SHOT Daily - Day 2 - 2020 SHOT Show by SHOT Business

SHOOTING HUNTING OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW 1979–2020 DAY 2, JAN UA RY 2 2 , 2 02 0

NEW PRODUCTS SHOT Daily hits the floor to find the latest optics at the show P. 12. Also, what’s new in ammo P. 28 and outerwear P. 42.

THE DAILY NEWS OF THE 2020 LAS VEGAS SHOT SHOW BROUGHT TO YOU BY THE BONNIER CORPORATION AND THE NSSF FEATURES

NEWS

EXPANDING OPTIONS Umarex is introducing a pair of airguns designed to shoot arrows. PAGE 62

CLEAN AS A BRISTLE Brush Research takes deburring, edge-blending, and finishing applications to new heights. PAGE 54

ANOTHER APPROACH Consumers on the hunt for abstract patterns turn to TrueTimber. PAGE 10

NSSF UNVEILS HALL OF FAME

NSSF’s new Hall of Fame, with six inductees, makes its debut at SHOT Show 2020.

ttendees of this year’s SHOT Show will see something new: the NSSF Hall of Fame. The project honors past leaders and their accomplishments. The six inductees and their accomplishments are detailed in large panels erected in a heavily trafficked section of the SHOT Show, which attracts nearly 60,000 industry professionals and 2,500 members of the trade media. The initial six were chosen because of their significant achievements in the shooting sports industry. The first class of inductees to the NSSF Hall of Fame are: WARREN “LEFTY” PAGE: A legendary shooting editor at Field & Stream, Page was instrumental in organizing the

First National Conference on the Shooting Sports, leading to the formation of the National Shooting Sports Foundation in 1961. He became NSSF’s president in 1972. With his huge readership, and later with NSSF’s communications resources at hand, Page helped raise public understanding of the role hunters play in conservation.

CHARLIE DICKEY: Writer, wartime pilot, and Navy Cross recipient, Dickey became executive director of NSSF in 1964, three years after its founding. He was widely known as a magazine writer and book author on everything from flyfishing to whitetail hunting. Prior to leading NSSF in its formative years, Dickey worked for Winchester and SAAMI.

HARMON WILLIAMS: Former president of Browning and member of the first NSSF Board of Governors, Williams was a deeply involved industry leader who provided his thoughtful counsel to matters not only related to NSSF, but also to the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute, SHOT Show, and conservation organizations.

ARNOLD “ROCKY” ROHLFING: As head of NSSF, Rocky oversaw the launch of the first SHOT Show, in 1979. He was an executive with Winchester and Sturm, Ruger, before becoming NSSF’s executive director in 1976. Just before the first SHOT Show, he uttered the now-famous line: “I sure hope someone shows up tomorrow morning.”

BILL TALLEY: Chairman of the NSSF Board of Governors and an executive with Winchester, Talley played a major role in creating the first SHOT Show and growing NSSF into a truly influential organization. He summed up NSSF’s role as the industry’s trade association when he said, “The entire shooting-associated industry should speak with one voice.”

COASTING ALONG Founded a century ago, Coast Products has moved beyond knives into cutting-edge flashlights. PAGE 70

L I G H T P I P ES

HiViz Goes Hi-Tech Knowledgeable shotgunners will tell you that the key to high scores and taking flying game cleanly is seeing the sights, but not looking at them. That’s most easily accomplished when the bead really stands out. By replacing the bead with the HiViz Compsight lightpipe, sensing the sight in your peripheral vision becomes fast and easy in any daylight condition. Now, HiViz is adding tritium technology to the original to create the LiteWave H3 Compsight. Just as in the LiteWave H3 handgun sights for personal defense, law enforcement, and military use, shotgunners can now benefit from a bead that can be easily recognized in any light conditions, at any time of day. Whether you’re hunting ducks a half-hour before sunrise or shooting under the lights in a high-pressure clays shoot-off, the LiteWave H3 Compsight will light your way to success. The LiteWave H3 Compsight replaces the front bead on the Benelli family of shotguns, as well as on other makes. SRP: $55. Stop by the HiViz booth during the show for a chance to win a LiteWave H3 Compsight. Booth #15522. (hivizsights.com)

TED ROWE: A former president of Harrington & Richardson and SIG Sauer, Rowe was also a longtime member of NSSF’s Board of Governors. He is a recipient of NSSF’s Ken Sedlecky Lifetime Achievement Award. Rowe is, literally, the man who named the SHOT Show.

1/21/20 3:36 PM

RANGE Laugo Arms Alien

What many are calling the world’s most versatile and innovative competition pistol has finally landed in the U.S. The 9mm Laugo Arms Alien was on hand for media to take for a spin. Lancer Systems has joined forces with the Czechoslovakian gunmaker to offer 500 Laugo Alien Signature Edition pistols for U.S.-exclusive sales. The Alien boasts the lowest bore axis of any semi-auto pistol, and has a top rail that is independent of the slide, meaning the iron sights or red-dot optic does not reciprocate when firing. While there is still recoil, there is hardly any muzzle flip, and the fact that the red dot does not move when the pistol cycles makes fast, accurate shots easy even for someone who isn’t a competition shooter. The Signature Edition kit comes in a hard case with three 17-round magazines, a standard top rail with adjustable competition sights, an optics-ready top rail with an included red-dot sight, a cleaning kit, and a custom holster. SRP: $5,000. Booth #7503. —David Maccar

Mossberg MC2c Handgun

Mossberg has expanded its handgun line, with the compact 9mm MC2c. It retains the slim profile of the company’s subcompact pistol while still boasting a flush 13+1 double-stack magazine. Five models offer a variety of finish and sight options, and all come standard with the flush mag and an extended 15-round mag. Features include a 3.9-inch barrel. It is perfectly suited for concealed carry, and is slightly smaller than the Glock G19. The new pistol handles like a dream, and the ergonomics are outstanding. If the MC1sc is a bit too small for your hands but a Glock 19 fits just right, the MC2c will fit even better. The MC2c also features multi-angle slide serrations, an oversize trigger guard, a flat-profile trigger, and a reversible magazine release. A cross-bolt manual-safety option is also available for right- or lefthanded shooters. SRP: $490 to $595, depending on the model. Booth #12734. —D.M.

Federal HammerDown Ammunition

Federal Ammunition partnered with Henry Repeating Arms to launch an ammo line specifically optimized for use in lever-action rifles. The new HammerDown loads are designed for easy feeding and loading through tube mags, particularly the type used on most Henry rifles. Initial caliber offerings include .327 Federal Mag., .357 Mag., .44 Mag., .45 Long Colt, .30/30 Win., and .45-70 Gov’t. Federal chamfered the cases of all HammerDown cartridges, which also include specialized geometry on the front face of the case rim. This prevents them from getting hung up in the mag tube when you’re loading a rifle, or when loading through a loading gate, and it also improves cycling. The molecular-bonded bullets are heavier with increased velocities to deliver better penetration from rifle barrels. At the shooting bay, the .30/30 ammo, which has a significant rim and always gets hung up in my Henry All Weather lever gun when loading, loaded effortlessly through both the tube and the loading gate. Cycling was flawless and accuracy was stellar. SRP: $19.99; $38.99, .45-70. Booth #14551. —D.M.

Kriss Vector .22LR

This new carbine is pure plinking joy. The Vector design, with its extremely low bore axis and Super V Recoil Mitigation system, significantly reduces recoil and muzzle rise in .45 ACP and 10mm, even in full auto. Chambered in .22LR, it’s uncanny. I was tentative with the first magazine I ran through the carbine, and wasn’t even sure I was firing the gun. With the second mag, I pulled that trigger as fast as I could and the front sight didn’t move. I couldn’t help but let out a giggle of joy. The Vector .22LR will be available in the carbine configuration with a 16-inch barrel and an M-Lok forend, and in a stabilizing brace configuration with a 6.5-inch barrel. They feed from a proprietary 10- or 30-round magazine. SRP: $649. Booth #8003. —D.M.

4 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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DAY The Laugo Arms Alien pistol is finally available in the U.S. as a complete competition package.

The new KRISS Vector .22LR is pure plinking joy, and it produces almost no felt recoil or muzzle flip.

FIRST SHOT: DAKOTA MEYER This year’s Industry Day at the Range, held at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club, kicked off with the inaugural First Shot ceremony marking the official start of the SHOT Show. After a prayer and observance of the national anthem, Dakota Meyer, the first living U.S. Marine in 41 years to receive the Medal of Honor, fired the first round of the day, ringing steel with the new Glock 44 .22LR pistol. “SHOT Show is an iconic pillar event where everyone comes to meet up,” Meyer said. “The people who defend our freedom and support our freedom every day—the patriots—this is where they all come together once a year, and it’s always good to come out and be a part of it.” The event was hosted by The Firearm Blog. Industry Day at the Range commemorated the event by donating $1,000 to the Boot Campaign, which works to connect the more than 99 percent who have not served in the armed forces with the less than 1 percent who have by “igniting the inner patriot in all Americans and providing life-improving programs for veterans and families.” “Events like this are important not only for the industry, but it’s important because of all the knowledge that gets spread and the information given to the public,” Meyer added.

1/21/20 4:53 PM

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NEWS

Enhancing the Shooter Experience.

HOT Show University opened to an engaging list of speakers and full classrooms, on Monday the 20th in the third-floor Venetian conference area. Enhancing Shooter Experiences was presented by Aron Ludwig, and Chris Hart, territorial managers for Action Target. The two range specialist addressed the changing needs of owners, including the radical shifts in the last decade to both indoor and outdoor ranges. Ludwig explained the substantial shifts in demographics; with more women, single parents, and families coming to the industry, ranges and retailers are now required to deliver improved services. He cited these changes as a paradigm shift and noted that ranges and retailers that set very high highest standards for new shooters entering the sport. Ludwig and Hart suggest starting with the most basic services, such as clean restrooms and a well -lighted facility. “It’s critical that older ranges update this core strategy. They also need to move beyond paper targets on a cable to keep new shooters engaged,” said Ludwig. Both men discussed the importance of range shooting as an experience that makes people

Moving beyond static paper targets to more reactive targets can go a long way to making your range a destination for new shooters. Shooters who have fun at your range are more likely to return.

want to come, and stay. To be successful in this new, more challenging environment, ranges need to embrace a mindset similar to the entertainment industry like Top Golf or the spots bar Dave & Busters. “It’s simple, really,” Ludwig said. “Make a facility clean, friendly and fun, and you’ll have traffic that spends more time and uses more services.” Although newly constructed ranges have embraced these practices with large investments, Ludwig encouraged older facili-

ties to make changes incrementally, creating an environment that will attract and keep new shooters returning to their range. Other golden rules include maintaining an active presence in social media, using both Instagram and Facebook. “You have to get creative, but a daily presence is critical to embracing and attracting these new customers. It takes some creativity, but experimentation will quickly guide ranges to what posts work,” said Hart.

Another key strategy is finding the right employees. Staff members must remain encouraging and listen carefully to the needs of customers. It was recommended that mangers consider looking to other industries for great employees that demonstrate impressive service skills. “I’ll take a counter person from a restaurant with intuitive listening and service skills over someone that knows the location of every spring in a 1911,” said Ludwig. “There’s a practical reason to stay competitive while upgrading games and basic services, it’s profitable,” said Hart. NSSF research has shown that eight out of 10 will spend more money if the range is clean and has engaging state-of-the-art targets and games. If you sell a customer a gun and hear “I love this gun,” you’ve lost. If I sell a customer a gun and hear “I had an amazing time shooting this gun,” then you’re on track to growing profits and a loyal audience,” said Ludwig. “Retail and Range business owners that stay ahead of the pack in our increasingly competitive market retain their edge by learning new strategies,” said John McNamara, NSSF senior director of retail and range services. — Peter B. Mathiesen

PROFIT MAKER OR PROFIT SINKER | MAXIMIZING RETAIL SHOWROOM SPACE Put yourself in a ball park, behind home base. Look beyond the pitcher’s mound to the outfield. Now look farther. The wall ensuring home runs when baseballs goes over it is more than a wall. It’s a billboard. The walls of your shooting range serve the same purpose. Sell those walls as ad space, just like ball parks do, and create revenue beyond traditional retail space. That’s one of the many ideas Hank Yacek, Point of Impact Group CEO, offered during his SHOT University class “Retail Showroom Space: Profit Maker or Profit Sinker.” “Every space a customer can go in is retail space,” Yacek said. “Convert that space into revenue. You guys paid a lot for your store. The building needs to be paying you back.” Yacek walks through stores, from entryway to bathroom, looking for subtle differences in opportunity exposure. The most common missed opportunity he sees in layout is lack of logo. He encourages range owners to realize traditional retail space isn’t the only selling space. Reinforce your shop’s top-of-mind priority by putting your shop name on everything from aisle end caps to shooting range targets.

Point of Impact Group CEO told SHOT University attendees how to maximize profits in retail operations.

“The most common problem I see once I’m through the front door, is there’s nothing that tells me what store I’m in,” Yacek said. “There’s a beautiful sign outside, but nothing inside. One of the best investments you can make is putting your store branding inside the store. It’s first-of-mind placement.” First-of-mind starts with first impressions. Create comfort and a stellar first impression in the atrium and keep traffic patterns in

8 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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mind. Studies show people enter buildings and instinctively turn right rather than left, even if they’re left-handed, so angle aisles toward the flow of traffic and when that traffic stops for a bathroom break have class schedules posted on the bathroom stalls. Studies also estimate if you’re spending $100 or less per square foot, your store looks empty. Up that ratio to $150 or shrink your product footprint by shrinking space with curtains to hide the empty. Also consider your ratio of firearms to other inventory. “If guns are more than 60 percent of your inventory, you’re going to struggle with profits,” Yacek said. Yacek also suggests renting out your classrooms for civic events and other meetings or donate that space for free to clubs and nonprofits as community outreach. Make your space worthy of their time and they’ll find your products worthy of their cash. “Customers walk into your store with two wallets,” he said. “A time wallet and a cash wallet. The time wallet is more valuable than the cash wallet because I can spend more cash. I cannot spend more time.” —Kris Millgate

1/21/20 3:44 PM

Another Approach

news

Consumers on the hunt for abstract patterns are turning to TrueTimber By John Geiger

TrueTimber’s latest abstract pattern is called Prairie, which is found not only on clothing but on rifles and shotguns as well.

amo patterns are trending toward the abstract. In the past, people wanted to wrap themselves in gear that looked just like the bark or the leaves around them. But in 2020, consumers will gravitate toward looks that don’t reflect anything in particular, according to Rusty Sellars, founder and CEO TrueTimber.

“We are seeing a shift away from stick-and-leaf,” says Sellars, an avid outdoorsman and longtime textiles-industry veteran from South Carolina. “This makes sense because abstract patterns are so versatile. I think they appeal to our eyes as shoppers and are effective in our pursuits in the field.” That versatility was on high display when I was trying out different camo recently. I wore TrueTimber’s Strata pattern while on a cull mule deer hunt in northern New Mexico. It fit right in with the Gambel oak, junipers, ponderosa pine, and red rocks of the mountains east of Valle Vidal. Yet it was also my choice for lateseason whitetail hunting in Georgia a week later. Strata is truly versatile. Sellars and his crew in Inam picked up on this trend last year and developed a new waterfowl pattern that, like Strat, is also abstract. Called Prairie, this pattern plays more off the colors of cattails

and CRP than actual grass lines and shapes. In a nod to its popularity, the pattern is all over shotguns, waterfowl parkas, and anything else you would have in a blind. But what is truly amazing is the fact that this pattern will be on rifles in 2020, says Tim Brandt, who is part of the company’s marketing team. “We showed people Prairie as a waterfowl pattern, but they were like, that would be great for whitetails as well,” he says. “Basically, we’re taking what we learned from Strata and bringing it to waterfowlers or any hunters who think it would work for them as well.” If there is any question about the success of these patterns and the company itself, one need only look as far as the closest Bass Pro Shops or Cabela’s. TrueTimber camo was a full 50 percent of the camo mix in Bass Pro and Cabela’s this past fall, says Sellars. “When I was finally able to sit down with Johnny Morris in

10 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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2014, he had a lot to lose by making the switch to TrueTimber versus the other brands he carried and promoted for so many years,” says Sellars. “But he had faith in the look and appeal of our camo patterns and brand logo.” Sellars says they stayed in the stores and have grown because TrueTimber keeps the patterns more consistent and controls colors better on all apparel, accessories, vehicles, guns, and bows, as compared to their competitors. As the world’s largest outdoor retailer, Bass Pro/Cabela’s can make or break brands. In addition, other retailers benefit from following their lead. Big-box stores, like Fleet Farm in the Midwest, also made the transition to TrueTimber. In fact, in a short time, True Timber has more than doubled the number of independent retailers who sell its products. “We are now starting to see many other retailers and licensed partners grow when they, too, offer

our products and patterns,” says Sellars. “Years ago, I was told many times when meeting with other retailers that we weren’t a ‘brand’ because we had no placement in Bass Pro or Cabela’s stores. This was the main reason we never stopped pursuing a partnership with Johnny Morris and Cabela’s.” TrueTimber’s presence—at Bass Pro, on NASCAR cars, and elsewhere—seemed to materialize from nowhere. Although it’s true they did burst onto the scene in 2014 with the Johnny Morris handshake, Sellars, his family, and a small cadre of employees have been making textiles and camo patterns since 2005. They are camolicense sellers, but also manufacturers, product developers and hydrographic experts who hunt and fish the foothills of the Appalachians. “We built our business from the ground up starting in textiles,” says Sellars, who now oversees a 150,000-square-foot facility with a growing workforce. “We understand fabrics, construction, sourcing, fit, function, and feel—and, of course, camouflage. There are plenty of established brands in these categories, but we really feel like we differentiate ourselves with our ability to tie it all together.” Currently, TrueTimber has 27 patterns. The most popular biggame patterns are Strata for Western mountain hunting and late-season leafless Eastern hunting. Strata incorporates a macro pattern to break up the hunter’s profile and a micro pattern to slip into the overall environment. Viper is similar, but it has an above-the-tree-line look. Kanati is a big-game pattern for those who prefer the more photo-realistic leaf patterns. Conceal has sage colors and works well for mule deer or whitetail hunts in the deserts, sage, or open lands of the West and Midwest. And turkey hunters appreciate HTC (High Tech Concealment) Green and Strata. The original TrueTimber waterfowl pattern is DRT, a photo-realistic pattern, and the latest is the abstract Prairie. Some of the partners who are now using TrueTimber patterns on their firearms products include Benelli, Winchester, Savage, Beretta, and Mossberg. TrueTimber also has a big footprint in the powersports industry. “We’ve been fortunate to grow significantly in the last few years,” says Sellars. “But there is so much potential out there to keep the momentum going for a long time.” Booth #10332. (truetimber.com)

1/21/20 11:25 AM

OPTICS

AXEON The improved ShotLight is a gun light that screws directly into the magazine cap of a Mossberg, Winchester, or Remington shotgun.

Zoom In

Riﬂescopes are ramping up magniﬁcation to cater to long-range shooters. Meanwhile, entry-level glass is getting better and better

By Robert Sadowski iflescopes are now featuring more magnification power, as many new 8X models come to market for long-range shooters. I’m also seeing many entry-level scopes with features you would expect on high-end glass. Entry-level spotting scopes and binoculars have followed suit, adding premium features as well. The other popular new products are red-dot optics for concealed-carry pistols. These red-dots make shooting pistols easier without adding too much extra bulk for concealed carry. Here’s what else to look for.

Axeon Optic Solutions

Axeon partnered with Steve Criner—star of Dog Soldier on the Sportsman Channel—on the Dog Soldier Predator Scope (SRP: $250), a 4–16x50mm rifle optic with 16 magnification and a mil-dot reticle with an illuminated green dot. Axeon’s new NightVue add-on (SRP: $150) attaches to the front hinge of a binocular, using green laser technology to provide night vision. For MSR and shotgun hunters, the RGY dot optic (SRP: $50) uses a yellow-dot reticle in addition to the standard red and green. Unlike red, green, or blue, the yellow dot does not overpower your eye or the target in low-light situations. The MDSR1 micro red-dot (SRP: $120) is compact; it has a 20mm objective and offers up to 30,000 hours of runtime. The improved ShotLine and ShotLight (SRP: $60 each) are laser and light accessories, respectively, for Mossberg, Winchester, and Remington home-defense shotguns. The ShotLine emits a laser, while the ShotLight projects a standard beam of light. Both units feature ambidextrous on/off buttons. The MPL1 pistol mini light (SRP: $40) attaches to a Picatinny rail, provides 300 lumens of light, and is powered by a single AAA battery. Booths #14562, #15062, #20112. (axeonoptics.com)

Barska

The 1–8x24mm SWAT-AR riflescope (SRP: $269.99) is designed for accurate close- to midrange or MSR-style rifles. Features include a variable illuminated mil-dot reticle with five levels of adjustable reticle brightness. The scope comes complete with scope caps and a 30mm cantilever scope mount. Booth #3257. (barska.com)

Bushnell

AXEON Clockwise from top left: The MDSR1 micro red-dot boasts a 20mm objective and 30,000 hours of runtime; the NightVue attaches to the front hinge of a binocular and uses green laser technology to provide night vision; the RGY optic uses a yellow-dot reticle for low-light shooting; the MPL1 pistol mini light provides 300 lumens of light and runs off a single AAA battery.

The Prime and Nitro optic lines now include new rangefinders. The Prime 1300 (SRP: $170) and Prime 1700 (SRP: $200) have a reflective target range of 1,300 yards and 1,700 yards, respectively. Both have a 6x24mm configuration and feature ARC Mode to enable angle range compensation for uphill and downhill shots. The Nitro 1800 (SRP: $350) ranges out to 1,800 yards on reflective targets and can be connected via Bluetooth to a smartphone and the Applied Ballistics app. Connectivity to the app allows long-range shooters to dial in to near-perfect holdovers and make spot-on wind adjustments. New to the Prime riflescope line is a 3–12x40mm scope with six pre-cut turrets configured in a variety of popular calibers and loads, from .17 HMR and .22 LR to muzzleloader loads and .450 Bushmaster. The scope is also equipped with a simple Multi-X reticle and has side parallax focus. SRP: $230. Booth #14551. (bushnell.com)

12 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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1/9/20 2:05 PM

PRODUCTS

EOTech

The Vudu Series now includes a 1–8x24mm second-focal-plane scope. This scope was designed with competition shooters in mind. It features a one-piece 30mm tube, XC highdensity glass, push-button reticle illumination, and an HC3 quad-level BDC reticle. Three new sight magnifiers include the G30, G43, and G45. The G43 is a miniaturized version of the battle-tested G33 magnifier used by members of U.S. Special Operations Command. It is compact and lightweight, and the flip mount provides fast transitioning from 3X to 1X. The G45 is a 5X magnifier with weight and dimensions similar to the G33 magnifier, but with an additional 2X magnification for precision aiming at greater distances. The G30 provides the same magnification properties as EOTech’s G33 magnifier at less than half the cost. SRP: $1,399. Booths #20153, #20159, #20259. (eotechinc.com)

FLIR

The Scion Thermal Monocular line now includes 36mm and 25mm manual-focus lens options. These units pack high-performance thermal imaging into a rugged, IP67-rated handheld monocular. The advanced image processing provides smooth, unwavering vision in challenging environments. Available in the Outdoor Thermal Monocular (OTM) and Professional Thermal Monocular (PTM). SRP: starting at $3,495. Booths #20001, #2832. (flir.com)

A X E O N The Axeon Dog Soldier Predator scope is a 4–16x50mm rifle optic with 16X

magnification.

an adjustable throw lever. The Helia RF-M 7x25mm rangefinder (SRP: $610) is ergonomically designed for intuitive and simple handling. It features a large field of view and can reliably range targets up to 2,000 yards. The OLED display has five brightness settings, and the battery life on a common CR2 battery is 4,000 measurements. Booth #12120. (kahles.at)

Konus

Konuspot spotting scopes have gotten a makeover. All three models have been redesigned and feature a smartphone adapter and reflex camera adapter. Models include the Konuspot-100 20–60x100mm (SRP: $434), Konuspot-80 20–60x80mm (SRP: $299), and Konuspot-65 15–45x65mm (SRP: $299). The

high-quality, yet affordable, Event 1–10x24mm riflescope (SRP: $649) is built for 3-Gun competitors. This scope features a 30mm tube, a laser-engraved red/blue illuminated Circle-Dot reticle, and a zoom lever. The new Empire series of riflescopes includes a 3–18x50mm (SRP: $649) and a 5–30x56mm (SRP: $679). Features include a 30mm tube, 6X zoom, a built-in level bubble, side parallex adjustment, and locking tactical turrets. The 50mm model features an illuminated 550-Ballistic reticle, and the 56mm model has an illuminated ½ mil-dot reticle. New Patrol binocular models include an 8x26mm (SRP: $79) and a 10x26mm (SRP: $84). Both use an open-hinge design, have rubber-coated bodies, and come with a case. Two new digital night-vision devices include the Konuspy-12 monocular (SRP: $309), with

GPO

GPO enters the laser rangefinding binocular category with the new RangeGuide 10x50mm binocular. This bino is lightweight and compact, measuring 6.3 inches in length and weighing only 35 ounces. It can accurately range reflective targets out to 3,062 yards with inclination/declination compensation. The new 6X RangeTracker 1800 rangefinder is designed to accurately range targets out to 1,800 yards for rifle hunters and close range to a minimum of 6 yards for archery hunters. SRP: $1,777.77. Booth #3461. (gpo-usa.com)

Hawke Optics

The new Vantage riflescope includes two models. The IR 3–9x42mm IR for slug guns (SRP: $189) is built with a 1-inch tube. The 30 WA 3–9x42mm IR (SRP: $279), calibrated for .223 Rem./.308 Win., uses a 30mm tube. Both scopes feature 11-layer, fully multi-coated optics for excellent clarity, fixed 100-yard parallax, a glass-etched reticle with red and green illumination, and ¼ MOA exposed and locking turrets. Booth #14202. (us.hawkeoptics.com)

Kahles

The new Kahles K18i 1–8x24mm riflescope (SRP: $2,777) is optimized for IPSC and 3-Gun matches with features like 3GR or IPSC reticles, an ultra-wide field of view, and

KA HL ES The Helia RF-M 7x25mm rangefinder features a large field of view and can reliably range targets up to 2,000 yards.

14 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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PRODUCTS

KO N U S The Konus Universal Adjustable Cantilever scope mount adjusts from 6.5 inches to

8.3 inches in length and fits 30mm or 1-inch scope tubes.

5X magnification, and the Konuspy-11 binocular (SRP: $384), with 3–6X zoom magnification. Both can be used in the daytime and include an SD card to store images and video. The Universal Adjustable Cantilever scope mount is a unique cantilever mount that adjusts from 6.5 inches to 8.3 inches in length and has seven different locking settings in between. The mount fits both 1-inch and 30mm riflescope tubes. SRP: $89. Booth #1246. (konuspro.com)

LaserMax

The newest generation of Guide Rod Lasers for the Glock platform includes green lasers for a number of Glock Gen5 models: 17, 19, 19X, 34, 43, 43X, 45, and 48. This new generation of guide rod lasers features a userprogrammable steady or high-visibility pulsed beam. The lasers also are equipped with an automatic 10-minute timeout to prevent inadvertent battery drain. SRP: $279. Booth #13940. (lasermax.com)

Leapers/UTG

The Micron (SRP: $154) is a miniature reflex sight compatible with optics-ready pistol systems or slides that have been milled with the common JP footprint. The aluminum-constructed sight has no external switches or buttons, since the Micron remains on at all times. An automatic brightness-adjustment sensor corrects the single dot’s intensity based on the surrounding light. Battery life is 1 year/20,000+ hours with a 3.0 MOA green dot reticle or 2 years/30,000+ hours for the single red dot off a single CR2032 battery. The DSR Micro is a rugged and compact dot sight that features a 4 MOA single red dot with eight adjustable brightness-intensity settings. This sight is constructed from aluminum and finished in a matte black anodization. Battery life is 2 years/30,000+ hours (on middle brightness setting) using a single CR2032 battery. The DSR Micron comes with a mounting base for an absolute co-witness with AR iron sight and a lower-profile base ideal for firearm applications that sit low over the barrel. SRP: $149. Booths #14803, #2146, #2246. (leapers.com)

L EAPERS The Leapers Micron is a mini reflex sight compatible with optics-ready handgun systems and slides milled for the JP footprint.

Leica

The Geovid 3200.COM rangefinding binocular now comes with Bluetooth connectivity, ranging to a true 3,200 yards. Models include a 8x42mm (SRP: $2,949), 10x42mm (SRP: $2,999), and 8x56mm (SRP: $3,299). All feature the new Leica Hunting app to manage the onboard menu and individual ballistics data. The new PRS 5–30x56i riflescope (SRP: $2,895) is Leica’s first long-range scope with 6X zoom, first focal plane (FFP) with 32 mrad (>100 MoA) adjustment range, and zero-stop turrets. The three models are PRS 5–30x56mm iL-4A (SRP: $2,699), PRS 5–30x56mm iBallistic (SRP: $2,699), and PRS 5–30x56mm iPRB (SRP: $2,699). The compact Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM has new Bluetooth functionality. The unit offers precise, reliable ranging up to 3,500 yards. Users can connect to the Kestrel Elite weather meter and use Leica’s Applied

KON US All three models of Konuspot spotting scopes have gotten a makeover, including this Konuspot 100. The two new Patrol binocular models use an open-hinge design with rubber-coated bodies.

16 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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PRODUCTS

L EAPERS The DSR Micro has a 4 MOA single red dot with eight adjustable brightness settings.

Ballistics technology for even more precise results. SRP: $1,199. Booth #12519. (us.leica-camera.com)

Lucid Optics L E I C A The new PRS 5–30x56i riflescope features a 6X zoom and zero-stop turrets.

The M7 Micro Red Dot sight (SRP: $309) is designed for AR and AK platforms, with an M5 reticle that allows a proven 25 percent faster target acquisition than a standard dot. The M7

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offers 11 brightness levels, 1,000 hours of battery life, and a modular mounting system. The new HDX mid-size red-dot sight offers a wide field of view and is designed for PCC competition use on pistols and carbines. The 2 MOA dot with the chevron-enhanced 32 MOA circle reticle gets on target quickly. A single AAA battery gives the sight more than 2,000 hours of runtime. SRP: $299. Booth #8008.

tered within the internal lens assembly, thus maximizing optical clarity in all conditions. These scopes also features a unique mounting system with an adjustment range of 300 MOA or 86 mil. The turrets are external to the inner scope tube, which pivots both horizontally and verti-

cally. The scope base is integrated with a Picatinny mount. New to the Master series of scopes is a 5–42x56mm FFP scope with a 34mm body, available with either an illuminated or nonilluminated reticle (SRP: $4,200). Booth #3263. (marchoptics.com)

(mylucidgear.com)

March Scopes

The new Genesis 6–60x56mm model (SRP: $5,700) is the sister model to the Genesis 4–40x52mm. In Genesis FFP scopes, the reticle remains fixed, so it is always optically cen-

M EO PTA The MeoPro Air premium binocular models are built with a lightweight magnesium-alloy chassis.

MARC H The reticle of the Genesis 4–40x52mm scope remains fixed, so it’s always optically centered.

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PRODUCTS

L EICA The compact Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM rangefinder now features Bluetooth functionality.

8X magnification. In addition, the new scope uses high-quality glass for improved light transmission and image clarity, and an ACSS Raptor reticle. New to the GLx lines of scopes is the GL2x Prism Scope, designed for close-quarter applications. The philosophy behind this new 2X prism is to improve target identification and clarity for mid-range engagements. Available with two ACSS reticle options tailored for either 5.56x45 or 7.62x51 ballistics. SRP: under $500. Booth #10372. (primaryarms.com)

Riton Optics

other manufacturers’ sights. The FT Bullseye (SRP: $160) is designed for concealed-carry pistols and incorporates an aiming point in an illuminated dot-and-circle bull’s-eye. It is day/night and low-light operable; no batteries required. It fits in most holsters and now fits the Glock 42 and 43, SIG Sauer P365, and the CZ P10. The ultra-compact FT Single Dot is a lowprofile pistol sight with front and back aiming posts that utilize fiber-optic tritium for day/ night/low-light use. Easily fits in existing pistol slide dovetails and most holsters; no batteries required. SRP: $130. Booths #20037, #20043. (meprolight.com)

LUCI D The M7 Micro Red Dot sight has an M5 reticle, which allows a proven 25 percent faster target acquisition than a standard dot.

Meopta

The new Optika5 premium riflescope series (SRP: under $500) features 1-inch-body models with a 5X zoom, zero-reset turrets, and advanced MeoBright lens coatings. Comes in 2–10x42mm RF (rimfire), 2–10x42mm, 3–15x44mm, 4–20x44mm, 4–20x50mm, and 4–20x50mm RD. Optika5 models feature SFP reticles; windage and elevation adjustments are ¼ MOA. The MeoPro Air premium binocular line is available in 8x42mm and 10x42mm models. Both feature an ergonomic open-hinge design, a lightweight magnesium-alloy chassis, and ED glass with Meopta’s proprietary lens coating, delivering edge-to-edge clarity and bright, sharp images. Its twist-up eyecups are easily removed for cleaning. SRP: about $1,000. Booth #10176. (meoptasportsoptics.com)

Nightforce Optics

The new NX8 riflescopes, with an 8X zoom, evolved from Nightforce’s NXS series. The NX8 2.5–20x50mm F1 is available in MOAR (SRP: $1,950) and Tremor3 reticles (SRP: $2,200); likewise for the NX8 4–32x50mm F1 (SRP: MOAR, $2,150; Tremor3, $2,400). Both scopes feature advanced DigIllum reticle illumination, ZeroStop technology, and either MOA or mil-radian adjustments. Booth #20449.

The X3 Tactix PRD (SRP: $299) is a pistol red-dot designed to ensure rapid target acquisition and precision. It features a 3 MOA dot reticle, making it ideal for pistol and AR platforms. The X3 Tactix 1–8x24mm tactical scope (SRP: $549) features ample internal adjustment, a daylight-bright illuminated reticle, and capped zero-resettable turrets. Available in black or FDE anodized finishes. The entry-level X1 Conquer 6–24x50mm riflescope (SRP: $329) has features like 60 MOA of elevation adjustment, an integrated throw lever, tactical zero-stop turrets, and a Riton ranging reticle. The new X5 Conquer 5–25x50mm MRAD scope (SRP: $1,299) combines clarity and durability with an FFP reticle, integrated throw lever, advanced mil zero-stop turrets, HD glass, a 34mm tube, and a 5X magnification ratio. For hunting applications, the X5 Primal 3–18x44mm scope (SRP: $999) provides maximum visibility in extreme light conditions. Features include HD glass, zero-resettable capped turrets, and an integrated throw lever.

PRIMARY ARMS The newest SLx scope, the SLx 1–8x24mm FFP, offers 8X magnification at an affordable price.

(nightforceoptics.com)

Primary Arms

The latest SLx riflescope series model is the SLx 1–8x24mm FFP (SRP: $479), which offers

Meprolight

The Mepro Mx3-T (SRP: $570) magnifier is designed to give CQB optics better advantage at distance. The unit attaches behind a reflex sight on a Picatinny rail, allowing the operator to flip the magnifier into or out of position without having to re-zero. It is compatible with Meprolight optical weapon sights and most

N I G H T FORC E The new NX8 riflescopes from Nightforce evolved from the company’s classic NXS series.

20 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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PRODUCTS

R I TON The X3 Tactix 1–8x24mm tactical scope is available in an FDE anodized finish.

The X7 Conquer 3–24x50mm (SRP: $2,249) features an illuminated reticle with HD/ED glass, an integrated throw lever, and advanced zero-stop turrets with 120 MOA of internal elevation adjustment. The lightweight X3 Tactix ARD red-dot was specifically designed for the AR platform and comes with a third lower QD co-witness mount, a 25mm objective, and a 2 MOA red-dot reticle (SRP: $349). Booth #428. (ritonoptics.com)

Sightron

The S-TAC 4–20x50 FFP riflescope is available with an illuminated MOA-3 reticle or a Mil/Mil MH-4 reticle. Both models come standard with zero-stop tactical knobs and an 11-position on/off illumination control located within the side-focus knob for quick and easy external access. One CR2032 battery provides up to 300 hours of service, depending on intensity and temperature. A unique magnification throw-lever is built into the power ring for fast and easy magnification adjustments. Both models can focus as close as 10 yards. The 30mm S-TAC 3–16x42 first-focal-plane riflescope is ideal for intermediate-range applications where high magnification is not required and a smaller-profile optic is needed. The MH-2 illuminated reticle is easily powered on/off via the 11-position illumination control located within the side-focus knob for quick and easy external access. A new tactical

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SIGHTRON The S-TAC 3–16x42 is a firstfocal-plane scope ideal for intermediate-range shooting.

zero-stop turret, with .1 mil clicks, has been added for tactical applications. A unique magnification throw-lever is built into the power ring for fast and easy magnification adjustments. The S-TAC can focus as close as 10 yards. Booth #10346. (sightronusa.com)

SIG Sauer

The new Romeo1PRO (SRP: black, $519; FDE, $549) is capable of mounting to any pistol with a SIG Sauer PRO slide cut, and is designed for durability in harsh environments. This miniature open-reflex red-dot sight is available with either a 3 MOA or 6 MOA red dot, with 12 brightness settings to accommodate a full range of lighting conditions. The new Oscar8 27–55x80mm HDX variable power spotting scope (SRP: $1,699) offers

power and magnification in a premium spotter. Features include an angled eyepiece and a rotating tripod collar for multiple viewing angles. SIG Sauer Electro-Optics partnered with Mission Crossbows to bring the compact Sierra3BDX 2.5–8x32mm scope to the BDX line of riflescopes. This ultralight riflescope is the perfect size, weight, and magnification range for crossbow configurations, making it possible to reach out well beyond 100 yards and engage targets with extreme precision. SRP: $479. Booths #12532, #12240. (sigsauer.com)

S I G SAU E R SIG Sauer Electro-Optics partnered with Mission Crossbows to bring the compact Sierra3BDX 2.5–8x32mm scope to the BDX line.

BOOTH #15062

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The Umarex AirSaber™ is a technologically advanced, big game arrow rifle powered by a 3625 psi air reservoir. The newly innovative design features an all-weather stock, optional 4x32 Axeon® scope with custom air archery ballistic reticle, and integrated pressure gauge.

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PRODUCTS

TRUGLO This new 1–8x24mm model—a low-power variable scope—is now part of the TruGlo Omnia line.

MRAD and EBR-9 BDC MOA glass-etched reticles, all in a 34mm tube. It has 120 MOA/30 MRAD of total travel, and zeroresettable turrets with 25 MOA/10 MRAD of adjustment per revolution. SRP: $2,899. Booths #4246, #4250, #4049, #4146. (vortexoptics.com)

Zeiss

S WA R O VS K I The lightweight Z5i illuminated-reticle scope is now available with a 1-inch

tube.

Swarovski

The lightweight Z5i illuminated reticle scope is now available with a 1-inch main tube. Like all Z5i riflescopes, it features 5X zoom and comes in 2.4–12x50mm, 3.5–18x44mm, and 5–25x52mm. SRP: $1,399 to $1,699, depending on reticle. Booth #12120. (swarovski optik.com)

TruGlo

The Omnia series of tactical riflescopes now includes a 1–8x24mm model (SRP: $447). This low-power variable scope excels at fast acquisition of near-field targets. It also features a ballistic-calibrated reticle, a detachable quick-zoom magnification lever, and a one-piece machined Picatinny rail mount that is ideal for AR-15 platforms. Booth #13317. (truglo.com)

U.S. Optics

Viridian

The ultra compact X5L IR4 4-in-1 laser sight/ illuminator provides an infrared laser, a 60 mW IR illuminator, a visible green laser, and a 500lumen white light. Two CR 123 lithium batteries power it for more than 10 continuous hours. The rugged X5L IR4 is waterproof, fits standard light-bearing holsters, and is equipped with Viridian’s Instant-On technology for automatic activation upon draw. SRP: $999. Booths #15722, #15732. (viridianweapontech.com)

Zeiss Precision Rings (SRP: $179) in 30mm and 36mm feature an integral anti-cant bubble level in the top half of the ring, easily visible from any shooting position. Constructed of 7075-T6 aluminum, these rings have a hardanodized finish in matte black and are available in low, medium, and high heights. New ZMOAi-T20 and ZMOA-T30 reticles are available in the Conquest V4 riflescope line. These new second-focal-plane reticles meet the needs for long-range shooting and hunting. SRP: $199. Booth #13909. (zeiss. com)

Vortex

The top-tier Razor HD Gen III 1–10x24mm riflescope works for point-blank tactical applications and long-range shooting. It combines an FFP optical system with the all-new EBR-9

Z E I SS : The Precision scope rings from Zeiss feature an integral anti-cant bubble level that’s easily viewed by the shooter.

The new flagship riflescope line, the Foundation Series, is made up of four domestically produced riflescopes engineered to exceed the needs of precision rifle shooters. Models include the FDN FX10 10x42mm (SRP: $1,999); FDN 10X 1.8–10x42mm (SRP: $2,499); FDN 17X 3.2–17x50mm (SRP: $2,899); and FDN 25X 5–25x52mm (SRP: $3,449). All models feature an FFP illuminated reticle in both mil and MOA, an EREK3 elevation knob in 1∕10 mil or ¼ IPHY, a US#3 capped windage knob in 1∕10 mil or ¼ IPHY, a rapidfocus eyepiece, and a 34mm tube. Up to 16 different reticle options for multiple shooting applications are available. Booths #13317, #20017. (usoptics.com)

V IRIDIAN The ultracompact X5L IR4 features an infrared laser, an IR illuminator, a green laser, and a white light.

24 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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BROWN IN G This

AMMO

124-grain, full-metaljacket addition to Browning’s 350 Legend line is part of the trend toward straight-walled ammo.

Plinkers and Long Rangers

Bulk rimﬁre ammo packages and 6.5mm cartridges are getting big releases, while Federal TSS dominates shotshells By Richard Mann

ith suppressed shooting for competition, plinking, and hunting becoming more common, we’re seeing a variety of purpose-built subsonic loads offered to support this safer form of shooting. Another trend, spearheaded by the 6.5 Creedmoor, is increased attention for other 6.5mm cartridges like the Grendel and PRC. TSS continues to rule the roost for shotguns, and for rimfires we’re seeing lots of bulk ammunition offerings. All that said, the coolest news for 2020 might be that the Marlin brand will finally appear on a box of ammunition. BA R N ES New VOR-TX loads use Barnes Expander slugs in 20 and 12 gauge; two new 6.5 PRC loads in the Precision Match line.

Barnes

New additions to the Barnes VOR-TX line of ammunition are Expander Shotshells in 20 and 12 gauge. These slugs are designed to function at low-impact velocities but deliver high muzzle velocities and flat trajectories. There are 2 ¾- and 3-inch loads available for anyone wanting to hard-whack big game. SRP: $15.13 to $17.38 per box of five.

FE DE RA L New Punch loads are designed to deliver extreme expansion and penetration in self-defense situations.

Some of the most exciting news from Barnes is the introduction of 6.5 Grendel loads in the VORTX and Precision Match lines. The Grendel is somewhat of a cult cartridge, but it’s gaining popularity on the heels of the 6.5 Creedmoor. The VOR-TX load uses a 115-grain TTSX bullet; the Precision Match load uses a 120grain Match Burner OTM-BT bullet. Suggested retail is $35 and $30, respectively. Barnes has also introduced two loads for the 6.5 PRC. The Precision Match offering utilizes a new, high-BC, 145-grain Match Burner OTM BT bullet, and the VOR-TX Long Range offering uses a 127-grain LRX boattail bullet. SRP: $48 and $40. Barnes is also offering a .450 Bushmaster load in its VOR-TX line. This is an ideal load for deer hunters who use either an MSR or a bolt-action in straightwalled-only states. It’s loaded with a 250-grain TTSX BT bullet. SRP: $42. Booths #14229, #14262. (barnesbullets.com)

Browning

BA R N ES New offerings include Barnes Expander shotshells in 20 and 12 gauge and a 6.5 PRC Precision Match load.

Browning’s new Wicked Wing shotshell waterfowl load uses the BXD wad system and a proprietary round steel shot treated for corrosion resistance, to provide consistent patterns in varying conditions. Wicked Wing Waterfowl loads are available for the 12-gauge in 3-inch #2 and #4 shot. Browning is also offering new loads for the straight-walled 350 Legend. There’s a 124-grain fullmetal-jacket load, and in the Browning BXR Rapid Expansion Deer line, there’s a 155-grain bullet designed specifically for use on whitetails, blacktails, mule deer, and antelope. Booth #12752. (browningammo.com)

28 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020

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BROWNING The new Wicked Wing shotshells use the BXD wad system and a proprietary round steel shot treated for corrosion resistance. It provides consistent patterns on waterfowl in a variety of conditions.

BARN ES The new VOR-TX Long Range 6.5 PRC loads are topped with a 127-grain LRX boattail bullet, while the new 6.5 PRC Precision Match loads use a 145-grain Match OTM boattail.

Federal

Shooters like to purchase .22 LR ammunition in bulk, and the new carton-style Blazer Pour Packs make it easy to handle all the ammo needed for a big day at the range. The 425-round container of Blazer .22 LR ammunition features a 38-grain round-nose bullet and retails for $27.95. The new CCI Maxi-Mag Segmented HP uses an exclusive polymer bullet coating to greatly reduce copper and lead fouling in the barrel without leaving a resi-

due. It also cuts lead buildup in suppressors by as much as 80 percent. The 46-grain segmented hollowpoint splits into three equal pieces on impact. SRP: $17.95 for a box of 50. The new CCI Pour Packs hold 125 rounds of Maxi-Mag or VNT .22 LR ammunition. The convenient cartons pour easily for highvolume shooting. They’re available filled with either 30-grain .22 WMR VNT ($42.95), 40-grain .22 WMR Maxi-Mag ($36.95), or 17-grain .17 HMR VNT ($41.95).

The CCI Stinger .22 LR load isn’t just great for pinning down varmints, it’s also been one of the top choices of YouTube shooting sensation “22plinkster.” That’s why Federal has introduced the special-edition “Stanger” loads, named in imitation of his signature drawl. A 100-count box retails for $16.95. CCI’s new Clean-22 Suppressor .22 LR load uses an advanced polymer bullet coating to reduce lead fouling inside a suppressor. With dependable CCI priming and consistent propellant, the loads cycle reliably through any suppressed firearm. A 200-count carton retails for $22.95.

The new Punch loads from Federal are designed to deliver that knockout blow defensive handgunners desire. The new bullet’s skived jacket and soft lead core produce great expansion and penetration, while its nickelplated brass and a sealed primer deliver reliable feeding and ignition. Punch loads will be available for the .380 Auto, .38 Special+P, 9mm Luger, .40 S&W, and the .45 Auto. Prices range from $15.95 to $21.95. With the new Federal SpeedShok 100-count packs, you can bring the velocity and power of Federal Speed-Shok to the blind in bulk. They come in Federal’s

FEDERAL Federal’s new Practice & Defend packs pair 50 HST Personal Defense rounds with 50 Syntech Training Match rounds.

DAY 2, JANUARY 22, 2020 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ 29

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PRODUCTS

FE DE RA L Federal’s 100round Top Gun bulk shotshell packs are ultra convenient for clays shooters.

F E D E R A L The new 20-gauge Black Cloud TSS loads blend #2 Flitestopper steel shot with #9 18 g/cc Tungsten Super Shot to create a swarm of pellets.

most popular payloads, delivering the performance and convenience hunters need. Options include a 3-inch 12-gauge 1 ¼-ounce #2 load, a 1 ¼-ounce #4 load, and a

1 ¼-ounce BB load, with a suggested retail price of $64.95. There’s a new Black Cloud TSS load in 20 gauge that blends #2 Flitestopper Steel with #9 18 g/cc

PRS 5–30 x 56 i

Tungsten Super Shot. This swarm of shot leaves no chance for escape. Suggested retail for a 10-count box is $38.95. The bullet design that redefined performance for one of the most trusted self-defense loads has now brought the .380 Auto cartridge to new heights. Powered by the Hydra-Shok Deep bullet, this new 99-grain bullet at 1000 fps from Federal is the first expanding .380 Auto load to consistently penetrate beyond the FBIrecommended 12-inch minimum. SRP: $25.95. You can now hit upland

Geovid 3200.COM

birds harder while experiencing the unmistakable performance of paper hulls with the new Federal Premium Paper Flyer loads. The exclusive waxed-paper hull holds a powerful payload of extra-hard, copper-plated lead shot, for patterns and penetration that drop the toughest, fastest upland birds. Offered for the 12-gauge in a 2 ¾-inch 1 ¼-ounce #7.5 load, a 25-count box retails for $23.95. With Federal’s Top Gun 100 Packs, clays shooting is more convenient. The new bulk offerings hold 100 consistent Top Gun target loads, and are available in 12 and 20 gauge, retailing for $37.95. Federal’s new Premium Terminal Ascent loads use a bonded bullet to penetrate deep on close targets; their polymer tip initiates expansion at velocities 200 fps slower than comparable designs. Available for the 6.5 Creedmoor, 6.5

FEDERAL Blazer’s new carton-style Pour Pack makes it easy to handle and dispense bulk .22 LR ammunition.

Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM

All eyes on Leica at SHOT Show Join us at booth #12519 for the highly anticipated launch of Leica’s three new optics - including the game-changing PRS riflescope plus two revolutionary rangefinding products – the Geovid 3200.COM and the ballistic powerhouse – the compact Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM.

PRS 5–30 x 56 i

Geovid 3200.COM

Rangemaster CRF 3500.COM

 Long-range scope with 6x zoom

 Range to a true 3,200 yards

 Reliable rangefinding up to 3,500 yards

 Generous magnification range of 5x to 30x

 Bluetooth® connectivity

 Powerful and reliable 3R laser

 High-quality metal components

 Manage via Leica Hunting App

 Bluetooth® functionality

 Extremely rugged and precise

 Link to Kestrel Elite and the Apple Watch

 Manage via Leica Hunting App

 Delivers light transmission of over 90%

 Rugged sleek design

 Link to Kestrel Elite and the Apple Watch

#masterthedistance

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www.bit.ly/LeicaHuntingHQ

| @LeicaHuntingUSA

1/9/20 4:25 PM

PRC, .270 Win., .270 WSM, .280 Ackley Improved, .28 Nosler, 7mm Rem. Mag., .308 Win., .30/06 Springfield, .300 Win. Mag., and .300 WSM. Retail prices range from $42.95 to $53.95. Federal’s new Practice & Defend Packs pair training ammunition with a proven law enforcement self-defense load in a versatile combo pack. These packs include 50 HST Personal Defense rounds and 50 Syntech Training Match rounds. All produce identical velocities, trajectories, and point of impact, for the most realistic training and utmost

protection. Packs of 100 rounds are offered for the 9mm ($60.95), .40 S&W ($68.95), and .45 Auto ($73.95). You don’t have to settle for sub-par performance from your subgauge shotgun. New 16- and 28-gauge Federal Premium Prairie Storm FS Lead loads use the updated Flitecontrol Flex wad and a mixed payload of standard pellets and Flitestopper lead to produce full, consistent patterns. Four new offerings include a 16-gauge 2 ¾-inch 1 ¼-ounce load in #4, #5, or #6 rated at 1450 fps, and a 28-gauge 2 ¾-inch 13∕16-ounce load in #6 at

FE DE RA L Remington’s new Subsonic rimfire ammo uses a copper-plated 40-grain HP bullet and will be available in boxes of 50 and 100 rounds.

FEDERA L Terminal Ascent loads (left) are designed to fully expand at slower velocities. The Force X2 12-gauge shells (right) are loaded with nine 00 buckshot pellets, designed to split into two equal pieces on impact.

See our full lineup of custom rifles, pistols, SBR’s, parts, and accessories for defense, competition, and sporting use at SHOT Show 2020.

Come see us at our new booth location SHOT Show Booth 20231 Take another look at del-ton.com

330 Aviation Parkway Elizabethtown, NC 28337 910 645-2172

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PRODUCTS

H OR N ADY Handgun Hunter loads are designed for exactly whom you’d expect. They use a Mono-Flex bullet in 9mm+P, .40 S&W, 10mm, .357 Mag., .44 Mag., .454 Casull, and .460 S&W Mag.

1300 fps. Suggested retail price gain in popularity, and the new is $34.95 for the 28-gauge loads wave of handgun hunters are not and $35.95 for the 16-gauge limiting themselves to traditional loads. big-bore revolver cartridges. With the new Force X2 offerHornady is now offering a new ing from Federal, you can turn line of ammunition specifically for your shotgun into the ultimate these enthusiasts—Hornady defensive platform. Handgun Hunter. The nine copperLoaded exclusively plated 00 FX2 buckwith a new, supershot pellets in each tough, purpose-built, 12-gauge 2 ¾-inch Mono-Flex bullet, shell are specially offerings include a engineered to split 9mm+P, .40 S&W, into two equal pieces 10mm, .357 Mag., on impact. This dou- HO R N A DY Two .44 Mag., .454 Casull, new 350 Legend loads bles the number of and .460 S&W Mag. include one in the wound channels Hornady also Custom line with a 165from nine to 18. added a variety of grain FTX bullet. Force X2 is also new loads across sevloaded for more eral ammunition manageable recoil. SRP: $22.95 lines. There’s a new .300 Win. per box. Booth #14551. Mag. load in the Precision Hunter (federalpremium.com; line, a 7.62x39 load in the cci-ammunition.com) American Gunner line, a 5.45x39 load in Hornady Black, and the Superformance line gets a new Hornady 6mm Creedmoor load. Hornady has finally gotten To support the 350 Legend, around to recognizing the .327 Hornady is offering two loads. In Federal Magnum cartridge, and the American Whitetail line, it’s for 2020 it will be offering it in loaded with a 170-grain soft its Critical Defense line. It will point at 2200 fps, and in the be loaded with a Hornady Custom line there’s a 165-grain 80-grain FTX bullet and should FTX load. be ideal for use in compact Each year it seems like Hornady revolvers chambered for this reaches back in time to include a highly underrated cartridge. classic cartridge into its Handgun hunting continues to LeverEvolution line of ammuni-

tion. For 2020, the new load for the 7x30 Waters. Hornady has also solidly stepped into the production of subsonic ammunition. Loaded with either Sub-X or XTP bullets, these loads leave the muzzle at subsonic velocities, and they’re quiet even without a suppressor. Offerings include loads for the 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 Auto, .30/30 Win., .450 Bushmaster, and even the .45-70 Gov’t. Prices start at $26 per box. Booths #13149, #13140. (hornady.com)

Marlin

In celebration of Marlin’s 150th anniversary, the gunmaker is offering a one-year, limited-edition production run of ammunition specifically designed for the leveraction rifles that have made Marlin the most iconic manufacturer of lever guns in the world. This is the first time the Marlin brand has appeared on a box of ammunition. Five loads will be offered, packaged in distinctive blue-and-white Marlin-branded boxes, in .30/30 Win., .35 Rem., .444 Marlin, .45-

M A R L I N To celebrate its 150th anniversary, Marlin is making a one-year, limited-edition production run of ammo designed specifically for lever guns. The ammo will be offered in five calibers, with distinctive Marlin packaging.

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PRODUCTS

N ORMA MHP self-defense ammunition uses an all-copper bullet for massive expansion and reliable feeding in semi-autos.

H O R N A D Y The company’s new Subsonic ammunition comes topped with either Sub-X or XTP bullets

that leave the muzzle at subsonic velocities. The line will include straight-walled cartridge loads in .450 Bushmaster and .45-70 Gov’t, along with 9mm, .40 S&W, .45 ACP, and 30/30 Win.

70 Gov’t, and even .22 LR. Prices start at $13.87 for a box of 25 rounds of .22 LR and extend to $49.99 for a box of 20 rounds of .444 Marlin. Booths #14229, #14262.

attractive price is a combination that differentiates Norma Tactical from the competition. The Bondstrike ammunition line is N O R M A Introduced last designed for year, the Tactical ammo (marlinfirearms. extreme long-range line is expanding with new com) accuracy and excelloads in various calibers. lent terminal performance. For Norma 2020, the Bondstrike line will With the introduction of the .223 expand to include—you guessed Remington Tactical 55-grain Full it—the 6.5 Creedmoor. Metal Jacket (FMJ) load in 2019, Norma’s MHP ammunition is an entire new category of ammudesigned for self-defense. It utilizes nition was created for Norma. an all-copper bullet that delivers For 2020, there’s numerous other massive expansion. The bullet’s offerings loaded to strict Norma nose design promotes reliable feedstandards. The versatility and pering in pistols and pistol-cartridge formance of these loads at such an carbines, regardless of barrel

RE M I N GTO N A new .450 Bushmaster load will be added to the Hog Hammer ammunition line.

length. For 2020, Norma has added the .380 Auto to the MHP line. Booth #16727. (normaammunition.com)

Remington

Starting with the new Premier TSS load for .410 bore and 20and 12-gauge shotguns, Remington has a variety of new offerings for 2020. The Premier TSS line features ultra-high-density tungsten Super Shot, and the line includes a #9 shot .410 load, #7 and #9 20-gauge loads, and #7, #8, and #9 12-gauge loads. SRP: $29.99 to $49.99. Remington will also be adding the 6.5 Grendel to the Premier Match and High-Performance Rifle lines. The HPR load will offer a 120-grain BTHP bullet,

and in the Premier Match line, the 6.5 Grendel will be loaded with a 120-grain Barnes Match Burner OTM bullet. SRP: $24.25 and $30, respectively. For 2020, Remington will also be supporting the 6.5 PRC cartridge, loading it with a 145-grain Barnes Match Burner OTM boattail bullet in the Premier Match line. SRP: $40. Until the recent revival of straight-walled cartridges, the .450 Bushmaster was almost, as David Petzal would say, “dead as a dead gun writer.” However, it has found new life. Remington will be offering three .450 Bushmaster loads in the Core-Lokt, HTP Copper, and Hog Hammer lines. SRP: $40. But don’t think Remington has forgotten about the 6.5mm rifle cartridge that started the current 0.264-caliber craze. For the 6.5 Creedmoor, Remington has added a 130-grain offering in its Premier Scirocco line. The Scirocco bullet has a polymer tip, secant ogive, and bonded jacket and core to deliver excellent flight characteristics and outstanding terminal performance. SRP: $45.69. For those addicted to everything in .22 LR, this year Remington is offering Subsonic Rimfire ammu-

N ORMA Bondstrike ammo is designed for extreme long-range accuracy and excellent terminal performance.

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PRODUCTS

SIG SAUER SIG’s Elite Hunter Tipped ammunition is available in 8 popular hunting calibers and is designed for superior penetration.

nition. This ammunition is the result of a joint development project between Remington and AAC, and offers a clean and consistent subsonic load using a copper-plated 40-grain HP bullet optimized for terminal performance. It will be available in boxes of 50 ($5.27) and 100 ($10.49). Booths #14229, #14262. (remington.com)

SIG Sauer

SIG has added the .260 Remington cartridge to its Elite Match line of premium, competition ammunition featuring Sierra MatchKing bullets. It’s also added the 6mm Creedmoor to the same line. Also new for 2020 is a 6mm Creedmoor Elite Copper Hunting load with an 80-grain all-copper bullet, and a 6mm Creedmoor Elite Match OTM load also topped with Sierra MatchKing bullets. However, the big news from SIG is the introduction of the Elite Hunter Tipped ammunition designed for massive expansion and deep penetration. The ammunition features a yellow-tipped, lead-alloy bullet with an enhanced boattail design for superior flight characteristics. The exclusive design of the concentric blackened jacket ensures reliable, controlled expansion with maximum weight retention, while the translucent yellow tip increases the ballistic coefficient. Elite Hunter Tipped ammunition is available in .243,

.270, and .308 Win., 6mm and 6.5mm Creedmoor, .260 Rem., .30/06 Springfield, and .300 Win. Mag. Booths #12240, #12532. (sigsauer.com)

Winchester

In support of the exciting 350 Legend introduced by Winchester last year, the ammo maker is now offering a Super Suppressed load featuring a 255-grain bullet. Winchester’s Super Suppressed line of rifle ammunition offers clean and reliable performance and is engineered for noise reduction, decreased barrel/suppressor fouling, and recoil mitigation. Another new 350 Legend load is in the PowerMax Bonded line, utilizing a 160-grain bullet. Selected to serve as the ammunition supplier for the U.S. Army’s Modular Handgun System (MHS) program, Winchester proudly developed the M1152 load for the P320/M17 pistol. M1152 delivers the accuracy and reliability required by the MHS program and will be offered in 100- and 150-round boxes under the new Active Duty brand. This 9mm Luger load features a 115-grain flat-nose FMJ bullet with a muzzle velocity of 1320 fps. When it comes to ammunition for personal defense, the Winchester Silvertip Jacketed Hollow Point is a time-tested choice. Now available in a

20-round box with patterns. new packaging, For those who hunt Silvertip ammunition big game with shotwill be available at an guns (whether you’re excellent price for the regulated or you prefer .380 Auto, .38 Special, it), Winchester’s new 9mm Luger, .357 DSXP Copper Impact Mag., .40 S&W, Slugs deliver extreme 10mm, and .45 Auto. accuracy, with a leadWinchester is addfree, plastic-tipped, W IN C HESTER ing to its already large-caliber bullet in The famous AA shotfamous line of AA 20 and 12 gauge. shell line is getting a shotshell target These loads should be new Diamond Grade ammunition. The new ideal for deer hunters competition load. AA Diamond Grade is in shotgun-only states, loaded with the hardand even for bear est shot, highest-antimony condefense in locations like Alaska. tent, resulting in more round pelBooths #13129, #13329A, lets downrange for dense, uniform #13334A. (winchester.com)

W I N C H EST ER The same 9mm ammo used by the military in the SIG P320/M17 pistol will be sold under the new Active Duty brand.

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OUTERWEAR Old Meets New

Outerwear companies are blending classic designs with modern materials and features for superior weatherproof gear By Peter B. Mathiesen

n the manufacturing front, the up-and-coming areas are proving no flash in the pan: Production of outerwear in Brazil, India, and Vietnam continues to increase. Meanwhile, production in China remained stable with little growth. The tactical clothing segment of the market grew slightly in 2019, while women’s and casual-wear SKUs expanded, and most hunting-specific clothing companies held steady. Pricing is expected to be steady as well—or even drop slightly, as the value brands compete on price. Across most of the continent, the 2019 hunting season brought higher turns as the year drew to a close. For the second year in a row, dealers reported steady sales in both the low-range and premium categories, and retailers had emptied most shelves by the end of the season. But what will we be wearing in 2020? Here’s a look at what’s new.

5.11 Tactical

The updated Surplus Jacket from 5.11 delivers military styling, advanced utility, and modern comfort in a well-designed package. A bi-swing back adds freedom of movement to the shoulder area, and smart pockets provide outstanding utility, with a Teflon treatment repelling stains and dirt. ReadyPocket compartments on the chest are topped off with patch pockets, and the large front cargo pockets feature hidden snap closures. Side-entry YKK-zippered pockets include the company’s internal Rapidraw pass-through system, so you can get to gear in your pants pockets or on your belt. The hood on the Surplus zips into the collar when it’s not needed. The shell construction combines 67 percent polyester with 33 percent cotton mechanical stretch Flex-Tac canvas for enhanced freedom of movement and comfort. The jacket has timeless lines, progressive functionality, and allimportant tactical capability along with plenty of extras built in. Available in camo, black, Kangaroo, and Ranger Green, from XS to 3XL. SRP: $129.99. Booth #13162. (511tactical.com)

ArcticShield

The Elite Youth Parka from ArcticShield is designed to fit and function just like Mom and Dad’s gear! This waterproof and breathable parka is constructed with ArcticShield Retain, a heat-reten-

HUN TSWORTH The Men’s Heavy Weight Bonded Soft Shell Jacket has a high standing collar and a drop-tail hem to help retain body heat.

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MYST E RY RA N CH The Pop Up 38 backpack’s roomy main compartment can be top-loaded, but it also has a full-length side zipper.

tion technology that captures and returns up to 90 percent of body heat to the body, keeping it warm in any cold-weather condition. The windproof, polyester tricot outer shell is quiet and smooth to the touch. Available in S–XL sizes. SRP: $119.99. Booth #1362. (arcticshield outdoor.com)

BunkerHead

BUN K E R H E A D The Concealment System’s face mask and hoodie are clipped to a ball cap.

The BunkerHead Concealment System combines a face mask for the front, and a hoodie-style cover for the rear of the head. The face mask and hoodie quickly connect via a set of clips that are mounted to a ball cap. For the rear of the cap, specially placed Velcro points

secure the hoodie when desired. Because the face mask and hoodie mount to your ball cap on the clips and Velcro, the face mask does not touch your face and will not fog your glasses, delivering an exceptional field of view. This simple product solves a big problem. SRP: $24.99. Booth #N341. (bunker head.com)

Huntworth

The new Men’s Heavy Weight Bonded Soft Shell Jacket from Huntsworth is engineered to assist hunters during exceptionally cold hunts. The high standing collar and the drop-tail hem combine to encapsulate body heat. The

InVelvet fleece lining also keeps the wearer warm; it’s bonded to a breathable waterproof film and thick Sherpa fleece for a combined weight of approximately 370g. Microban antimicrobial product protection treatment on the bonded Sherpa creates a durable waterrepellent finish that sheds moisture and light snow. Tailored arm construction allows easy movement while drawing a bow or climbing a treestand. The jacket has two zip chest pockets, two zip hand pockets, and two interior stash pockets. A safety harness access hole is at the back of the jacket. Available in M-22L sizes. SRP: $149.99. Booth #10029. (huntworth.com)

ROC KY The lightweight Prohunter Berber jacket keeps warmth in and moisture out. The line also features pants, a beanie, a gaiter, and gloves.

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PRODUCTS

Mystery Ranch

The Pop Up 38 backpack was created using feedback from hunters who wanted a bigger pack option on Mystery Ranch’s exclusive Pop Up frame system. The result is the new 38, featuring a larger main compartment that can be accessed via a top-loading shroud or through the full-length side zipper, meaning if something is stashed at the bottom, you don’t have to take out everything above it to get to it. The two-part lid keeps key items within reach, while helping to secure and protect spotting scopes and tripods that are stashed in the outer, compressible pocket. Dual side pockets are perfect for trekking poles, water bottles, and other items, while the Autolock buckles and compression straps cinch down firmly. Where the Pop Up 38 separates itself is in the unique telescoping frame, transforming from a low profile to a maximized load-lifting system in seconds. Designed utilizing trekking pole technology, the new 2020 Pop Up frame is an improvement on Mystery Ranch’s original Pop Up design, which was instead based on a tentpole connection. This upgrade will be seen on all Pop Up models, which come in sizes S–XL. The pack weighs 5.3 pounds and has a capacity of 45 liters (2,746 cubic inches), and is available in Coyote, Foliage, and Subalpine. SRP: $350. Booth #16753. (mysteryranch.com)

Rocky

Rocky is expanding its highperformance hunting apparel line in 2020 with the new Prohunter Berber products. The Berber series delivers lightweight wicking apparel that keeps warmth in and moisture out. The collection features a jacket, pants, beanie, gaiter, and gloves—all made from a Berber fleece knit that looks great and performs silently. The jacket and pants are made from a Berber fleece shell with a tricot interior lining, and feature a DWR (durable water repellent) coating along with Rocky ScentIQ Atomic, which destroys scent at the microbial level. Three jacket pockets with YKK zippers provide flexibility, and an expandable waistband in the pants will keep hunters comfortable in the field. The beanie and gaiter come with a microfleece lining and moisture-wicking properties, to

WOLV E R I N E The new Bucksaw Hoodie uses Wolverine’s rolled-shoulder design to allow freedom of movement. pull sweat away from the body. The gloves are equipped with a micro-tricot lining, pigskin leather fingers, and elastic wrist construction for a secure fit. All items will be available in Realtree Edge camo in sizes S–3XL. SRP: jacket, pants, $100; gloves, $40; beanie, gaiter, $20. Booth #11340. (rockyboots.com)

Seirus

Seirus has committed to make a wide range of accessories in U.S.government-approved Coyote Tan, while meeting a wide range of military, professional, and consumer needs. One of these accessories is the company’s bestselling All Weather glove. Designed with Weathershield to block wind and moisture while allowing for superior dexterity and warmth, the All Weather glove uses 200g lofted insulation and features a next-to-skin fit, along with fleece-lined Polartec. Available in sizes S–2XL. SRP: $39.99. Booth #11740. (seirus.com)

Wolverine

The new Bucksaw Hoodie from Wolverine is ideal for early or late season, as an insulating shirt or under a shell, and will keep the elements at bay. Constructed of classic flannel fabric bonded to warm micro fleece, this garment will keep the wearer toasty warm. It’s a perfect choice for stacking wood or keeping warm on a cold day on the construction site. Made from 100 percent cotton flannel, bonded to 100 percent 370gsm polyester microfleece, the garment weighs 10.9 ounces. The hoodie uses Wolverine’s rolled-shoulder design for freedom of movement. Its threepiece hood features a metaltipped drawstring. A left chest pocket has a snapflap closure, and the center front pocket comes with metal logo snaps. The cuff has adjustable snaps, and the tail is extended to reduce drafts. Available in sizes M–2XL. SRP: $60. Booth #12462. (wolverine.com)

5 .1 1 The hood on 5.11 Tactical’s updated Surplus Jacket rolls up and zips into the collar when it’s not needed.

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FROMthe NSSF One of the steps manufacturers can take to support National Shooting Sports Month is to offer a Gearbox Giveaway.

You don’t have to be a major manufacturer to participate in the program.

Celebrating National Shooting Sports Month August has turned into an annual celebration of shooting sports, and support for this initiative grows with each passing year By Brad Fitzpatrick

hen NSSF launched National Shooting Sports Month in August 2017, the goal was for ranges, retailers, manufacturers, and other members of the firearms industry to promote awareness of and participation in shooting sports. Now, three years in, it’s doubtful those who spearheaded the project could have anticipated its impact, and how quickly the event has grown.

In 2018, 139 ranges and retailers supported the cause and sponsored events. By 2019, that number had risen to more than 500, many of which were small businesses, and there’s every indication that National Shooting Sports Month 2020 is on track to surpass those numbers. This past year marked another milestone for the event when the White House issued a statement on August 1 celebrating National Shooting Sports Month. It read, in part, “The vibrant shooting sport culture is made possible, in large part, by our steadfast protection of one of our bedrock and most-cherished liberties, the right to keep and bear arms.” The governors of Arkansas, South Carolina, South Dakota, Oklahoma, Wisconsin, Wyoming, and Georgia issued similar statements and declared August to be National Shooting Sports Month in their respective states. In addition to the continued and growing support of state and national leaders, manufacturers, range owners, and retailers have generated increased interest in National Shooting Sports Month through emails and on social media platforms. Zach Snow, NSSF’s Director of Retail and Range Business Development, says the industry’s support has significantly increased participation in and awareness of the celebration. “When Daniel Defense sent out a message on social media about National Shooting Sports Month, we saw a dramatic increase in web traffic on our LetsGoShooting.org

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FROM THE NSSF

NSSF provides all the tools retailers need to promote National Shooting Sports Month.

webpage, which is where we steer people throughout August to learn more about the events happening around them and how they can join the celebration,” Snow says. “It actually shut down our server due to the volume. We’ve seen similar increases when other companies, such as Mossberg, have promoted the month and events on social media.” It’s not just major manufacturers that are increasing interest in the month. Snow says all retailers and range managers can have a major impact by simply incorporating the campaign into their normal August promotions. NSSF provides all the tools needed to do that, and it’s up to all of us to ensure the campaign continues to grow.

A Worthwhile Cause

There’s no shortage of bad press regarding firearms, and so long as those of us involved in the gun industry remain silent, the public at large will continue to be swayed by misinformation about firearms and gun owners. National Shooting Sports Month offers a way to reach

Gearbox Giveaway prize packages, such as this one from Colt, have ranged in value from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, and have become a cornerstone of Shooting Sports Month, garnering a great deal of attention on social media and web platforms.

out to a broad audience—both shooters and non-shooters—and effectively promote safe shooting and responsible gun ownership. It also serves as an ideal platform for retailers, manufacturers, and individual shooters to introduce new people to the sport. In conjunction with NSSF’s +ONE Movement, National Shooting Sports Month opens the door to discussions about shooting sports and gun ownership. It’s an opportunity to invite someone who has never shot to join you at the

range and experience the shooting sports firsthand. These individual efforts might seem like a minor step toward preserving our hunting and shooting rights, but as more and more non-shooters learn the truth about gun ownership, support for our sports and our industry will continue to grow. Whether you’re a leader of a major firearms manufacturer, range, or retail establishment, or are simply a target-shooting enthusiast who wants to promote the sport, there’s a role you can play.

How to Contribute to National Shooting Sports Month

One of the steps manufacturers can take to support National Shooting Sports Month is to offer a “Gearbox Giveaway.” These prize packages, which have ranged in value from $1,000 to $5,000 or more, have become a cornerstone of the celebration and have garnered a great deal of attention on social media and web platforms. In addition to providing support for

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Target Reached

An NSSF priority, the Range Bill will help grow recreational shooting and hunting

By Brian McCombie

In conjunction with NSSF’s +ONE Movement, National Shooting Sports Month opens the door to discussions about shooting sports.

NSSF’s causes, Gearbox Giveaways also serve as a promotional device for manufacturers, and they can be customized as the company wishes. Perhaps it’s a new-shooter package that includes a firearm and all the gear a new shooter will need on the range, or it could be a hunting or longrange target-shooting package. Gearbox Giveaways are one avenue for business owners to support National Shooting Sports Month, but there are other ways in which our industry members can play a role. Companies can offer special deals throughout August to support the initiative, which simultaneously works to increase participation and interest in the shooting sports. It’s also a great opportunity to share information about the campaign on social media platforms, as these grassroots efforts not only generate interest in your business, they also help spread a positive message about the shooting sports. NSSF has identified target markets for this initiative. One is Houston, Texas, a city with a growing population and shifting opinions about firearms and shooting. By concentrating efforts in such areas (NSSF had targeted messaging on radio stations and billboards across Houston in 2019), the information reaches a broad audience, many of whom might not have experience with firearms and shooting. Regardless of your location, though, we all play a critical role in promoting the shooting sports that support our industry and introducing newcomers to recreational shooting. This is a pivotal time in the history of gun rights in the United States. Increased calls for restrictions and limitations on firearms ownership represent real threats to our sport and our industry. By doing your part to promote National Shooting Sports Month, every retailer, range operator, and manufacturer in the country can help change the narrative and reach out to the voting public. We know that shooting sports are a safe and fun recreational activity the whole family can enjoy, and now is the time to spread that truth to a larger audience. For more information on National Shooting Sports Month or to learn ways to become involved in the initiative, visit Shooting SportsMonth.org and LetsGoShooting.org.

he shooting sports industry had good reason to rejoice last May when President Donald Trump signed into law H.R. 1222, The Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Support Act, at the White House. The “Range Bill,” as it has been termed, provides greater flexibility to state fish and game agencies in the building of new recreational shooting ranges, as well as the expansion and improvement of existing ranges—shooting ranges, it should be noted, that are open to the public.

“This has been an NSSF priority—the Range Bill will help to grow and sustain hunting and recreational target shooting,” says Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel. “We are deeply appreciative of our leaders on both sides of the aisle and on both sides of Capitol Hill for their work on this bill, and of President Trump for his swift enactment of the new law.” The Range Bill had been making the legislative rounds for more than a decade before being passed, despite wide bipartisan support. Starting with the 110th Congress, versions of this legislation were introduced as 29 different bills and appeared in 15 separate legislative packages. “The problem the bill had? It kept getting caught up in other legislation,” says Mark Oliva, NSSF’s Director of Public Affairs. “The Range Bill would become a rider to a controversial bill, and that bill would get voted down. It was all pretty frustrating for us because the bill did have such broad bipartisan support, but NSSF never gave up working toward it becoming law.” The Range Bill still allows states to use their Pittman-

The Range Bill will help provide more opportunities to shoot on public land.

Robertson Fund allocations to begin construction of new public ranges or to improve existing public recreational shooting facilities. However, prior to this law’s enactment, states were required to put up 25 percent of the cost of range-construction projects to access the matching 75 percent of Pittman-Robertson funds. With the Range Bill’s passage, states can now access those funds with only a 10 percent match. Plus, those same states will have five fiscal years to acquire land for range construction or expansion projects. NSSF estimates that more than 80 percent of PittmanRobertson excise tax contributions are generated by sales attributed to recreational shooting. That means today’s recreational target shooter is an overwhelming contributor

to wildlife conservation. Yet, there are barriers to recreational shooting. “Every time NSSF surveys current and potential shooters and hunters about what they need, one of the top answers is always, ‘We need places to shoot that are within 30 to 45 minutes of home,’ ” says Oliva. “And those places should be accessible to the public. The range bill will help to make that a reality.” NSSF is especially grateful to U.S. Representatives Ron Kind (D-WI), Rob Bishop (R-UT), and Duncan Hunter (R-CA), as well as U.S. Senators Shelley Moore Capito (R-WV), Michael Bennet (D-CO), John Boozman, (R-AR), Mike Crapo (R-ID), Joni Ernst (R-IA), Angus King (I-MA), Joe Manchin (D-WV), Jim Risch (R-ID), Mike Rounds (R-SD), and Dan Sullivan (R-AK). All were original cosponsors on both the House and Senate versions of the legislation. The next step is already in the works. NSSF is helping to educate state game agencies about ways to use and benefit from the Range Bill.

ACCESSING RANGE BILL BENEFITS

Do you work for a state game agency that would like to see how the Range Bill can benefit your state’s recreational shooters and hunters? Contact: Jake McGuigan, NSSF Managing Director, Government Relations–State Affairs, at 203-426-1320 or JMCGUIGAN@NSSF.ORG.

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1/9/20 3:33 PM

FROM THE NSSF

Profound Impact After 20 years, NSSF’s Project ChildSafe continues to help protect children from ﬁrearms accidents By Christopher Cogley

ometimes the programs that end up having the biggest impact are the ones born from the humblest beginnings. When the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) launched the firearms safety program that would become Project ChildSafe in 1999, there weren’t necessarily a large number of people who took notice. Twenty years later, Project ChildSafe has become a nationally recognized program whose effects are impossible to ignore.

“It has been unbelievably fulfilling to watch this program grow and to see all the success it’s had,” says Bill Brassard, NSSF’s Senior Director of Communications, who has been with the organization since the launch of the program. “We never anticipated such rapid growth and widespread support from so many groups and individuals. It obviously provided the firearms safety resources they were looking for.” Although people on both sides of the gun debate have come to see the obvious benefits of Project ChildSafe, in the beginning it was just several key proponents who were responsible for getting it the national attention it needed to begin to truly make a difference. Former NSSF President Doug Painter proposed and spearheaded the launch of the program, which was initially called Project HomeSafe, and it quickly caught the attention of Mary Fallin, Oklahoma’s Lt. Governor at the time. “She was a huge advocate of the program, and she really ran with it,” Brassard says. “She would travel all over the state telling people about the program and gathering tremendous

support for it.” Another person who took notice early on and recognized the enormous potential of the program was the Governor of Texas at the time, George W. Bush. “He saw its potential to promote responsible gun ownership right away,” Brassard says. “And he’s actually the one who’s responsible for changing the name from Project HomeSafe to Project ChildSafe.” Then-Governor Bush helped NSSF secure a $1 million grant to implement the program across Texas. Then, when he was in the White House in 2002, he demonstrated his commitment to the program at a whole new level with support for $50 million in funding. “That was monumental in expanding the program nationally,” Brassard says. “It’s hard to imagine that the program would be what it is today without that grant.” Among other things, the grant allowed NSSF to create mobile classrooms in which Project ChildSafe representatives traveled to police and sheriff’s departments across the country, explaining the benefits of the program and delivering its signature resource—a

Project ChildSafe has provided law enforcement agencies and other community partners with information to distribute to gun owners about the importance of keeping firearms locked up.

Mobile classrooms helped Project ChildSafe representatives travel across the country explaining the benefits of the program.

firearms safety kit that includes a cable gun lock and safety education brochure. “The mobile classrooms and their staffs really became our ‘safety ambassadors,’” Brassard says. “They explained the details of the program to law enforcement agencies and showed them how they could be the leaders of gun safety in their communities.” The program also gave officers the tools to do that. Through Project ChildSafe, NSSF provided law enforcement agencies and other community partners with information to distribute to gun owners about the importance of keeping firearms locked up when they aren’t being used, as well as the free gun locks to ensure that gun owners everywhere had the means to secure their firearms even if they didn’t have access to a gun safe. It was a simple concept that has been so well received in local communities that now, 20 years later, NSSF has distributed more than 38 million gun locks and safety information packets to people across the country. As word of the program grew, NSSF expanded the scope to include partners such as ranges and firearms retailers, fish and game departments, conservation groups, tribal organizations, and youth groups such as 4-H and Boy Scouts of America. Through all of the growth and success of Project ChildSafe, though, the purpose of the program has largely remained the same: to protect children and reduce the number of accidental firearms-related deaths. That’s exactly what it’s helped accomplish. Data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention WISQARS injury database show a decline of 29.5 percent in unintentional fatalities among children age 14 and under from 1999 to 2017. Compared with other types of unintentional fatalities among children 14 and under, those from firearms rank among the lowest. It isn’t just children who have benefited from the success of Project ChildSafe. Statistics show that, among all age groups, now less than 0.5 percent of all unintentional fatalities in the United States are firearms-related. “Accidental firearms deaths are at historic low levels,” Brassard says. “There have been a lot of other organizations working very hard to make this happen on many different fronts, but

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we definitely think Project ChildSafe has played a big role in helping to save lives in the last two decades, and that’s something we’re all incredibly proud of.” Despite the impressive statistics that speak to the overwhelming success of Project ChildSafe, the government grants that were instrumental in the widespread rollout of the program have dwindled. After federal funding dried up completely in the late 2000s, Project ChildSafe received a grant for $2.4 million from the Obama administration in 2015, a testament to the program’s continued ability to transcend political agendas. It also recently secured another $1 million grant from the state of Texas. “Project ChildSafe is not involved with the politics of guns,” Brassard says. “It’s a straightforward gun-safety message that anyone can get behind.” Unfortunately, that overwhelming nonpartisan success of the program is also presenting new obstacles for Project ChildSafe. While the firearms industry has always been supportive of the program, the absence of govern-

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NSSF has distributed more than 38 million gun locks to people across the country.

ment grants makes it extremely challenging to find the resources to keep up with demand. “We’re still receiving requests to replenish gun-safety materials from thousands and thousands of police departments across the country,” Brassard says. “Project ChildSafe materials are in greater demand than ever, but it’s to the point where we can only fulfill about quarter of the requests we receive.” To help overcome that obstacle, NSSF recently established the Project ChildSafe Foundation as a 501(c)(3) charity so that it can accept donations from people and businesses that support the program’s mission of protecting children and other unauthorized persons from firearms-related injuries. “This is an important program, and the continued demand for the safety kits is an endorsement of the effectiveness of the program and the positive effect these law enforcement agencies believe it’s

having in their community,” Brassard says. “I definitely see the program growing and evolving in the years to come. As long as the demand is there, and as long as we’re continuing to help save lives, Project ChildSafe will be recognized as a real solution to firearms

safety around our country.” For more information on what you or your business can do to contribute to the continued success of Project ChildSafe or to make a contribution to Project ChildSafe Foundation, visit ProjectChildSafe.org.

1/9/20 3:34 PM

from the nssf

Waiting in the Wings

NSSF’s newest report shows you new ways to get first-time gun buyers through your doors By Brian McCombie id you know that an estimated 24 million Americans have seriously thought about buying their very first firearm and are considering making that purchase within the next few years? That number of potential new-gun owners is based on research gathered and examined by several sources in a new and important report, “Future Gun Owners of America: Improving Recruitment of New Hunters and Recreational Shooters,” from the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

When you consider that most estimates put the number of current gun owners at approximately 100 million Americans, a pool of 24 million new firearms consumers would make a huge and very positive impact on all facets of the shooting sports industry. Some of the report’s important highlights include: ➤A

full 20 percent of this untapped market, referred to in the report as the “Unprepared Protector,” are people motivated to make their first firearm purchase by the desire to protect their home. To feel confident in their ability to provide this protection, these people want to become proficient with firearms, too.

➤ Potential

male firearm buyers, termed “Unarmed Aaron,” represent 18 percent of this market. These males are primarily interested in protection away from the home, as well as home protection.

➤ “Weaponless

Wendy,” the 19 percent of this market made up entirely of women, want to purchase that first firearm mostly from a desire to protect themselves and their family both at and away from home. They also want to become proficient with that firearm in case they ever need to use it.

➤ The

typical “Aspiring Hunter,” at 7 percent of the market, has not yet purchased a firearm because they cannot afford one, don’t know of a nearby place to go hunting, and are not sure if they would use the firearm enough to justify the expense. “Examine all the current and past data as to what stops people from making a firearm purchase decision, and the top answers are always about a lack of firearm knowledge,” says Jim Curcuruto, Director of Research and Market

Development for NSSF. “They lack basic knowledge about firearms use and types, the laws and regulations. So, they walk into an FFL, see the counter is full of guns and ammunition, feel overwhelmed, and walk right back out.” How to make them comfortable enough to make their first purchase? Curcuruto used the example of the first-time angler. “The fishing industry has made it simple for first-timers by offering specially priced combo packages that include everything one needs to get started,” he says. “A customer can simply pick up a package that includes a rod, reel, lures, a tackle box—and they’re good to go. Retailers set up displays so salespeople can easily show starter packages to those first-time participants.” For the potential new-gun owner, Curcuruto suggests that FFLs try an all-in-one “Range Bag” approach. The Range Bag can hold items such as cleaning products, shooting glasses, hearing protection, targets, holster, ammunition, and a coupon for an hour of hands-on range instruction. Depending on the establishment, the retailer might have the Range Bag at several different price points. Paired with in-store displays clearly marked “First-Time Gun Owner Packages,” such offerings allow new customers to simply take the fully stocked Range Bag to the sales counter and work with a salesperson to select a firearm that will fit their needs. And just like that, the customer leaves the FFL a first-time gun owner and soon-tobe first-time shooter. “What an FFL might offer through the Range Bag approach will depend on the customer base, of course,” Curcuruto notes. “One FFL might have three different bags with each designed for the concealed-carry market. Another might have a Range Bag for the plinker and one for beginner hunters.” NSSF is currently piloting this Range Bag approach and will be presenting the evaluation of those

efforts throughout 2020 at NSSF events and on its website. “Improving Recruitment of New Hunters and Recreational Shooters” provides numerous instore sales tips and display ideas for each category of potential buyers, plus marketing messages independent FFLs can use to connect with this huge pool of potential gun buyers. The report, available for download at NSSF.org

and free to NSSF members, was produced thanks to a U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service multi-state grant administered through the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies, and was compiled by Southwick Associates. The report is easy to read, filled with tons of practical information, and can help independent FFLs bring a wave of new customers through their front doors.

An all-in-one “Range Bag” approach is a good way to attract potential new gun owners. The bag can hold such essentials as shooting glasses, hearing protection, targets, and ammo.

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MINUTES WITH…

Benjamin Wallbott Global Director Sales, Leica Sport Optics

A New Path

At Leica, “good enough” isn’t good enough enjamin Wallbott has been the global sales director at Leica Sport Optics for the past five years. A few months ago, he was also appointed the interim sales director at Leica Sport Optics in the United States. Based in Wetzlar, Germany, he has worked in the hunting industry for his entire career. A passionate hunter, the 39-yearold has held his hunting licence since his teens.

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

the U.S. market, and that has me very excited and optimistic for Leica’s future as a part of this outdoor community.

Benjamin Wallbott: I think that an obvious area is the continued application of digital technologies, but also further optical and mechanical innovations in a slightly declining market that is also showing signs of shifting toward lower-end products. When it comes to the integration of digital technology, the biggest challenge is to offer a real userbenefit at the right price point. As a premium optics manufacturer that goes through painstaking lengths to achieve the best possible performance of our products, we are also faced with the challenge of a flood of lower-end optics being offered to the consumer as being “good enough.” That is not what Leica is all about. We are a premium-optics manufacturer that provides the most discriminating sport-optics user with the very best quality and precision available with today’s— and even tomorrow’s—technology. We meet and even exceed all expectations of the consumer. Understanding that there needs to be price points in every industry that meet the needs of every buyer, our particular challenge comes with education. The expense upfront in quality equipment is truly an investment in the personal passion for what the intended use of these optics is. This security yields not only savings, but can truly mean the difference between enjoying an experience of a lifetime or losing the total outlay of financial resource within that pursuit.

SD: When you get up in the morning, what gets you excited about working in the industry?

SD: What drove changes to your recent sales and marketing structure?

“When it comes to the integration of digital technology,” Benjamin Wallbott says, “the biggest challenge is to offer a real user-benefit at the right price point.”

BW: As an avid hunter and being German, what could be better than working for Leica in this industry? Just like my colleagues, we are very passionate about delivering the best products so that others can enjoy the outdoors even more. Of course, I was born with a passion for and love of every aspect of Mother Nature. So, to also work within an industry I share a passion with is extremely rewarding. SD: How do you meet the expectations of your customers?

BW: Meeting the expectations of our customers is easier when we use the very best engineering and components combined with the most modern technology available—not to mention our culture at Leica, which is all about the individual. We have renewed our

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focus on delivering industry-leading customer service. This means we do our very best to listen to our customers and provide solutions for their needs. That’s even more rewarding when we not only meet expectations but exceed them.

SD: Where does Leica Sports Optics see itself five years down the road?

BW: It is clear that Leica sets the bar for premium optics, and we will continue to do so. The way I see it, Leica has the history, dedication, and engineering to become a much larger force within the sport-optics industry here in North America. Our product pipeline is full of products that will continue our heritage of innovation and quality. In addition, we will bring more products that are tailored toward

BW: In the past, Leica has relied very heavily on sales representation from independent firms. This template served us very well over the years and helped put us on the radar of sport-optic enthusiasts from coast to coast. For this, we are eternally grateful and continue to appreciate the existing affiliations and support that these firms provide us. Turning the page of a new chapter for Leica Sport Optics, our goal shifted to eliminate the perception of being a company that was untouchable or otherwise once-removed from in-the-field direct contact. This paradigm shift in our approach to sales and marketing allows us to be closer to and increases the direct personal relationships with our dealers and consumers. This has certainly strengthened our ability to provide better customer service, product training, and support as well as identifying, firsthand, the needs of our dealers with assortments and strategies. This new path was not an easy decision. Based on the history of our relationships with many good people who helped us get to where we are today, it certainly was made with careful consideration. However, Leica’s commitment to excellence and superior quality with our products provided the foundation for our direction of extending these commitments to our partners within the industry. Booth #12519. (us.leica-camera.com)

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F E AT U R E S

For aggressive deburring or surface finishing, a wheel brush with abrasive nylon filaments is the best option.

Clean as a Bristle

Brush Research takes deburring applications to new heights

hen a project calls for surface finishing, cleaning, polishing, deburring, edge blending, or removal of paint, rust, or other contaminants, a wheel brush is often the ideal solution. Like all power brushes, a wheel brush is motor-driven and may feature an arbor hole or keyway that supports its use with grinding equipment or CNC machinery.

Metal wire filaments are excellent tools for light deburring, edge blending, and general surface finishing, but when harder materials are involved, these filaments can break off or deform. Although knotted-wire options are available for more aggressive deburring, they really don’t perform well on today’s hardened steels and alloys. The better option for the most aggressive deburring or surface finishing is a wheel brush that utilizes abrasive nylon filaments made of silicon carbide. Taking it one step further, diamond grit can be used on the hardest metals and alloys. For JR Precision & Welding, a machine shop in Houston, Texas, the issue of removing large burrs from machined holes in an extremely hard 4140 chromiummolybdenum steel-alloy part used as a muzzle brake was proving to be a challenge. Founded in 2017, the machine shop specializes in three- and five-axis CNC manufacturing, 3-D printing, and welding. The shop discovered when machining these holes that large burrs were forming at the ovalshaped gas ports. “The burrs were

razor-sharp and thicker than we wanted them to be on each of the four main ports in the part,” says James Mawazeb, director of operations and lead engineer at the company. The issue led him to reach out to a local tooling representative from Bass Tool & Supply, a leading supplier of CNC machine tools, for wheelbrush options to remove the burrs in one automated operation. The rep, in turn, suggested he contact Los Angeles–based Brush Research Manufacturing. The company is known for inventing the Flex-Hone, a tool characterized by abrasive globules that are permanently mounted to flexible filaments attached to a center shaft. With its low-pressure, low-temperature abrading process, the Flex-Hone tool can remove work-hardened layers and deburr parts without disturbing the underlying metallurgical structure. Brush Research also manufactures a wide array of wheel, cup, and end brushes in a variety of sizes,

filaments, and grits. “The job shop came to us because they were having issues deburring some parts for their muzzle brakes,” says Elysha Cole, product support specialist at Brush Research. Based on the geometry and location of the burrs, and the hardness of the metal alloy, it wasn’t immediately clear what the best solution would be. So, the engineers at Brush Research suggested Mawazeb send in several sample parts for testing in the lab. At first, the company attempted to remove the large burrs using NamPower abrasive disc brushes. Composed of flexible, abrasivenylon filaments bonded to a fiberreinforced thermoplastic base, the disc brushes contain a unique combination of both ceramic and silicon-carbide abrasive. The abrasive filaments work like flexible files, conforming to part contours, wiping and filing across part edges and surfaces to deliver maximum burr-removal rates. Although an excellent tool, the abrasive disc brushes were not the

solution JR Precision & Welding needed. “After testing disc brushes with different depths and speeds, we decided to try an abrasive nylon wheel brush,” says Cole. “It was able to easily get into the slots and push out the burrs.” The abrasive-filled nylon filaments are set into molded cores, allowing higher filament densities that put more cutting tips at the point of attack. In addition, the filaments are extremely durable and self-sharpening, providing excellent performance and wear life. As the brushes come in contact with the work surface, the filament grit wears off, exposing new cutting particles. In that manner, the brush continues to be sharp even after repeated use. In addition, unlike the bristles of metal brushes, the abrasive nylon fibers are not prone to deforming or breaking. Brush Research determined that a 6-inch-diameter tool with silicon-carbide filaments would work best for this customer. Because the customer was not concerned about the final surface finish, the machine shop opted for 80 grit. The tool can be automated on CNC equipment or offline as a secondary deburring operation. According to Mawazeb, the abrasive nylon brush fit perfectly in his five-axis machine’s magazine holder and existing toolholders. But he was initially concerned about the amount of material the brush would remove. “We didn’t want the brush to affect the outer diameter measurements in a way that affected the performance of the ports,” he says. But Mawazeb saw during initial tests that the brush not only removed the large burrs, it also provided a soft edge break to the four ports—eliminating razorsharp edges without affecting the surface finish. “The abrasive nylon brush removes just the right amount of material,” he says. “The surface finish actually matched what the customer wanted as well.” JR Precision & Welding ultimately decided to purchase a smaller, 3-inch-diameter version of the wheel brush. Mawazeb says the brush’s shorter trim fill has less give, so it delivers an even more aggressive action. Mawazeb says he did try a brush from another supplier, but its performance came up short. “It didn’t actually remove anything. Plus, it scuffed up the part,” he says. “Brush Research solved my problem.” Booth #51506. (brushresearch.com)

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F E AT U R E S

Remington Takes Stock The Shilen-barreled 700-X in 7mm Magnum (left) shoots into ½ MOA. A Remington 700 in .30/06 took this outstanding Namibian gemsbok.

FTW Ranch is a shooter’s mecca, with more than 30 rifle ranges on which you can choose from moving-target rails that pull life-size buffalo silhouettes into your lap to steel winking in and out of mirage at over a mile. Doug Prichard and the other coaches, ace marksmen themselves, help you hit. I’d been here before, pounding Texas dirt in frustration after missing targets or fumbling a reload as an elephant’s shadow suddenly blackened my path. “Shoot! Again! Reload! There’s another! Kill it! Top off! Four, three, two… .” The clock made me out a novice. Still, I had returned for more punishment. “Humility is a virtue,” observed FTW’s chief, Tim Fallon. “You’ll likely improve.” No promises.

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Changes at America’s oldest gunmaker have shocked its faithful. Is it time tradition took charge? By Wayne Van Zwoll

urling a 168-grain Barnes bullet with H1000 powder is easy. But to shiver saucepan-size plates at 800 yards, you need an accurate barrel, with a stock, trigger, and sight to match. Expert coaching, too. It all came my way in the Texas hills last fall. The 7mm Magnum load struck with laser consistency from a fresh Remington 700-X rifle. Bedded with MarineTex in a McMillan stock, its action featured a Badger-knobbed bolt with an M16-style extractor and twin ejectors over an icicle-crisp trigger. The 5½-contour Shilen barrel rifled 1:8 wore an AAC suppressor to reduce kick and noise. On top: a Swarovski Z8 3½–28x50mm scope with a second-plane reticle.

Promises, Promises

Indeed. Promises become traps. Remington’s, for example. Every CEO and high-level manager over the last decade has said, in so many words, “Remington is back!” And still, the revival is yet to come. Since its purchase by Cerberus Capital Management in June 2007, Remington has endured much grumbling from the proletariat. Some customer criticism is unwarranted. I’ve found postCerberus Remington bolt-action rifles as accurate and reliable as their forebears. Still, attention to cosmetic detail in some firearms has clearly diminished. Production glitches in pistols and shotguns have led to embarrassing delays. The relatively static state of Remington’s rifle ammunition line contrasts with the tsunamis of

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f e at u r e s

Over the years, the Model 700 has appeared in many guises. Here, the author uses a lightweight titanium “Ti” in .30/06.

The Model 700 was a big hit in 1962, largely because of its new 7mm Remington Magnum cartridge, now considered to be one of the best hunting loads ever created.

new loads from competitors. Remington’s current CEO, Ken D’Arcy, is the sixth since Tommy Millner left in 2009. His task is daunting. The $370 million Cerberus paid included $252 million in assumed debt. Subsequent purchases—including Dakota Arms in 2007, Marlin in 2008, and Barnes in 2009—added shooting industry brands to what Cerberus labeled the Freedom Group. A name change to Remington Outdoor Company followed in 2015. The hemorrhaging continued. When it filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy protection in March 2018, Remington owed more than $950 million. The company is now owned by Franklin-Templeton and J.P. Morgan. “Remington is still making guns, as it did through the Cerberus era,” says Christian Hogg, director of marketing services. He works from the Madison, North Carolina, headquarters, home also to the company’s IT, LE/defense, and customer service departments—and now D’Arcy. Firearms manufacturing happens in a new plant in Huntsville, Alabama, and also at Ilion, New York, in a factory erected on land Eliphalet Remington II bought for $28 an

acre before John Deere came up with a moldboard plow. “Roughly 750 hourly employees labor at Ilion,” says Hogg. “They build Model 700s and 7600s, Model Sevens, and Marlin centerfires.” Ilion has manufactured rifle barrels since horse-drawn boats riding on a new Erie Canal received them in bundles dropped from bridges. “Huntsville turns out .22s and handguns, and the Model 783 bolt rifle. About 160 of the 400 on that payroll work in R&D. Whatever their jobs, Remington employees include gun enthusiasts with a personal investment in making the best firearms they can,” Hogg says. As aware of Remington’s history as he is excited about its prospects, D’Arcy, a former Crosman CEO recently recruited from the ski industry, says, “Skiing is a fiercely competitive world dependent on snowfall. European ski manufacturers never let their employees go for lack of business [in dry winters], so demand never approaches supply.” Flat sales of hunting arms will test his ability to wring profit from the guns for which Remington is known: accurate, reliable, goodlooking, fast-pointing repeating rifles and shotguns priced for cus-

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tomers of ordinary means. “We’re going to build what shooters want,” he tells me. “That’s not AR-15s right now. We’ll focus on more traditional firearms, on the Marlin and Remington brands, on quality control.” In sum: D’Arcy’s aim is not just to boost sales, but to ensure his workforce and his customers are proud of the firearms built on his watch. He’ll also be tested to keep that ski-staffing model. Many shooters have grown up with Remingtons. While nostalgia is a powerful sales tool, brand allegiance has limits. “Customers who cherish guns passed down through the family can accept changes in design,” says Billy Hogue, vice president of firearms operations at Huntsville. “And higher prices. But if a new model malfunctions—even if it has a rough action or poor fit and finish—there’s a disconnect.” Winchester witnessed this breakdown in customer loyalty after its 1963 overhaul of the Model 70 rifle. Many of the disgusted faithful turned to the thennew Remington Model 700. Notably, many of the changes in Winchester 70s since have edged it toward pre-’64 form. This history isn’t lost on D’Arcy and his staff. A slip in quality of Marlin’s lever rifles followed the closure of its North Haven, Connecticut, plant, as Remington took Marlin production to Ilion. Left behind was most of the gunsmithing acumen responsible for the firm’s deer guns, popular since 1893. Critics pounced. Ilion-assembled Marlins didn’t match originals. When I mentioned to Hogue that recent Marlins lacked the detailing that was once their hallmark, he offered a sympathetic smile but spared me the speech: Cosmetic detailing, like action tuning, requires the time of skilled workers. Time is money. Costs eat into profits. Only custom shops can now indulge—and charge for—personal attention to fit and finish. Carlos Martinez, senior manager of Remington’s Custom Shop, has grown the shop substantially since its move to Sturgis, South Dakota. “After Dakota Arms sold to Cerberus in ’07, it made sense to put our most demanding projects in the hands of people producing top-end rifles and shotguns,” he says. Ward Dobler oversees operations. His critical eye and talented crew have made the elegant Dakota 76 the gold standard for classic, custom-shop bolt rifles,

industry-wide. “We’re bringing Dakota craftsmanship to Remington Custom Shop rifles,” he assured me. “And our Marlin lever-actions are by any measure the best ever.” The centerfire 760 pump (right) was introduced in 1952. This kudu fell to a Model 700 chambered for the .280 Remington.

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Duck guns! Remington’s venerable 870 (center) has outlived both Browning’s legendary Auto 5 and Winchester’s revered Model 12.

No idle boast. Special-order Marlins of a century ago were works of art. But modern steels trump those used before World War I, and CNC machines hold new Marlins to tolerances only dreamed about then. Figured walnut and case-colored receivers now envelop mechanisms smooth as corn silk. Skinner sights are the finishing touch. Yes, they’re expensive. But Martinez points out that “factory” guns borrow from Custom Shop innovation. “The action of the 700-X you used at FTW is blueprinted—machined and fitted so the receiver, bolt, and barrel are coaxial,” he says. “Bolt face and lugs are trued up. Scope base holes accept stout 8-40 screws. While the 700-X is a Custom Shop project, all Model 700s will soon get similar treatment, as well as the 700-X’s claw extractor and dual ejectors.” He adds that demand and manufacturing efficiencies can hurry Custom Shop upgrades to production lines. “The 700 DGR you fired at FTW on its dangerous-game course may land on Ilion’s roster.” I hope it does. That lively Custom Shop .375 has fine balance, a McMillan stock that complements fast, sturdy iron sights,

and an action and a trigger as slick as those on the 700-X.

Tradition Versus Innovation

To many shooters, tradition matters. A firearm isn’t a crescent wrench. Beyond its utility, it has value for what it evokes. With their replicas of Colts and Winchesters, Italian gunmakers have profitably tapped into our fascination with the early American West. Remington needn’t reach that far back. Guns new just a few decades ago remind us of times we like to remember. A typhoon of new Remington rifles and shotguns all but swept away their forebears on the heels of WWII. The 721/722 centerfire bolt rifle arrived in 1948, with a receiver of economical tube stock and a twin-lug bolt with clip extractor and plunger ejector. “Three rings of steel” cradled the case head. Hailed for the strength of its action, the rifle handled and cycled smoothly. It had a good trigger. Designers Merle “Mike” Walker and Homer Young held it to high accuracy standards. It sold for about $90. Upgrades 14 years later would yield the Model 700.

Remington also replaced the Model 141 pump and Model 81 self-loader. The 141 gave its Gamemaster moniker to the 760 at its 1952 debut. A box magazine and rotating, multiple-lug bolt with recessed face suited the 760 pump and, in 1955, the 740 Woodsmaster auto, to powerful .30/06-class rounds. The 740 was supplanted in 1960 by the 742. Its sleek profile had already graced Remington shotguns, the Model 48 auto upstaging the Browningdesigned, humpback Model 11 in 1949, the 870 pump replacing the Model 31 a year later. Remington would bring that shape to its rimfire line too, with the 572 pump in 1955. Will D’Arcy’s stated focus on Remington and Marlin guns leave some Remington Outdoor Company brands in temporary shadow? DPMS and Bushmaster (Cerberus’ first purchases, in 2006) have peddled a lot of ARs. But that market has softened. And these rifles, all of which post-date the Remington 700, aren’t as brand-distinctive as traditional firearms. “There’s no plan to change the makeup of the Remington Outdoor Company,” Hogg says, reminding me that some names

are inactive or practically so. “We don’t build L.C. Smith shotguns. Our Custom Shop Parkers come from Tony Galazan’s skilled craftsmen in Connecticut.” Remington is “adding efficiencies” to speed manufacture and improve the quality of production-line firearms. Hogg explains how new CNC units in the Huntsville plant dramatically reduce machining time. “Ilion has yet to catch up. As it does, we’ll hold or tighten tolerances, and ensure uniformity, at lower cost.” The vision is there, and, it seems to me, the enthusiasm and commitment to spark a Remington renewal. Can this company tap nostalgia, sell new designs, take advantage of production economies, and serve the market’s evolving tastes at the same time? “A daunting task,” concedes D’Arcy. But he’s genuinely optimistic. So, too, are others I spoke with from Madison, Ilion, Huntsville, and Sturgis. The 700-X and 700 DGR, with Marlins from the Custom Shop, show what’s possible. There’s no question Remington’s people are keen to restore the image of this grand American institution. Booth #14229. (remington.com)

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Sleep Tight

In tough country, a good night’s sleep is imperative for success By Peter B. Mathiesen

he new-age hunter loves tech, shoots the 6.5 Creedmoor, and is driven to hike farther and stay out longer than many others. By nature, this trending new demographic brings a renewed commitment to publicland hunting.

They do it on their own, often alone, and eat what they kill. These hunters see the adventure as a lifestyle experience. Typically, this takes precedence over the harvesting of a trophy. Because they walk a long way while carrying a pack, they choose their gear selectively. Retailers that cater to this hunter say it’s imperative to get it right. “As a salesperson, if I recommend that one of my hunters invests in a piece of quality backcountry gear, it had better perform,” says Dan Jordan, manager of Mountain View Sports in Anchorage, Alaska. Weight is the enemy. The goal is to carry as little as possible. But when it comes to being light on your feet, a good night’s sleep is frequently the first item to be sacrificed. “I love sleeping under the stars. For most of my backcountry hunts, weight is an issue. I’m not above sleeping in my hunting clothes. I’ll just lie down on a piece of plastic and use another sheet of plastic as a rain cover,” says 28-year-old Alaskan backcountry hunter Andy Poland. “Going this light certainly saves weight and bulk, but when the weather near my home in the Talkeetna Mountains hits the skids, I can barely make it through the night. And when the temps take a deep dive, it can be bone-chillingly cold. If that happens, I’ll only get a couple hours of sleep. As I look back on it, if I had more than one rotten night’s sleep, I didn’t have a successful hunt.” Backcountry trekkers can forget that lack of sleep is as real an enemy as dehydration. Medical professionals agree: Poor sleep can quickly have a cumulative effect, putting the hunter in danger of making poor decisions, which in turn dramatically increases the

chance of injury. There’s a reason sleep deprivation is a time-tested torture tactic. Having learned the value of a good night’s sleep, Poland now carries a Klymit KSB down sleeping bag (SRP: $329.95) with an oversize Klymit Insulated Static V Luxe Pad (SRP: $119.95). The total extra weight is just 6 pounds. If the hunt is more than three nights, Poland adds a 2.5-pound tent. “It’s a game changer. Adding the pad and bag has changed my life in the backcountry. It’s hard to describe what a difference waking up rested makes in being ready to run the mountains for sheep and caribou. I’m no longer just living on adrenaline—which would only get me so far,” he says. When keeping warm is the vital factor, many backcountry mountain hunters have found the sleeping pad may be the true deal-breaker. The Klymit pad’s Klymalite insulation is nested in a 3-inchdeep V-pattern to ensure allnight warmth. As a bonus, this pad keeps you centered with side rails, so you can sleep comfortably in any position. It can be filled in fewer than 20 breaths, and it deflates completely. “I had no idea there was such a difference in sleeping pads. I just assumed all pads were insulated. They’re not.

This one is. I can actually sleep comfortably on my side over rocks,” Poland says. Dealers fight a constant battle on what to select and stock. But stocking a product is only half the game. Your front-line sales staff has to have detailed knowledge about those new products in order to close the sale. It’s also important to know that younger, tech-savvy hunters have many online options and will not hesitate to go there if they have a poor experience at your store. Another challenge is that this demographic wants high performance but at the same time is incredibly cost-conscious. A knowledgeable salesperson listened to Poland’s specific needs and recommended Klymit. Driven by performance, Poland was willing to adapt and modify his hunts to the tune of about $450. That’s a massive transformation for a guy who climbs mountains to subsistence hunt and sleeps on rocks. “We designed the Static V Luxe for those who need lightweight gear without sacrificing comfort,” says Matt Maxfield, Klymit’s vice president of development and operations. “At Klymit, we believe you need to wake up refreshed every morning so you can get out there and do what you love.” Booth #1359. (klymit.com)

Klymit’s innovative sleeping bags and inflatable pads are specially designed to ensure a good night’s sleep for backcountry hunters.

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XS now can custom-manufacture sights to a customer’s specifications. It’s all part of a plan to broaden the company’s reach.

Bright Future With a new tritium license, XS Sights expands its industry capabilities By Slaton L. White

lthough XS Sights has established itself as a key player in the night-sight business, co-owner Kellie Brunn wanted more. She and her team believed that, given the competitive pressures of this market segment, XS couldn’t stand pat; it needed to expand its reach. That’s the rationale behind the decision to not only install tritium in its own night sights, but to offer this service to other OEM partners within the industry. Coupled with its patent-pending Ember Glow Technology, XS believes it now offers the brightest night sights on the market.

“Tritium-installation services are available for customer-provided parts or turnkey solutions, with multiple tritium options available to meet product design goals,” Brunn says. “XS is committed to maintaining a large inventory of tritium, significantly reducing lead time and inventory carrying costs to its customers.” In order to get the licensing rights to tritium, staffers at XS Sights had to take intense radioactive-safety-officer training, as well as a certification course. “We had to conform to standards established by the Nuclear Regulatory Commission,” says Brunn. “These standards included dealing with possible contamination, emergency procedures for first responders in case of fire, and security protocols.” That was just the beginning. Other standards that had to be met included environmental protection efforts, establishing safe radioactivity levels within the NRC’s limits, and building a

secure room for tritium. “We also had to develop durability testing,” she says. Essentially, this is the ability to prove tritium vials are protected and won’t leak. “The sights were tested by a third-party lab for radiation leakage. If there is any leakage, the experiment fails and must be redone from the beginning.” Other durability tests included 5,000-round continuous-fire per model tests (XS staffers fired 40,000 rounds in two days), a 60-repetition drop test, temperature shock from -50º F to 176º F, extreme chemical testing, a 48-hour soak in acetone-based cleaning products, resonant destructive-vibration frequency testing, and atmospheric pressure testing. Given these hurdles, one might reasonably ask, was it worth all the trouble? “Absolutely,” Brunn says. “Though the licensing project took the better part of two years,

in the long run it makes complete sense, because tritium capability is a crucial building block of our business. Tritium night sights are a large portion of our sales. We used to source tritium from other suppliers in the U.S., which added to our cost and lead time. Now, our lead times are more agile, and we can offer our customers more sight options at their target price point while maintaining healthy margins.” Brunn also believes the OEM business gives her company a leg up on the competition. “Coupled with 20 years of tritium night-sight manufacturing experience, the vertical integration of installing our own tritium was the final component of owning the whole solution,” she says. “Having our tritium license allows us to offer complete turnkey sight solutions to OEMs and completely control our cost, quality, and lead times. Our onsite CNC machine shop can react quickly to run jobs and

apply surface treatments. Now we can install tritium in the same manner to meet our customers’ needs. We operate in the oil industry and the gun industry. We understand that demand in our industries comes in waves. When it’s up, it’s up, and you can either make the timeline work or you lose the business to competitors. When a customer needs our services, we will deliver.” Brunn says XS works with the engineers of its OEM partners to design to their specific needs. “Examples of this include machining to precise height dimensions, tailoring a sight’s dovetail in various ways to produce the desired fit, customizing sight color, and adding antiglare and extreme corrosionresistance features. Our engineers also offer value-added design assistance to aid in cost containment.” With all the emphasis on its tritium capability, Brunn says that Ember technology remains an important part of the company. “Ember is our patent-pending photoluminescent technology. When paired with tritium, it offers the brightest night sights on the market. It offers a bright, high-contrast color in daylight ideal for bright-light shooting conditions, but the primary purpose of Ember is that it absorbs ambient light and glows in low light. Most defensive shooting scenarios don’t take place in complete darkness. We are now using ambient light as a tool to help make sights, specifically the front sights, brighter.” She says another strong point for Ember is that it is colorcustomizable. “We carry options in white, green, yellow, orange, and red. The difference in lightwave color determines how bright Ember will glow. Our Optic Orange/Yellow products are designed to glow the brightest and longest possible, between four to six hours. With this goal, the orange and yellow dot is greener, because 565 nm (green/ yellow) is the most visible color to the eye.” The company’s new RAM Night Sights focus on two different segments: neon orange for bright light, and green for the best glowing option. When the sight is charged, the orange will glow brightly for two hours and then begin to fade, but the ring

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will still be visible in complete darkness. The green will glow brightly for four to six hours. XS also offers Ember as a stand-alone, lowercost night-sight option. In all, under the XS brand, the company carries three standard pistol sight options: Express, F8, and 3-Dot sight pictures. “XS can custommanufacture any sights to a customer’s specifications,” Brunn says. “We specialize in developing fast-sight-acquisition sights with an emphasis on making the front sight stand out.” Express sights are designed specifically for defensive shooting. The set uses a large dot to draw focus to the front sight, and a v-notch rear to provide an unobstructed view downrange. The dot-the-i inline sight picture reduces focus points, making alignment faster. F8 sights are designed around Express sights, but in a notch-and-post sight-alignment system. The front blade is .160 inch wide and the rear notch is .190 inch wide. This combination allows a lot of light around the front sight’s corners to make the top-of-the-front sight and the top-of-the-rear sight align faster. The inline figure-eight tritium sight picture focuses on making the front sight glow brighter than the rear, which keeps the shooter’s focus downrange. “Our new RAM (Radioactive Material) night sights feature a traditional three-dot, top-ofthe-front sight, top-of-the-rear sight alignment,” Brunn says. The front blade is .145 inch wide, and the rear notch is .170 inch wide. This combination allows for accurate shooting, while still making sure the four corners are clearly visible. To make the front sight brighter than the two-dot rear, we have equipped it with a clear tritium vial. The exposed siding of the lamp charges our Ember dot in the front sight, making it brighter than the rear sight.” Clearly, Brunn believes tritium licensing and the company’s Ember technology will help propel the company forward. But she also notes other components she says will help XS stay ahead of the competition. “We offer an expanded array of manufacturing capabilities, including rapid prototyping, MIM, additive manufacturing, glow technology enhancements, and automated quality-control systems. The company also has an on-site CNC machine shop to offer partners fast production runs with value engineering-design assistance. Furthermore, all parts manufactured with the XS Sights logo are covered by a 10-year, noquestions-asked warranty program.” And if that isn’t enough, XS also makes hunting sights for rifles, as well as tactical sights for both shotguns and rifles. Booth #16054. (xssights.com)

XS specializes in developing fast-acquisition sights, with an emphasis on making the front sight stand out.

The Filson Camo Down Cruiser Vest is ideal on its own for cool mornings or under a jacket for colder late-season outings.

Incomparable Balance Filson excels at creating rugged clothing with singular style By Richard Mann

n this modern world of synthetic fabrics, “wool” and “canvas” seem to be words uttered only by archaeologists. But wool and canvas are the materials modern synthetics strive to emulate. Founded as an outfitter for the hardy folk headed north during the Gold Rush of the late 1800s, Filson gained a reputation for selling clothing of unrivaled ruggedness. Customer input meant its designs were tweaked to offer supreme performance and wearer interface. By the mid20th century, Filson was a top outfitter for outdoorsmen. For example, take the Filson Tin Cloth jacket; it is legendary with men who make a hard living outside. Tin Cloth is a tightly woven, 15-ounce duck fabric that’s saturated with a liquefied paraffin-wax-and-oil mixture under heat and high pressure. This forces the wax into the core of the fibers for lasting protection from wind, water, and abrasion. Tin Cloth has been used by Filson for more than 100 years and remains one of its most popular fabrics for jackets, pants, chaps, and hunting vests. There are hunters who would

give you their gun before their Tin Cloth. My son wears his on safari in Africa and on date nights at home. One of the most avid hunters I know will not leave camp without his Filson Tin Cloth jacket. He’s worn it all over the world—from Texas to Mozambique—and I think he would borrow a rifle or stay at home before he’d hunt without it. It’s because of the unparalleled balance of performance delivered by the best materials, handcrafted into durable yet usable fashion. This incomparable balance is why items like the Filson Mackinaw Wool Cruiser Jacket, Oil Finish Double Tin Pants, and Single Tin Chaps remain in the Filson catalog. They have stood the test of time, and obviously those who

wear Filson get their money’s worth. Although Filson could be considered by some to be a heritage brand, the company refuses to rest on those laurels. It continues to add new products to the line each year. Your grandfather would have sold his soul for the new Camo Down Cruiser Vest. Available in either Mossy Oak Shadow Grass or Bottomland camo, this modern take on a sleeveless garment intended for timbermen is built with 8-ounce Cover Cloth and 11-ounce Shelter Cloth. It has a nylon ripstop lining and is filled with goose down. Using heritage as a reference for the future, the Camo Down Cruiser Vest is perfect on its own for cool-morning, earlyseason hunts or under a jacket for bone-chilling, late-season outings. Combine it with Filson’s new Merino wool base layers, and you’ll be the first hunter in the duck blind and the last one to leave. Filson gear is designed to provide a lifetime of everyday outdoor wear. I started with a pair of Filson socks about 20 years ago, and I add something new, and Filson, every year. Booth #15324. (filson.com)

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The Umarex AirSaber shoots 350-grain arrows that can be topped with either mechanical or fixed broadheads. It can deliver 124 foot-pounds of energy.

Expanding Options

Umarex built its reputation on airguns, but it has now introduced two affordable rifles that shoot hunting arrows By John Geiger

company that built its reputation on airguns has introduced two affordable new air rifles that shoot arrows and are made for hunting. Umarex recently revealed the AirSaber, a high-powered air rifle that shoots 350-grain arrows and can be topped with a mechanical or fixed broadhead. It can deliver 124 foot-pounds of energy (fpe) downrange, more than enough for an ethical shot at a big-game animal. The pre-charged pneumatic rifle, or PCP, is filled from a separate tank or compressor, and can shoot three arrows at 300 feet per second. The AirSaber PCP Arrow Rifle is expected to retail for about $300, or $350 with a scope.

Now, at SHOT Show 2020, the company is introducing what could be called the AirSaber light—the AirJavelin. This is also an arrow-shooting airgun, but it’s made for small-game and target shooting. It’s powered by an 88-gram CO2 cartridge. The gun

will cost about $150. “They’re both fast and reliable,” says Justin Biddle, Umarex director of marketing. “But hunters and shooters will really love the price tag and flat-shooting accuracy. Now, there are arrowshooting hunting air rifles for an

affordable price.” The smaller AirJavelin CO2 Arrow Rifle shoots a 170-grain carbon-fiber arrow that can be fitted with a 65-grain broadhead. The rifle weighs about 5.75 pounds with the CO2 cartridge and is 34 inches long with the adjustable buttstock

fully extended. It has a long Picatinny rail for a scope or other accessories and fixed sights in the front and rear. Both airguns utilize a bolt action to cock them. Airguns that fire arrows are not new. Crosman broke ground when it introduced the Benjamin Pioneer

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Airbow in 2016. That powerful PCP gun delivers 26-inch arrows at 400 fps and retails for about $1,000. When you add in the accessories that any PCP airgun needs, such as a charging tank or compressor, the price is closer to $1,500. In 2019, Traditions introduced the Traditions Crackshot XBR. It uses a .27-caliber rimfire blank to propel a 16.5-inch arrow at 385 fps. The package starts at $450, which includes a .22-caliber rifle upper that can be used on the same platform. But what is new is the fact that the AirJavelin has sufficient energy to be a viable bowhunting option without a powder charge and at a price point that is less than most budget rifles, bows, or crossbows. “We’re proud to offer these new options, and we are excited to get them into the hands of small- and large-game hunters this year,” says Biddle. When filled to its max pressure of 3,625 psi, the AirSaber is capable of 25 shots with 124 fpe. After that first 25, the rifle will still have enough pressure to shoot 30 times as pressure drops below 3,000 psi. Generally, 25 fpe is considered the minimum amount of energy needed for ethical bowhunting. The less-powerful AirJavelin is expect to shoot its smaller arrows with about 34 fpe fully charged. Hunters who are planning to bring the AirJavelin, AirSaber, or any arrow-shooting air rifle to the field need to check local regulations beforehand. The list of states where arrow-shooting airguns are legal for big game is growing. At last check, Alabama, Arizona, Florida, Georgia, Maryland, Missouri, North Carolina, South Carolina, Texas, Virginia, and Washington allow airguns and air bows as legal for big-game animals. Most other states allow predator hunting and small-game hunting with arrow-shooting airguns. Regarding accuracy, the AirSaber is grouping as tight as 1 inch at 50 yards; the AirJavelin is getting 1 inch at 30 yards. One way Umarex has kept the price low is by not including an air-pressure regulator with the air rifles. Regulators meter out the same amount of air into the firing valve. The consistent velocity translates into better accuracy. If the pressure that goes into the valve decreases, velocity drops, as does the impact point of the arrow. Without a regulator, pressure varies from shot to shot, with the first few shots being full-power and having a predictable point of impact. Point of impact will string

lower in both air rifles after about the third shot. “Hopefully, no hunter will need more than three shots,” says Biddle. When using the PCP AirSaber, shooters can refill the onboard air cylinder from a portable tank, high-powered compressor, hand pump, or larger SCUBA-type tank. Commonly, shooters opt for an 88-cubic-inch carbon-fiber tank that can hold about 4,500 psi. It’s light and can be carried in a backpack for in-the-field recharging. You’ll get multiple fills from the tank. But that tank will eventually need to be filled by another tank, hand pump, or compressor. It’s not always easy to locate one, and the options can get expensive. A heavy-duty hand pump can be used in a pinch, but the time and effort it takes to get it close to 3,000 or 4,500 psi is significant. If you want to fill more than one or two guns at a time, then the next step up is a larger 74- or 80-cubic-foot tank, like a SCUBA tank, which would be in the $100 to $500 range and much heavier. Either option would have to be filled at a filling station, such as an airsoft store, local fire department, or SCUBA store. You can also fill with a compressor, but it will need to be a high-pressure compressor that can fill to 3,000 or 4,500 psi. They cost in the neighborhood of $1,000. Most hardware store compressors won’t do the job; they give a max fill of about 175 psi. For those new to airgunning, the filling situation is a different experience. It’s much easier to go to the store and buy ammo or pick up a six-pack of pre-fletched arrows. But the access and convenience of these tools is often priceless. Hunters who may not be able to pull back an arrow in a vertical bow, or be able to carry or cock a crossbow, could get back into the field with an arrow-shooting airgun. Plus, the gun-size tools are very maneuverable as compared to a vertical bow or crossbow. Many states are classifying these compressed-air bows as archery equipment. That means hunters have much more access to land that’s closed to rifle hunters. And it’s easier to get drawn for limited-entry tags when you are applying as an archer. And with the price of entry— air rifle, scope, arrows, and tank— well short of $1,000, many more hunters would have access to the outdoors and the thrill of the hunt. Booth #14562. (umarexusa.com)

The AirJavelin is an arrow-shooting air rifle (middle row, left) powered by an 88-gram CO2 cartridge. It’s made for small-game hunting and target shooting. Both it and the AirSaber should appeal strongly to hunters who want to take game or varmints with arrows.

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User-Generated Content How to get customers to create content for you By Michelle Scheuremann

hen you’re on a limited budget, you can get your fans and followers to create “thumb-stopping” content for your brand or business. Here are some tips to help make the process a bit easier for you and your social media team.

Cassidy Blanton, of Legacy Sports International, says videos seem to work best in this arena.

There’s a Hashtag for That

If you are like many retailers, you’ve probably already created your own unique hashtag to use on social media platforms. Instagram, in particular, is a place where hashtags rule in generating new fans and helping followers find your brand. Leupold & Stevens (Booth #13023), for example, created #LeupoldCore to encourage its fans to tag them in posts. “We are very fortunate at Leupold to get tagged and mentioned in a lot of great content. We repurpose as much as possible on our social channels to highlight products and give more authenticity to them,” says Scott Rousseau, Leupold’s digital content specialist. Jon Bash, who works with brands such as Remington Outdoor

Company (Booth #14229), Under Armour Outdoor (Booth #11040), and others as a member of the social public relations department at Brothers & Company, says that UGC gives value in several ways. “For brands with limited evergreen assets, we’ll rely heavily on our community to showcase products or storytelling elements that we may not have the production budget to go capture ourselves. The underlying value of a UGC strategy is the community-building aspect it can add to a brand. By showcasing UGC on brand profiles, we’ve experienced boosts to the number of hashtag mentions and, in turn, generated a swell of grassroots exposure.” Besides easily curating UGC for you, one of the best things a branded hashtag can do for your business is to create a sense of community. This can mean a great deal to your customer base. “The best way to engage with this community is to have everyone feel like they are being heard and can contribute—even if it’s just a comment, a photo, or a review,” Rousseau says.

Be Real

Consumers are smart, and they can quickly pick up

on staged or fake content. Those pretty pictures your professional photographer snapped of your product are good, up to a point. But consumers can tell the difference between an image produced by a pro in your employ and one created by a user. This is why employing a UGC strategy for your business is so important. It is authentic content with which your customers can connect. It’s really a matter of trust. “People like and trust when someone posts content of their own accord, and it isn’t coming directly from the business,” says Cassidy Blanton, who handles social media for Legacy Sports International (Booth #15727). “Videos are probably the best medium for us because it allows creators to show the product, its features, and why they are passionate about it.” In the process, don’t forget to give credit where credit is due. “Nearly our entire Instagram feed is generated by amazing photographers who allow us to use their photos of great elk,” says Chad Carmen, who handles social media for Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation (Booth #11755). “Occasionally, we will reach out and send some free swag or

The best approach is to start small. It’s the ever-difficult reality of letting consumers tell you what they want and not vice versa.

Jon Bash, of Brothers & Company, says the best approach to UGC is to start small to see how it integrates into your overall strategy.

knives to them as a thankyou. Handwritten cards go a long way, too.”

Fine-Tooth Comb

When it comes to safety and properly showcasing your product in its best use, you are allowed to be a stickler. Blanton says it was a challenge to ease management fears about whether the social media team would watch for— and catch—unsafe practices. “It was a little difficult to get everyone on board at first. One concern was that people in the photos may not have the perfect shooting position. This worry was set aside when we assured management we would focus on safety and not post anything that could be considered dangerous. But by allowing shooters of different abilities and skills, it showed the everyday person who was actually using our product.” Jack Hennessey, also a member of the social public relations team at Brothers & Company, agrees about using a fine-

tooth comb when it comes to filtering UGC. “There can’t be any authenticity busts or safety issues, such as no eye protection when at the gun range. We have over two million sets of eyes on our brands, so if something is off, someone will point it out. That is plain embarrassing.”

Ready to Get Started?

The best approach is to start small and be sure to review your data. “We always go back to our lab/experiment example,” says Bash. “You’ve got to look at your data. A UGC strategy that attributes impactful engagement growth for one brand might be completely ineffective for another. It’s a 22-hour life cycle. Implement some UGC into your content mix and see how it performs compared to the average post, then move on from there. It’s the ever-difficult reality of letting consumers tell you what they want and not vice versa.”

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Big, Mean, Fast

The 429 Desert Eagle lives up to the hype

By Michael R. Shea ike America itself, nothing is small about the Desert Eagle. The Mark XIX 429 Desert Eagle, chambered in the new, heavy-hitting .429 DE, has an eight-round capacity and supersize profile—it’s 10.75 inches long with a 6-inch barrel (and 14.75 inches with a 10-inch barrel). It weighs 4½ pounds.

Designed in Pillager, Minnesota, in 1983, Desert Eagle pistols fast became a favorite of Hollywood in the 1980s and 1990s. Arnold, the Punisher, and even Pamela Anderson carried one. Manufactured for Magnum Research (now part of Kahr Firearms Group) by Israeli Weapons Industries at that time, the Desert Eagle was brought back to Minnesota in 2009, where it’s made to this day. It’s a 100 percent American gun, from an American company. The new .429 DE cartridge was designed inhouse by Jim Tertin. It’s a .50 AE case necked down to a .44 Magnum bullet—the actual diameter of which is .429. It’s designed for headspacing on the sloped, 30-degree shoulder, and has a long case neck for solid crimping. Softpoints and hollowpoints by Speer and Sierra are currently available in the 210- and 240-grain weight class, loaded into Starline brass by HSM in Montana, and sold through Kahr’s ammo division, Glacier Ridge, for $42 a box. (Kahr purchased Magnum Research in 2010.) The 210-grainers push 1750 fps at the muzzle. The 240s hit 1625 fps and have a 25 percent velocity increase and 45 percent more energy over the The 429 DE has five barrel options as well as two conversion kits that let the user shoot different calibers, including the .50 AE and .44 Magnum.

.44 Mag. when shot through a 6-inch barrel. This all makes the .429 DE an ideal hunting load. It hits harder than a .44 Magnum, but with less felt recoil than the .50 AE. In the big pistol, the round feels very much like a light .44 Mag. load and is much more pleasant to shoot than a small-framed .357 revolver loaded hot. For rental ranges, it could be a good option for customers who want the Desert Eagle experience, but fear the full-power .50 AE. In fact, a Mark XIX 429 Desert Eagle can accept .50 AE and .44 Magnum barrels. Magnum Research sells conversion packages in various finishes (SRP: $500 to $600), so it’s possible to get a 429, plus two conversion packages, and shoot all available Desert Eagle calibers from the same frame. Spare barrels with Picatinny-style accessory rails will be available in the following options: carbon steel with black finish, carbon steel with burnt-bronze Cerakote, carbon steel with a brushed-chrome finish, carbon steel with a polished-chrome finish, and stainless-steel with an integral muzzle brake. The .429 DE isn’t the first .50 AE / .44 Magnum hybrid. Cor-Bon created the similar .440 Cor-Bon in 1997, but case neck length and shoulder angle made for feed issues. It didn’t run well in the Desert Eagle platform. Magnum Research has corrected that

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The integrated muzzle brake on the 429 DE barrel throws a violent concussion that takes some getting used to.

this go-around. In four boxes of .429 DE in a brand-new pistol, I didn’t have a single jam or failure to feed. After four more boxes in .50 AE and .44 Magnum, the pistol broke in very nicely. The slide spring remained very stiff (that’s part of its design), which could be hard for weak or arthritic hands to work. But after all that shooting, the safety and slide release could be reliably run with one hand. I would never describe a Desert Eagle as softshooting. After all, it remains the most powerful semi-automatic handgun in the world. But the Mark XIX 429 DE is nevertheless quite manageable in the hand, mainly because of three design features. First, it’s a heavy gun; second, the grip is wide and soft; and third, it’s gas-operated, unlike most other blowback semis, so it absorbs and tames some of that recoil. When a Desert Eagle is fired, gas siphons off near the breech and is ported under the barrel to pistons that run the slide rearward, rotating and unlocking the AR-15-style four-lug bolt. The spent shell is thrown while the slide travels backward, at which point extra-heavy spring pressure pulls the slide forward again,

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picking up a fresh round. It works like an AR-15 or Ruger Mini-14, but in a pistol-size package. To test the gun, I gathered a group of ace handgunners to try a variety of loads, including Glacier Ridge .429 DE 240-grain softpoints, Glacier Ridge .429 DE 240-grain hollowpoints, SIG .44 Mag. 240-grain JHP, Hornady .44 Mag. 240-grain XTP, and Hornady .50 AE 300-grain XTP. We had no malfunctions. The integrated muzzle brake on the 429 DE barrel throws a violent concussion, which takes some getting used to, but after a few rounds we were all one-handing this big gun. We did not measure groups, but hammered steel at 10 to 30 yards with all calibers. A sheriff’s deputy and a high-level shooting instructor first stretched it out to 100 yards, and after some walking it in, we were all ringing steel a football field away with this behemoth. The trigger on my test model pulled 9 pounds. We must have broken down and reassembled the guns a dozen times, given all our barrel swaps, but through all that handling, everything fit together snug and tight. SRP: $2,143. Booth #13962. (magnumresearch.com)

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F E AT U R E S

One of Tweed’s biggest assignments is organizing the Leica media breakfast at SHOT Show.

USP is helping American brands penetrate the U.K. and European markets, and vice versa,” Barr says. “We are currently pitching to some well-known household brands that I hope to announce as part of our portfolio very soon. There are lots of brands outside of the U.K. that see this territory as an opportunity for expansion, and we are here to expedite their understanding and get them results.”

Case Study

On Target

Tweed Media is a tireless advocate for its clients By Slaton L. White

egendary merchant John Wanamaker is considered by some to be a pioneer in modern marketing. Nearly a century after his death, he is still remembered for his prescient quote regarding the value of advertising: “Half the money I spend on advertising is wasted; the trouble is, I don’t know which half.”

You could say the same thing about public relations. Part of the problem for any company is finding the right partner to handle public relations. If it’s a poor fit, like an ill-fitting shotgun, targets are going to be missed. Some companies avoid the issue by having public relations done in-house. Yet this tactic can also misfire if the designated employee is illsuited to the task or is asked to handle PR while performing other duties. And given the specialized nature of many of the products found in the shooting-sports industry, you can make a good case that hiring an agency that understands your company’s culture and products, and the market in which those products must compete, is money well spent. Established in 2009, Scotlandbased Tweed Media International is a global public relations firm that specializes in the outdoor leisure and countryside lifestyle sectors, but with a particular focus on hunting and shooting. “Over the past decade, Tweed Media has grown from a small kitchen-table startup in a sector that did not understand the power of public relations to the dominant international agency working with huge brands all over the U.S. and the world,” says managing

director Selena Barr. She cofounded the agency with her husband, Simon, who serves as CEO. “At the beginning, it was tricky to convince businesses that they should consider appointing an external agency to handle their public relations.” In many cases, Barr discovered that when Tweed approached companies in the shooting-sports sector, they learned that tradition dictated that public relations be handled internally. “Invariably, we found that this person did not understand the subject matter because they weren’t a hunter or shooter. As such, their efforts would prove ineffective.” Another barrier Tweed encountered during pitches was a company’s previous experience with an outside agency. “When we talked to these CEOs, we learned that some companies had had their fingers burned by an agency that had over-promised and under-delivered,” she says. “We had to convince these CEOs that we were different, that we were accountable and transparent.” And just how did Tweed do that? “What set us apart is that we are passionately committed to the outdoors,” she says. “When we are not working, we are chasing

deer and fish, and camping in the wilderness.” Another key selling point was that the Barrs told these companies that Tweed is “always on.” “That means 24/7,” she says. “If a crisis hits at 10 p.m. on a Sunday, we are available. Always. To succeed in this highly competitive sector, you need to be proactive and agile.” Tweed also makes sure that its clients are kept informed of its efforts on their behalf. “We are hot on communication,” she says. “We provide our clients with weekly updates of coverage we have secured, plus a monthly report detailing all activity over the past 30 days, and then a huge printed report that can be presented to the board at the end of a 12-month term. We make ourselves indispensable.” Future company goals for Tweed are continued expansion in the United States. “Tweed Media’s

Premium German optics brand Leica (Booth #12519) tasks Tweed Media with translating Europeansounding and European-looking branding messages to the U.S. market. Tweed’s staff, now composed of 11 staffers (including writers, SEO experts, designers, and photographers), will rewrite, reshoot, and rework the marketing collateral that comes from Leica’s Wetzlar HQ to make it relatable to the American market. “Being British, we are a great go-between for the two nations,” Barr says. “We have worked with Leica for the past seven years, so we understand their messaging and brand identity intricately. In addition, our role is to secure Leica as much editorial coverage in the U.S. as possible, ensure writers have units for testing and evaluating, producing social media content, photography of products being used in their intended environment, and coordinating huge product launches at the SHOT Show.” One of Barr’s biggest tasks at SHOT Show is the annual Leica breakfast. “Organizing the Leica media breakfast on the Wednesday morning of SHOT Show is no small undertaking,” she says. “There is so much competition for people to attend events. It takes an enormous number of man-hours to secure the presence of the top editors, writers, bloggers, photographers, and influencers in one room. I think one of the reasons I always manage to pull it off is because I bother to send an email to every single attendee to thank them for their support. Without the support and respect of these people, Tweed Media would not be able to achieve all that we do.” It’s a smart way to work. And it’s a philosophy that has earned them other clients at SHOT Show, including Hornady (Booth #13140). (tweed-media.com).

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f e at u r e s

Clean Sweep

Otis, manufacturer of gun-cleaning kits, picks up DRD Tactical By Kris Millgate

he company that designs the kits that clean your guns can now sell you guns for its kits to clean. Otis Technology, a family business based in Lyon Falls, New York, acquired DRD Tactical last fall.

“DRD built a name for itself with its unique firearms offerings,” says Heather Pleskach, director of marketing for Otis Technology. “The rifles have patented technology that allows quick breakdown of their barrels. In addition, the stock folds, but the rifle can be fired while the stock is folded.” That gun has now become part of the Otis product line, which started with gun cleaner in 1985. The cleaning kit was a mud-inspired innovation. The company’s founder, Doreen Garrett, who was 16 at the time, fell down during a deer hunt, dumping her grandpa’s Winchester in the mud. She left the field with a clogged barrel and an unpunched tag. The fall cost her the hunt but created an idea. “Her thought process was, I need to have something to carry in the field to clean and clear so this doesn’t happen again,” Pleskach says. “She called it the ‘Whole Kit &

Caboodle.’ It was everything you needed to clean and clear without disassembling the fire-

Doreen Garrett (second from left) founded Otis Technology in 1985. The company acquired Shooter’s Choice in 2018, followed by DRD Tactical in fall 2019.

arm. She put everything in a little shoe-polish tin so she could carry it in the field.” The tin rattled, so Garrett improved the case with soft, quiet material. She started Otis with her three siblings and parents. The Garrett family knew the family behind DRD Tactical from SHOT Show. When the opportunity to bring DRD into the Otis fold developed, they jumped at the chance. “When we invest in machinery, we’re not doing things that just work for right now. We’re planning for the capabilities of expanded growth,” Pleskach says. “Our facility is poised for growth, and adding DRD Tactical is a good fit for growing our portfolio of products beyond our cleaning line.” With the acquisition of Shooter’s Choice in 2018 and DRD Tactical in 2019, Otis now has 125 employees. Otis bought those two companies for their quality products that already had brand recognition. That’s why they’re still listed by their original names. But now they share SHOT Show space in the Otis booth. In addition to two new rifles this year, expect a new cleaning kit for storage between hunting seasons or mission deployments: the Rust Stopper Long Term Storage Kit. Meanwhile, the original remains a mainstay of the company after all these years. “A kit like this doesn’t cross your mind as something you need to worry about until it happens to you,” Pleskach says. “It’s insurance. If you have it, you won’t need it.” Booth #14216. (otistec.com)

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