end user. Passing this knowledge to our team is vital. It’s the only way they can educate the customer, and without an educated consumer, we can’t continue to move forward. Providing unique offerings to the consumer is also key, and the Banish line

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members with a much deeper and broader range of products. For decades, NBS hosted three to four buying events each year. The shows featured a variety of brands and products as well as the largest manufacturers in the shooting sports industry. Then COVID-19 changed everything. “All of a sudden, our model was taken away from us. We had to figure out how to continue with our business and do things completely different than we’ve ever done before—and it actually worked out quite well,” Chandley says. “We learned how to do a lot of events away from our traditional timeframes, which turned out to be a huge advantage to us.”

Reimagining Buying Events Although NBS has returned to holding in-person events, the structure has dramatically changed. Before 2020, members would devote their time at a show to researching products and writing several months’ worth of orders. It was exhausting, to say the least. Now, NBS events have become more of a social gathering where dealers can enjoy themselves while they build their businesses. “It used to be that almost everything happened within three to four weeks of the show. Today, we have 12 months of regular events that actually have become much better for us, and much more efficient for the membership,” Chandley says. “It’s just turned into a totally Jim Chandley, president of Nation’s Best Sports, a purchasing group based in Fort Worth, Texas.

A Change for the Better

When the pandemic upended its business model, Nation’s Best Sports adapted.

gatherings were suspended due to the pandemic, the long-time industry leader quickly pivoted and developed a new business model, which has generated growth and enabled NBS to better serve retailers..

events of 2020 transformed the landscape for buying groups, such as Nation’s Best Sports (NBS), too. Prior to that year, the Fort Worth-based purchasing group supported their members largely through annual in-person events. When public

In 1956, a group of businessmen led by E. Claude Manning founded Nation’s Best Sports. When NBS president Jim Chandley came onboard in 1997, the buying group had 130 members. Today, NBS supplies more than 400

hree years ago, the confluence of a global pandemic and nationwide civil unrest stood the shooting sports industry on its head and forever changed the way many manufacturers and retailers do business. The

COVID Changed Everything Sierra Bullets, known for producing a wide range of handgun and rifle bullets, is an NBS vendor.

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different way that we run our business. It actually improved our business and our efficiency.”

Strengthening Vendor Relationships The NBS team has been working harder than ever to strengthen relationships with manufacturers. When the industry faced historic shortages due to a broken global supply chain, NBS helped manufacturers distribute their products evenly across the group. They ensured that NBS members received their share of products, all the while enabling the manufacturers to maximize their output. “We became much closer to our vendors, and we were a much better partner for them,” Chandley says. “Using the combined buying power of the entire company, we were able to get members a lot of product. It really made a huge difference for a lot of them. We were probably their only real source of firearms and ammunition throughout COVID. They really weren’t getting any from distribution.”

Diversify to Thrive Every industry faces inherent challenges, and the shooting sports industry is no different. Chandley points to legislative hurdles the firearms industry continues to encounter and the possibility of future

regulations. To help retailers prepare for such uncertainties, NBS works with members to broaden their offerings. “We encourage our membership to diversify and not be dependent on a single product or a single product category. We try to help them sell things that they normally wouldn’t attempt to try,” Chandley says. “It doesn’t mean you have to carry all of that stuff, but you have to diversify your product mix, and you’ve got to appeal to a broader range of customers. As the internet continues to take away brick-andmortar business, the more you can diversify, the more you can be an appealing destination store.” Chandley believes the retailers who will succeed long-term are the ones who are currently investing in their storefronts and catering to all customers—especially women. Chandley predicts buying groups will play an even larger role in supporting these retailers going forward. “I think the future looks good,” Chandley says. “I think buying groups have become increasingly important, and I think we’re increasingly necessary.” Booth #14649 (NATIONSBESTSPORTS.COM) Editor’s Note: Additional research for this article conducted by Miles Hall.

Allen produces a variety of hunting and shooting accessories. The company is also an NBS vendor.

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KNIVES

2024

by Christopher Cogley

To meet consumer demand, knife manufacturers

are constantly upping their game. he old saw, “A knife is a knife is a knife,” has never been a more blatantly inaccurate statement than it is today. There are more knives, of myriad design, on the market than ever before. To meet widespread demand knife manufacturers are continuously upping their game with new designs and materials and innovative functions that reset the bar on an almost daily basis. As you walk through the SHOT Show this year, it will be obvious which companies are continuing to place importance on both the functionality, and the unmistakable aesthetic appeal, of the knives that carry their brand.

5.11

Respected tactical brand 5.11 is keeping up with its “Always Be Ready” mantra with the launch of two new tactical folders designed to be practical in practically any situation. Both the Braddock DP Full and Braddock DP Mini have D2 drop-point blades with a noticeable swedge and stonewash finish. The DP Full features a 3.5-inch blade and a 4.9-inch closed length while the Mini has a 3-inch blade and 4-inch closed length. Available in either black or tan, both knives have G10 handles with liner locks and deep crimping. SRP: $50, Full; $40, Mini. Booth #10334 (511tactical.com)

BEAR & SON CUTLERY

Bear & Son’s expanded brands will offer a wide variety of new knives catering to consumers with a range of backgrounds and interests. As part of its Bear Ops brand, Bear is launching the Rancor IX. The tactical folder has a 2¾-inch blade made from Sandvik 14c28n steel with a black finish. The blade is housed in a Zytel handle with a side lock. SRP: $100. The Bear Edge brand will feature the new Brisk 2.0. The 2¾-inch 440 stainless-steel blade has a black oxide coating. Housed in a black Zytel handle, the Brisk blade is deployed with assisted opening release. SRP: $32. Bear & Sons is also releasing the Rancher Sideliner folding knife with a 33⁄8-inch D2 steel blade. With an overall length of 75⁄8 inches, the Rancher Sideliner has a titanium handle with steel liners. SRP: $125.49. Booth #12865 (bearandsoncutlery.com)

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BENCHMADE

Benchmade is continuing its long-held tradition of creating knives that combine artistry with extreme functionality with the launch of the Seven-Ten folder. A product of the collaboration between Bill McHenry and Jason Williams (the duo responsible for creating Benchmade’s patented AXIS lock in 1999), the Seven-Ten is a fitting tribute to the 25th anniversary of the innovative locking mechanism. Featuring a 4-inch clip-point blade made from premium stainless steel housed in a stylish aluminum handle, the Seven-Ten is a knife you won’t want to leave in your pocket. SRP: $450. Benchmade is also releasing a filet knife designed to make short work of cleaning the daily catch. The Fishcrafter has a 9-inch trailing point CPM-MagnaCut steel blade with Benchmade’s SelectEdge technology. With an overall length of 13.94 inches the Fishcrafter has a Santoprene handle with a finger guard and jimping for a secure hold no matter how slick the hands. SRP: $260 (includes a sheath). Booth #10357 (benchmade.com)

BOKER

Boker is using SHOT Show 2024 to re-launch a classic blade with a modern flair. The 943 BRLW folder features a 2.56-inch MagnaCut blade with a two-tone satin finish. With an overall length of 6 inches and tipping the scale at 2.3 ounces, the BRLW has titanium scales and pocket clip that add to its sleek, stylish design. SRP: $279. Boker is also paying homage to the iconic American Muscle Car this year with the launch of the new Mach-1 Damast. Designed by Tomaso Rumici, the Mach-1 features a 3.35-inch hand-forged Chad Nichols Damascus blade made with steel from a 1969 Mustang Mach-1. Featuring a stylish aluminum handle with old anodized inlays, the Mach-1 will be one of those knives people can’t wait to take out of their pockets. SRP: $569. Rounding out Boker’s offerings this year is the new Urban Trapper Automatik. Building off the original Brad Zinker design, the new automatic version of the original Brad Zinker Urban Trapper features a 3.35-inch MagnaCut blade with stonewashed flats and satin bevels. The Urban Trapper Automatik has a black matte anodized handle with a deep-carry stainless-steel clip. SRP: $180. Booth #14821 (bokerusa.com)

BROWNING

In keeping with its tradition to provide hunters with all the tools they need to be successful in the field, Browning is releasing two new hunting knives at this year’s SHOT Show. The Primal Scalpel 2 Blade Folder features a deep-belly stainless-steel blade alongside a stainless-steel scalpel blade in a compact folder. The knife comes with a blade installation/ removal tool that doubles as a place to store extra scalpel blades. Both blades are 2¾ inches long and are housed in a polymer handle with rubber scales. SRP: $60. The Guide Series Small Fixed blade knife is a solid, full-tang knife with a 3-inch Sandvick 14C28N stainless-steel blade with a Micarta handle. The compact fixed-blade knife is only 7 inches overall and comes with a leather sheath. SRP: $170. Booth #12238 (browning.com)

BUCK

Buck has long had a large and loyal following among serious hunters, and this year Buck is showing exactly why that loyalty is so welldeserved. In keeping with the changing needs of today’s hunters, Buck is launching the Alpha Elite series of fixed-blade knives. The collection includes three separate knives designed to handle the different tasks that hunters undertake when field dressing a wide variety of game. The smallest of the knives is the 662 Alpha Scout Elite with a 3.75-inch blade and two sets of jimping designed for the precision work of caping or cleaning smaller game. The 663 Alpha Guide Elite has a 4.375-inch blade and an overall length of 9 inches. The straight spine and drop-point blade are crafted to handle the toughest tasks at camp or in the field. Rounding out the offering is the 664 Alpha Hunter Elite. The 3.75-inch blade has a deep belly and generous jimping to make it an ideal choice for skinning big game. All of the knives in the collection are made from MagnaCut steel and feature textured G10 handles. Adding to the modern style of the Elite series, the knives all come with black Kydex sheaths with belt loops and multiple attachment points. SRP: $208-$240. Booth #13651 (buckknives.com)

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PRODUCT FEATURE

KNIVES

COLD STEEL

Cold Steel is launching its updated Recon M1 knife at SHOT Show 2024. Handcrafted in Italy, the Recon M1 has a 4-inch MagnaCut steel blade with a black stonewash finish. The blade is housed in a G-10 handle with deep finger grooves for a secure grip. The knife features Cold Steel’s patented Tri-Ad locking mechanism and integrated pocket clip. SRP: $280. Booth #12865 (coldsteel.com)

CAMILLUS

The Camillus Camp Hatchet is designed to be the go-to tool for any camping chore. The 5.25-inch drop-forged head has a 3-inch cutting blade and is mounted on a 13.5-inch U.S.-sourced hickory handle. With a 16-inch overall length and weighing in at 2 pounds, the Camp Hatchet is stout enough to bang around with the best of them and balanced enough to make tough chores more manageable. SRP: $40 (includes a leather blade cover with sturdy rivets). Booth #13660 (camillusknives.com)

COLUMBIA RIVER KNIFE & TOOL

Columbia River Knife & Tool continues to move the bar on both style and functionality this year with the launch of the Redemption folder. Designed by legendary knifemaker Ken Onion, the Redemption pays tribute to the gamblers and outlaws of the American West with a 4-inch spear-point blade, which is completely concealed in the streamlined handle when closed. The blade is the first CRKT knife to be made from CPM MagnaCut steel. The Redemption is also the first Onion-designed knife to feature the ambidextrous Crossbar Lock, which is used to both deploy and disengage the stonewashed blade. As elegant as it is functional, the U.S.-made Redemption has a G10 handle with a stainless-steel bolster and deep pocket clip. It has an overall length of 9.2 inches and weighs in at 4.9 ounces. SRP: $225. Booth #10960 (crkt.com)

OUTDOOR EDGE

Outdoor Edge is set to make big waves in the EDC category this year as it launches a new line of EDC options that all incorporate its RazorSafe replacement-blade system. The line includes five different styles and seven different options for consumers to choose from. At the high end is the VX5 with a carbon-fiber handle and ceramic ball-bearing pivot release (SRP: $70). The VX1-VX4 knives are available with a variety of features and handle types in either a black-oxide coated or stainless-steel blade-holder option. The knives are also available with either stainless-steel ball-bearing pivot or springassisted opening mechanisms. All the knives have 3-inch replaceable blades available in standard edge or half-serrated options. SRP: $40-$70. Booth #70933 (outdooredge.com)

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Chiappa Wildlands ANGLE EJECTION L e v e r - A c t i o n

R i f l e

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Lever-action hunters choose their rifle carefully and have certain expectations it must meet. Above all, is having absolute confidence knowing their rifle will perform at a level that allows them to be comfortable and completely focused. The Wildlands lever-action rifles are craaed specifically for this purpose.

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Charles Daly, one of the oldest names in shooting sports brings back their line of Empire Grade shotguns with an artistically engraved Triple Crown shotgun which consists of two interchangeable gloss blued barrels, a 20-gauge and 28-gauge. Distinguished with extra fancy walnut and superior ﬁt and ﬁnish. Gold-plated single-selective trigger,

EMPIRE G

extractors, and extended choke tubes make for a truly exceptional gun, designed with premium style. It’s all here!

BOOTH 12853

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PRODUCT FEATURE

KNIVES

SPYDERCO

Spyderco has long been known for high-quality knives that stand the test of time, and the new launches at this year’s SHOT Show are no exception. Among the new introductions is the hefty Bodacious folder. Named after a rodeo bull deemed “the world’s most dangerous bull,” the USA-made Bodacious has a deep 3.7-inch blade made from CPM S30V steel housed in a G10 handle. Available with either a stainless or Spyderco’s black diamond-like coating. SRP: $350-$372. Spyderco is also releasing several new additions to its increasingly popular Salt Series of corrosion-resistant knives. The Manix 2 Lightweight Salt has a 3.4-inch blade made from CPM MagnaCut steel, which was created to deliver outstanding blade retention, strength, and corrosion resistance. The blade is housed in the bright yellow fiberglass-reinforced co-polymer handles that have become a signature for the Salt Series. The Manix 2 has a ball-bearing locking mechanism and a tip-up wire clip. SRP: $232. Spyderco is also releasing two new versions of their popular Para Military knives into the Salt Series. The Para Military 2 is available in either a stainless blade with a yellow-and-black non-slip G-10 handle or a black blade with a solid black non-slip G-10 handle. Both knives have a 3.45-inch MagnaCut steel blade. Like all of the other knives in the Salt Series, the stainless-steel liners, pocket clip, and all other hardware in the new Para Military knives are made from corrosion-resistant marine-grade materials. SRP: $295-$315. Booth #10555 (spyderco.com)

SOG

In 2024 SOG is giving its popular Seal XR folder a serious upgrade. The new Seal XR L-TI is SOG’s first knife that features a MagnaCut steel blade. The 4.3-inch blade has a black Cerakote finish and is deployed with a finger flipper. The knife has also been upgraded with a titanium liner, which drops its weight down to a slim 4.4 ounces. Deeply ridged on both the spine and underbelly for a secure grip regardless of how it’s held, the Seal XR L-TI includes black, gray, and ODG handles that give users the option of switching out handles based on the situation. SRP: $300. Booth #12669 (sogknives.com)

W.R. CASE

Case is releasing several new knife families this year. Among the new introductions is the Bridgeline folder. Combining Case tradition with a modern flair, the Bridgeline has a composite-and-wood handle with aluminum frames and bolsters to cut the weight down to a mere 2.8 ounces. The 2.75-inch blade is made from CPM20CV steel and features a Wharncliffe tip. SRP: $165. Returning to the Case lineup for 2024 is the Razor. Available with a wide variety of handle materials, the Razor features a 3-inch main blade with a distinctive hook on its tip that harkens back to the original 1940 design that users actually shaved with. Available in either single-blade or double-blade options. SRP: $73-$321. Booth #10538 (caseknives.com)

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News ❚

PROMOTIONS

❚

AWARDS

❚

OUTREACH

FEED

NEWS

Browning Releases the A5 in 20 Gauge Browning has released a highly anticipated new model to the A5 semi-automatic shotgun line—the A5 Hunter 20 gauge. The A5 Hunter 20 Gauge is built on a small-sized frame that keeps the weight of this new model to approximately 5 pounds, 10 ounces. Like the 12- and 16-gauge models, the 20 gauge is powered by the reliable, recoil-operated Kinematic Drive System. The gloss-finished barrel and receiver are a stately match to the gloss finish of the handsome Grade I Turkish walnut

stock and forearm. A one-inch Inflex II recoil pad helps manage felt recoil, and the stock can be adjusted for cast, drop, and length of pull with the included shims and spacers. Among other features are the Invector-DS Interchangeable Choke Tube System (Full, Modified, and Improved-Cylinder chokes are included), a fiber-optic front sight with mid-bead, and chrome chamber and bore for added durability. Booth #10938

Shoot United

“Rimfire is one of the most popular starting points for people who are just learning to shoot,” said Jason Gilbertson, director of marketing for Shoot United. “We are grateful to have the support of Savage Arms and NRL22 in delivering this educational rimfire series. The content is valuable for people who are ready to start plinking at a shooting range or interested in rimfire competitions.” The videos can be accessed on ShootUnited. com as well as on the Shoot United YouTube channel. Booth #11828

Shoot United is a dynamic initiative designed to promote all that’s wholesome and healthful about the shooting sports and responsible firearm ownership. It’s time spent outdoors with family and friends. It’s competition. It’s one of the most fun and safe recreational activities in the country. The mission is to drive awareness and activate new participants to the sport by sharing engaging and educational content as well as providing resources where people can learn how to participate in the shooting sports and hunting activities. To help fulfill its mission Shoot United has produced a number of instructional videos. The latest, “Take Your Shot,” focuses on rimfire ammunition, firearms, and shooting competitions. It is hosted by Wesley Stotts of Savage Arms and Travis Ishida of National Rifle League 22 (NRL22).

(browning.com)

(Winchester.com)

Winchester Acquires White Flyer Targets Business Clay targets and shotshells go together, so it makes sense that Winchester Ammunition would seek to acquire White Flyer Targets, North America’s preeminent leader in recreational trap, skeet, and sporting clay targets. Which it did last fall. As a result, White Flyer now will be combined with the Winchester Ammunition business. The acquisition includes White Flyer’s five state-of-the-art manufacturing facilities in Coal Township, Pennsylvania; Dalton, Georgia; Webb City, Missouri; Knox, Indiana; and, San Bernardino, California. The acquisition also includes White Flyer’s recently announced ECO FLYER target product line.

“We welcome our new White Flyer teammates,” said Brett Flaugher, president of Winchester Ammunition. “Together, we can enhance the continued growth of trap, skeet, sporting clays, and other shotgun sports. These two leading brands are renowned for unmatched quality and now offer increased value to our customers through comprehensive ammunition and clay target solutions for the thousands of shooting ranges across America.” Booth #11828 (Winchester.com)

Supplier Showcase Shows Growth The right materials are a very big deal. That’s why the NSSF instituted the Supplier Showcase at SHOT Show a few years ago. It was designed to be a one-day dedicated event for suppliers to display their shooting, hunting, and outdoor material supplies off the main trade show floors, but the response by attendees and exhibitors has been so encouraging that it is now a twoday event. Edge Technologies was just one of the many companies that exhibited this year. It introduced a new version of the FMB Turbo 3-38 for sliding headstock CNC lathes that features their new RS (Revolutionary Sliding) technology. This patented design is the first in the industry to fully support the bar pusher and stock from inside the bar feeder all the way into the lathe spindle. Booth #52521 (edgetechnologies.com)

Otis Happy Hour Otis Technology and Shooter’s Choice will host a Happy Hour today from 4 p.m. to 5:30 p.m. in their booth. Otis will also be hosting various industry influencers and podcasters in their booth. Today, Eric Blanford of IraqVeteran8888 will be in the booth with Ava Flanell from 3 p.m. to 4 p.m. Podcasters include Women’s Outdoor Media Association, AR15 Podcast, and Pew Pew Panel. Booth #12254

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Silver Stag’s Hands-On Approach The Silver Stag knife product line consists of a broad assortment of semi-custom-crafted American-made hunting and fishing knives, which for almost a quarter century have been manufactured by a small team of sportsmen in Blaine, Washington, all of whom take great pride in their work. What separates Silver Stag from its competition is their handson approach to manufacturing, attention to detail, and their practical and functional blade designs. “Our experienced production team exclusively uses high-carbon D2 and 1095 plate tool steel to craft our blades, and every blade is primarily ground free hand,” says Brad Smith, president of Silver Stag. “In addition, North American antler and select hardwoods are incorporated into the finished knives, giving every knife its

own unique custom character.” Smith notes that over the years, the company has been awarded with many industry projects, including the design and production of exclusive limited-edition knives for the NRA, NWTF, and RMEF. In addition, the company builds a small line of knives for Ruger, Shiloh Sharps, and the King Ranch. Silver Stag’s most recent addition to the line is the Guide Caper. This game-processing model features a 2.5-inch hollow-ground D2 steel blade and is fitted and finished with hand-profiled and polished whitetail antler scales secured to the full tang design with brass pins. SRP: $179, which includes and highquality leather belt sheath. In addition to hunting and fishing fillet models, the company also

manufactures survival, camp, and an assortment of utilitarian folding knives. “We’ll build customers a knife using their own cherished

antler,” Smith says. “Details can be found on our website.” Booth #41013 (silverstag.com)

Protect Liberty PAC Launches The Protect Liberty Political Action Committee (PAC) launched with the express goal of electing candidates who are dedicated to preserving and protecting liberty, freedoms, and the Constitutional rights of all Americans. This especially includes the Second Amendment right to keep and bear arms. Protect Liberty PAC will take a leading role and be more dynamic and outspoken in the electoral process in order to protect the firearm industry, beginning at the ballot box. “The right to keep and bear arms is under continuous attack by President Joe Biden, his administration, and extreme, radical special-interest gun-control groups that are all determined to rob Americans of their rights,” says Lawrence G. Keane, Protect Liberty PAC’s Treasurer. “This PAC enables all Americans to support candidates for office who believe our rights, enshrined in the U.S. Constitution, are protected and

non-negotiable. Protect Liberty PAC will give a voice to those who will no longer allow political candidates to use them as a punchline.” Protect Liberty PAC will be active during the 2024 election cycle and beyond, utilizing the hard-earned knowledge from years of political victories to evaluate and support candidates, then strategically engage highly-targeted voters in key federal races that ultimately will have a critical impact on the firearm industry. The firearm industry cannot afford more legislative and regulatory attacks from Washington, D.C., partisans who seek to end the lawful commerce in our industry. The balance of power in Washington, D.C., rests on a razor’s edge, and Protect Liberty PAC will focus on federal elections to ensure American freedoms have a bulwark. The battle lines are drawn and the stakes are high. Booth #42312 (protectlibertypac.com)

Safe Transport

To safely transport firearms during travel, Tuffy Security Products offers two sizes of portable safes to reduce the risk of firearms falling into the wrong hands. The standard size Tuffy Portable Safe 300 is a lockable welded steel storage box with a durable black powder-coat finish. Dimensions are 9¾ inches (length), 6½ inches (width), and 14⁄5 inches (height). It’s lightweight (less than three pounds), comes with a low-density foam liner, and is equipped with a three-digit combination lock with a two-point steel cam for added security. The lockbox also comes with a two-foot-long steel security cable that is 2,000-pound tested and can attach to any sturdy mounting surface with its 1⁄8-inch steel security anchor point. Larger firearms can be accommodated by Tuffy Portable Safe 303, the dimensions of which are 113⁄8 inches (length), 7¼ inches (width), and 14⁄5 inches (height). This product was originally created to be TSA compliant for Department of Homeland Security officers and weighs less than four pounds. It features the same durable construction, foam liner, proven locking

mechanism, and two-foot-long steel security cable as the smaller unit. In addition, Tuffy also offers five Tactical Security Lockboxes that are engineered for high security and portability at home and in vehicles. The lockboxes do not require a separate padlock and can be released in seconds to transfer between locations. A gas strut supports the lid when open and mounting points are reversible, enabling convenient access from either side. A combination pushbutton lock allows for fast keyless entry. Many of Tuffy’s products are vehicle specific using secure mounting points with no drilling required. “Our company strives to be part of the solution when it comes to safely and securely transporting firearms,” says Chip Olson, marketing manager for Tuffy Security Products. “Our products feature the best designs, locks, and structural materials to keep firearms safe and secure. In addition to portable lockboxes, we also offer console safes, under-seat lockboxes, security drawers, and other secure enclosures for use in vehicles.” Booth #41762 (tuffyproducts.com)

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2024

ELECTRONICS

& TECHNOLOGY by Brad Fitzpatrick

New technology continues to reshape the shooting and hunting markets in 2024. Here’s a look at some of the

most exciting new products this year. any people head to the woods or the shooting range to escape from technology, but there’s no doubt in the digital age that electronics are part of every facet of our lives—and that includes hunting and fishing. But unlike the emails and texts that mean more work and the social media notifications that distract you from that work,

hunting and shooting technology can actually make your time on the range or in the field more worthwhile and enjoyable. One product that certainly makes range time more enjoyable is Garmin’s new Xero C1 Pro chronograph, which is far and away the most user-friendly chrono ever designed. But that’s not the only exciting new product this year. High-tech handgun, rifle, and even shotgun electro-optics are on display at this year’s show; Leupold is offering new rangefinding binoculars with ballistic data built-in, and Streamlight is packing more lumens into a lighter, more compact EDC light this year. Clay target shooting has gone wireless, Hornady is helping shooters call hits at long ranges, and Moultrie has developed a sleek new cell camera that cuts back on the unwanted photos of non-target game. Indeed, technology can make hunting and shooting more enjoyable. So, as you’re cruising the show floor this year, take the time to check out these cool new tech products at SHOT Show 2024.

GARMIN

Garmin’s new Xero C1 Pro doppler chronograph is about the size of a deck of cards and it’s incredibly easy to use. There are four buttons (up, down, back/power, ok), making it intuitive and easy-to-operate, with the ability to read velocities from 100 to 5,000 feet per second. Although many other chronographs are finicky about noise levels and position relative to the muzzle, the Garmin is very forgiving, and it returns accurate velocity readouts within seconds. It functions with rimfires and suppressed firearms, yet it doesn’t register false readings when other shooters fire guns nearby. The unit also collects data for each shooting session, such as minimum and maximum velocity, average velocity, extreme velocity spread, and standard deviation. When you download the Garmin ShotView app and pair it to the chronograph you can adjust settings, review data, or delete shots or entire strings from your phone. The compact Xero C1 Pro is easy to carry, and there’s no need to walk downrange to set up a chronograph, which is a major concern with traditional chronographs. Battery life is exceptional: one four-hour charge with a USB-C cord (provided) lasts for 3,000 shots. The Garmin is so good that it has forever changed the chronograph market and initial response and demand for the Xero C1 Pro has been extremely positive. The Garmin is indeed a game-changer. Booth #10119 (garmin.com)

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12/19/23 7:44 AM

Come see us at Booth #

800-338-3220 |

12438

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C E L E B R AT I N G 7 5 Y E A R S

NEW

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Incorporating years of ballistic research, ELD-VT™ pairs the light weight and high velocity of a varmint bullet with the aerodynamics of a low-drag match bullet. With its unmatched accuracy and explosive fragmentation, ELD-VT™ drops varmints as fast as it picks up trophies. •

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Learn more at hornady.com/eld-vt

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PRODUCT FEATURE

ELECTRONICS & TECHNOLOGY

LEUPOLD

Leupold makes outstanding optics, but their new BX-4 Range HD binos are a complete shooting system. They come with a built-in rangefinder that ranges deer to 1,100 yards and reflective objects to 2,600 yards with the touch of a button. The TBR/W (True Ballistic range with Wind) technology accounts for angle when providing range values, and it also provides wind holds as well. Shooters may choose from among 25 different ballistic groups to match their load; the BX-4 Range HD binos will provide not only distance to the target, but holdover values based on the ballistics of your firearm. The durable rubber exterior protects Range HD binos from damage, and the waterproof and fogproof lenses provide a clear, glare-free sight picture in all conditions. A sophisticated light-management system helps provide crisp, true colors even in dim morning and evening light. Twist-up replaceable eye cups come standard, and the two-button control layout makes it easy to range objects without moving your eyes from the glass. The two-button layout (with a reversible ranging button) also makes it easy to scroll through the settings. Booth #12421 (leupold.com)

TRIJICON

Trijicon’s RMR has set the standard for duty-grade red-dot optics for years, but the design has been updated to meet the changing needs of law enforcement and military professionals with the addition of the new RMR HD. Fitting on the same footprint as standard RMR and SRO optics, the RMR HD offers a larger tempered glass lens with an advanced forward-facing light sensor that automatically detects ambient light conditions and matches the optic’s brightness accordingly. Owners can customize the auto brightness setting to make it brighter or dimmer, and there is a lockout feature that prevents accidentally adjusting light through contact with the optic. Shooters can also manually choose from among nine different brightness settings as well. The reticle includes 55 MOA circle and dot or single dot options, and the RMR HD is available with a 3.25 or 1 MOA center dot. The optic is powered by a single CR2032 top-loading battery with a runtime of three years of continuous use on setting 5 of 9. New, larger buttons make it easier to toggle through brightness settings quickly. Like the original RMR, the RMR HD comes with a precision-machined 7075 T-6 housing that is designed to reduce impact forces, and like other Trijicon optics it’s made in the U.S. Booth #10735 (trijicon.com)

HORNADY

Long-range shooters know that identifying hits and misses on steel targets at extended distances can be a challenge, but Hornady is now offering an affordable, convenient solution. Their HIT Target Impact Indicator attaches to most target stands via an included elastic band, and a built-in accelerometer causes the LED red lights to flash. The red indicator lights, which flash the Morse code pattern for the word HIT, are visible for up to 1,000 yards with the naked eye depending upon weather conditions. A spotter using a magnified scope can identify flashes at even greater distances. This is hugely beneficial for long-range shooters because it offers a clear signal when you strike the target, eliminating confusion and reducing the need to send more shots downrange to verify. And since the indicator is not attached to the target face itself there’s less chance that an errant shot will damage the unit. Best of all, Hornady HIT indicators are USB-C rechargeable, so there’s no need to constantly swap-out batteries. Booth #12446 (hornady.com)

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NEW

Walk Softly without The Big Stick INTRODUCING

uppercut Defense isn’t defined by size. And whatever you carry should be up to the task. New CCI ® Uppercut™ 22 LR finally puts effective rimfire defense in your reach. Full expansion and critical penetration through semi-automatic handguns with 2.5- to 4-inch barrels. Always ready when you need it.

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LEARN MORE AT cci-ammunition.com

# 1 1 8 3 8

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PRODUCT FEATURE

ELECTRONICS & TECHNOLOGY

BURRIS

Burris is expanding their thermal optic line with the release of their BTS35 V2 scope. Its Burris Cyber Core thermal processor, 12uM 35mm objective lens, and 400x300 thermal sensor provide crisp, clear images day or night for accurate shot placement on hogs and coyotes. The thermal can be paired with the BurrisConnect mobile app to adjust settings, and video can be streamed to as many as five different devices in real time. With multiple reticle options, first or second focal plane digital reticles, contrast and thermal intensity control, and multiple color palette options, shooters can customize their optic to fit their needs. The user-friendly interface was inspired by video-game controls and is simple to operate even in complete darkness thanks to a simple rotary controller. Battery life is exceptionally good, and the Burris BTS35 V2 is hotswap compatible using widely available rechargeable 18650 batteries. With so many great features and such an intuitive interface, the Burris BTS35 V2 is one of the most appealing thermal optics available in 2024. Booth #13227 (burrisoptics.com)

CHAMPION

CSF_GaugeAd_8.25x4.875_v3.pdf

Shotgun sports are growing in popularity, and each year more high school and colleges add trap and skeet to their list of club and varsity sports—great news for rural communities. Whether you’re building a backyard clay target course for your student athlete or simply want to break clays with friends at the house or cabin, Champion’s new Wheelybird 3.0 Auto-Feed Trap is a perfect option. This lightweight, portable, automatic clay target thrower is powered by a 12-volt deep-cycle battery that rests on a battery tray at the base of the thrower. Wide, sturdy wheels make it easy to change thrower positions, and with a 60-count clay stack, 1.5-second cycle time, and angle adjustment (0 to 30 degrees) you can keep clays coming in a hurry and adjust target presentation. The Wheelybird 3.0 throws 108mm clay targets up to 70 yards with the touch of a button, and a remote with 25-foot cord is included. You can also purchase a separate wireless remote that’s perfect for shooting coachwant1:00 to deliver targets while standing at various locations to instruct student shooters. The Wheelybird 1es who 1/4/24 PM 3.0 is easily portable, easy to set up and operate, and it helps improve shooting skills. Booth #11838 (championtarget.com)

WE GAUGE POLITICAL LANDSCAPES TO KEEP SHOOTING SPORTS OPEN FOR THE FUTURE

For nearly 35 years, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation has maintained the largest bipartisan, pro-sportsmen caucus in Congress. Our efforts ensure that sportsmen and women of all places and parties can share in our country’s rich traditions and always find common ground.

CMY

Over 1,000 Pro-Sportsmen & Women Policy Wins In Last Five Years Alone

44 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

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Introducing the new PRO MCMILLAN SPR RIFLE.

MCMILLAN GAME WARDEN 2.0 STOCK | The lightweight carbon fiber stock features an aluminum bedding block and raised comb to maintain sight alignment.

NEW TRIGGER | The new DLX trigger is a multiple lever design that provides a consistent and crisp trigger break with zero creep, zero take-up, and zero overtravel. Adjustable to 3 lb.

BOLT/RECEIVER | Added bolt guidance area in the new receiver promotes smoother bolt operation for effortless cycling and reliable feeding. The new bolt has improved ergonomics and styling.

Featuring a rock solid McMillan Game Warden carbon fiber stock and a lightweight, carbon fiber wrapped stainless steel barrel, the new X-Bolt 2 McMillan SPR represents the next generation of specialized hunting rifles from Browning.

VISIT BROWNING BOOTH #12238

CARBON FIBER BARREL | A carbon fiber wrapped, stainless steel barrel is shorter and optimized for use with a suppressor.

TOTAL ACCURACY. REDEFINED. browning.com

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PRODUCT FEATURE

ELECTRONICS & TECHNOLOGY

STREAMLIGHT

EDC flashlights are an essential part of a daily carry kit, and Streamlight is now offering a more compact version of their Wedge series, the Wedge XT. Measuring just 4.25 inches long and weighing 2.62 ounces, the Wedge XT is even smaller than the original Wedge flashlight. But don’t let the Wedge XT’s compact size fool you; this light produces 500 lumens and 1,900 candela with a 284-meter beam range at the touch of a button. If you’re saving battery life or simply don’t need to shed that much light on the scene, there’s a low setting that produces 50 candela and 200 lumens with a beam range of about 90 feet, the ideal light source when you’re fumbling with your door keys or you’ve dropped something in a dark parking lot. The Wedge XT is powered by a 950 mAh lithium polymer cell battery that is USB-C rechargeable. The battery can be fully charged in six hours and a red-and-green indicator light provides feedback on battery level. The aluminum-alloy body and polycarbonate lens allow this optic to stand up to the rigors of daily carry and the TEN-TAP programable switch allows owners to customize high/low or low/high programs. Run time on high is two hours while low runtime is 11 hours. A sturdy metal clip makes it easy to secure the Wedge XT in a pocket where it can be immediately accessed when needed. Booth #1146 (streamlight.com)

AIMPOINT

I grew up shooting trap and skeet, and while I understand the value of a red-dot sight on a carbine or even a handgun I was skeptical about their value on a shotgun. However, the Aimpoint S-2 taught me I was wrong to doubt the value of a red-dot optic on a scattergun. At a range in Colorado where I tested Aimpoint’s new shotgun-specific reflex sight I broke 25 straight clays, which is considerably better than I did with the same shotgun sans red-dot sight. This small, sleek sight weighs just 2.4 ounces and comes with adapter plates that allow it to fit on the rib of most shotguns without modification. The 9 MOA dot is larger than most carbine and pistol sights, but it’s easy to see, and multiple brightness settings allow you to adjust the sight to ambient light conditions. The housing is small enough that it doesn’t distract the shooter, and I was surprised (and believe you will be, too) at how easy it is for shotgun shooters to transition to this optic—easier, in fact, than rifle or pistol shooters. Every shotgun coach in America teaches target focus, and the front bead simply serves as a reference point when making the shot. The same is true with the Aimpoint; it’s very natural to find the target with both eyes and use the oversized red dot as an improved front bead. The design makes sense for turkey and self-defense guns, but I think clay target shooters and upland and waterfowl hunters will be shocked by how intuitive and effective this sight can be. Booth #13007 (aimpoint.com)

MOULTRIE MOBILE

I love running cellular cameras to keep track of the game on my property, but roughly 70 percent of my photos are of non-target species like squirrels and raccoons. Moultrie has developed an ingenious technology to reduce unwanted trail cam pictures with the Mobile Edge Pro camera. Smart Capture gives the operator control over which species you capture with videos or photos, and Smart Zones technology allows you to focus on key areas and ignore areas where you’re likely to get unwanted photos. Moultrie says that Smart Capture and Smart Zones help eliminate as many as 99 percent of false triggers—and that means no more sorting through hundreds of pics of swirling leaves, flocks of birds, possums, and stray cats to find the images of your target buck. Also, the Live Aim feature allows you to check the camera’s field of view using the Moultrie Mobile App on your phone so there’s no more guessing whether your photos are centered. NYXEL NIR infrared technology boosts lowlight performance, and you can capture 36 MP pictures and 1080 video with HD audio. Moultrie’s Auto Connect Technology allows for nationwide coverage and real-time access to photos of the bucks, bears, or bulls that are in your hunting area. Booth #80714 (moultriemobile.com)

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Hunting ... It’s what we know. It’s what we do. It’s who we are. We’re explorers. We’re adventure seekers. We’re those who pursue the experiences that take us to the source of life itself. We’re at home in the woods and restless in modern society. We’re passionate about our craft and driven to improve it. We know what works and what doesn’t. So, we customize. We innovate. We devote our time and resources to developing precisely the types of tools we need for each pursuit. Although Taurus Hunt offers an ultra-modern take on the traditional hunting firearm, this collection’s DNA harkens back to the days when hunting wasn’t just a lifestyle. It was our lifeblood. Welcome to Taurus Hunt.

SHOT BOOTH #13038

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PRODUCT FEATURE

ELECTRONICS & TECHNOLOGY

PARD

The FD-1LRF night-vision scope and rangefinder incorporates a 1920x1080 CMOS sensor and a 1,200-yard laser rangefinder into a single device that can be used as a monocular, a stand-alone scope, or a front-mounted clip-on device to an existing optic. This technology allows a user to turn their daytime optic into a night-vision platform instantly. Available in 850nm wavelength, the VCSEL IR illuminator has three levels of intensity. The FD1-LRF provides a 7.9°x5.9° FOV, 1X optical magnification, and sensitivity down to .001 lux. When used as a stand-alone scope, the FD1-LRF also incorporates a ballistics calculator, picture-in-picture (PIP) mode, and features six reticle styles, four reticle colors, and two independent image modes. Daytime or night vision images are displayed on the 1440x1080 OLED display. Additional features of the FD1LRF include a removable 128GB micro SD card that allows the user to capture 2592x1944 photo images and video, WiFi connectivity to a PC, tablet, iOS, or Android device through the use of the free PARDVision app, and USB Type-C and HDMI output connections. In addition, the unit is IP67 weatherproof and recoil proof to 6000J (think .308 caliber). SRP: $649. Booth #40756 (pard.com)

Your Fight Is Our Fight

Visit us at booths 42304 and CF116 PRESERVING OUR VALUES

PROTECTING OUR RIGHTS

SUPPORTING YOUR FIREARM BUSINESS

From the largest manufacturers to the smallest retailers, NSSF® fights to preserve our legacy and secure our future as a critical member of American industry. We fight with resources that promote legal gun ownership. We fight with initiatives that educate the public about responsible firearm ownership and safe participation in hunting and the shooting sports. And we fight on Capitol Hill and in state capitols nationwide—right alongside you—to ensure your ability to operate as a lawful and important business in your community is not infringed.

NSSF.ORG/ MEMBERSHIP

DON’T STAND ON THE SIDELINES. JOIN THE FIGHT BY JOINING NSSF TODAY.

48 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

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KNOCKDOWN

™

Developed for the hunter looking to gain deeper penetration and flatter trajectory from their favorite rifle, this all-copper hollow-point bullet offers pass-through penetration, devastating energy transfer and controlled expansion. Reduced barrel fouling, improved accuracy and increased velocity provides flatter shooting for better down-range performance. Our proprietary powders burn clean and hot to maximize efficiency for even greater consistency, round after round. All it will take is one shot to convince even the most discerning hunter there is a new cartridge for their hunt.

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FIOCCHIUSA.COM

12/18/23 3:52 PM

CUSTOM CORPORATE WEAR PROGRAM 5.11’s Custom Shop offers robust corporate wear solutions for your company apparel and gear. Choose from event and trade show apparel, everyday polos and tees plus customized packs and bags with your logo embellished on it.

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VISIT US @ BOOTH #10334 2311_MK_SHOTDaily_PrintAds2.indd 3 Day3 Full Pages.indd 50

12/21/23 3:10 PM

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12/20/23 5:01 PM 12/21/23 3:11 PM

52 ❚ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ❚ DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2024

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TOP TRENDS IN

TURKEY GUNS Small-bore guns and ammo now rule the roost. by Phil Bourjaily

hotguns for turkey hunting stopped looking like guns for wingshooting a while ago, and they keep changing in surprising

ways. We have already seen trends to pistol grips, to optics, and to special chokes. Smallbore turkey guns are the newest wrinkle. Powered by dense Tungsten Super Shot (TSS), first .410s and now 28 gauges are the latest fad guns among turkey hunters. The small gauges are light, soft-kicking, effective, and, unlike 12-gauge turkey guns, fun to shoot. Here’s what you need to know about small-bore turkey guns and which guns and accessories you might stock.

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TOP TRENDS IN TURKEY GUNS

MOSSBERG SA-28

Mossberg makes more dedicated turkey guns than anyone, and it offers the Turkish-made SA gas semi-auto in a 28-gauge turkey gun. Weighing under six pounds, they have the currently trendy retro Mossy Oak Green Leaf camo, a turkey choke, and a tactical-style pistol grip to make it more comfortable to hold. It also has a Picatinny rail for an optic as well as a rib-mounted ghost-ring sight. This is a dedicated turkey gun, though you could also hunt small game with it. Booth #12832 (mossberg.com)

MOSSBERG 500 OPTIC-READY PUMPS

 Mossberg SA-28 equipped with a Meopta Meosight IV ultra-low-profile red-dot optic. WHY SMALL BORES NOW?

American hunters love small gauges. Even so, the majority recognized the need for a 12 gauge for turkey hunting until the arrival of factory Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) ammo five years ago. The tungsten-iron alloy pellets have a density of 18 grams per cubic centimeter, making them nearly twice as dense as bismuth and more than one-and-a-half times denser than lead. The pellets are very hard, and they resist deformation. As a result, TSS shoots excellent patterns, and its density means you can shoot pellets as small as No. 9 shot, which are equivalent to No. 5 lead shot in terms of penetration. TSS No. 7 shot penetrates like lead No. 2 or No. 3 shot. At first, TSS factory loads were available in 12 and 20 gauge and .410; 28-gauge TSS turkey loads were new as of 2023. The disadvantage of TSS in any gauge is its price. Ammunition costs up to $10 per shell because raw tungsten is so expensive, yet many turkey hunters are willing to pay for it. Some states restrict legal gauges and/or shot sizes. That list gets shorter by the year, but you still need to check the regulations.

.410 VS 28 GAUGE

A comparison between the .410 and 28 gauge shows why hunters should be excited about the 28 gauge. A 3-inch .410 hull holds about 13⁄16 ounce, or 295, TSS No. 9 pellets, making it the

near-equivalent of a 12 gauge loaded with 1¾ ounces of lead No. 5s. TSS makes the .410 into an honest 40-yard turkey gun. A .410 load of No. 7 shot, however, only contains about 150 pellets, limiting the range at which you can put adequate numbers of pellets in a turkey’s head or neck. A 2¾-inch 28-gauge hull handles 13⁄8-ounce TSS payloads, giving you 500 number No. 9 pellets or 254 TSS No. 7 shot, both of which are huge increases over the .410’s pellet counts. Be ready to explain the 28’s advantage over the .410 for serious turkey hunting. Also, the 28 gauge is having a moment of popularity now, too, with the introduction of new 3-inch 28-gauge guns, so more people are aware of it. At the same time, recognize that American shooters are very fond of the .410 despite its ballistic shortcomings. You’ll need to stock a few of each. Here’s a rundown of some top choices in .410 and 28-gauge guns.

The Mossberg 500 comes in a .410 turkey version dipped in old-school Bottomland camo, with a turkey choke, swivel studs, and a 24-inch barrel with an extended turkey choke and a fiber-optic bead. The optic-ready version features an industry-first cut-out in the receiver that permits mounting an RMSc Shield-pattern red dot very low over the bore. The gun comes with a filler plate for the cutout and is also drilled and tapped for a rail to allow the use of other optic bases. You could also remove the sight and use it for plinking, target shooting, and wingshooting.

BENELLI SBE 28 GAUGE

Light and soft-kicking, the 28-gauge Super Black Eagle 3 is a scaled-down version of the famous 3½-inch 12 gauge. While it isn’t specifically sold as a turkey gun, all you have to add is a sling, a turkey choke, and a rail. Change chokes and remove the rail, and you can take it to the dove field or duck blind in the fall. Booth #13238 (benelliusa.com)

STEVENS 301

The 301 fits the tightest budget, and one model comes with a 1x30mm dot sight mounted on its Picatinny rail. Other 301 turkey guns have a rail only; you can mount the sight of your choice or use the bead. It’s a simple break-action, singleshot exposed-hammer gun in .410, and it comes with a turkey choke and camo finish. With a 301, you can get someone ready for the woods for under $300. Booth #12821 (savagearms.com)

 Light and soft-kicking, Benelli's SBE 28-gauge semi-auto is a scaled-down version of the company's famous 12 gauge.

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THE UNHOLY UNION OF RACE GUN AND DUTY GUN.

I N T R O D U C I N G T H E W A LT H E R P D P M A T C H

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TOP TRENDS IN TURKEY GUNS

LEUPOLD DELTA POINT

Rugged enough that it’s used by the military, the DeltaPoint makes a first-rate red dot for a turkey gun. A large sight window, tool-less battery replacement, and a brightness button that’s easy to use even with gloves on are all marks in the DeltaPoint’s favor. Booth #12421 (leupold.com)

 Stevens 301 is an economical break-open single-shot exposed-hammer .410.

 Mossberg 28-gauge with pistol grip.

TRISTAR VIPER G2

Recognized as a good buy in a reliable gas gun, the G2 comes in a pistol-grip version in 12, 20, and 28 gauge and .410. The guns have pistol grips, rails, camo finishes, and 24-inch barrels tipped with a turkey choke and a fiberoptic bead. Booth #14645 (tristararms.com)

LATEST OPTICS

Tighter patterns and longer-range ammunition make an optic an important accessory for a turkey gun. Scopes are out, red dots are in, and the lightweight, open-reflex-style red dot now predominates over enclosed-tube models. Open reflex sights are popular on pistols, too, making them a year-round seller in your inventory. Here are a few that do well on turkey guns.

MEOPTA MEOSIGHT IV

The Meosight IV has excellent glass for a clear view of the target and a top-mounted battery compartment so you don’t have to remove it and ruin your zero if you change batteries. Buttons on the side toggle it through five brightness levels. Booth #10124 (meopta.com)

• 24-HOUR COMPLIANCE HOTLINE—Answers When You Need Them Most • SHOT UNIVERSITY™ ONLINE—More Than 40 Classes and 100 Presentations

COMPLIANCE RESOURCES NSSF® provides its members with access to expert guidance and education on compliance for their businesses.

• ATF COMPLIANCE CONSULTANTS— In-Person Consultation Sessions with Former ATF Officials • OSHA COMPLIANCE CONSULTANTS—Range Site Visits from OSHA Compliance Experts • COMPLIANCE WEBINAR SERIES—Live Education and Q&A Sessions • IN-PERSON LEARNING— SHOT University, Range-Retailer Business Expo™, and Import/Export Conference • And More

NSSF.ORG/COMPLIANCE

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One Focus. Distribution.

Making our Warehouse YOURS! Through innovation and steady management, this fifth-generation family operation has earned a reputation as the most respected distributor in the firearms industry. Assuring a consistent and timely flow of products to YOU, our dealer, and ultimately to your customer. With our live inventory right at your fingertips and fast order turn-around times, you can have everything you need when you need it.

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BOOTH 12070 Tens of Thousands of SKUs Hundreds of the industry’s leading brands. Live Inventory 24/7 | Innovative Technology Fast Order Turn-around Time | Best Customer Service

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12s AND 20s

TOP TRENDS IN TURKEY GUNS

BURRIS FASTFIRE IV

The FastFire series is popular among turkey hunters and the FFIII is the sight found on Benelli Performance shop turkey guns. The IV adds a choice of large and small dot reticles and larger circles. Booth #13227 (burrisoptics.com)

CRIMSON TRACE CTS-1550

This micro reflex sight boasts two years of battery life, a 3MOA dot, and a sensor that adjusts dot brightness. Reasonably priced, it has the RMSc Shield footprint that fits the Mossberg Optic-ready Model 500 in .410. Stock one if you stock the other and you can sell them both together. Booth #12427 (crimsontrace.com)

ACCESSORIES

Even a lightweight small bore needs a sling. I am very partial to the rubber Quake Claw (Booth #12219) sling, as well as to the soft neoprene Butler Creek (Booth #11838) slings that seem to make any gun lighter due to the give in the neoprene.

AMMUNITION

Little guy/boutique loader Apex (Booth #71104) and HeviShot (Booth #11838) both offer 28-gauge and .410 TSS turkey loads. With small-bore guns, especially with the .410, No. 9 or No. 9.5 (offered by Apex) will outsell No. 7 shot 10 to one or more, as it should, since you need the greater pattern density and higher pellet counts for small-bore guns to be maximally effective.

CHOKES

Aftermarket chokes sell to turkey hunters because they are always looking for a few more pellets on target. It’s worth stocking both Carlson’s (Booth #10974) and Trulock’s (Booth #14743) good, reasonably priced .410 turkey chokes. Trulock has a 28-gauge choke designed for TSS loads.

Although TSS and small bores get the press these days, most of your customers will be shooting 12- or 20-gauge guns this spring. Keep the small-bore trend in perspective and stock guns, accessories, and ammo for the bigger bores, too. Besides previously mentioned Trulock and Carlson tubes, both Primos (Booth #11838) and Truglo (Booth #12669) sell very good, fairly inexpensive turkey chokes for 12 and 20 gauges. In addition, visit companies like Scalarworks (Booth #10066) to find low-profile red dot mounts that cross over beautifully onto turkey guns, fitting Mossberg pumps, Benellis, and Remington 870s. Truglo’s Gobble Dot iron sights are another good accessory to carry, as they either clamp or attach magnetically to any shotgun rib and are a much cheaper sight solution than a red dot. The Primos Trigger Stick shooting stick/rest is a great accessory for hunters who hunt from blinds, especially new hunters. Finally, not every hunter wants to spend $10 per shell for TSS, and you really don’t have to shoot it in 12s and 20s to be effective. Winchester Long Beard (Booth #11828) delivers great patterns in both gauges at a much lower price. Finally, display pattern targets where people will pick them up on impulse. Shotgun patterning is a win-win: hunters learn their gun’s capabilities, and you get to sell them more ammunition after they burn theirs up shooting patterns.

DID YOU

KNOW

Your attendance at the SHOT Show® directly supports the mission of NSSF® – your industry’s trade association. Its strengths and successes on behalf of the industry are fueled by you and your business.

Visit us at NSSF booth #42304 and #CF116

NSSF.ORG/MEMBERSHIP

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DID YOU

KNOW

In addition to supporting NSSF® through membership, your attendance and participation at the SHOT Show® directly supports all that NSSF does as your industry’s trade association. From advocating on behalf of the industry in Washington, D.C. and in state capitals nationwide to providing compliance education, industry research, firearm safety programs and so much more,

NSSF’s efforts and successes are fueled by you:

our members, exhibitors, and attendees.

Visit us at NSSF booth #42304 and #CF116

NSSF.ORG/MEMBERSHIP

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SUPPO

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ORTING

CAST With its roots in alpinism and aerospace,

Spartan Precision aims to give hunters and shooters simple, versatile bipods, tripods, and more. by Andrew McKean

a ghillie in southern England’s roebuck belt, Rob Gearing experienced the full dichotomy of fixed rifle bipods as he guided clients to twitchy woodland deer. “Some 90 percent of the time, my bipod was in

the way, but I always figured that was a fair trade for the 10 percent of the time when I really needed it,” says Gearing, whose transactional relationship with retractable bipods reached a climax one evening as he guided a wealthy Scandinavian client to a trophy Sussex buck. “I didn’t have a bipod on the gun, and we decided to let that deer go rather than making a low-odds shot without it,” he says. Soon afterward he started tinkering around with alternatives to the indispensable Harris bipod that he mounted to the front sling stud of his rifle when he needed

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SUPPORTING CAST

to make a dead-certain shot. At the time, Gearing was moonlighting as a ghillie. His main occupation was in the British aerospace industry. But his passion was mountaineering, summiting peaks around the world with only the gear he could carry, rather than relying on an entourage of Sherpas and replenishing base camps. “My DNA is to find elegant solutions to problems,” says Gearing, a bullet-headed, animated, straight-talking Brit who founded Spartan Precision Equipment in 2013 and is now managing director. “When you’re wired that way, and you’re an alpinist, then you are thinking about how to shave bits of weight where you can without sacrificing performance.” Gearing’s day job provided the inspiration for the company that has pioneered alternatives to the fixed tripod, among other shooting aids. He traces the lineage of Spartan’s flagship product, the five-ounce Javelin Bipod, back to an unlikely source: the iconic Concorde, the world’s first supersonic commercial aircraft and a joint effort by British and French aerospace firms. The Concorde experiment ended abruptly in 2000 when a Paris-to-New York plane crashed spectacularly shortly after takeoff. “After the fleet was grounded, I purchased the nose cone from an old Concorde and decided to make it into a piece of art, a sculpture,” says Gearing. “We mounted it on an old engine bearing so it could turn, but that bearing was ugly as anything, so we decided to cover it with a clamshell apparatus that

used two tiny rare-earth magnets to hold the halves together. It was brilliant, a clever solution, and I asked the guy who came up with that solution to build me a bipod, one that could attach to a rifle with those super-strong, super-small magnets.”

 Made from aerospace-grade aluminum, the Davros Pro Head retrofits to tripods and shooting sticks and will handle the heaviest of spotting scopes and other optics.

After a few iterations, the Javelin Bipod was born, a lightweight bipod that can easily be popped on and off a gun without fiddling with attachments. The idea was—and is—that the bipod could be stowed in a pocket or backpack sleeve until needed, then quickly and quietly deployed by engaging its male prong with a female receptacle fixed to the gun. The bond is assured with those rare-earth magnets. The Javelin Bipod remains the company’s most recognized product, accounting for about 80 percent of Spartan Precisions’ sales. “The little bipod was a very simple little Walter Mitty thing, a couple of moving legs and the magnet, but I shot quite a lot of deer off that thing,” says Gearing. “I figured this thing has legs—excuse the pun. I can’t be the only person who gets frustrated with keeping a bipod on a rifle full-time.” Indeed, he isn’t. Now, some 20 years on, the Javelin Bipod has various iterations with retractable legs, canting capabilities to shoot off uneven surfaces, and modular carbon-fiber legs. It also has a growing cult of adherents who swear by its light weight, durability, and easy deployment. Spartan Precision has expanded its product line to tripods, optics heads, and a whole range of adapters that are designed to be simple and durable solutions to attaching supports to guns and optics. Among the most useful and elegant products in Spartan’s line is a universal tripod head that uses the company’s patented magnetic attachment system to support a rifle, an optic, or any other attachment with the company’s trademark magnets. Called the Davros head, it has opened a new line of possibilities

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The Javelin Bipod has various iterations with retractable legs, canting capabilities to shoot off uneven surfaces, and modular carbon-fiber legs.

for the company, including proprietary adapters and even a tripod.

GOING MAINSTREAM

If some of Spartan’s appeal is that its talents were passed around like a closely kept secret among hardcore hunters, that sort of insider trading also kept the company small and extremely niche. That’s about to change. Spartan Precision is on the verge of becoming familiar to a whole new population of American hunters, thanks to a deal with Primos that was announced at last year’s SHOT Show. Starting last fall, Primos’ signature Trigger Stick Apex tripods will be available with Spartan’s patented magnetic attachment system. A new Primos gun-mounted bipod that features the same Spartan technology will also be available this fall. The partnership with Primos was struck at the SHOT Show a couple years ago thanks to a chance meeting, says Gearing. “I had a little Davros head in my pocket, and as I passed the Primos booth, I put that head on a Trigger Stick. I was honestly just seeing how it mated up, but a Primos employee noticed me and checked out the combination. He asked me if we had a patent on that head, and I told him that we do. Three years later, they contacted us out of the blue and told us they’d like to work together.” Gearing admits Spartan Precision is not going to get rich on the Primos deal. “But it will put us on the map,” he says, noting that having a high-profile American brand as a partner may influence manufacturing and distribution decisions. “I’d wager 90 percent of hunters don’t know anything about Spartan,

unless they’re really into mountain hunting. We sold something like 18,000 bipods last year. That’s pathetic. We should be selling 180,000 bipods.” Gearing says the American market, with its millions of new gun owners every year, plus educated and selective customers, has the scale that Spartan has missed by being a quiet favorite of a handful of serious hunters. In fact, Spartan has a vanishingly small advertising budget, relying instead on a whisper campaign in which one evangelist for the brand tells a friend. Those word-of-mouth testimonials have worked, but Gearing says he’s ready to scale up to the new market. “I’m hopeful that people will experience our product and will be naturally drawn to us and the rest of our product line,” says Gearing. “It’s a wonderful marriage, our relationship with Primos. We’re not treading on their market turf, and they’re not treading on ours. We occupy two different quality brackets, with Primos selling thousands of units and us selling hundreds. But I’d like to think that a lot of people who drive Fords might aspire to drive around in an Audi, and I think in a couple years Spartan will come into its own in the American market as a stylish and functional Audi.”

stick on anything. I’d expect you’ll see more of that sort of cross-over product going forward.” For customers who don’t care to invest in the entire Spartan system, the company sells a number of adapters that allow paced adoption of various pieces of the product line. One of the most useful is an Arca-Swiss tripod plate with the rare-earth magnet connection. Attach the plate to a standard tripod, and as long as you have Spartan’s female receiver on a rifle or optic, you can turn your tripod into a shooting stick or glassing platform for about $20. It’s the perfect Spartan Precision product, says Gearing, marrying simplicity with versatility. “I am constantly looking at ways to provide tools that do more than one thing,” he says. “I don’t like gimmicks. I like functionality.” Booth #14538 (javelinbipod.com)

SPECIAL FORCES GEAR

This wouldn’t be the first time Spartan has designed products for a specific market. Not long after the Javelin bipod caught fire with mountain hunters, Gearing was approached by European special forces with a request to build rifle supports for elite sniper squads. “We’ve only just dipped our toes in the defense market,” he says. Gearing acknowledges that the defense market is only about 10 percent of Spartan’s business, but enough that Spartan recently spun off a subsidiary that deals with military and defense customers. “We have just designed a tripod that you will not see on the civilian market, and we think there’s enough appetite for innovation in the defense space that we can support two branches of the company,” he says. The military tripod is built around modularity, with legs that can be detached to be used as stretcher handles and additional legs that can convert the tripod into a multi-support shooting bench. That notion of multiple “Legos” that can be mixed and matched to build custom solutions is likely to be the next wave of Spartan innovation. “If we have this conversation in a couple years’ time, I’d like to say that people won’t buy bipods or tripods,” says Gearing. “They’ll buy modules. They might buy one of four tripod head modules, or one of six bipod modules, and then pick their legs to complete their kits. The Davros head is the gateway drug to that modularity. You don’t need to buy our tripods if you have our head; it will pretty much

 Small rare-earth magnets allow quick installation of the portable Javelin bipod.

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NEWPRODUCTS

by slaton l . white

1 KICKS INDUSTRIES UPLAND FLUSH CHOKE

Upland Flush chokes are precision machined to high tolerance standards on computer-controlled equipment. The Upland Flush, constructed of 17-4ph stainless steel, features a unique conical/parallel internal design and exclusive outward angled diagonal ports. These features improve pattern density by up to 20 percent. The extended ported section also makes follow-up shots faster and more accurate by reducing recoil and muzzle jump. Whether you're hunting grouse, pheasants, or quail, Kick's Upland Flush choke tubes are proven performers and come in two choke tube restrictions—Mid and Long Range. Booth #12277 (kicks-ind.com)

2 BOAR PRODUCTS GUN CLEANER AND LUBRICANT Crafted in the USA from premium, all-natural materials, Gun Cleaner and Lubricant from Boar Products is designed to keep firearms clean, protected, and operating smoothly even under heavy use and harsh conditions. Its unique, concentrated formula is made even more user friendly due to its subtle and pleasant citrus scent. SRP: $13.99, 2 fluid ounces; $19.99, 8 fluid ounces. Booth #43863 (boarproducts.com)

3 MISSION FIRST TACTICAL BLACK LEATHER HYBRID HOLSTERS The holster you choose to carry every day should be the best of both worlds—both functional and comfortable. The new Black Leather line of hybrid holsters from Mission First Tactical fits the bill. These Kydex-style holsters are fused with genuine American full-grain leather and deliver exact tolerances, secure retention, and easy re-holstering with all of leather’s comfort, style, and feel. Furthermore, compared to traditional leather holsters, there is no break-in time required. These versatile Appendix Inside Waistband (AIWB), Inside Waistband (IWB), and Outside Waistband (OWB) holsters are capable of use both in right- and left-hand positioning. Adjustable retention and the famous, audible click make each draw and re-holster smooth and secure. All models come standard with a 1.5-inch belt clip. SRP: $69.99-$79.99. Booth #15042 (missionfirsttactical.com)

4 PYRAMEX PPM1 EARMUFF The Passive Pro Series PPM1 earmuff combines ANSI-rated hearing protection with all-day wearing comfort. The PPM1 Passive Pro earmuff features a noise reduction rating (NRR) of 23dB with sound-absorbing internal foam, providing significant hearing protection from gunfire. Comfort is key for shooting sports enthusiasts, and the earmuff delivers. The PPM1 earmuff features soft, easy-to-clean ear cushions along with a low-profile design and convenient height-adjustment to ensure a comfortable fit for a wide range of head sizes. The ventilated headband provides an open-crown design, ideal for shooters wearing ballcaps. The PPM1 Passive Pro earmuff is also available with the option of custom imprinting, allowing indoor ranges and shooting organizations to brand the earmuffs with their own logo and branding. SRP: $11.99. Booth #42113 (pyramexsafety.com)

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2024 NSSF CALENDAR OF EVENTS

Visit us at NSSF booths 42304 and CF116

NSSF® Congressional Fly-In April 9-10, 2024 • Washington, D.C.

NSSF Marketing and Leadership Summit May 7-9, 2024 • Ponte Vedra, FL

NSSF Range-Retailer Business Expo™ July 10-11, 2024 • West Palm Beach, FL

NSSF Annual Import/Export Conference July 30-August 1, 2024 • Washington, D.C.

National Shooting Sports Month® August 2024 • shootingsportsmonth.org

SHOT Show®

January 21-24, 2025 • Las Vegas, NV

For more information, visit NSSF.ORG.

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NEWPRODUCTS 5

7 8

6 5 MUCK BOOT CO. ALPHA PURSUIT LACE-UP

The Alpha Pursuit Lace-Up is an 8-inch boot designed to be light, fast, and ready for the hunt. The upper features Muckskin overlays for added protection. Muckskin is an innovative upper material technology that is equally flexible, durable, and waterproof; it is a vacuum-formed rubber neoprene that features incredibly high abrasion resistance for a material that is lightweight, and of course, as befits a Muck product, 100-percent waterproof. A molded PU insert with memory foam delivers superior underfoot comfort, and a notched heel collar eliminates Achilles heel fatigue. SRP: $195. Booth #80715 (muckbootcompany.com)

6 NIGHTSTICK LGL-160 LONG GUN LIGHT KIT The LGL-160 long gun light kit is a complete lighting system for rifle, carbine, or shotgun. It includes both 90-degree and 45-degree offset Picatinny mounts, tail cap and 6-inch remote pressure switches, and a Nightstick-exclusive wire management clamp. A high-efficiency deep parabolic reflector tightly focuses the intense beam out to 300 meters for two hours of runtime. A pair of CR123 batteries are included, providing illumination during critical low-light threat identification and target discrimination. Booth #14054 (nightstick.com)

7 EUROPEAN AMERICAN ARMORY GIRSAN MC14T TIP-UP The Girsan MC14T Tip-Up, the easiest loading and unloading .380 ACP pistol on the market, is available with a 13+1 capacity. An accurate and soft-shooting pistol designed for all types of shooters, the Girsan MC14T Tip-Up does not require the slide to be racked for a round to be chambered. All a shooter has to do is utilize the Tip-Up barrel feature, load a round, lock the barrel, disengage the safety, and fire. Available in multiple colors. SRP: $498. Booth #12054 (eaacorp.com)

8 HERNON MANUFACTURING AMMO SEALANTS Over the past four decades Hernon has become a globally recognized leader in ammunition-sealing technology. Its unique sealant formulas and application process seals and protects all calibers from contamination due to water or chemical exposure. All of Hernon’s ammunition sealants are single component, contain zero solvents, are UV/anaerobic curable, and seal both primers and case mouths. Booth #41357 (hernon.com)

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NEWPRODUCTS 11

9 EWOOL PRO+ HEATED VEST

Based in Canada, a land of extreme winters, ewool designs simple-to-use and dependable heated wearables that help keep outdoorsmen warm while out in cold conditions. The PRO+ heated vest is a mid-layer garment that stands out for its unparalleled thermal power and extra-large heating surfaces. The user can control temperature preference through three heating levels, and the slim and powerful battery provides warmth for up to seven hours. A dual-battery kit extends that run time to up to 14 hours. SRP: $539. Booth #40109 (ewool.com)

10 NITE IZE RADIANT RH2 POWERSWITCH RECHARGEABLE HEADLAMP This ultralight (75 grams) rechargeable headlamp casts a maximum of 700 lumens. Independent buttons activate seven total flood and spot modes, including red and red flash for emergencies. RH2 is powered by PowerSwitch technology, running on its included rechargeable, removable battery pack or three AAA alkaline batteries (not included). The lamp is waterproof and submersible up to one meter for 30 minutes and drop-tested to two meters. It will run up to 18 hours on low and recharges in three and a half hours via a micro USB cable (not included). SRP: $49.99. Booth #42760 (niteize.com)

11 BALLISTOL SUPPRESSOR CLEANER Suppressors are particularly difficult to clean if they cannot be dismantled. But with Ballistol suppressor cleaner, the residues in the dirty suppressor can be easily cleaned out. The cleaner is also suitable for use in a sonic cleaner. To use, close the suppressor on one side with rubber corks and fill completely. Leave the cleaner in the suppressor for at least two hours. All combustion residues will be dissolved automatically. In the case of suppressors with particularly high firing loads, heat the cleaner to approximately 104 degrees F. and extend the exposure time to four hours. Then remove the cleaner. To dissolve remaining dirt, fill half of the damper with clear water. Close the second opening and shake vigorously. If necessary, repeat this rinsing process until the water no longer contains soot particles. If the suppressor cannot be closed (due to its design), it can be completely immersed in the cleaner. Also suitable for dismountable silencers. Booth #11338 (ballistol.com)

12 HAYMAN SAFE MINUTEMAN QUICK-ACCESS SAFE During a forced entry, when seconds count, you may not have time to get to and open a standard gun safe before the threat is inside the building. But the novel design of the Minuteman Quick-Access personal defense safe provides immediate access to loaded firearms in your bedroom, living room, foyer, or hallway (or anywhere else where you might want quick access to your firearms) while securing the guns safely. The safe mounts discretely between standard wall studs and features a top-lit electronic lock and can be upgraded with a biometric lock system. Once the code (or fingerprint) is activated, the safe is unlocked and the door tilts out (opening from the top). Long guns are stored in a muzzle-down position, attached via quick-release straps to the inside of the door, ready to be deployed. In the event of a nighttime emergency, the Minuteman features a luminous tape strip surrounding the recessed keypad, for ease of locating it in the dark. Once opened, an interior motion-sensor light illuminates the safe contents in low- or no-light conditions. Booth #43153 (haymansafe.com)

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