Shot Daily - Day 3 - 2018 SHOT Show by SHOT Business

SHOOTING HUNTING OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW 1979–2018 DAY 3, JANUARY 2 5, 2 018

NEW PRODUCT REPORTS SHOT Daily scours the floor to find the latest in knives from the show P. 12. Also, see what’s new in accessories P. 16.

FEATURES

NEWS

IMMEDIATE FEEDBACK

5 MINUTES WITH Meopta strives to combine craftsmanship with modern technology. PAGE 6

Reactive targets make shooting practice a whole lot more fun. PAGE 50

THE OTHER SIDE

HOT STUFF

Savage Arms bets big on rifles designed specifically for lefthanders. PAGE 38

The thermal-optics market is heating up. PAGE 58

T H E DA I LY N E WS O F T H E 2 0 1 8 L AS V EGAS S H OT S H OW B ROUG H T TO YOU BY T H E B O N N I E R CO R P O RAT I O N A N D T H E N SS F

Otis Presents Sales Awards

For the second consecutive year, Otis Technology presented Sokol Associates Inc. with its 2017 Sales Agency of the Year award. Sokol took top honors in 2013 and 2014 as well. The award was presented to Jon Sokol by Frank Devlin, director of commercial sales for Otis Technology. “Sokol Associates came on board with Otis in 2013, and has excelled since day one. They’ve been true partners in every sense of the word and are a joy to work with,” Devlin said. “The Midwest is a very target-rich environment, with multiple large accounts spread across the territory. Sokol representatives, along with Otis’ regional sales manager Tom Knudtson, provide top representation for our premium line of firearms cleaning products and accessories. Our expectations from our agencies are very high, and we applaud the Sokol team’s continued efforts.” Sokol represents Otis Technology in the upper Midwest and Great Lakes territories. The agency is based out of Oakdale, Minnesota. Devlin also presented the Otis Technology 2017 Sales Representative of the Year award to Jeremy Young of Sokol Associates Inc.

Leading the Way

t the NSSF State of the Industry reception Tuesday evening, NSSF president Steve Sanetti recounted the numerous programs and initiatives that NSSF has undertaken to further the trade association’s “mission to promote, protect, and preserve hunting and the shooting sports.” But the issue he dealt with in greatest detail was NSSF’s ongoing efforts to improve the reliability and accuracy of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). “Responsible federally licensed retailers don’t want to sell firearms to those who are prohibited from purchasing them. I can’t emphasize this point enough,” he said, noting that retailers have to rely on the FBI NICS system and state police records to determine whether

a prospective purchaser is prohibited from owning a firearm. “Yet the records in this system have been shown to be remarkably incomplete. Some states had submitted few or none until our efforts helped them comply with the law. In 2012, one large state submitted just one disqualifying mental-health record to the FBI; another, just 17. This is an outrage. And this must be fixed. “During the last five years, our industry has worked tirelessly to ‘Fix NICS’ at both the state and federal levels,” he said. “This will, to quote Mark Twain, ‘confound our enemies and astound our friends.’ But, yes, it is the firearms industry, so often improperly vilified by those in search of a villain instead of the truth, that has actually gotten 16 states to input their disqualifying records into the system—something they should

have been doing all along. “Our Fix NICS campaign has resulted in more than 4.5 million additional state records being submitted into the system during the last five years. And that doesn’t count the increase in records that will be submitted by agencies and armed forces of the U.S. Federal Government, as we hope will be the case if the bipartisan Fix NICS Act, which builds on our Fix NICS campaign, is enacted into law.” Sanetti noted that the NSSF’s efforts have been “expensive, timeconsuming, and frustrating at times, and are not yet complete. But by using funds coming in part from your attendance at the SHOT Show, which support our programs and policies, your industry trade association rose to the task and has led the way, and will continue to do so.”

NSSF president and CEO Steve Sanetti told the audience at the State of the Industry reception that the NSSF is dedicated to improving the reliability and accuracy of the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS).

1/24/18 3:55 PM

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Slaton L. White, Editor James A. Walsh, Art Director Margaret M. Nussey, Managing Editor David E. Petzal, Shooting Editor David Maccar, Special Projects Editor Judith Weber, Production Manager Justin Appenzeller, Contributing Photographer

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Larry Ahlman, Barbara Baird, Scott Bestul, Philip Bourjaily, Christopher Cogley, Jock Elliott, Tim Irwin, William F. Kendy, Richard Mann, Peter B. Mathiesen, Brian McCombie, Tom Mohrhauser, Robert Sadowski, Robert F. Staeger, Peter Suciu, Wayne Van Zwoll

Anthony Licata, Editorial Director Gregory D. Gatto, Senior Vice President, Managing Director ADVERTISING: 212-779-5316

Jeff Roberge, Advertising Director Brian Peterson, Western Sporting Goods Sales Katie Logan, Southern Sporting Goods Sales David Hawkey, Northeast Sporting Goods Sales Amanda Gastelum, Integrated Marketing Director Ingrid Reslmaier, Marketing Design Director

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Tara Bisciello, Business Manager

MANUFACTURING

Michelle Doster, Group Production Director Alison Klein, Senior Production Manager

BONNIER Chairman, Tomas FranzŽn Head of Business Area, Magazines, Lars DahmŽn Chief Executive Officer, Eric Zinczenko Chief Financial Officer, Joachim Jaginder Chief Operating Officer, David Ritchie Chief Marketing Officer, Elizabeth Burnham Murphy Chief Digital Revenue Officer, Sean Holzman Vice President, Integrated Sales, John Graney Vice President, Digital Operations, David Butler Vice President, Public Relations, Perri Dorset General Counsel, Jeremy Thompson

Shooting Ranges

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Target Systems

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SHOT Business (ISSN 1081-8618) is published 7 times a year in January, February/March, April/May, June/July, August/September, October/ November and December by Bonnier Corporation, 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5695, and is the official publication of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Flintlock Ridge Office Center, 11 Mile Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470 (203-426-1320). Volume 26, issue 1. Copyright © 2018 by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. All rights reserved. Editorial, circulation, production and advertising offices are located at 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5695 (212-779-5000). Free to qualified subscribers; available to non-qualified subscribers for $25 per year. Single-copy issues are available for $5 each. Send check, payable to NSSF, to: SHOT Business, c/o NSSF, 11 Mile Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470-2359. SHOT Business accepts no responsibility for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. All correspondence should be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Requests for media kits and advertising information should be directed to Katy Marinaro, Bonnier Corporation, 625 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 1270, Chicago, IL 60611. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and at additional mailing offices.

Visit us at Booth 14551

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1/12/18 11:52 AM

THE N E W ZE ISS CO N QU EST V 4

DREAM BIGGER W H AT E V E R D R E A M H U N T I S N E X T O N Y O U R L I S T, S U C C E S S I S N O W W E L L- W I T H I N R A N G E. S E E T H E N E W V 4 AT B O O T H # 1 3 9 0 9

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1/4/18 4:27 PM

MINUTES WITH…

Reinhard Seipp General Manager, Meopta USA

Best of Both Worlds Old World craftsmanship and modern technology are a powerful combination

einhard Seipp was born in Wetzlar, Germany, which is known as the City of Optics because prominent companies like Leica, Zeiss, and Schmidt & Bender are all located in or near it. He started his professional life as an optical engineer for Leica and in 1976 came to the United States and managed optical fabrication and assembly for a U.S. defense contractor. In 1994, Seipp relocated to New York and joined Meopta, where he helped transform the company from an optical component manufacturer into an optical powerhouse that designs and manufactures state-of-the-art optics for the consumer and defense sectors. He is an avid outdoorsman who loves hunting, fishing, and nature photography.

SHOT Daily: What do you see

people would not know that.

as the biggest challenges facing the industry in the next five years?

SD: What were the challenges in establishing Meopta in the U.S.? How did you meet them?

Reinhard Seipp: Hunting

has a lot of competition these days, particularly when it comes to attracting young people, who are spending more and more time tethered to electronics and less time outdoors. That trend, combined with fewer affordable places to hunt these days, makes it hard to cultivate the next generation of hunters. The recreational and competitive shooting sector continues to be stable, but it still faces challenges from the many rival forms of entertainment and media. While Meopta has a devoted following in the hunting sector, most of our revenue is generated in military, defense, and industrial sales, so we are not significantly impacted by these developments. In our sports optics line, we will continue to offer premium hunting optics while significantly expanding our tactical offerings with new sights and night-vision optics.

SD: When you wake up in the morning, what gets you excited about your business? RS: It’s rewarding to take a

brand that was unknown in the U.S. less than a decade ago and build it into a well-respected premium brand—not only on the sports optics side, but also in the industrial and military sectors. We are passionate about supporting the U.S. military with high-

RS: We had great products, but

Reinhard Seipp says one of the keys to Meopta’s success in the United States was working with retailers to make them understand that the company delivered first-rate optics at very affordable prices.

performance, rugged, and reliable products. Meopta develops and manufactures armored vehicle optical devices that can operate both during the day and at night, as well as sights and optical systems for ground forces and air and naval forces. We are also dedicated to providing jobs with good wages to American workers, and we are building our new manufacturing and assembly facility in Trinity, Florida, into a world-class operation. Delivering exceptional quality as we continue to grow our business is both exciting and rewarding.

SD: In your opinion, what makes a Meopta a Meopta?

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RS: Old World craftsmanship

combined with the most advanced modern technology, resulting in products featuring deep attention to detail, near engineering perfection, durability, and quality. Consumers perceive us as a small player compared to more established brands, but Meopta is actually one of the largest optics companies in the world. Most of our sales are generated in the industrial and military segments and as a supplier to the leading brands in the consumer segment of the optics market. We have built more than a half million riflescopes in the last 20 years, many for some of the top sports optics brands in the world, but most

no brand. We sold the owners of mid-size stores here in the U.S. (where the owner is truly involved) on the concept of having to sell only the first Meopta to their customers. All subsequent Meopta products would basically sell themselves through word of mouth and repeat purchasers. This worked, as most Meopta customers own several of our products. The outdoor writers who really know optics were quick to embrace Meopta because of our quality and performance. They were also quick to note Meopta’s pricing and the value the consumers were getting for their money for our premium European optics in comparison to what the top-tier German brands were charging. We submitted many of our optics for testing by magazines, and over the past seven years, we’ve won just about every award there is to win in the various product categories. The positive media coverage has helped elevate our brand, in addition to the powerful grassroots support we see online and in the field. There is no better salesperson for Meopta optics than Meopta customers who discuss our products with their friends. “I sold all of my optics and replaced them with Meopta” is something we hear often. Booth #10176.

(meoptasportsoptics.com)

1/24/18 3:00 PM

GERBERGEAR.COM |

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1/4/18 2:38 PM

NEWS

In the Footsteps of a Giant The successor to the Model 70 has arrived, and the XPR is poised to lead Winchester through the 21st century By Brad Fitzpatrick

he Winchester Model 70 has been hailed as the “Rifleman’s Rifle” and has earned praise from millions of shooters, including such notables as Jack O’Connor and famed African hunter Harry Manners. Designing a rifle to be the spiritual successor to that gun, then, was an unenviable task. Fans of the Model 70—and there are many— don’t like anyone monkeying around with their favorite centerfire rifle. (Remember what happened when the company stripped away the full-length claw extractor in 1964 as part of a cost-cutting initiative?) But in 2015, 78 years after it first released the Model 70, Winchester announced its next flagship bolt-action rifle—the XPR.

The XPR’s MOA trigger system utilizes a pivoting lever design that virtually eliminates any creep or overtravel.

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Advancements in machine technology and metallurgy have changed the landscape of boltaction hunting rifles. Modern CNC machining allows manufacturers to produce very accurate rifles more efficiently and at a lower cost to consumers. The XPR is one of a new crop of guns that cost less than $600, yet are capable of delivering subMOA accuracy with factory loads. However, as heir apparent to the Model 70, the XPR would be exposed to a level of scrutiny that no other budget bolt gun would have had to endure. “There are a lot of options in affordable rifles right now, but none have the complete package like the XPR does,” says Rafe Nielsen, Winchester’s director of communications. “Details do matter, and we focused on specific elements that make a rifle better. The XPR is a Winchester. And just like with the Model 70, we know how to build quality rifles, no matter what the price point is.” When the XPR debuted in 2015, it wasn’t an updated version of the Model 70 but a radical departure from the brand’s best-selling bolt-action gun. Gone is the CRF action, replaced by a three-lug bolt made from through-hardened chromoly steel barstock. The bolt is the same width as the locking lugs and has been coated with nickel teflon to run smoothly through the receiver. In addition, the three-lug design allows for a short 60-degree bolt lift. The chromoly steel buttonrifled barrel is thermally

stress relieved and is mated to the barrel with a barrel nut design that allows for perfect headspacing and excellent accuracy. The XPR also features a detachable box magazine constructed from durable polymer. It fits securely in the rifle, eliminating the need to finesse and finagle the mag into proper position. The Model 70 was famous for its oft-copied three-position wing safety, but you won’t find that signature feature on the new XPR. Instead, the XPR utilizes a two-position safety located on the right side of the receiver and a boltrelease button that is located just aft of the bolt handle. The safety retracts the trigger from the actuator for maximum security, and depressing the bolt-release button allows you to safely cycle the action. The system is convenient and, when you become accustomed to the operation, quite intuitive and userfriendly. Another sign of the changing landscape of bolt-action rifle design is the lack of a wood-stocked version of the XPR; there are multiple variations on the polymer stock (black or Mossy Oak camo, compact or full-size length of pull). The Sporter version does have a walnut stock, but it is available only on a limited basis. One feature shared by the Model 70 and the XPR is Winchester’s MOA trigger system, which utilizes a pivoting lever design that offers a mechanical advantage and virtually eliminates any creep or overtravel. The trigger is also adjustable for weight (set

at 3.5 pounds at the factory) and overtravel. Gone are the days when a subpar trigger was acceptable in a bolt-action rifle. I first shot the XPR at the 2015 SHOT Show Media Day and was immediately impressed with the rifle’s ergonomics and accuracy. Since that initial experience, I’ve shot several different variations of the XPR in different calibers out to 1,200 yards. Even a few years ago, the thought of engaging steel targets at three-quarters of a mile would have been outlandish with a budget rifle. But not anymore. The Model 70 is available in a wide range of configurations for hunting everything from varmints and predators to dangerous game in Africa, and will continue to be for the foreseeable future. In 2006, when the Model 70 disappeared from the Winchester lineup, there was a fury akin to the backlash that accompanied the 1964 changes. But the XPR will be the rifle upon which the company relies to lead it into the future. The XPC long-range rifle is the first specialized gun to utilize the new XPR action, but it certainly won’t be the last to do so. Winchester had to take great care when selecting a successor to the Model 70 crown, and they have done well with the XPR. Now all that remains to be seen is if the shooting public falls as hard for this rifle as they did for the Rifleman’s Rifle. SRP: $549.99–$599.99. Booth #13329. (winchester guns.com)

1/24/18 3:17 PM

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12/5/17 4:51 PM

NEWS

The bolt-action Modern Precision Rifle (MPR) from Christensen Arms is a lightweight chassis rifle designed for long-range hunters.

In Demand

Christensen Arms’ newest rifle is fueling the company’s growth By Brian McCombie o doubt about it—2017 was not a year of robust sales. But while some manufacturers focused relentlessly on cutting expenses and staff to the bone, Christensen Arms of Gunnison, Utah, actually hired people in 2017. To be somewhat more precise, more than 50 new hires came aboard, doubling the gunmaker’s workforce. The company expects to hire more people in 2018, thanks in no small part to its newest firearm, the Modern Precision Rifle (MPR). It also aims to expand its network of dealers. “We are very fortunate to have great dealers and business partners that have played such a big role in our success as a company,” says Jason Christensen, president of Christensen Arms. “Our products are more in demand than ever, and we are actively looking for more retailers to carry our firearms and accessories.”

Founded in 1995, Christensen Arms has its roots in the Christensen Family’s original aerospace and prosthetics manufacturing concerns. With that high-tech background, Christensen Arms applies cutting-edge composite technologies to the rifles and pistols it builds. Carbon-fiber barrels, for example, are a key component of Christensen rifles, providing lightweight but very stiff barrels for improved accuracy. Carbon fiber also happens to make those rifles very easy to carry on hunts. Late last year, Christensen launched the bolt-action MPR in 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Win., lightweight chassis rifles designed for long-range hunters. The launch itself was rather low key and only received minimal media coverage. But almost as soon as word got out, Christensen was suddenly back-ordered on MPRs. I attended that launch, and spent several hours shooting the various MPR models. They are amazingly

accurate. My best that day was a three-shot 2.5-inch group at 520 yards. At right around 7 pounds, the MPRs have many features made with the hunter specifically in mind, including a handguard with a flattened bottom (for stability when resting on fence posts, rocks, and packs) and a stock that folds up around a rifle sling for

The author checking out the MPR. His best effort of the day was a three-shot 2.5-inch group at 520 yards.

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easy carrying. SRP: $2,295. In addition to the MPR, Christensen Arms produces a line of bolt-action hunting and tactical rifles, several MSR-style rifles, and a number of 1911 platform pistols. For its retailers, Christensen provides logistical and staff help to put on in-store events, promotions, and demonstrations. The

company provides product training for sales teams. Marketing materials such as product brochures, catalogs, and other point-of-sale items are available, with more of these offerings in the works for 2018. “We can also provide a branded Christensen Arms point-of-sale rifle display rack that is lit with LED lights and stainless-steel graphics panels at zero cost to our large dealers, to assist in the sales and marketing of our products,” says Christensen. “In addition, we have a special dealer-resource section on our website that includes digital assets of our brand and products for use on web and social media.” Christensen devotes significant effort to multi-media-marketing platforms, including internet venues, YouTube videos, and an extensive social media outreach. The company also advertises in a variety of print, web, and television venues. Booth #10574. (christensenarms.com)

1/24/18 11:39 AM

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11/28/17 11:08 AM

KNIVES

BEAR The Incognito Automatic was created as a slim, easy-to-operate, everyday concealed-carry option.

Broad Appeal

Innovative designs, coupled with expanded everyday-carry options, mark this yearÕs crop of new knives By Christopher Cogley

here’s an old adage that says the more things change, the more they stay the same. That might very well be the most accurate way to define the continually changing and ever-constant state of the knife industry that will be on display at this year’s SHOT Show. As you make your way from one booth to another, expect to see new innovations in materials and workmanship as well as improved manufacturing technology and techniques that all combine to create some of the most revolutionary knife designs that have ever hit the market. With more states seeming to relax their concealed-carry requirements as they relate to knives, many of these innovations are being incorporated into a wider selection of automatic openers that definitely seem to be the hot item at this year’s show. B ROW N I N G Black Label Decoded deploys easily. Tactical knives continue to gain in popularity with the general public, and manufacturers are responding by developing more styles and designs to appeal to more people and provide for more concealed-carry options. The everyday-carry category also continues to rise in popularity, and, as it does, EDC designs are becoming more specialized with distinctive tactical, hunting, or stylized functionality built into them. The one trend that seems to be consistent across all the various categories and among all the different manufacturers is the trend toward making knives more appealing and accessible to a broader range of consumers. That’s because despite a continually changing industry, the one truth that seems to remain constant is that when it comes to knives, there’s no such thing as having too many.

Bear & Son Cutlery ³ Bear

& Son Cutlery is launching

the new Incognito Automatic as part of the Bear OPS brand. Created as an everyday concealedcarry option, the slim knife weighs in at 2.6 ounces and features a deep-pocket clip designed to look like the clip of a common pen. The Incognito’s 25/8-inch Sandvik blade deploys from the stainlesssteel handle with the push of a button. SRP: $229.99. Booth #446. (bearandsoncutlery.com)

Boker USA ³ This

year Boker is expanding its Boker Plus collection of tactical tools with three new knives, including an XL version of its Urban Survival knife with a 2.75inch 440C blade and an overall length of 5.5 inches. Like the original, the XL features a slim design and a scalpel-like blade housed in an aluminum handle. Boker is also releasing a Tanto version of its Urban Trapper knife that has a 3.25-inch VG-10 blade and a titanium handle. The FR Mini is a smaller version of the Boker Plus FR. The mini has a 3-inch VG-10 blade with a titanium handle. Booth #13167. (bokerusa.com)

Browning ³ The

Black Label Decoded is an assisted-opening knife that features a made-in-the-USA hollowground stainless-steel blade. The Decoded has a textured G-10 scale handle with a stainless-steel pocket clip and a thumb stud for easy deployment. SRP: $69.99. Booth #12740. (browning.com)

Buck ³ Buck

is upgrading the auto version of its iconic 110 this year. The new knife will feature an S30V blade with a G-10 handle complete with nickel silver bolsters (SRP: $250). Buck is also releasing the same knife in a nonauto version (SRP: $115) as well as a lighter version, the 110 Folding Hunter LT, with a nylon handle (SRP: $38). In 2018, Buck is also relaunching the Open Season Series, which will feature two distinct collections of American-made knives. The Open Season Series Avid will include the skinning, guthook skinner, small game, and the folding skinner that are all made with 420HC steel and wooden handles (SRP: $75–$90). The Open Season Series Pro knives are made with S35VN steel and feature Micarta handles. The collection will also include a skinning, guthook skinner, small game, and folding skinner as well as a caper and a boning knife (SRP: $165–$220). Booth #14504.

(buckknives.com)

B OK E R USA The Tanto version of the Urban Trapper knife has a 3.25-inch VG-10 blade and a titanium handle.

Camillus ³ Camillus

is launching the GB-8 and NS-8 at this year’s show. Both of the knives feature 3.15-inch Carbonitride Titanium–bonded

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1/12/18 11:23 AM

OU T D OOR EDGE Para-Claw CQD Watch features a Japanese quartz watch with a paracord watchband.

AUS-8 steel blades. The GB-8 has a Tanto blade, while the NS-8 has a serrated drop-point blade. Both of the knives have a glassfilled nylon handle with a glass breaker. SRP: $41.99. Booth #15122. (camillusknives.com)

Coast ³ Coast

is adding to its line of blade-assist knives this year with the launch of the new RX395. The knife has a 3.75-inch blade made of 7Cr17 stainless steel and is quickly deployed via the bladeassist technology. It locks in place with both a liner lock and Coast’s patented Max-Lock, which secures the blade in either the open or closed position. The RX395 features a nylon handle with a built-in seatbelt cutter and glass breaker. SRP: $47. Booth #15120. (coastportland.com)

Columbia River Knife & Tool ³ CRKT

is significantly expanding its line of Field Strip knives by incorporating the innovative technology created by Ken Onion into several knives from other designers. From the RTD designed by Matthew Lerch and

the HVAS designed by Jesper Voxnaes to the Goken designed by James Williams and the Raikiri designed by Dew Hara, there will be a Field Strip style of knife for nearly every situation and anyone’s sense of style. CRKT is also expanding its Forged By War line with the SiWi and RASP folding knives as well as the Pack Axe and Freyer axe, which are both designed by Elmer Roush. The Pack Axe is an 11.25-inch axe with a 1060 carbon head that weighs 1 pound 2.3 ounces (SRP: $89.99). The Freyer is a 16-inch axe with a 1055 carbon head shaped in a traditional Viking warrior design. (SRP: $99.99). Booth #414. (crkt.com)

Gerber Legendary Blades ³ The

new Empower Automatic Series has been designed to deliver tactical performance in an everyday-carry blade. The series will include four color variations that all feature an S30V blade that’s deployed with the push of a button. The handle scales are photochemically etched to provide a solid grip. SRP: $125. Booth #13612. (gerbergear.

com)

Ontario Knife ³ The

OKC Wraith is an EDC with a 2.6-inch blade made from AUS 8 steel. It also has a glassfilled TPE handle with a back lock. Booth #20305. (ontario

knife.com)

Outdoor Edge ³ Outdoor

Edge is celebrating its 30th anniversary at this year’s SHOT Show, and to commemorate the occasion, it’s adding a new feature to the popular ParaClaw bracelet that launched at last year’s show. The Para-Claw CQD Watch features a Japanese quartz watch with a paracord watchband that incorporates a 1.5-inch stainless-steel hawkbill blade into the clasp. Designed for Close Quarters Defense, the CQD Watch is also water-resistant to 170 feet and has a matte black finish. (SRP: $119.95). Outdoor Edge is also releasing a fixed-blade design of its popular Razor-Lite replacement blade knives (SRP: $79.95) and the Dyna-Sharp electric knife sharp-

B UC K The iconic 110 is now available in an automatic version with a G-10 handle and nickel silver bolsters.

DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2018 Q SHOT BUSINESS DAILY Q 13

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1/12/18 11:23 AM

PRODUCTS

GERBER The Empower Automatic everyday-carry offers tactical performance.

ener that has a 1x30-inch abrasive belt driven by a 1/3-hp motor ($399.95). Booth #1220.

of 11 inches and weighs 7 ounces. SRP: $69.99. Booth #521. (pumaknifecompanyusa.com)

(outdooredge.com)

Spyderco

Puma ³ The

Bowie Commando Stag knife has a 6.1-inch 1.4116 German cutlery steel blade and features a thermoplastic handle that was molded from an actual elk antler to create a lifelike texture and solid grip. The fixedblade knife has an overall length

CA M I LLUS The GB-8 Tanto has a Carbonitride TitaniumÐ bonded AUS-8 steel blade.

Spyderco’s high-strength back lock. The Manix 2 has a 3.37-inch blade made from CPM S30V stainless steel housed in a linerless handle of textured G-10 scales (SRP: $219.95). To complement its popular Salt Series of knives featuring rustproof H-1 steel blades, Spyderco is releasing the Dragonfly 2 with a 2.3-inch serrated hawkbill blade. It weighs only 1.3 ounces (SRP: $97.95). Booth #13113. (spyderco.com)

³ Spyderco

SOG

is adding to its coveted Signature Series of knives this year with the Native 5. With a 2.95-inch blade crafted from premium CPM S90V stainless steel, the Native 5 features a fluted carbon-fiber handle that provides the knife with impeccable aesthetics and a solid non-slip texture. The Native 5 weighs only 2.8 ounces (SRP: $359.95). Spyderco is also releasing a new version of its popular Manix 2 that features

³ SOG

is adding the SOG-TAC California Special to its collection of automatic-opening knives. The California Special is a discrete folder with a 1.9-inch AUS-8 blade and an aluminum handle that weighs in at a mere 2.3 ounces. SOG is also releasing the Flare assisted-opening knife with a 3.5inch stainless-steel 8CR13Mov blade and a nylon handle. To complement its collection of tools, SOG is adding the PowerAccess Deluxe with 20 tools packed into

Visit the Kahr Firearms Group Booth

#13962 AMBIDEXTROUS BOLT HANDLE The bolt handle is field reversible from right hand to left hand

SNAPSHOT

™

.22LR SnapShot™ Rifle, 17” Patterned Graphite Barrel, with Red Ambidextrous Evolution Laminate Stock Join us: #KahrFirearmsGroup • #MagnumResearch

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the 6.8-inch stainless-steel design as well as the PowerLitre, which has 17 tools and weighs 4.6 ounces. The PowerPint features 18 tools in a 4.2-ounce package. All of the tools feature SOG’s magnetic hex bit holder. Booth #425. (sogknives.com)

Victorinox Swiss Army ³ In

celebration of the 11th position of the 12-year Chinese zodiac, Victorinox is releasing the Huntsman Year of the Dog knife at this year’s show. The 16-function knife is available in limited quantities, and each one will be numbered and come with a gift box. Victorinox is also releasing the Wine Master as part of the Ranger

Wood collection. The knife features a short, curved, wavy-edged blade designed to cut and remove the foil on the neck of a wine bottle. It also has an extra-long corkscrew that’s shaped like a cone and can be used as a bottle opener or a double lever for uncorking. The Wine Master is available in either fine-grained walnut or olive wood finishes. SRP: $162. Booth #14202. (swissarmy.com)

White River Knife & Tool ³ The

Camp Clever has been designed as an all-around camp knife capable of cutting, chopping, and even skinning. Featuring a 5.5inch blade made of CPM S35VN and a Micarta handle, the Camp Cleaver has an overall length of

SOG California Special is a discrete folder with a 1.9-inch AUS-8 blade and an aluminum handle. 10¼ inches. SRP: $230. Booth #1114. (whiteriverknives.com)

W.R. Case ³ The

Doctor’s Knife features Tru-Sharp surgical steel spear and spatula blades. The iconic knife, which was first introduced in the 1930s, will be available in a wide variety of handle options, colors, and blade configurations. Case is also launching its second knife in the American Heroes Series in collaboration with Winkler Knives. The Case Winkler Recurve Utility #6 was designed with the help of retired U.S. Navy SEAL Harry Bologna. Booth #13905. (wrcase.com)

W H I T E R I V E R The Camp Cleaver is capable of cutting, chopping, and even skinning.

NEW RAIL MASTER PRO FOR LONG GUNS ®

VISIT OUR NEW LOCATION: BOOTH #13616

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ACCESSORIES RITE IN THE RAIN Storm Sight Shooting Targets are printed on weather- resistant paper that can be used in the nastiest weather conditions.

Positive Attraction

Accessories not only attract foot traffic, they help improve any retailer’s bottom line By Peter B. Mathiesen f there’s one thing retailers know, it’s that accessories sell, no matter which firearms are hot. The accessories category continues to expand at SHOT Show, with even more new vendors adding to the miles of aisles. Here’s a look at what’s new this year.

Ameristep

windows increase cona silent-hinge cealment through a lack door, the Distorter of hard edges. A generBlind has three unique ous 104x84-inch footfloor kickouts to proprint and 75-inch vide additional storage shooting width allows space for bulky equipample space for up to ment, such as packs three people. SRP: and camera tripods. $229.99. Booth #15527. A M E RI ST E P The floors have sewn(ameristep.com) The Distorter has in shelves to keep critisewn-in shelves. cal gear dry and at the ready. Up top, the dual Ani-Logics ³ The Ani-Protein Block 365 roof kickouts add height where it’s needed most, creating a welfeed block provides a long-lasting come increase in standing headprotein source for whitetail deer. room with enhanced visibility. It’s especially useful in forage The bow- and crossbow-friendly environments lacking in desirable

³ Using

protein levels. The product delivers critical nutrients like vitamins and minerals to improve antler growth. There also is a powerful attractant that lures deer and helps hold them to a specific area. SRP: $19.99. Booth #N263. (anilogics.com)

Canyon Coolers ³ Built

with a tough, raft-grade 800D RF-welded PVC shell, the Quest 25-Quart Backpack is made

CA N YON COOL ERS The Quest 25-Quart Backpack resists tears and scratches.

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Julie Golob Champion, Author, Veteran, Hunter, Ambassador & Mom Captain of Team Smith & Wesson

M&P®9L Ported

M&P®9 Pro Series

SEE US IN BOOTH #13729 BC_063768_SBDD318P.indd 1

M&P®9 C.O.R.E.

M&P®9 SHIELD™ Ported

#PerformanceCenter www.smith-wesson.com/pc

12/18/17 3:43 PM

PRODUCTS

mo-fit-molded earpieces of the Percussive Filters deliver cuttingedge percussive-impulse filter technology, protecting users from the peak sound pressure of gunshots, artillery fire, and explosions. Custom molding is easy; simply warm the earpieces in water and shape them to your ears. The earpieces can even be reheated and reshaped if needed. Unlike electronic hearing protection, they never need batteries. SRP: $74.99. Booth #N472. (decibullz.com)

Doom and Bloom Medical ³ The

Bleeding Wounds Trauma Kit is a multi-person trauma kit that gives a Good Samaritan the ability to stop even arterial bleeding quickly and effectively. The kit includes multiple tourniquets, blood-clotting Z-fold dressings, compressed gauze bandages, pressure dressings, and vented chest seals. Step-by-step illustrated instructions are printed on waterproof paper. Non-medical personnel can use this guide to help the injured before first responders arrive. SRP: $339. Booth #1366.

(doomandbloom.net)

HOWA R D L E I G HT The Impact Sport BOLT earmuff shuts off amplification when harmful sound levels are reached. The earmuff effectively blocks any noise 82dB or higher.

to resist tears and scratches even when the user is trekking through heavy brush. The pack cooler features an AirCore insulationlined cargo area with a closed-cell IceSkin. It offers three times the insulation found in normal soft coolers; ice will keep for days. Close the pack with a secure rolltop seal and utilize the tie-down and lashing points to attach other gear to the pack.

The Quest 25-Quart Backpack comes in two colors: sage and arctic white. The backpack also features a mesh hip pocket and a water-resistant zippered stow area for extra storage. SRP: $139.99. Booth #2861. (canyoncoolers. com)

Decibullz ³ Right

out of the box, the ther-

IMR Powder ³ IMR

Enduron 8133 is a new powder designed specifically for magnum calibers, including .300 Remington Ultra Magnum, 28 Nosler, or the .264 Winchester Magnum. The Enduron line is recognized for eliminating copper fouling, extreme temperature stability, and ideal load density. It is also environmentally friendly. The powder offers the slowest burn rate among the Enduron powders. Available in 1-pound and 8-pound canisters. SRP: starts at $29.95. Booth #16738.

(imrpowder.com)

Howard Leight ³ The

Impact Sport BOLT earmuff automatically shuts off amplification whenever harmful sound levels are reached. The earmuff effectively blocks any noise 82dB or higher. To enhance lowlevel sound, the BOLT employs built-in microphones to amplify range commands and other ambient sounds. Users will enjoy full, clear directional sound in stereo. There is a four-hour auto shutoff to ensure long battery life. SRP: $120. Booth #2020. (howard

leight.com)

Lyman Products ³ Made

from cast iron rather than steel, the compact design of the C-Frame Press requires minimal bench space. The press features compound linkage for optimum leverage, a 1-inch-diameter ram, and a 37/8-inch press opening that can handle all pistol calibers and rifle cartridges with a loaded length of up to 3.7 inches. Using a central ball handle for comfortable ambidextrous operation, it accepts all 7/8x14 thread dies and standard shell holders. SRP: $99.95. Booth #12724. (lyman products.com)

MagnetoSpeed ³ The

T1000 Target Hit Indicator is designed to mount to the back side of AR500 steel targets at least 10 inches wide. A yellow signal indicates a miss, a red signal indicates a hit. The rechargeable lithium batteries (enclosed in a weatherproof sheath) last up to a year or 4,000 impacts—without having to be turned off. SRP: $150. Booth #406. (magnetospeed.com)

PELICAN PRODUCTS The 3410M Model Flashlight multitasking worklight is designed with a 90-degree articulating head. It includes three lighting options: flood, spot, and flood/spot combined. The integrated clip easily attaches to a pocket or vest for easy, hands-free illumination; it also features a powerful magnet to adhere to nearly any metal surface, including automobile hoods, conduits, or water lines. M models offer three highperformance lighting modes: high, medium, and low. When set on the highest mode, it projects a powerful 653 lumens and delivers a 184meter beam. The battery life is rated at 61 hours in the low mode. All models carry a submersible IPX8 ingress protection for use in inclement conditions and run on 3 AA batteries. The glow-in-the-dark photoluminescent material makes it easy to locate in the dark. The flashlight carries a lifetime warranty. SRP: $45.95. Booth #20221. (pelicanprogear.com)

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INSTINCTIVELY PRECISE Define every moment behind the gun with the exceptional versatility and extreme performance of SPURâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;One of eleven new Nikon P-TACTICAL optics for 2018.

REFLEX SIGHT NEW FOR 2018 SHOT BOOTH #11221

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PRODUCTS

two years. The sticks are available in rifle, shotgun, and pistol lengths. Place one in each firearm, and when the season opens, your gun will be ready to use. SRP: $6.99. Booth #14213. (otistec.com)

Rite In The Rain ³ Storm

IMR POW D E R IMR Enduron 8133 is designed specifically for magnum calibers.

Otis Technology ³ Composed

of the corrosioninhibitor VCI, the Metal Defense Bore Stick is inserted into the firearm barrel for set-it-and-forget-it protection. The stick will slowly emit molecules to create a protective barrier on the inside metal surface. The product features a plug to cap the muzzle. When the firearm action is closed, it creates a sealed chamber. Each stick will last up to

Sight Shooting Targets are printed on weather-resistant paper that can be used in the nastiest weather conditions. A double-sided print design offers the shooter a choice of common marksmanship exercises, and the high-contrast orange-on-white reticle helps to identify shots at greater distance. The targets use unique reticle designs borrowed from the military and competitive design logic to score and improve shooting. Common paper dimensions help builders and reloaders keep a paper binder on ammunition and firearm performance. SRP: $11.95 per pack. Booth #31203. (riteintherain.com)

waterproof gun holster case that will protect a handgun from multiple environmental conditions. When closed, the P17 is fully sealed from water and dust intrusion. Desiccant packets will remove any moisture in the case, and the built-in auto pressure-equalization system guarantees the unit will open with ease when descending from high altitudes. The P17 is a drop-leg tactical holster. The outer casing is constructed from a durable, high-impact-resistant polycar-

bonate. An inner, non-abrasive nylon sleeve holsters the handgun. The holster case uses corrosionresistant stainless-steel springs and screws. The holster attaches to the user’s belt with two quick-release belt attachments. The dual adjustable leg straps minimize the holster’s movement while walking and running. When not in use, the unit may be locked to fully secure the firearm. SRP: $280. Booth #11251. (seahorsecases.com)

Spartan Camera ³ The

GoCam trail camera 4G/ LTE uses technology that enables remote camera management from a mobile device. It works with Verizon and all LTE rural America cell carriers. The camera features fast image transmission, improved battery life, and, for the first time, video. In addition to an improved network, the GoCam 4G/LTE uses an app and web portal. SRP: $469.95. Booth #10022.

(spartancamera.com)

Seahorse Cases ³ An

industry first, the P17 Waterproof Pistol Case is a Level 3

S PORT D OG The waterproof SportTrainer 1275 has a large OLED screen.

Sportdog ³ The

SportTrainer 1275 has a

YOUR CUSTOMER’S FIRST HIGH PRESSURE AIR RIFLE

GAUNTLET ®

PCP Air Rifle .177, .22, .25 Caliber

booth

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large, bright OLED screen to clearly display static stimulation level, mode, and battery status at up to a ¾-mile range. The large plus/minus buttons make changing 10 levels of static stimulation in low, medium, or high ranges a breeze. There are vibration and tone options in select modes, allowing the user to customize the trainer to fit any dog’s temperament. The system is waterproof and submersible to 25 feet. The lithium-ion batteries charge in two hours and last 40 to 60 hours per charge. With additional Sportdog Add-A-Dog Collar Receivers, the remote trainer can be expanded to control up to six dogs. SRP: $195.95. Booth #11349. (sportdog.com)

dark gunmetal frame with polarized silver flash lenses. The sunglasses offer high levels of quality and finish, including comfortable acetate-coated temples and springloaded hinges for a custom fit. Various models within these two styles also offer distinctive marbling patterns on the inside of the temples. The glasses meet rigorous ANSI-Z87.1 High Velocity and High Mass Impact Safety standards for OSHA-grade eye protection. The new metal aviator-style shades are also Rx-ready using the company’s advanced Digiforce digital technology for superior prescription accuracy and visual clarity over a wide field of vision. SRP: starts at $130. Booth #32211. (wileyx.com)

Wiley X

Wildgame Innovations

³ The

WX Hayden sunglasses are offered in three models to accommodate different looks and needs. Sporting a more squared-off lens shape, they come in a matte black frame with versatile smoke gray lenses, with two gray polarized options; a Satin Gold frame with polarized green lenses; and a matte

³ The

Rival Cam 18 and Rival Cam 18 Lightsout models combine dual onboard day- and nightoptimized cameras. The Adaptive Illumination Technology records crysta-clear images and stunning 5-, 15-, or 30-second HD 720 video clips. Customizable expo-

W I LE Y X Sporting squared-off lenses, WX Hayden sunglasses are offered in three models to accommodate different looks and needs. sure-control settings fine-tune image clarity. An anti-fog coating combats quality-robbing dew and moisture on the lenses. A new Dot Matrix Backlit LCD Display allows for fast and intuitive programming and control over all camera settings and operations. The Rival Cam 18 also uses a 42-piece high-intensity LED infrared flash. SRP: starts at $129.99. Booth #15527. (wildgameinnovations.com)

W I LDGA M E IN N OVAT I ON S Rival Cam 18 is a nightoptimized camera.

ETHICALLY LETHAL. MULTIPLE SHOTS.

UMAREX

BOOTH ®

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FROMthe NSSF Key Influencers

NSSF works with internet-savvy athletes to spread the word about hunting and shooting By Robert F. Staeger

ast April, B.J. Baldwin posted a photo of himself in an impressive gun closet, examining a sporting rifle with a synthetic camo stock. He captioned it, “Working on my skills with a rifle this afternoon, and then enjoying some time with my family. Hope everyone is having a nice weekend.” He topped it off with an American flag emoji, echoing the Old Glory hanging on his closet’s open door.

Professional auto racer B.J. Baldwin is one of several of NSSFÕs Òkey influencers,Ó athletes who use a variety of social media platforms to post positive messages and images of the shooting sports.

B.J. Baldwin is famous, but he’s not a pro shooter. He’s a professional auto racer with seven national off-road championships in his rearview mirror. Shooting’s what he does to relax. It’s something he has in common with the people the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) would like to reach in its promotion of the shooting sports. NSSF already had a social media relationship with many shooting pros, such as Doug Koenig, Julie Golob, and Ryan and Diana Muller. But, since April, the trade association has engaged a handful of other pro athletes who are also firearms enthusiasts, including Baldwin, motocross legend Ryan Villopoto, and PGA golfer John Peterson. “It’s part of our public outreach, our recruitment and reactivation effort,” says Chris

Dolnack, NSSF senior vice president and chief marketing officer. “Our goal is to increase participation and talk about things that are important to our community. People are smitten with Facebook and Instagram, and you’ve got to talk to people where they are. That’s what it comes down to. These three guys, their hearts are in the right place, and they have passion for what they do.” All three of NSSF’s key influencers are known for their active social media accounts. In order to coordinate its own message with these social media ambassadors, NSSF gives them some subjectmatter suggestions, highlighting programs like Project ChildSafe or events like National Hunting and Fishing Day and this past August’s National Shooting Sports Month. “In deer season, we might want them to talk about treestand safe-

ty,” says Dolnack. “Or we might suggest a prompt like, ‘If you’re heading to the range, don’t forget these three things.’ They are ideas and things we can all get behind.” Even though they’re given guidance and suggestions, Baldwin, Villopoto, and Peterson still write their own Tweets and Facebook posts, in their own style. “They have followers because of who they are, and so they speak in their own voice,” says Dolnack. Social media campaigns are similar to other forms of marketing in one important respect: Despite the immediacy of the interaction with the audience, assessing its impact takes time. Reading a post doesn’t necessarily lead to a click-through, and a click-through doesn’t necessarily mean that further action is taken. Each metric tells a little more of the story, but the proof of the pudding is in the tasting—and (to strain this metaphor) this is

pudding that takes months to set. “We’re tracking the metrics through a variety of channels,” says Dolnack. “This is something for which we don’t expect to see results in weeks, but rather in months. It’s the same thing in advertising. You run an ad in a magazine, and, over time, either sales increase or they don’t.” In the meantime, NSSF’s social media crew is examining the messages and seeing what works best and what doesn’t with the information available. “We’re always testing different messages, subject lines, things like that,” says Dolnack. That said, Dolnack already has thoughts for scaling up the outreach effort by teaming up with athletes from another athletic discipline: CrossFit. “We look at where our audiences are and who we’re trying to reach,” says Dolnack. “If you want to reach active women today— men, too, but especially women— there are a number of well-known women involved with CrossFit. If you could model a rollout for a sport, you’d be hard-pressed to accomplish what CrossFit has done in as short a period of time.” In just a few years, CrossFit has gone from a handful of accredited gyms to nearly 2,000 nationwide. That’s a major impact. “These people have a tremendous following, and some are active hunters and shooters,” says Dolnack. But before we get ahead of ourselves, let’s look at those first three shooting sports ambassadors: Peterson, Baldwin, and Villopoto. “Even before their formal relationship with us, they were not shy about letting people know they liked hunting and shooting,” says Dolnack. “Those are the kind of people you want on your team. They have that passion. It comes from the heart.”

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FROM THE NSSF

Big Benefit

The Hearing Protection Act does much more than protect ears By Christopher Cogley

Suppressors are legal in 42 states, and theyÕre legal to hunt with in 40 states.

t’s called the Hearing Protection Act, but the proposed bill, which is still making its way through Congress, is designed to do so much more than reduce the number of cases of hearing loss in hunters and shooters. By helping to both improve public perception of shooting and hunting, and increase people’s enjoyment of the shooting sports, this small piece of legislation has the potential to protect not just our hearing, but our hunting heritage as well.

As with many pieces of firearms-related legislation, one of the biggest obstacles of the Hearing Protection Act might just be the misunderstandings about what the bill is actually designed to do. “Suppressors are already legal in 42 states, and they’re legal to hunt with in 40 states,” says Larry Keane, senior vice president of government and public affairs for the National Shooting Sports Foundation. “This isn’t about changing the law, it’s about making it easier for people to have access to the technology that’s already legally available to them.” Keane explains that right now, people who are interested in purchasing suppressors have to undergo two separate background checks. In addition to the NICS background check required for all firearms purchases, people who

Suppressors provide a big benefit to all shooters, but especially to hunters who canÕt wear additional hearing protection in the field.

are purchasing a suppressor have to get a mandatory ATF background check. The entire process takes nine months or longer and involves a considerable amount of paperwork and resources. Contrary to popular misconceptions, however, the Hearing Protection Act legislation supported by NSSF—H.R. 367 (Rep. Jeff Duncan, R-S.C.) and S. 59 (Sen. Mike Crapo, R-Idaho)—does not remove all restrictions. “Anyone buying a suppressor would still have to go through the same NICS background check they would have to go through to buy a firearm,” Keane says. “This bill simply eliminates the redundant background check and frees up valuable ATF resources to focus on the core mission of the agency, which is stopping violent crimes.” By making the process of purchasing suppressors more efficient, the Hearing Protection Act will allow hunters, shooters, and even the general public to recognize the benefits of these long-misunderstood tools. “They’re called ‘silencers’ because that’s what was listed on the patent, but that’s really a misnomer, because they don’t silence the report of a rifle. They simply lower it to a level that doesn’t cause permanent hearing loss,” Keane says. It’s that aspect of suppressors that provides the biggest benefit to all shooters, especially hunters who can’t wear additional hearing protection in the field when they need to be in tune with the sounds of the woods around them. And judging by the popularity of suppressors, there are plenty of shooters across the country who are eager to capitalize on that benefit.

“Suppressors used to be a niche market, but they’re becoming much more mainstream lately, and now you’re starting to see the big manufacturers getting into the market,” Keane says. “Suppressor sales have increased 30 percent or more for the past several years, and if this bill passes, that percentage will undoubtedly increase significantly.” It won’t just be hunters and shooters who will benefit from the increased prevalence of suppressors, it will be the general public. “One of the chief complaints that ranges get is from people who don’t like the noise,” says Steve Sanetti, president and CEO of NSSF. “If more people at the ranges are using suppressors, it’s going to significantly cut down on those complaints.” It might seem like a small thing to those of us who shoot, but to the percentage of the population who have a certain level of fear and mistrust of firearms, reducing the noise level to a less-frightening decibel might go a long way toward eliminating the adverse feelings that some people have toward hunters and shooters. “Imagine living in a world where cars didn’t have mufflers, and how much noise pollution that would create,” Sanetti says. “By using suppressors on our rifles, we can cut down on that noise pollution. It allows us to continue pursuing the pastime we love, and do it without disturbing our neighbors.” It isn’t often that firearms legislation has the potential to both benefit the industry and ease tensions with some members of the nonshooting public, but the Hearing Protection Act might just be one of those rare exceptions.

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The Ever-Popular Modern Sporting Riﬂe

A new report shines a light on the people who buy MSRs By Brian McCombie

FFL retailers report a definite “purchase progression” with MSR buyers. Many MSR novices start off with a bargain-priced rifle, invariably add some accessories, and then frequently purchase an upgraded MSR in the months and years that follow. Research done by Southwick Associates and NSSF also found that MSR owners are a rather unique segment of the firearms market. They are, for example, more ethnically diverse, spend more time at the shooting range, and are more likely to pay a premium price for a firearm than most other firearms owners. These findings and others can be found in the new report “Modern Sporting Rifle Owners: An In-depth Exploration,” available from Southwick Associates. A supplement to “The Customer Segmentation Analysis on the U.S. Commercial Firearms and Accessories Market” report, this new MSR report took an in-depth look at the demographics, firearms-related activities, motivations, needs, purchase drivers, and shopping habits of those who own an MSR, as well as those consumers looking to buy one in the next

here’s no denying the great popularity of the modern sporting rifle (MSR). As millions of shooters know, the MSR is functional, extremely adaptable to different shooting scenarios, and it’s also a whole lot of fun. “MSRs remain popular for many reasons,” says Jim Curcuruto, director of industry research and analysis for the National Shooting Sports Foundation. “Among those reasons are their ease of use, their accuracy, and their reliability. In addition, consumers can use one MSR for multiple purposes, ranging from home protection, competition, and target shooting to varmint, hog, and big-game hunting. Of course, they’re also just plain fun to use.” 12 months. The report also identifies the four firearms customer segments that make up 90 percent of the firearms market. These four firearms segments have a large percentage of consumers who are either using or planning to buy modern sporting rifles. “There is a lot of uncertainty about where the market is headed, and it’s important that businesses have insightful information to make smart business decisions,” says Rob Southwick, president of Southwick Associates. “This report is designed to enable manufacturers and retailers to stay one step ahead of their competitors in their product and marketing strategies.” The report confirms what many in the industry had suspected for years, though the data was lacking to assert it as fact: MSR owners are younger, more active, and spend more money than traditional firearms owners and users. How much younger? About six years, compared to other gun owners, on average. They are also more likely to be Hispanic. They’re 58 percent more predisposed to use their MSR for recreational shooting, and, on average, pay 33 percent

more on a firearm than other firearms owners. Southwick Associates is a market research and economics firm specializing in the hunting, shooting, sportfishing, and outdoor recreation markets. For more than 25 years, Southwick Associates has established a proven record for delivering comprehensive insights and statistics to assist business decisions across the entire outdoor industry (southwickassociates.com). A great deal more information about MSR buyers and those thinking about buying an MSR can be found in “Modern Sporting Rifle Owners: An In-Depth Exploration.” The report can be purchased from Southwick Associates, and NSSF members receive a significant discount. For more information on the report, including pricing and a list of the report’s contents, contact Lee@Southwick Associates.com.

According to a survey commissioned by NSSF, MSR owners are younger, more active, and spend more money than traditional firearms owners and users.

DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2018 Q SHOT BUSINESS DAILY Q 25

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FROM THE NSSF

The Small Screen

NSSF refines its social media strategy By Robert F. Staeger ocial media has been around only for a couple of decades, but even in that short time, how we use it and what we use it for has changed dramatically. It isn’t just a tool to connect us to distant friends and family; increasingly, it has become our first source of news of all kinds.

“The small screen is the first screen,” says Chris Dolnack, senior vice president and chief marketing officer of the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). “You’ve got to be mobile-friendly. You’ve got to have responsive design. You’ve got to give people information they way they want it.” There are a lot of channels out there, so it’s important to have a presence on the ones your audience uses. In recent years, NSSF has narrowed its social media presence, pulling back from certain platforms its key audience didn’t frequent. “We’re on Twitter, we’re on Instagram, we’re on Facebook, where we’re the number-one trade association,” says Dolnack. LinkedIn is also getting more useful. “We’re using LinkedIn more and more as a business-tobusiness connection with industry members. There also are a number of retailers and ranges using that site,” he says. NSSF’s social media efforts are spearheaded by the organization’s broadcast and digital team, a group of four media pros who report to Dolnack and coordinate their efforts through a shared calendar and content management system. If there’s a research report that NSSF wants to publicize, for instance, it can schedule a Tweet, a press release, an announcement in its Monday Bullet Points e-newsletter, and a Facebook post planned around it, all timed for maximum visibility. “As much as we can, we try to plan ahead so we’re not overloading our audience on one particular day,” says Dolnack. “We also look at which days of the week produce a higher open rate and which days of the week are slower, so you try to market to that schedule. Give people what they want, when they want it.” Repetition and amplification are important. “On Twitter, for instance, you can send a Tweet, and only a tiny fraction of your followers will see it at any time; they might not scroll down their feed that far,” says Dolnack.

When it comes to social media, itÕs important to have a presence on the channels your audience uses most frequently.

NSSF never pays for followers, but it will pay for ads on Facebook and Google. “It depends on the timing, the subject matter, and the sense of urgency,” Dolnack says. NSSF’s chief marketing strategist also explains that NSSF finds it helpful to see its audience as three concentric circles. “We have 13,000 members, our industry’s businesses, at the core. Next, we have 100,000 people who go to SHOT Show, but maybe not two years in a row. They’re the second circle. Then we have 80 million hunters and shooters and gun owners.” NSSF targets different messages to different groups. LinkedIn messages are intended for the core membership, for instance, while Facebook is directed toward a more general audience. Of course, within those larger groups are other smaller ones. “Within our membership, we have small manufacturers, large manufacturers, publicly owned companies, and privately owned companies,” says Dolnack. “We have retailers, ranges, and wholesale distributors. They all have specific needs, and any given message could be pertinent to some, but not others.” Likewise, messages need to be targeted toward specific segments of the larger customer base. “You have hunters,” says Dolnack, “and they hunt birds, big

game, wild turkeys. And then there are the recreational shooters, and they shoot 3-Gun, they shoot IDPA, they shoot trap, you name it. In general, you look for some commonality among the groups, but you also want to increase your return on engagement by reaching out specifically to those personas. “It’s personalized marketing,” he says. “The days of throwing an ad out in a dozen magazines and spending a lot of money to reach masses of people is falling out of favor. Sure, if it’s something of interest to everyone, we can send an email to all 13,000 NSSF members. But we can also send an email to just our 2,000 shooting range members or just our 7,000 retailer members,” says Dolnack. “And even within that you can personalize it so you’re not carpetbombing everyone with three emails a day. That way people are getting only what they’ve signed up for or what they’ve demonstrated an interest in by clicking on links and traffic on our website.” Facebook algorithms also help to target messages to customers of interest, but Dolnack is wary of relying on that too much. “There have been a lot of companies that have spent a lot of money building an audience on Facebook—buying ads, promoting posts, and things like that—only to have Facebook change its algorithm. Which puts you back to zero, essentially.”

That’s not the only problem with Facebook, where NSSF has more than a half-million followers. “When it comes to reaching consumers, Facebook is the most important media company in the world, but it hasn’t always been the friendliest to our industry,” says Dolnack. Facebook has removed posts from certain individuals and manufacturers it deemed were selling guns, activity Facebook doesn’t want on its site. “We are opening a dialogue with them on behalf of the industry,” says Dolnack, who notes that the issue was discussed at NSSF’s firstever CMO Summit that took place last September. “The people running Facebook have their reasons for wanting people not to be able to sell guns on that platform, and that’s their choice. But when you look at some of the things that have been removed that were lawful commerce, you have to wonder what their motivation is.” Regardless of the pitfalls and headwinds of various platforms, Dolnack knows he has to keep focused on the results. How does NSSF’s social media efforts move the needle? The organization’s effectiveness changes as new platforms come to the fore. “You’ve got to remain nimble, you’ve got to pay attention,” says Dolnack. “We are constantly studying the analytics and testing messages, headlines, and graphics, so we can reach the most people and make it a good experience for them and a pleasant exchange. “You have to be able to define what success looks like before you start, then reverse-engineer it. What’s our desired outcome? We want to get more people into retailers, buying new products, buying ammunition. And we want to get people on ranges using that ammunition and using those products. We want to help drive commerce in our industry.” The process is becoming ever more refined. It’s also an everevolving world that refuses to stand still. “In today’s business environment,” Dolnack says, “you better be making data-driven decisions.”

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YOUR VOICE IN WASHINGTON Political Action Committees (PACs) are an extremely effective tool in educating our members and contributing to the success of candidates who share our point of view. The NSSF PACâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s purpose is to support the election of candidates who, as elected officials, will make the best decisions for you and the future you share with NSSF. It enables us to participate in the public policy debates and work for outcomes that protect the rights of our companies and its employees. For more information, contact PAC manager Kayla Berube at (202) 220-1340 x206, or email nssfpac@nssf.org.

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12/8/17 10:26 AM

F E AT U R E S

Hitting the Target

Browning Ammo sets its sights on continued growth

By Slaton L. White

wo years ago, Browning launched its own brand of premium ammo. So, how are they doing? “We’re doing really well,” says Dusty Gibson, product management marketing associate for Winchester Browning Ammunition. “We’re reaching consumers in many different disciplines of shooting and hunting, and people are really enjoying our product.”

Spoken like a true marketing guy, but truth be told Browning Ammunition is making its mark in the market. Right off the bat, the manufacturer launched a full line of centerfire and rimfire rifle and pistol products as well as shotgun target and hunting loads. The idea was to be able to match any Browning firearm to complementary Browning premium ammo. Given that Browning ammo is manufactured at the Winchester plant, Gibson says it’s important for retailers and consumers alike to understand that Browning ammo is not re-branded Winchester ammo. “This ammo has been engineered to meet Browning specifications, which are different from the specs for Winchester ammo. Browning also uses different wads, different slugs, and different bullet weights.” He’s right on target there. A cursory look through the respective centerfire rifle catalogs proves

that. For example, a whitetail hunter who purchases Winchester Supreme ammo in .30/06 will get a standard 180-grain bullet; in .270, it will be 140 grains. But the Browning BXR deer loads are different: The .270 cartridge features a bullet weight of 124 grains, while the .30/06 cartridge uses a 155-grain bullet. “We have very targeted bullet weights that you definitely won’t see in Winchester or any other brand,” says Gibson. “They’re unique to Browning. The idea is to really hit some of those inbetween weights that hunters wouldn’t find anywhere else. The pairing between Browning ammunition and a Browning firearm is perfect, and it definitely gives retailers a chance to upsell a customer who owns or purchases a Browning firearm.” Browning did a lot of product testing before it launched the line. “That’s because customers associ-

ate quality with the Browning brand,” says Scott Grange, Browning’s director of public relations and shooting promotions. “That Buckmark means something to them, and we knew our ammo had to perform at a very high level.” Grange also notes that the BPT shotshell line has been a hit with shooters as well. “A lot of worldclass sporting clays shooters are loving these target loads.” If you’ve ever wandered down an aisle loaded with ammo—or, for that matter, stocked that row—you know how pedestrian and confusing much of the packaging is. Here, again, Browning took another path. Its package design is a radical departure from its competition. “The packaging really jumps off the shelf,” says Gibson. “It’s also been designed to deliver the essential information so a consumer can find what he’s looking for quickly and easily.”

The boxes utilize the blackand-gold colors that are a signature of Browning, as well as eyecatching graphics and images of target species, both of which help capture the attention of the consumer. Another nice touch is the absence of the usual sea of ballistic boilerplate on the box. Gibson admits that “creating such packaging isn’t cheap,” but again, it needed to reflect the quality for which Browning is known. “We’re very proud to put that Buckmark on headstamps and on our packaging,” he says. “When we launched Browning Ammunition, we came out with a full line of ammo, and we’re going to continue to expand on all those categories. We’re going to use Browning technology to deliver premium performance at an affordable price. That’s a pretty good deal.” Indeed, it is. Booth #12752. (browning.com)

Browning spent a lot of time developing eye-catching packaging for its ammo line so that it would stand out from the crowd.

28 Q SHOT BUSINESS DAILY Q DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2018

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KahrÕs Special-Edition Pistol

s a member of the Central Intelligence Agency’s Global Response Staff, John “Tig” Tiegen took part in more than 40 overseas deployments that provided low-profile security in high-threat environments. He also was an essential part of the rapid response to the terrorist attack on September 11, 2012, when Islamic militants attacked the American diplomatic compound in Benghazi, Libya, killing four Americans—Ambassador J. Christopher Stevens, information officer Sean Smith, and two CIA operatives, Glen Doherty and Tyrone Woods, both former Navy SEALs.

Last year, he and his wife, Margaret, founded Beyond the Battlefield, a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization. Its mission is to provide support for wounded veterans as they face the many challenges encountered during rehabilitation, the healing process, and reintegration into everyday life. To assist Tiegan in his new role, Kahr is launching the TIG series ST9 pistol. The 9mm subcompact pistol has a 4-inch barrel and will feature a Kryptek Typhon print on the polymer frame. Other features include an accessory rail, a blackened stainless-steel slide, front slide serrations, and white three-dot sights. It ships with two 8-round magazines. SRP: $541. This is a special-edition pistol;

only 1,000 will be made. Engravings on each pistol will include its number in the series, the TIG logo, TIG’s signature, and the Beyond the Battlefield logo. The first 50 guns (#1 through #50) will be sold in three-gun sets. Each will include the Kahr ST9, the Auto Ordnance Tommy Gun TIG model, and the Magnum Research Desert Eagle TIG model, as well as an autographed copy of Tiegan’s book, 13 Hours: The Inside Account of What Really Happened in Benghazi. Part of the proceeds from the sale of each firearm will be donated to the Beyond the Battlefield (BTB) Foundation by Kahr Firearms Group. Booth #13962. (kahr.com)

LOWA Task Force Boots

R-6 GTX®

The 9mm sub-compact special-edition pistol has a 4-inch barrel and will feature a Kryptek Typhon print on the polymer frame.

Certifiably Excellent

Renegade II GTX® Mid TF

Renegade II GTX® Lo TF

Our 2018 Task Force Collection nows features certified* duty boots for military and service use. The new R-6 GTX®, RENEGADE II GTX® MID TF & RENEGADE II GTX® LO TF feature polishable full-grain leather uppers; slip-resistant, anti-static, heat-resistant outsoles; GORE-TEX® linings for waterproof comfort; and provide protection against extreme swings in temperature, both hot and cold.

For a chance to win a pair of LOWAs, snap a pic of any LOWA boot that you see at the SHOT Show, then repost – #LowaHunting or #LowaTaskForce Winner will be notified via Instagram DM on Day 4.

From start to finish, all LOWA footwear is 100% designed, sourced & handcrafted in our factories in Europe. We are proud that our insistence on excellence has earned us ISO 9001 status for highest quality construction and process standards.

visit booth #10232 to see our 2018 Task Force & Hunting collections

* Duty Boot Certification EN ISO 20347, 2012, 02 WR SRC FO CI HI HRO. GORE-TEX®, GTX®, GORE®, and GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® and design are registered trademarks of W.L. Gore & Associates Inc. ©2018 LOWA Boots, LLC.

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F E AT U R E S

The 6.5 PRC was designed to achieve a high level of accuracy while delivering flat trajectory and extended range performance.

Higher Level

Hornady ramps up the 6.5 Creedmoor

By Richard Mann

ornady introduced the 6.5 Creedmoor 10 years ago. It was initially met with a yawn, but as interest in longrange shooting spiked, shooters realized the wonderfulness of this cartridge. It shot flatter than a .308 Winchester and kicked less. And, those magnificently aerodynamic 6.5-caliber bullets made it all possible. For 2018, Hornady is introducing what might be considered a 6.5 Creedmoor Magnum, but the manufacturer is calling the cartridge the 6.5 PRC.

The 6.5 PRC case is based on the .300 Ruger Compact Magnum, so it holds more powder than the Creedmoor case, supporting the “magnum” connotation. Two initial loadings from Hornady will include a Hornady Match ammunition load utilizing a 147-grain ELD Match bullet at 2,910 fps, and a Precision Hunter loading with a 143-grain ELD-X bullet at 2,960 fps. With a 100yard zero and the fantastically high ballistic coefficients of these bullets, drop at 100 yards will only be about 24.5 MOA, with the bullet arriving on target in only 1.396 seconds. By comparison, a .300 Winchester Magnum loaded with a 200-grain ELD X bullet will need 27.96 MOA of correction at that distance and the time of flight will be about 1.466 seconds. True long-range practitioners know that hitting at distance is all about time of flight—the longer it takes the bullet to reach the tar-

get, the more it will drop, and the more the wind can push it off-course. The amazing thing about the 6.5 PRC is that it bests the .300 Winchester Magnum and does so with 32 percent less recoil. And, as any real rifleman knows, the harder a rifle kicks, the harder it is to shoot with precision. The 6.5 PRC was designed to achieve a high level of accuracy while delivering flat trajectory and extended range performance—all in a sensibly designed compact package. Utilizing moderate powder charges, which result in repeatable accuracy, low recoil, and reasonable barrel life, the 6.5 PRC still produces high enough velocities for both hunting and target shooting with performance well beyond 1,000 yards. So, the obvious question is, Why not just go with

one of the older though somewhat forgotten 6.5mm Magnum cartridges, like the 6.5 Remington Magnum or the .264 Winchester Magnum, and use modern bullets? SAAMI specifications for rifles built for those cartridges stipulate a barrel twist rate too slow to handle many modern highBC 6.5mm bullets. Sure, Hornady could have loaded those bullets in factory ammunition for those cartridges, but if you shot them in an older rifle, the accuracy would have been poor. Both of these older cartridges also have the belt on the case, a feature many consider Old World. While those older 6.5mm cartridges are excellent in their own right (and own time), the 6.5 PRC is the current answer to the high-performance 6.5mm question. You

might call it the big brother to the 6.5 Creedmoor, but it’s really in its own family. It will work in short or medium actions and with any standard 0.532 bolt face. It has the revered 30-degree shoulder and long case neck, and uses a geometrically efficient case accuracy fanatics fawn over. The downside is that, currently, rifles are only available from a handful of custom builders. However, I’ll bet you a hole through a nickel at 1,000 yards you won’t have to cover too much of the SHOT Show floor to find some, including one or more factory rifles that are new for 2018. It took a while for the shooting world to become fully enamored of long-range shooting. When it did, the 6.5 Creedmoor became the darling cartridge of the precision shooting world. I’ll wager the 6.5 PRC will not have to wait near as long to become almost as famous. Booth #13145. (hornady.com)

30 Q SHOT BUSINESS DAILY Q DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2018

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NSSF

WORKS FOR ME â&#x20AC;&#x153;

The NSSF is my go to source for OSHA regulations, demographics data and many other range and retail related resources.

â&#x20AC;?

Doug VanderWoude, Director of Range Program AcuSport Corporation Bellefontaine, Ohio

NSSF Members like Doug receive benefits such as:

Representation in Washington and State Capitals Compliance Support Industry Research SHOT Show Benefits

...and much more

Visit us at booth L231

Visit NSSF.ORG or call 203-426-1320 ext. 209 for more information on membership categories and find out how NSSF can work for you.

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12/14/17 1:36 PM

F E AT U R E S

The Bullseye Camera System uses wireless technology to make sighting-in a much easier process for shooters.

A Better Way

GSM Outdoors wants to make shooting easier with a new camera system By Bill Miller ange time is a key element in accurate shooting. But when you shoot at 100 or 300 yards—or longer—sometimes the only way to really verify bullet placement on a target is to leave the bench and walk to the target. And if you’re on a range with more than one shooter, you’ll have to sit tight until the other shooters are done before the range can go cold and the targets can be checked safely. Surely, there must be a better way.

There is. Bullseye Camera Systems are designed to help all shooters tune their rifle-and-scope combos quickly and precisely. The technology, packed in a black plastic ammo can, enables you to track your shots through interfaces with smartphones, tablets, or laptops. GSM Outdoors bought the target camera company last year to help launch “Shooting Made Easy” (SME), GSM’s line of shooting products and accessories, which includes SSI Sight-Rite laser bore sighters and Defender laser-light combos. Other brands in the GSM orbit are Stealth Cam scout cameras, Walker’s hearing protection and enhancement devices, Western Rivers game calls, Cyclops portable lighting and power, American Hunter feeders, and Hunting Made Easy (HME) accessories. “The acquisition of Bullseye Cam could not have come at a better time,” says CEO Eddie Castro. “Not only does this fit

perfectly under GSM’s umbrella and go hand-in-hand with our current shooting accessories under Walker’s and SSI, but the marketplace for long-range shooting is exploding.” Software engineer Nick Skrepetos of Eugene, Oregon, developed Bullseye’s technology while introducing his children to his two lifelong passions: hunting and shooting. “I was out target shooting with the kids, and I found that my age has caught up with me,” he says. In addition to determining that his eyesight wasn’t as sharp at it had been, he also discovered how much time was wasted walking back and forth to the target to check bullet placement. The engineer had already achieved success by creating SUPERAntiSpyware to fight malware and spyware and Panicware Pop-Up Stopper, so he thought he could figure out a way to make sighting-in and target shooting more productive. “I was never one to put up with

an inconvenience,” he says. “I knew I could create a way to spend more time shooting with the kids and a lot less time walking to and from the target. So with my technology background and shooting interests, the idea for Bullseye Camera Systems was born.” The company’s early sales were direct to consumer, but it had stocking and distribution challenges. Under GSM, it has shifted to online-to-consumer sales. “We’re able to do that under our platform,” says Ben Smith, GSM’s director of sales and marketing. “Our strategy is to look for under-distributed brands with strong names or unique properties that we can add to that platform.”

Bullseye Camera Systems by SME continues to offer two models—the “Sight In,” good out to 300 yards ($349), and the “Long Range” ($649), capable of tracking a one-mile target. With both versions, the camera records your shots from a position angled a few yards from the target to avoid a rifle’s line of fire. Images of the shots are sent over an independent wifi signal to your phone or computer back at the shooting bench. It works with iOS, Android, and Kindle operating systems. The software has a “blink” feature, in which the latest shot to hit the target blinks on and off, to help a shooter quickly see his progress during sight-in. Thus, you can track your groups without having to trudge back and forth to your target. Other features include live recording, group measurements, adjustment calculating, grid overlays, and a gaming mode to compete against other shooters. Booth #1019. (gsmoutdoors.com)

32 Q SHOT BUSINESS DAILY Q DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2018

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1/12/18 12:54 PM

LIGHTNING FAST.

Citori Gran Lightning

Citori White Lightning

SEE THEM FOR YOURSELF AT BOOTH 12740. BROWNING.COM

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12/18/17 10:40 AM

FOUR TIMES THE ADVENTURE. FOUR TIMES THE fun.

The all-new Yamaha Wolverine® X4 offers four times the proven off-road capability, comfort and confidence…to deliver four times the fun and excitement on your next outdoor adventure. Boasting room for four, the ultra-versatile Wolverine X4 includes adjustable rear seating to provide additional cargo capacity, a new, supremely quiet and smooth 850-class twin engine, and a compact, nimble chassis with self-leveling rear shocks for a plush ride even in tight, rugged terrain. The all-new Wolverine X4: designed and engineered in the Real World to help you REALize your Adventure.

REALize your Adventure: visit YamahaOutdoors.com Always protect the environment and wear your seat belt, helmet, eye protection and protective clothing. Read the owner’s manual and product warning labels before operation. Professional riders depicted on a closed course. Models shown with optional Genuine Yamaha Accessories. ©2017 Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. All rights reserved.

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12/4/17 4:43 PM

F E AT U R E S

Unrelenting Drive

Pelican has a laser focus on product improvement By Bill MIller

ounded in 1976 by a scuba diver who was looking for rugged flashlights and storage cases that wouldn’t leak or fail, Pelican has grown into an international behemoth that now offers a wide range of consumer- and professional-grade storage cases, lights, and coolers. Its hard-plastic gun cases have a well-deserved reputation for toughness, but the company understands that these days, the competition won’t allow you to rest on your laurels. “Our engineering team consistently explores how to deliver innovative and meaningful new solutions,” says Stephan Corti, president of Pelican’s commercial and government division. So, this year it’s rolling out three new sizes for its lightweight Air Case line. Also new this year are two additions to Pelican’s Elite Cooler line. The Air Case line launched last year with six sizes made of HPX2 resin. The cases are not sized to hold firearms; they’re more appropriate for cameras, optics, and even drones. That resin, by the way, offers a major reduction in weight. According to Corsi, the Air Case weighs about 40 percent less than a Protector case. “The Pelican Air Case line is a major transformation designed to maintain Pelican’s signature concept of high-performance durability while cutting the weight out,” he says. Last summer, Pelican added three new sizes to the line—Models 1557 (SRP: $216.02), 1607 (SRP: $313.26), and 1637 (SRP: $367.28).

Their added depth (about 45 percent) accommodates bulkier precision instruments, like the drones. For example, the 1557 model is 13 inches deep, and the similar-sized 1535 Air Case has 11.20 inches of depth. Likewise, the 1607 and 1637 expand earlier models to depths 15.81 and 17.55 inches, respectively. The 1607 and 1637 have wheels. All models come in black, orange, yellow, or gray. Air Case users also get padding options: “Pick N’ Pluck” pre-scored foam; Padded Divider with Velcrofastened partitions for quick customization; and the TrekPak Divider System (on the 1557 only) which has waterproof, closed-cell foam laminated to corrugated panels. A fourth option, the “No Foam” configuration, offers a “blank slate” for users who prefer other padding options. Pelican’s new soft-sided coolers join a crowded market of high-end containers capable of preserving ice for several days. The folks at Pelican say their Elite hard-walled coolers can do that for up to 10 days, while the new softsided entries can preserve ice for two days. But, they added, the Elite Soft Coolers, unlike some other currents coolers on the market, are very portable and, like everything else Pelican makes, quite robust. “It is definitely a competitive market,” says Bob Shortt, president of the company’s consumer division. “But when we reorganized our company into divisions, we saw soft coolers as one of

Although made of lightweight fabric, Pelican soft coolers have rigid features, like steel tiedown anchors, reinforced compression-molded lids and bases, and overmolded handles.

the product categories where our 40-plus-year heritage of building legendary equipment protection would shine. None of our competitors can say that. That combined knowledge and experience allows us to offer users an incredibly durable soft cooler with superior ice retention and protection for their food and drinks, regardless of environmental conditions.” Although made of lightweight fabric, the soft coolers have rigid features, like steel tie-down anchors, built-in bottle openers, reinforced compression-molded lids and bases, and overmolded handles. The heavy-duty zippers are completely leakproof, and each cooler comes with a detachable, padded shoulder strap. There are three models: SC12 (12-can capacity, SRP: $229.99), SC24 (24-can capacity, SRP: $279.99), and SC48 (48-can capacity, SRP: $329.99). “Our market success will be the result of that unrelenting drive to offer a great product.” Shortt says. Booth #3048. (pelican.com)

Getting Personal

RemingtonÕs TAC-14 shotguns bolster its personal-defense lineup

ost families have a guy (or two) who, either through marriage or bloodline, is that little fellow with the loud mouth who isn’t afraid to do what all the big guys do. You know the type—always up for a fight or a challenge. Well, the Remington family has four of ’em (all of which are non-NFA firearms). Meet the Remington TAC-14 line of Shockwave Raptor pistol-grip shotguns. All four models are based on the popular 870 platform. In May 2017, Remington released its first member of the family—the 870 TAC-14, a 14-inch Cylinder-bore 12-gauge with a 4+1 capacity. With its Magpul M-Lok forend, blackoxide finish, and smooth pistol grip, it made a bold statement. SRP: $443.05. Last August, the company let another member of the family loose. The 870 TAC-14 Marine

The 870 TAC-14 Marine Mag gets a full nickel treatment on most of its parts. The firearm is a perfect choice for boats and other wet environments.

Mag gets a full nickel treatment on most of its parts. Given its intimidating look, it should come with a tattoo. The firearm is a perfect choice for boats. SRP: $842.12. Law enforcement told Remington it wanted to see a magazine-fed shotgun. The company answered with the 870 DM

TAC-14. It is fed by a six-round detachable magazine. SRP: $559. The baby boy of the family is a 20-gauge. It sports a 14-inch Cylinder bore, but has 4+1 capacity as well as a Magpul 12-gauge forend with an ROC-designed adapter. It also has a Mesa Tactical “Lucy” adapter for a

12-gauge Shockwave fit. SRP: $479. The company’s ammunition side has designed a special short-range, 12-gauge, nine-pellet buckshot for this line as well.The Ultimate Defense Buckshot is available in a five-round pack. Booth #14229. (remington.com) —Barbara Baird

DAY 3, JANUARY 25, 2018 Q SHOT BUSINESS DAILY Q 35

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F E AT U R E S

W.R. Case Crafts Knife Memorial

Out of the ruins, a very special tribute emerges eptember 11, 2001, is a date firmly etched in the consciousness of all Americans. W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co. unveiled the September 11 Memorial V-42—a limited-production World War II–era military knife featuring donated steel recovered from the World Trade Center—at a special event held last November at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum in New York City. The three commemorative V-42s— which will never be made available for sale to the public—were crafted to uniquely honor and recognize three specific groups of Americans whose stories are forever embedded in the history of that tragic day: the citizens who were the innocent victims of the attacks, the first responders who heroically rushed into action, and the men and women of Combined Joint Special Operations Task Force-North (aka Task Force Dagger), who served as our nation’s military response.

The World Trade Center steel incorporated into the V-42s was originally presented by the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey to the United States Army Special Operations Command. Lieutenant General John F. Mulholland Jr., a senior officer in the United States Army and former associate director of the Central Intelligence Agency for Military Affairs, coordinated the delivery of the recovered World Trade Center steel to the Case factory in Bradford, Pennsylvania, and commissioned the development of the memorial knives. “W.R. Case has been a longtime supporter of the U.S. Armed Forces,” said Mulholland. “As we set out to create a tribute to the World Trade Center and the men and women who have fought bravely to defend our freedom since that fateful day, we knew that Case was the right partner to help forge a symbol of American strength and resilience.” Case presented commemorative V-42s to two units that were among the first to respond in the face of the 9/11 tragedy in 2001: The U.S. Army’s 5th Special Forces Group (the first American unit deployed into Afghanistan for

The three commemorative V-42 knives were crafted from steel recovered from the World Trade Center.

Operation Enduring Freedom) and the Central Intelligence Agency. A third commemorative V-42 was presented to the 9/11 Memorial & Museum. Colonel Lewis Powers, commander of the U.S. Army’s 5th Special Forces Group; Toni Hiley, director of the CIA Museum; and Alice Greenwald, president and CEO of the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, were on hand to accept the specially prepared memorials. Also in attendance was Gene Gutierrez, an original member of the 1st Special Service Force, an elite American-Canadian commando unit in World War II that was the first to carry the original V-42 in World War II. Two others who were assigned to the very first teams to enter the World Trade Center site on 9/11 were on hand to witness the event: Chief Warrant Officer Brad Fowlers and Sergeant Major Michael Bowman. “We are extremely humbled that Lt. Gen. Mulholland invited Case to be part of this powerful project,” said George Duke, owner of W.R. Case & Sons Cutlery Co. “Throughout our nearly 130-year history, Case has been proud to be a quality American company with

the privilege of working alongside some of the finest people our country has to offer, and we are honored to present these V-42s as a small token of our collective appreciation for the sacrifices made every day by members of our military and first responders.” The original V-42 is one of America’s most famous wartime fighting knives. With the “V” standing for “Victory,” and “42” for the year it was created, the stiletto was originally manufactured by Case from an original design submitted by the commander of the 1st Special Service Force, then-Colonel Robert T. Frederick. The 1st Special Service Force, which became better known as “The Devil’s Brigade,” now serves as one of the forefather units of today’s U.S. Army Special Forces. In recognition, an image of Case’s V-42 stiletto sits in the center of the U.S. Army Special Forces crest and Regimental colors, and it also occupies a central place of honor in the official Task Force Dagger graphic. Like the original V-42s, the distinctive stiletto blade is double-concave ground, yielding the knife’s signature center line along the length of the blade, and blued to retain its characteristic patina. Other notable attributes include a leathercovered and blued steel guard, a hand-worked leather handle, and a threaded and pinned-on pommel. A specially engraved “thumbprint” is embedded within the knife’s ricasso, which historically served to help soldiers orientate their blades with a sure grip. The newly crafted September 11 Memorial V-42 features a special tang stamp on the blade to accentuate the historical significance of the steel from which it is made. The commemorative V-42, which will be displayed permanently at the National September 11 Memorial & Museum, joins America’s Response Monument as 9/11 tributes whose compositions include reclaimed World Trade Center steel. Stationed between Liberty Park and One World Trade Center, America’s Response Monument, created by acclaimed sculptor Douwe Blumberg, commemorates members of Task Force Dagger, who rode into combat on horseback in October 2001 for the first time since World War II. Each Special Forces team continuously carried a piece of World Trade Center steel throughout their tour of duty. Lt. Gen. Mulholland dedicated the statue to the Special Forces with Vice President Joe Biden on November 11, 2011. Booth #13905. (wrcase.com)

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F E AT U R E S

Part of SavageÕs marketing strategy is to Òdominate niche markets.Ó A good example of this is the companyÕs commitment to left-handed shooters.

The Other Side

Savage adds to its already impressive catalog lineup for lefties in 2018 ver the past two decades, Savage Arms has achieved an impressive stronghold in the firearms industry. For this, the company credits one of its key initiatives: dominating niche markets. “Savage has always said, Whether it’s a bigger gun, faster gun, or one that fulfills a specific customer need, we strive be the leader in specialty models,” says firearms communications manager J.J. Reich.

A good example of this strategy is the manufacturer’s broad variety of left-handed firearms. “I am a left-handed shooter, so I am particularly happy to be part of a company that caters to people who shoot from the other side,” says Reich. “New for 2018 are several options in centerfire target and hunting rifles, plus some favorite rimfire models.” Savage’s new left-handed Model 10/110 BA Stealth and Stealth Evolution feature a heavy, fluted barrel with a monolithic aluminum chassis, popular with long-range precision shooters. Both models feature Savage’s

zero-tolerance, thread-in headspacing, user-adjustable AccuTrigger, and 5R button rifling, and both produce subMOA accuracy at extreme ranges, right out of the box. The rifles are available in some of the hottest calibers in long-range shooting, including .338 Lapua Mag., .300 Win. Mag., 6.5 Creedmoor, .308 Win., and .223 Rem. The Stealth Evolution is also available in 6mm Creedmoor. But that’s not all. The upgraded Model 110 Storm is also available in a left-handed configuration. It is built off the same

110 action, but it now features the all-new user-adjustable AccuFit system, which allows shooters to customize the stock’s comb height and length-of-pull for better fit and function. It also features a detachable box magazine, stainless-steel action, and stainless-steel matte-finish barrel. The left-handed version comes in .223 Rem., .22/250 Rem., .243 Win., .270 Win., 7mm-08 Rem., 7mm Rem. Mag., .308 Win., .30/06 Sprg, and .300 Win. Mag. The Model 110 Tactical also comes in a left-handed .308 Win. It is suppressor-ready and

fitted with a heavy, fluted, 24-inch barrel. Savage hasn’t forgotten about its leftie customers who enjoy shooting rimfire, either. The lefthanded versions of the B17 .17 HMR, B22 .22 LR, and B22 .22 WMR bolt-action rimfire rifles all feature a sporter barrel and black synthetic stock. The B Series’ ergonomically designed stock, higher comb, top tang safety, and target-style vertical pistol grip allow shooters to hold the rifle in a more natural position, which puts less pressure on the wrist. Like the popular A Series rimfires, all B Series rifles feature a

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F E AT U R E S

10-round rotary magazine and the adjustable AccuTrigger. The B Series also features Savage’s zerotolerance, thread-in headspace system, similar to that of its centerfire models.

A Big Niche ³ Given

that left-handed shooters historically make up only about 10 percent of the market, why does Savage offer so many left-handed options? “Specialty guns are our bread and butter, and they’re great business for us,” says Reich. “All of our product offerings made it in our catalog because they fulfill a special need. For example, consider lightweight predator rifles, F-Class target rifles, and a firearm that properly fits a female. Those all address special customer needs. A bolt-action gun that has the bolt on the other side is just another special need. It’s as simple as that.” Reich also notes that the market for left-handed guns is actually larger than many people might think. “Though research

reports that around 10 percent of Americans are left-handed, that doesn’t take into consideration shooters who are righthanded but left-eye dominant,” he says. “These hunters and shooters greatly benefit from a left-handed firearm. Sum them up and the number of potential customers spikes significantly.” Reich also stresses that Savage’s becoming the left-handed leader did not happen by accident.“Part of the genius behind our longstanding, time-proven action designs is versatility,” he says. “Put simply, our actions are easier to convert to left-handed use. Many of our competitors need a completely different receiver design to convert their righthanded rifles to the left. This is time-consuming and expensive, so they often decide to opt out of the left-handed market. Not us. Both our Model 110 receivers and AXIS receivers have a fairly symmetrical design. Our top-tang safety is symmetrical, as are bolt releases on several models. So basically it just comes down to changing the bolt assembly and

machining the ejection port on the other side.” Reich also says that Savage benefits from the operational agility found at its factories. “We are set up to change over our machines to efficiently build left-handed parts for our rifles. This allows us to manufacture small batches of left-handed guns whenever we need them— without labor-intensive and time-consuming expenses, and without messing up our planned production schedule.” All told, Savage offers more than 20 models in left-handed versions, including rifles suitable for big-game and predator hunting, tactical shooting, and target competition. The manufacturer also offers left-handed slug shotguns and bolt-action and semiautomatic rimfire rifles. “To quickly see all of our lefthanded options,” Reich says, “open the Gun Finder tool on our website and select ‘left’ in the search function.” Typically, when Savage releases a new firearm, it’s only in a right-handed model. But it often

will introduce the left-handed version in the years that follow. “However, if you are a dealer looking to stock a left-handed Savage firearm, or order one for a customer who is looking for a left-handed model not listed in the catalog or on the website, just call us,” Reich says. “Many times our special-order department can build left-handed versions of our rifles. The only limitation is the availability of lefthanded stocks for particular rifles. Some of our right-handed rifles are built with stocks our vendor simply doesn’t have a left-handed version for. But most of the time, we can special-build a lefty for you.” Ultimately, Reich says it all comes down to making customers happy. “Whether it is a lefthanded gun or a different specialized gun—it’s the same idea,” he says. “It’s building a gun that fits the shooter’s needs. That’s just one of the things we do to keep our customers happy. And when they’re happy, we’re happy.” Booth #14551. (savagearms.com) The actions of the various Model 110 rifles are easily convertible from righthanded to left-handed controls.

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F E AT U R E S

A Clean Slate

For Sig Sauer, building a state-of-theart ammo plant required a whole new approach By Slaton L. White

. W. Bliss was a manufacturer of heavy equipment (power stamping presses and the like) founded in Brooklyn, New York, in 1867. The company, now owned by Schuler AG and based in Michigan, soldiers on in more modern form as Bliss Munitions. But while standing in front of one of its vintage presses, which recalls the brute power of the Industrial Revolution, on the floor of Sig Sauer’s brand-spanking-new ammunition factory in Jacksonville, Arkansas, I was struck by this thought: What is this relic doing in a factory that, according to Daniel Powers, president of Sig’s ammo business, was designed to be a state-of-the-art facility created from “the ground up with a clean slate” to use the latest in efficient production techniques?

The site of Sig SauerÕs new ammunition facility in Jacksonville, Arkansas, covers 70,000 square feet, leaving plenty of room for future expansion.

Because Powers is no dummy, and he knew that those old Bliss machines, once properly retrofitted with modern software controls, would work splendidly with Sig’s new high-tech machines, some of which he personally designed. Another question that might occur, given the competitive nature of the ammo business, is why Sig Sauer is in the ammo business at all? The answer to that question is supplied by Bud Fini, Sig Sauer’s executive vice president. “Why did we feel it was necessary to design and build a new ammo plant? Well, there were two reasons. First, as a manufacturer of firearms, we shoot an awful lot of ammunition while testing and developing our products. Millions of rounds per year. And we found that the ammunition we purchased on the open market was not up to our standards.” Think, for a moment, about the magnitude of that problem. You’re spending precious resources to develop highquality firearms, and you don’t know if function issues are the result of a design or production flaw on your part or the ammo you’re using in testing. “We realized it wasn’t the firearm,” Fini says. “It was the ammunition. And the only way to get the quality of ammunition we wanted was to make it ourselves. “Second, Sig is an international company. We do a lot of business overseas with governments, military, and police, and those people have become accustomed to what a lot of people have become accustomed to–one-stop shopping. Consumers like to go one place for a complete system.” That rationale dovetails into the first. “If they [government, military, police] do a tender for a firearm and someone else supplies the ammunition, who do they go to if they have a problem? Is it an ammunition problem or is it a fire-

arm problem? Selling complete packages solves the problem.” One last question: Why should a retailer carry Sig Sauer ammo—what’s the benefit? “I’ve been in the industry 42 years, and I’ve worked with or for a number of manufacturers,” Fini says. “I find Sig to have the highest customer loyalty of any company I’ve ever worked for. People are truly dedicated to the brand.” Fini believes a smart retailer can take advantage of that brand loyalty. “I think a retailer’s sales ability increases when he tries to give someone a corresponding product made by the same manufacturer.” In other words, if a customer purchases a Sig Sauer firearm, the retailer should be able to put a box or two of Sig ammunition in front of that customer and make that additional sale. There’s also something else at work here: a company ethic that prizes quality above all else. “At Sig, we do things a little differently,” Fini says. “We don’t buy other people’s inventions or companies and rebrand them. We start from a clean sheet of paper and we build it from the ground up because we think we can build a better product. “The Jacksonville factory started with a completely clean slate. The building was a former warehouse, and that allowed us to customdesign the facility exactly the way we wanted. That gives us an incredible competitive advantage. And it gives the retailer who carries Sig ammo along with other Sig products a competitive advantage in a highly competitive marketplace.”

Proving the Theory ³ Sig

Sauer made the decision to manufacture its own line of ammunition in 2012. By early 2013, ammo was rolling off the line in a 25,000-square-

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foot plant in Kentucky. It wasn’t an ideal site, but it was a start. “Kentucky proved our theory, that we could make our own quality ammo,” says Powers. “We started with five products, and within a year we were producing 26.” What became apparent, very quickly as it turned out, was that the Kentucky facility was woefully inadequate to meet Sig’s longterm needs. It didn’t even have enough room for a brass line, a component for which Sig wanted full control. Sig not only needed a facility large enough to house those old Bliss warhorses, but it also required a site that could accommodate the manufacturer’s ambitious plans for growth. The Jacksonville site covers 70,000 square feet, leaving plenty of room for expansion. In addition, the company purchased another 43 acres of adjacent land.

“A clean slate and a new site required new thinking and a new way of doing things,” Powers says. And that clean-slate concept allowed Sig to incorporate on-site testing facilities into the original design in Jacksonville. “We couldn’t shoot on-site in Kentucky,” he says. “Here, we have six ranges on-site, and we can shoot indoors, in controlled circumstances. It saves us a lot of valuable time.” Powers adds that Sig testing includes “shooting for velocity, pressure, and accuracy.” The plant also has a climate-controlled room where specs can be checked. For example, during my visit a technician was checking the runout of selected casings. Here, again, you will see a blending of the old and the new. The stout gauge stands were from the 1940s, but they were equipped with state-of-theart instrumentation, all of

it tied into computers and iPads. Another room is devoted to making ballistic gelatin. The hot-water tank where the gelatin is dissolved and the refrigerators where the blocks are stored are precisely controlled for temperature. In this way, Sig engineers know they will have a consistent and unvarying medium into which to shoot. Testing for FBI protocols is across the hall, limiting the distance the gelatin must travel. Doing so also saves a great deal of time, further enhancing the efficiency of the facility. This attention to detail extends to the components they source from other manufacturers. “We go to great lengths to source the highest-quality components for our ammunition,” says Powers. “We work with various powder and primer manufacturers and test 50 to 75 different loads of every powder and prim-

er for temperature stability, velocity, and overall performance before selecting the combination that meets our goals for each particular round. Similar care is taken in selecting the best brass from various sources, and we are moving toward making our rifle brass inhouse.”

Precision and Consistency ³ Powers

likes to say, “We consider ourselves to be an engineering company. Right now the plant employs 72 full-time workers, 10 of whom are engineers.” He’s proud of that ratio. “We spend more on R&D than any other company,” he says. Here’s just one example of that philosophy in action. Sig engineers are obsessed with ignition consistency, as they believe, rightly, consistent ignition helps produce consistent

accuracy. So, they designed and built a proprietary machine that could precisely fashion the flash hole that would help deliver that consistency. They also designed an induction annealer that Powers says “is a unique assembly.” These telling details also help explain the overall design of the plant. The engineering team can get to the line quickly and easily, and the testing areas are just off the main floor. Powers believes the layout of the factory lets his team be “more nimble” and efficient, which helps lower the cost and make the final product competitive in a very competitive arena. But to Powers, the most important aspect of the new plant just might be quality. “Here, we can control quality right from the beginning.” And that’s a great place to be. Booth #12240. (sig sauer.com)

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F E AT U R E S

Wicked Cool

Browning breathes new life into the A5 and Maxus By Slaton L. White

t’s called “product freshening,” and it’s a process that manufacturers employ to spruce up an existing line so it will appeal to new customers. Doing so saves the time and expense of creating a whole new line while allowing that manufacturer to extend the life of a time-tested product.

The Browning A5 (left) and Maxus semi-autos get a makeover with the addition of a burnt bronze Cerakote finish.

That’s the basic idea behind Browning’s Wicked Wing program for the A5 and Maxus semi-auto shotguns. These guns feature an intriguing burnt bronze Cerakote coating on the receiver and barrel. If you look closely, you’ll also see an embedded Buckmark tattoo on the receiver as well. Both definitely have the cool factor, which, according to Scott Grange, Browning’s director of public relations and shooting promotions, was what they were shooting for. “The idea behind this program was that these guns have been in our line for quite a few years, and we know that consumers are always looking for something new and exciting. We have a lot of Millennials coming into the market, and we know they love a cool look. So, we got together and decided to make those guns look cool.” Which they have certainly done. Grange also says the guns feature enhanced operating capability through an enlarged operating handle and action-release button, as well as something Browning calls Speed Load Plus. “Both guns employ a two-piece carrier, which is a Browning design,” he says. “Folks familiar with our lines will recognize it. The Gold semi-auto shotguns had it, and the old A5 Auto. This is a speed load feature that allows you to load with the action open. You load a cartridge into the magazine, activate the release, and the shell is fed automatically into the chamber.” Both guns are attractive to the eye. They also shoot well and will perform admirably in the marsh. This latter point is important, as research shows that Millennials are getting interested in waterfowling. “They are,” Grange says. “Think about it. Big-game hunting is becoming difficult in this country, given the value of big game and the process of drawing a permit. Waterfowling is

Besides being attractive to the eye, the guns shoot well.

different. There are a lot of refuges in the country as well as public-hunting grounds where people can hunt ducks and geese.” Grange also notes that the Wicked Wing program is another way in which Browning tries to reward its dealers. “Our dealers are pretty savvy, and they find these niches out there, whether it’s in the target shooting world or the hunting world. Bringing in new shooters and hunters is important, and these products are designed specifically for those dealers who are smart enough to recognize what these young people want.” Given that the Wicked Wing Maxus and A5 carry the Browning name, customers need to recognize that these guns won’t go out the door cheaply. “We don’t choose to enter into the bargain basement battles out there because that’s not where Browning is,” Grange says. “The Wicked Wing Maxus and A5 are priced under $2,000, which is a lot of money for a shotgun. But if you look at what the guns deliver, they become very attractive real quick.” Both guns are available in Mossy Oak Shadow Grass Blades camo, in 3and 3½-inch versions. The Maxus offers 26- and 28-inch barrels, while the A5 offers barrel lengths of 26, 28, and 30 inches. Both guns also feature the Inflex Technology recoil pad, which, according to Grange, “directs recoil down and away from the hunter’s face.” So, the guns look cool, perform at a high level, and allow Browning dealers to reach a new generation of customers. What’s not to like? SRP: Maxus, $1,739.99– $1,869.99. A5: $1,829.99– $1,979.99. Booth #10744. (browning.com)

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Keeping a Low Profile

Kaos Concealment knows something about what makes a concealed-carry holster work By Peter Suciu

oe Cuellar and his wife, Sethi, are co-owners of Kaos Concealment, a manufacturer of concealedcarry holsters located in Bakersfield, California. They didn’t start out to design holsters, though. Originally, they owned a shop that specialized in airsoft firearms and accessories. But, Cuellar says, many customers came in seeking tough and reliable gear for training and day-to-day use, including specialty holsters that were more rugged and durable than what was being offered in local gun shops. Cuellar thought he could create a product that would address that need, and soon after Kaos Concealment was born.

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“All of our holsters are made with .08 Kydex, which we believe allows for unsurpassed rigidity while still providing a low profile,” he says. “Our holsters come with a lifetime guarantee not to crack, break, or fail. We like to say that our products are overbuilt for the customer’s needs.” The ruggedness of Kaos Concealment’s holsters is due to the aforementioned Kydex, a thermoplastic acrylic-polyvinyl-chlorine material that is known to be strong and durable. It is widely used in aircraft bulkhead partitions, as well as for sheaths for knives. As a holster material, it has numerous benefits, including the fact that is water-

proof, scratch resistant, offers low friction, and won’t stretch or shrink under normal conditions. “Our main focus was to make a holster that can accommodate everyone, and that means it needs to be tough but still concealable,” Cuellar says. “Leather can fall apart, and canvas can get really dirty.” Another important aspect of concealed-carry holster design is the ability to draw quickly in an emergency. “Right now our Fusion line is very popular with those looking to carry a concealed handgun,” he says. “Many of our customers are carrying Glocks, and our new Fusion Plus is meant to be worn inside the

The holster fits a number of pistols and is designed to accommodate both right- and left-handed shooters.

waistband, even in business clothing.” The holster—which fits a number of pistols, including Glocks, Rugers, Colt 1911s, and various Sig Sauers—is designed to accommodate both right- and left-handed shooters. It features standard and adjustable cant and retention, and comes with a polymer injection-molded FOMI clip for both durability and functionality. “This is important, because we know that many

people want a holster that can be worn in a variety of positions,” says Cuellar. “We know that our customers use it as a range holster, but they can also use it in a tactical training class. They can also carry right- or left-handed, and even do cross draw.” Cuellar adds, “Quality, low price, and customer satisfaction are the three points of our foundation.” Booth #1243. (kaos concealment.com)

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F E AT U R E S

Not the Same Old Thing

HydraPak believes in evolution and innovation

By Robert F. Staeger

n the hydration game, HydraPak believes the tide is turning. “The consumer has become the king,” says Morgan Makowski, marketing director of HydraPak, a California-based manufacturer of hydration products. “You can’t just offer the same products year after year. You need to be nimble, and the top priority is to develop great products, something new and exciting every year.” Makowski suggests that HydraPak’s growth might be due to a better sense of what a modern customer wants, rather than relying on tried-and-true products. “I think it’s just listening to the market more, and making sure we evolve and innovate more than our competition,” she says. “The consumer wants a refresh on hydration.”

Among HydraPak’s new products for 2018 are the Stow flexible bottle and the Expedition 8 L flexible storage tank. The Stow is a lightweight, flexible bottle made of HydraPak’s ultradurable, abrasionresistant TPU, with a spill-proof nozzle and a built-in loop for a carabiner or clip. (The loop also serves to keep the bottle compressed when empty.) It’s available in four colors (blue, gray, green, and orange) and two sizes, 500ml (SRP: $14) and 1 liter (SRP: $17). When filled with water, the Stow feels almost like jelly, changing shape to fit your grip. “It’s not a hard, round design,” says Makowski. “It’s meant to be very accessible. So if you’re hunting or fishing, it could be in your cargo pocket or your fishing vest, or you can clip it anywhere as well. “It feels good to drink out of,” she adds. “The caps has an LMS valve in it, so if you fill it up with water and you have the cap open, you could shake it and move it around, and unless you apply an extreme amount of pressure to it, it’s not going to leak any water.” It’s meant for taking a quick sip and tucking away, with no fuss. The Expedition 8 L is a highcapacity flexible storage tank made of ultra-durable TPU, with a Plug-N-Play cap for easy pouring and a flexible handle for easy carry. It has dual interior baffles to keep it stable when full, and there are lashing points to strap it down. As with the Stow, a loop on the cap will keep it compressed when it’s empty. SRP: $60. “Our Seeker bottles [4-liter storage] have been selling extremely well. We keep selling

The Expedition 8 L is a high-capacity, flexible storage tank made of ultradurable TPU, with a Plug-N-Play cap for easy pouring.

out,” says Makowski. “So we wanted to go even higher—more capacity—this year. The 8-liter was inspired as a way to help take away the need to buy a gallon-size bottle at the store. It’s really for car use more than anything—car camping, or if you’re going

somewhere that you can go back to your car if you need a lot of water for your dogs, or your whole crew.” You can dispense the water in two ways. For a controlled flow, there’s the dispensing tap, which is handy if water is limited. Otherwise, you can just unscrew the Plug-N-Play cap and pour it from there. It’s freestanding when full, and the baffles inside handle any bulging issues. “You can also use filtration systems with it,” says Makowski. The Expedition has a wide-mouth Nalgene-style cap that is compatible with most filters, including ones from Katadyn and Sawyer. “You can hook it up to one of

your filters and keep filling it up as your base-camp water.” HydraPak will be raising money to support the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership all during SHOT Show. “At HydraPak, we’re all about protecting our public lands for recreational use. We want to make them available to hunt on, to fish on, to climb on, to mountain bike on.” Visitors to the HydraPak booth can support conservation and recreation on public lands by donating $5 to TRCP. Donors will receive a specially designed 500ml Stow bottle with the slogan “This Land Is Our Land” as a thank-you gift. Booth #10665. (hydrapak.com)

Visitors to the HydraPak booth can support conservation and recreation on public lands by donating $5 to the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership. Donors will receive a specially designed 500ml Stow bottle with the slogan “This Land Is Our Land” as a thank-you.

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Product Partners How Browning’s Buckmark ends up on more than just ﬁrearms By Kris Millgate

here’s a new trend in the woods. Many hunters are ditching the traditional sprawl of hunting camp for a more portable way to wander. Backpacking hunters who are heavy on miles and light on pounds want packable equipment that matches the effort they’re putting in.

ALPS Outdoorz makes a sleeping bag for such adventurers. It’s their new Refuge (SRP: starting at $99.99). A hooded sleeping bag with zippered armholes that offers the perk of coffee in bed, the Refuge can accommodate a hunter with broad shoulders. Yet, it packs light: The 15-degreerated bag weighs only 3 pounds 8 ounces. “This is for hunters who really go backcountry,” says Sarah Beth Brune, ALPS marketing manager. “Big with rollaround room comes with a lot more bulk and weight. Refuge is lighter and fits easily in a pack.” But when the Refuge goes on sale in spring 2018, it won’t be going into backpacks with the ALPS logo on it. Browning’s Buckmark gets the honor instead.

The Maker ³ Up

to 40 percent of Browning’s products are made by other companies that are licensed to put the Browning Buckmark logo on their products. ALPS—a family-owned business based in Missouri that is known for durable outdoor equipment at a reasonable price—is part of that percentage. ALPS doesn’t follow a mass-marketing model. That helps keep pricing in check, but doesn’t build brand recognition quickly. ALPS has a smaller presence than Browning, but those who know ALPS know they have something that will work well in the wild. Browning consumers expect the same well-made standard.

That’s why one of six tidy warehouses at ALPS headquarters holds camping equipment bearing the Browning Buckmark. “Browning is great with selling guns, but they know they don’t have the camping experience we have,” Brune says. “Browning approached us with an opportunity. And the Buckmark, being such a popular brand, gave our company validity.” ALPS, founded in 1993, started licensing its products through other brands in 2010. Browning was its first licensed brand. The ALPS product team spends months moving ideas from the mind to manufacturing. The Refuge was at spec stage in November 2016 and launched last summer at a venue where buyers could order Browning in bulk for consumers to purchase at retail stores in spring 2018. “When we develop anything for the Browning line, we are conscious of that,” Brune says. “We’re not going to slap the Buckmark on it and call it a day. We make sure it’s worthy of the Buckmark.”

The Marker ³ Browning

sees in the Refuge what it expects to see in all products sporting the Buckmark: quality with a justified price point. Browning rejects about 10 percent of what’s pitched as product by other companies, but ALPS rarely comes up short because its products match Browning’s expectations. “Our reputation for quality is paramount to who we are,” says Rafe Nielsen, Browning com-

munications manager. “If you take on licensing, you are Browning. You have to become who Browning is.” Browning looked at consumer demand in 2002 and realized it couldn’t specialize in every product that warranted attention, but it could meet demand by putting its famous Buckmark logo on products people want. The makers who want the cachet of the Buckmark pay Browning royalties quarterly, but that’s not Browning’s prime motivation for sharing its logo. Market presence is. “Our process is not to farm out products just because we want a royalty check. Making money is secondary to brand presence and the messaging we’re looking for,” Nielsen says. “We want a heavy presence at the retail level, and licensing has expanded our reach.”

The Marriage

³ When the maker and the

marker marry, products like the Refuge are brought to market successfully. ALPS is making a sleeping bag worthy of consumer attention, and Browning has a bag worthy of the Buckmark consumers will pay attention to. “Browning is such an amazing brand,” Brune says. “They are protective of making sure that if the Buckmark is on it, it’d better be good.” Booth #15538. (browning

camping.com) The Refuge sleeping bag can accommodate a hunter with broad shoulders, but it weighs less than 4 pounds.

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F E AT U R E S

Immediate Feedback

Reactive targets make shooting practice a whole lot more fun

By Richard Mann ne of the greatest pleasures while growing up is throwing rocks in a pond. I’m sure psychologists could debate the satisfaction associated with this pastime endlessly. But we don’t need them—it’s fun because it’s a physical activity with immediate gratification. With one simple toss, and with an endless supply of things to throw, you change the world. There’s the noise and ripples, but mostly it’s the splash. Humans like to make splashes—and they like to see them. Birchwood Casey Shoot-N-See adhesive targets are easy to mount. Bullet holes are also easy to see from a distance.

When it comes to shooting guns, the same rules apply. When you pull a trigger you get a noise, and by virtue of the environment you’re conditioned to live in, you expect to see an immediate result. Stepping over to your spotting scope, or walking 25 to 100 or even 1,000 yards to see the result of your handiwork takes at lot of the bang out of the experience. The answer? Reactive targets. They let shooters immediately experience that oh-so-satisfying, rock-in-the-pond sensation. I learned the importance of reactive targets the hard way. I’m old school and shoot a lot of paper. When I was teaching my oldest son to shoot, I figured he would like to do it the way I did. Growing up in a videogame world, he got bored with paper targets fast. So when it came time to teach his younger brother, I’d figured it out. After some basic marksmanship lessons on paper, we transitioned to reactive targets and rarely shot anything else. They work; his training was good enough for him to win the class shoot-off in his Gunsite 250 Pistol Class. I’m probably preaching to the choir here. I’m sure everyone by now realizes that getting immediate feedback when you shoot is exhilarating. However, the mistake some make is to assume that reactive targets are just for fun. They are fun, but they can also be a valuable teaching tool because the immediate feedback the shooter gets helps him respond accordingly on the follow-up shot. It’s like shooting a basketball. What if you had to go watch a video after practice to see if you made any baskets? With that kind of practice, it would take a long time to develop skill. With my son, I used all sorts of expendable reactive targets to help him get more out of our shooting sessions. We shot lolli-

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pops, crackers, old fruit, balloons, and just about anything else you can think of that was safe and legal. The problem was all this stuff left a mess we had to clean up. Kids hate cleaning up messes. To be honest, adults do to. Manufacturers have responded to this desire for reactive targets that, like balloons and old apples, create splash. Fortunately, they’ve done so with cool targets that don’t leave a mess. Once found only at well-kept ranges with controlled access, steel targets have evolved into durable, portable devices you can take to the range with you or set up in grandpa’s cow pasture. The variety of steel targets now available is almost endless, and the Sportsman and Steel Challenge series from MGM are not only very affordable, they’re lightweight and intended to be portable. With the use of a few sections of rebar or some old 2x4 lumber, a steel target or even a plate rack can be unloaded and set up in less than five minutes. MGM (Booth #1905) and other companies, such as Action Target (Booth #14568), are even offering rimfire-specific targets. These are even lighter,

and are ideal for young shooters. Another type of reactive target that’s emerging are those made of a rubbery substances. Champion (Booth #14551) has many of these. Some wobble when hit, some spin, some are compatible with clay targets—and one even resembles a soup can. I shot a lot of soup cans when I was growing up. It was fun to push them along the ground. Know what? It still is. The importance of that immediate feedback has even spread to paper targets. Birchwood Casey (Booth #11723) started this trend of paper targets that show a splatter mark around the bullet hole with the Shoot-N-See line. But the variety of targets available has expanded from just circular targets to animal vital zone targets, bad guy targets, and a handgun trainer target that tells you what you’re doing wrong for every shot. And, too, the color varieties cover every spectrum of the rainbow.

There are many ways to use reactive targets to enhance your training or shooting fun. As a police firearms instructor, I used steel targets at the end of every session so officers would leave with smiles and look forward to coming back. You can do the same or actually integrate the reactiveness into the actual training. When you hear that ring of steel from 800 yards, you know you’ve applied the right ballistic correction and marksmanship

principles necessary to get a hit. During defensive handgun drills, that same but repetitive ring will let you know your sight alignment and trigger press were good. Plain paper is still a viable target, but in many cases reactive targets can provide the same and even better training value. More bang for your buck, as they say. It’s all about the splash. Reactive targets will never be as affordable as rocks in a pond, but they just might be a lot more fun.

Targets imprinted with the image of a game target make practice a whole lot more fun. More practice means better bullet placement on game.

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F E AT U R E S

Night and Day

XS F8 Night Sights arenÕt just for the dark By Richard Mann

hortly after I became a police officer, I realized the sights on a defensive handgun had to be easy to see. In other words, sights you didn’t have to look for when confronted with “a situation.” As early as 1998, I secretly modified my duty gun by installing XS Big Dot Sights. Fortunately, as a Special Agent, my kit was not inspected that often. When I turned in my handgun on my last day, the Chief Special Agent went ballistic. I didn’t care. Those sights had served me well. A Texas deputy by the name of Ashley Emerson, dissatisfied with the night sights of the time, came up with the premise behind XS Big Dot sights. Emerson, for those who’ve not met him, can best be described as a tall drink of sulfur water. He’s loud, opinionated, and not afraid to speak his mind. He was also right about the sights. In 1997, he teamed up with Texas businessman Ed Pastusek and the Big Dot, rooted in the concept of dangerous-game rifle sights, became a reality. At first it was ridiculed; then it was tried; now it is revered. Jeff Cooper had Big Dot sights on his Commander. Other handgun-sight manufacturers took note of how visible and easy to see the Big Dot sights were and have offered their take on easy-to-see front sights—front sights that are larger than normal and bold in appearance. When paired with a wide rear notch, these new-age handgun sights deliver something similar to the high-visibility sight picture Emerson desired. For 2018, XS Sights is introducing a new sight system for defensive handguns that’s sort of a hybrid sight, delivering a mix between the Big Dot and some of those more recent takes. The new XS F8 Night Sights are configured for fast target acquisition in all light conditions. Thanks to the large, high-contrast front sight, with a photo-luminescent orangecolored ring surrounding the tritium vial, F8 sights are designed to instantly increase front sight focus. The proprietary and durable XS Orange paint is formulated with a focus on yellow, which is one of the most visible colors in low light, making it easier to see in rapidly changing light conditions. Another significant advantage of the F8 Night Sights is the ability of the XS Orange ring to absorb ambient light. This allows XS F8 Night Sights are configured for fast target acquisition in all light conditions.

The wide notch in the F8 rear sight is designed to increase the visibility of the front sight.

it to glow in low light, aiding shooters in finding the front sight before tritium becomes visible. It also stands out in daylight. But it’s not all about the front sight. Emerson realized this 20 years ago, and the XS Sights team has not forgotten. The wide notch in the F8 rear sight is designed to increase the visibility of the front sight by allowing more light around its sides. This expanded sight gap helps shooters find the front sight faster when presenting the handgun and when shooting on the move. The tritium vial on the rear sight enables quick-andeasy alignment with the front sight in low light, while the overhung rear sight reduces glare in bright daylight for greater sight definition. Also, the rear sight’s angled ledge aids in one-handed slide manipulations in emergencies. “Night sights don’t just need to glow in the dark, they need to be visible at all times,” says marketing manager Zack Kinsley. “Gunfights don’t happen in perfect light or complete darkness. They happen in between these two broad spectrums.” The sights are backed by a 10-year warranty. Initially, they’ll be available for the Glock 17, 19, 20, 21, 26, 27, 30, 34, 40, 41, 42, and 43; Sig Sauer 9mm and .40 S&W in P226, P229, P320, and other original P series pistols; S&W M&P full size, compact, and S&W M&P Shield; Springfield XD, XDS, XDM, and XDE; and the FNH FN509. SRP: $184.99. Booth #3246. (xssights.com)

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F E AT U R E S

Stretching Out

Remington continues its push into the handgun market By Brian McCombie

ver the last half century, the great success of the Remington 700 bolt-action rifle and the Remington 870 shotgun has led a lot of people to see Remington as strictly a long-gun maker. But that’s changing, says Dillon Jennings, Remington’s handguns product manager.

“In the last two years, we have launched 28 new handguns, including micro-carry .380s, subcompact 9mms, full-size polymer guns, and nearly every kind of 1911,” he says. “Remington is working tirelessly to develop and market many new handguns for personal defense/concealed carry, competition, and recreational use. And we have a lot more to come.” Last fall, at a Remington tactical seminar at Gunsite Academy, a firearms training facility in Paulden, Arizona, I had a chance to get a first look at some of Remington’s new pistols, which retailers can see at the 2018 SHOT Show. After the seminar, I stayed at Gunsite for two days of handgun training using these new guns.

I was impressed with the overall functionality of the new pistols, but my top choice would have to be the R1 Enhanced Double Stack 15.45. The “15.45” refers to the pistol’s double-stack magazines, which hold an impressive 15 rounds of .45 ACP. One of the best features of the Enhanced Double Stack is that the pistol grips are not much larger in diameter than the grips on a standard 1911. Other double-stack .45s I’ve used have similar firepower to the R1 Enhanced, but the grips are very large. That isn’t a problem if you can palm a basketball like an NBA player, but for regular folks these double stacks can be hard to control. Not so with the R1 Enhanced and its VZ10 Grips. I could

comfortably fire round after round through this pistol. And in the active-shooter scenarios of the training program, the R1 Enhanced’s firepower kept me shooting longer without a mag change. Very accurate, too, thanks in part to the 5-inch stainless-steel barrel. SRP: $999. I also shot three other new pistols. Here’s a rundown of the salient features. R1 1911 Tomasie Custom: Remington pro shooter Travis Tomasie helped design this competition-grade double-stack 1911, available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP. The .40 S&W version I used was a smooth shooter. The trigger broke cleanly, and it was very accurate. Features included fully adjustable LPA match sights and The R1 Enhanced Double Stack 15.45 holds 15 rounds of .45 ACP, and the pistol grips are not that much larger in diameter than the grips on a standard 1911.

The R51 sub-compact 9mm pistol is now available with an anodized smoke gray color and finish.

a comfortable extended-beavertail-grip safety. Tomasie actually test-fires every one of these before they leave the factory. He also includes a signed thank-you note. SRP: $1,650. R1 1911 Limited: Available in 9mm, .40 S&W, and .45 ACP, the 1911 Limited pistols are also double stacks and come standard with a series of upgraded features, including a 5-inch, ramped match-grade barrel, wide rear and front cocking serrations, fully adjustable match sights, and a competition-size magazine well. A tough PVD DLC finish protects the gun from the elements. It comes with two stainless-steel magazines. SRP: $1,399. The R1 1911 Ultralight Commander: This pistol weighs just 31 ounces unloaded and will be a top choice for concealed carriers who prefer 1911 platforms. Comfortable and accurate, the Ultralight features a 4.25-inch match-grade barrel, adjustable rear sights, and a fiber-optic front blade. The laminate grips provide a solid grip, even when popping off a whole magazine. SRP: $849. For 2018, Remington is offering two line extensions. The R51 subcompact 9mm pistol is now available with an anodized smoke gray color and finish. The RM380 Micro Carry Blue will be available with a blue frame and a silver-gray slide. Stocking dealers will be happy to learn Remington intends to promote the pistol line through various social media campaigns. The manufacturer is also developing several in-store projects to help independent retailers promote and sell the handguns. Booth #14229. (remington.com)

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Team Effort

A meeting of the minds produces a singular frangible round By Katie Ainsworth

ying prone inches from a Birchwood Casey AR500 steel target while emptying a magazine of .45 ACP and watching the plates spin is an indescribable feeling. Thrilling, because itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s not something you do every day. Fascinating, because it affords you a front-row seat for cause-and-effect of bullets on steel. Off-putting, because youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve heard for years how dangerous it is to position yourself so close that you feel the wind of the spinning plates. But mostly itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s satisfying, because this particular frangible ammunition delivers for CQB training, self-defense, and hunting, all in one round. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Snake River Shooting Products (SRSP) Team Never Quit (TNQ), and itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s challenging long-held perceptions of frangible ammunition. SRSP was founded in 2012 by USAF veteran Casey Betzold. In

2015, he teamed up with retired Navy SEAL Marcus Luttrell, a man intimately familiar with the dangers of ricochets and the importance of proper self-defense training, on the TNQ line. Their combined experiences resulted in frangibles being the lineâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s launching point, and now theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ve become the focal point. The bullets used in SRSP TNQ frangibles are manufactured by Sinterfire, the company responsible for producing 90 percent of the industryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s frangible projectiles. Theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re manufactured using a powder-metallurgy process involving pressing and sintering powdered copper into bullet form. And theyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re not jacketed, which is unusual. According to Sinterfireâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s new-product development head and former U.S. Army Ranger Keith Porco, the lack of a jacket doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t affect stability or accuracy.

Betzold personally knows multiple shooters who have been walking around with jacket fragments in their bodies for years. Thanks to being unjacketed, SRSP TNQ frangibles can be fired on hardened steel at as close as 6 inches.

Luttrell and I hunted blackbucks in Texas with hunting rounds from his SRSP TNQ line. They dropped like stones. There were entry wounds, but no exit wounds, which is promising given what it means for safety while hunting. Available calibers include, among others, .380 ACP, .308 Win., and .338 Lapua Magnum. All disintegrate when they impact objects harder than themselves. Booth #2311. (sinterfire.com; snakerivershootingproducts. com) Frangible ammunition from Snake River delivers for CQB training, selfdefense, and hunting, all in one round.

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F E AT U R E S

Deadly At Any Distance

Federal Premium Edge TLR All-Range Hunting Ammunition works near and far

hoosing hunting ammunition traditionally involved selecting a round that would yield maximum performance at the range at which you expected to shoot. Some rounds were lethal up close, while others were designed for long-range accuracy. Finding a load capable of dropping game equally well at all distances has largely been a dream—until now.

Edge TLR was designed for flawless expansion at a wide range of velocities, from the muzzle all the way out to extreme ranges.

Federal Premium’s new Edge TLR blends the features of top match bullet designs with the industry’s best bonding technology and components to make true all-range performance a reality. The loads offer match-grade long-range accuracy and reliable expansion at low velocities. They also provide high weight retention, deep penetration, and lethal terminal performance up close.

Terminal Long Range

³ Deadly terminal performance is a result of the bullet’s ability to penetrate straight through its target and unleash a knockout punch of energy along the way. This requires the front of the bullet to expand uniformly when it hits the target, which increases stability. And that’s where many so-called long-range bullets have fallen short. These projectiles can fail to expand at all, or they expand asymmetrically, causing the bullet to veer off-course or tumble—even exiting out the side of the target. Federal Premium engineered the Edge TLR for flawless expansion at a wide range of velocities, from blistering speeds at the muzzle all the way out to extreme ranges, where velocity falls off. At all distances, the rounds reliably expand within the first couple of inches of entering the target and punches straight through, dumping devastating amounts of energy in the process. A carefully designed nose paired with a completely new polymer tip helps make this possible. “The Slipstream Tip features our patent-pending hollow-core technology,” says product development engineer Justin Carbone. “A small cavity runs the length of the shank all the way up to just below the point itself. That point breaks free upon impact, allowing fluid to enter the hollow core, where it generates pressure and easy expansion, even at low velocities.” A large hollow cavity in the bullet nose along with exterior jacket skiving further aid expansion and penetration. Serrations allow petals to peel back on contact at velocities as low as 1,350 fps—speeds typically seen 1,200 yards downrange in the 200-grain .30-caliber loads. The Slipstream Tip’s hollow core is unique in its resistance to the elevated temperatures a bullet experiences during flight. This high-tech blue material is actually the same that Federal Premium has used for a decade in the popular Trophy Bonded Tip bullet. It has a glass transition temperature—or

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softening point—of 434 degrees F. Such heat resistance gives shooters extremely consistent ballistics.

Close-Quarters Coverage ³ With

the growing popularity of long-range big-game hunting, it’s not hard to find ammunition that claims to offer the accuracy and downrange terminal performance to do the job. However, these options are often built like varmint bullets, with thin jackets to encourage expansion at the low velocities experienced at longer ranges. Unfortunately, when the bull or buck of a lifetime steps out of the brush at 20 yards, such single-purpose projectiles can completely blow apart under the high velocities of close-range impact, resulting in shallow penetration, low weight retention, and poor terminal performance. Edge TLR doesn’t make such sacrifices, combining its extreme range expansion capabilities and accuracy with the bonding and heavy-duty construction of tough hunting bullets. “You still get that bone-crushing

bonded-core technology that’s been proven for decades in our Trophy Bonded Bear Claw and Trophy Bonded Tip,” Carbone says. “The bullet’s copper shank and bonded lead core retain weight for deep, reliable penetration.”

Boosting BC ³ Edge

TLR doesn’t just pack a punch. The new round is also incredibly sleek, allowing longrange surgical strikes that have historically been limited to handloaded match bullets. The credit goes to its extremely high ballistic coefficient (BC), which is a measurement of how well the bullet cuts through the air on its way downrange. To boost BC, Federal Premium engineers gave the Edge TLR several important design features, including the small-diameter Slipstream polymer tip and a secant ogive. A sleek, elongated boattail profile is another critical part of the performance package, and it didn’t happen by accident. Longer boattails do yield higher BCs, but the tradeoff has been reduced stability. To conquer this, Federal Premium

engineers determined the optimal boattail angle and extended the length as far as possible without taking a bite out of bullet stability. To further boost BC, engineers selected bullet weights that are as heavy for caliber as possible while maintaining stability through the different barrel twist rates common in a wide array of hunting rifles. As a result, Edge TLR boasts some of the highest BCs in the industry. Doppler radar was used to verify that the 175-grain .30-caliber has a BC of 0.536, while the 200-grain version hits 0.625. Those are big numbers for these bullet weights in anyone’s book—and they’re achieved without compromising stability. “You get the flattest trajectories, the least amount of wind drift, and the highest confidence you’re going to make your shot,” Carbone says.

Get In the Groove

³ Edge TLR also features grooving along the shank to improve accuracy across a range of rifles while decreasing barrel wear and fouling. However, unlike conventional grooving, the AccuChannel

technology used in Edge TLR accomplishes this with only a minimal increase in drag. Standard grooving causes about a 5 percent drop in BC per groove, so Federal Premium engineers ran a series of tests on both the number and location of grooves to determine the best combination for accuracy and minimizing drag. “That’s when we made a breakthrough,” Carbone says. “We learned that by strategically placing one groove, we could achieve the same benefits and accuracy as with multiple grooves.” Still not satisfied, the engineers used fluid dynamics modeling to tweak the groove geometry itself to reduce drag even more. “Your typical groove has 90-degree walls,” he says. “We gave AccuChannel grooving a sloped rear wall that lets air flow more easily in and out of the groove, decreases pressure on that portion of the bullet, and reduces overall drag.” Edge TLR comes in four initial offerings: 175-grain .308 Win., 175-grain .30/06 Spring., 200grain .300 Win. Mag., and 200grain .300 WSM. Booth #14551. (federalpremium.com)

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F E AT U R E S

Hot Stuff

The thermal optics market is expanding rapidly. DonÕt get left behind By Brian McCombie

TrijiconÕs line of thermal products includes the REAP-IR Mini Thermal Scope.

t was just after midnight, near Corpus Christie, Texas, when our pickup truck rolled to a silent stop. Our guide/driver leaned out of his window to get a better look, and in a low voice said, “We got hogs. Up ahead on the left.” “How far away?” I asked. “At least 300 yards,” he answered. “We’ll walk from here.” It was a clear night, a few stars overhead, but we couldn’t see 30 yards with the naked eye, much less 300 yards. Our advantage for this night hunt? New thermal monoculars from Trijicon, plus Trijicon’s new REAP-IR Mini Thermal Scope mounted on my MSR. These thermal units allowed us to spot hogs and coyotes hundreds of yards away in the black Texas night.

We got out of the truck as quietly as we could and put a short stalk on the half-dozen hogs. Once we got to within approximately 75 yards, we set up our shooting sticks, picked our targets, and opened fire. Twenty seconds later, I had two hogs on the ground. I’ve been hunting at night with thermal optics for more than five years now, and in that time I’ve seen a world of change in all things thermal. Today, hunters and

tactical shooters have more thermal options than ever before. Prices have dropped steadily, and there’s more interest in and knowledge about thermal optics. What hasn’t changed? Night hunting with thermal optics for hogs, coyotes, and varmints is still a rush. Thermal products are a great way to expand hunting opportunities, especially as more states legalize night hunting for problem species such as hogs and

coyotes. As our shooting sports become ever more high-tech, thermal may well be the next big thing to grow your customer base.

Natural Fit ³ “Our

customers want and need a full line of aiming solutions,” says Chuck Wahr, vice president of sales and marketing for Trijicon, when I ask why the optics maker began offering thermal units.

“Actually, they have been suggesting we enter the thermal market for some time. In particular, our military and law enforcement customers have highlighted the desirability of the technology, and after we took a good look at it, we knew it was a natural fit for Trijicon and our customers.” “This is a very young industry— in its infancy, really, especially at the hunter-consumer level,” says Tom Frane, director of global sales

The author (left) took this hog while using a Trijicon Mini Thermal Scope. FLIR Scout (right) is an entrylevel thermal unit.

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at FLIR, arguably the largest player in the thermal game for many years. “Military and law enforcement have had thermal units for years, but the average person hasn’t been able to get their hands on these units—literally. That’s changing fast, and the independent retailer is in a great position to get into this market and do very well.” The market for thermal optics is on a definite upswing. Pulsar, of Mansfield, Texas, for example, debuted its first thermal units in 2012. Today, it has a full lineup of thermal monoculars and riflescopes. At the 2017 SHOT Show, Pulsar introduced its new Trail scopes and Helion monoculars, both with customer-friendly price points, and they immediately sold out. “Our first orders of Trail and Helion units have gone out to our dealers, but we are already backordered for many thousands of additional thermal units,” says James Sellers, president of Pulsar. “We’ve seen demand for thermal increase significantly every year, and we’re only expecting that to continue.”

At the Core ³ Actually,

thermal optics are not true optics at all. The term “optic” is a common shorthand simply because the units look so much like traditional riflescopes and monoculars. In reality, they are digital cameras with sensors, or “cores,” that detect infrared or heat waves; an onboard signal processor then translates those waves into images for the shooter or spotter. Another key distinction: Thermal technology is not “night vision,” though the two are frequently lumped together, especially on the internet. True night-vision technology uses any ambient light available—usually from stars, the moon, or infrared lasers—to illuminate when it is dark outside. Night vision works well, as long as there is some sort of light source to draw from. Thermal’s advantage is that it relies on heat to find targets, heat that is transmitted even when the night skies are overcast or during weather events like rain. Depending on the thermal brand and model used, a person can spot a human-sized object anywhere from

150 yards (with entry-level thermal) all the way out to 2,000 yards with top-of-the-line thermals. However, maximum spotting range and shooting range are different. While you may be able to see a white blob out to 2,000 yards with your thermal scope or monocular, you will likely have to get within several hundred yards to accurately identify the blob. With a thermal scope, you will probably have to move within 300 yards or so for the shot. But getting closer usually isn’t a problem. After all, in most cases you’re hunting at night. Just keep in mind that though the quarry may not be able to see you, it can sure smell you. Most thermal units operate via a digital “menu.” A menu lets you select such things as palette colors (white for hot, for example, or red for hot), brightness, contrast, and magnification (if available). For riflescopes, reticle options are selected via the menu operation, which also has the adjustments necessary for zeroing in the unit. Many of these thermal units have wifi capability, and can take

photos and download them via wifi. They also can store and use ballistics data. Thermal scopes and monoculars are not exactly new, but the extremely high price points—often more than $10,000 for a single unit—and a general lack of marketing to civilians initially kept thermal units off retail shelves. But prices have dropped by many thousands of dollars per unit. At the same time, the word has gotten out to shooting sports consumers that thermal works, is becoming more affordable, and is, above all, a lot of fun to use. Thermal units themselves have also gotten smaller and more effective, increasing their appeal to the general consumer. They are more flexible, too, with most companies now making “clip-on” models that can be attached in front of a riflescope or used as a handheld monocular. As an indication of the potential growth of this market, Leupold debuted its new LTO (Leupold Thermal Optics) line at the 2017 SHOT Show. The LTO-Tracker

THERMAL MANUFACTURERS FLIR SYSTEMS

The thermal leader for more than a decade, the FLIR product line includes the pocket-portable Scout monocular, long-range rifle scopes, clip-on models, and units to attach to helmets and head rigs. SRPs run from $599 to $8,000. Booth #6203. (flir.com)

LEUPOLD

LeupoldÕs thermal product lineup includes the LTO-Tracker and the Quest, both small enough to hold in your hand. SRPs run $649.99 to $909.99. Booth #13023. (leupold.com)

PULSAR

Pulsar thermal brands include the Helion and Quantum monoculars, the new Trail riflescopes, and Apex riflescopes with built-in rangefinders. Pulsar also makes thermal clip-ons that allow a shooter to use their day scope at night. SRPs range from $2,089 to $5,499. Booth #11924. (pulsar-nv.com)

SIG SAUER

Sig SauerÕs thermal product line includes the Echo1 monocular. SRP: $1,559.99 to $2,399.99. Booth #12240. (sigsauer.com)

TRIJICON

A new entrant into the thermal game, Trijicon rolled out a full line of riflescopes, clip-on optics, and monoculars in 2017, with price points ranging from $6,000 to $10,000. The REAP-IR Mini Thermal Scope is a real gem for the night hog and predator hunter. Booth #10573. (trijicon.com)

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F E AT U R E S

PulsarÕs Apex XD-50 Thermal Sight, featuring a built-in rangefinder, helped the author bag this feral hog.

is a small, handheld thermal monocular. Shortly afterward, Leupold introduced the Quest. The Quest has additional features versus the LTO, including a precise temperature reading of the object being scanned (the temp is displayed on the screen), plus a built-in flashlight and a camera that can capture and store as many as 2,000 images. “We’ve seen tremendous growth in the thermal market and felt it was a natural fit for Leupold,” says trade marketing manager Shane Meisel. “A large percentage of our market is focused on hunting, and thermal handhelds like the Tracker and the Quest have so many hunting uses.” Leupold’s LTO and Quest can be used to find and follow blood trails and scout for game animals. They also are handy for scanning an area before a hunter heads in. The latter should be a big selling point for deer hunters in particular. No more need for them to scare off a big buck on their way to the deer stand. They simply do a quick scan with the LTO or Quest (or other thermal units, for that matter) and see what may or may not be bedded down between them and their destination.

LeupoldÕs handheld LTO-Tracker is aimed at the hunting market.

Into the Game ³ Thermal

manufacturers are focusing hard on what they see as their core users: predator, varmint, and wild hog hunters. Hogs and coyotes are increasingly seen as problem species in many states. So, hunting regulations now often allow year-round night hunting of these animals with no bag limits. Now retailers are getting into the game. Mike Blackwell owns and operates Big Boys Guns, Ammo and Range (bigboysguns andammo.com) in Oklahoma City, Oklahoma. Blackwell began offering thermal units in 2006, and admits the initial reaction to these products was tepid. “The thermal that was available at the time was very expensive—I think it started at right around $6,000—and frankly, it just didn’t work all that well,” he says. “The images were often pretty grainy. You had to use a USB cable to download any photos or video you took because they didn’t have wifi capability, and the tech could be hit or miss on those downloads.” Since then, Blackwell says, his customer base has become much more interested in thermal. He credits the increased interest to better thermal units, lower prices overall, solid entry-level units— and feral hogs. As has happened in many states, Oklahoma has seen a population explosion in wild hogs and a big jump in agricultural damage as the hungry porkers root up crop fields and destroy pasturelands. So, Oklahoma lawmakers recently made night hunting for hogs legal for state landowners on private property (or a designee with written per-

mission from the landowner). “Once they could hunt hogs after dark, my customers got very interested in thermal,” Blackwell says. “Right now, they are buying the entry-level units like the Leupold LTO-Tracker and the Sig Sauer Echo1 Thermal Sight.” For about $700, Blackwell’s customers can get into thermal with the LTO-Tracker. The Echo1 is a rifle-mounted sight with 1X to 2X magnification and a spotting range of approximately 1,000 yards and a targeting range of right around 300 yards. It sells for about $1,560. Big Boys also stocks a number of other thermal monoculars and scopes from top manufacturers, and can and does order just about any other thermal units customers want. Profit margins? Not as high as with traditional optics, Blackwell says, but easily twice the margins he sees on firearms.

Seeing Is Believing ³ So,

the $64,000 Question: How do you move thermal products in your store? Seeing is believing, and education is a key to those first sales. “The products sell themselves,” says Trijicon’s Wahr. “Find a way to demonstrate the products. Many retailers use video to demonstrate the product in use, but nothing replaces having a unit on the shelf that customers can look through.” Blackwell agrees. His sales staff makes sure they hand over the thermal units so customers can scan the store area. Since thermal technology detects heat, the units work fine during the day, too, and objects will jump out. Customers

are usually pretty impressed with the visual example of what thermal can do, says Blackwell. Another “ooh-and-aah” experience for potential customers can be achieved by varying the color palettes of the thermal units (a feature in most scopes and monoculars). Start with white for hot, and then switch to black or (if available) red or even green. Show a YouTube video of a night hog or coyote hunt. The various thermal manufacturers have such videos on their websites and Facebook pages. All of which adds yet another reason for customers to like thermal. As Blackwell notes, “It’s the cool factor. It’s cool to have and use this technology. And cool certainly sells.” Of course, educating your customers means first training your sales staff. Help is available for this, too. “We’ve made a huge commitment to our retailers, to help educate them and their staff about thermal in general and our products specifically,” says Pulsar’s Sellers. “We’ll come to their store and train staff, and we’re always available by phone or email to answer questions.” Wahr adds, “Our sales staff is more than willing to help provide the right training and materials to make the sales process easier. We know video is important, too, and we are working to build our library of useful demonstration videos, both for sales staff and the consumer. We have also built a training tool to help understand each of the products and the technology. This tool is used by our sales team, and they would be happy to share it with our retailers, too.” That education extends beyond the stores. FLIR makes sure it has a presence at all the major shooting sports trade and consumer shows. Same goes for Pulsar and Trijicon. All of the larger thermal makers are supporting their products through print and internet campaigns. Pulsar sponsors an outdoors television show, The High Road, with Keith Warren, and several episodes will feature Pulsar thermals during hog and coyote hunts. Many younger techie types are drawn to this high tech, and the thermal manufacturers continue to create YouTube videos and run social media campaigns to get the word out to the under-40 crowd. Retailers who “see the light” about these products stand to reap a nice benefit, especially through the recruitment of a younger base of customers.

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1/12/18 3:53 PM

> HUNTER HIG

HLANDER

NNAS TO A V A S N A IC R F FROM ARID A N, H U N T E R S O K U Y E H T ED PEAKS IN -ACTION T L O B ® R E T SNOW-CAPP S ON WINCHE A-LIFETIME IN HAVE RELIED E C N O , T MEA OR OVER F RIFLES FOR E M A G S U D DANGERO ST RIFLE TO E W TROPHIES AN E N E H T E XPR® IS F RUGGED, O Y C A 80 YEARS. TH G E L HE HEROIC ACTIONS TO T L BE PART OF T O B E T A R E AND ACCU N A M E. R E T S E H C IN DEPENDABL WEAR THE W

WINCHESTER

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GUNS.COM

TRADEM A REGISTERED

ARK OF OLIN

CORPORATIO

BOOTH 13329

12/18/17 11:55 AM

NEWS

Big Impact

Tuff Products makes its mark by embracing quality and durability By Peter Suciu

or more than a decade, Tuff Products has been manufacturing quality firearms accessories for the tactical and hunting markets, supplying military and law enforcement as well as sport and competition shooters with products that can stand up to the most rugged conditions. This is why its products are used by hundreds of agencies, including those in the military and federal sectors as well as sheriffs, corrections officers, and other LE groups. This small company has made a big impact, and it did so not by trying to win the race to the bottom in terms of cost or materials. “We’re not the cheapest out there, but we have never striven to be,” says Nanci Stevens, coowner and vice president of marketing and sales for the Chula Vista, California, company. “We don’t compete with many of the low-end product makers because quality is much more important. We want the users of our products to know that they can depend on them when they need to.” At the same time, Stevens admits, Tuff Products doesn’t try to innovate with the newest materials, but rather strives to take existing products and make them better. “We don’t copy other company’s products,” she insists. “Instead, we see the ways we can improve

upon a design and make a better product.” One such example is the company’s line of Cobra Ranger Belts, which Tuff Products offers in 1½-inch double-layer STUFF scuba dive webbing in black or coyote brown. What sets the Tuff version apart is that the holster can slide on or off without removing the buckle. “This was really simple,” she says. “You slide the holster through the male side of the buckle. But it seemed like a great innovation to us, and our customers have been really happy with it.” The other part of the success equation for this West Coast manufacturer harks back to its name—all of its products needed to be “tuff.” “You would think more companies would see the need to make a more durable product,” she says. “We see these underperforming products out there, and we know we can do better. We know that the military and law enforcement need the most durable products, but we think everyone should have that same level of quality.” Along with its Cobra Ranger Belt, the company also produces a series of inline pouches and

QuickStrips, products Stevens says are Tuff’s bread and butter. “The QuickStrips are very popular, and we produce those from .22 to 12 gauge. And our magazine pouches are steady sellers.” Further reinforcing that this is a familyowned shop, many of the products are designed by Steve Fisher, Steven’s brother. In addition, noted Japanese designer Ichiro Nagata has provided an Eastern sensibility to this West Coast– based company. “We’re really happy to have Nagata design for us,” says Stevens. “He always comes up with innovative ideas. He sees what is missing, and he and my brother Steve just need to fix it.” One irony for the company is that it manufactures magazine pouches in a state where such high-capacity magazines are now, in essence, banned. However, because it is based in San Diego County, Tuff Products has found itself in a red-leaning part of a state that has largely been seen as a sea of blue. Tuff Products has also made a name as an OEM manufacturer for other companies’ products, while still remaining focused on quality. “We do think some companies from other parts of the country may pity our being in California,” Stevens says. “But where we are allows us to make our products in America and still keep labor costs down.” Booth #13379. (tuffproducts.com)

INNOVATION LIVES HERE. This is where innovation lives. Where American ingenuity drives a thriving, global brand. We’re bringing real-world advancements to the industry like never before. This is our uncompromising vision. This is what makes us Taurus USA. Always Bring It.™

TaurusUSA.com

380 Auto • Item Number 1007031101

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Visit us at SHOT Booth #14240 1/24/18 3:17 PM

Creating Memories Youth hunts lead to a lifetime of memories

Cade Branquinho signals success on his first youth-only elk muzzleloader hunt in New Mexico.

By Justin Moore

e all remember our first hunting experience. Even if the weather was miserable, the animals were sparse, and the food was terrible, we often recall it fondly. The lessons learned from those first years of hunting have stayed with me throughout my entire life, and the closeness to nature that can be experienced while hunting cannot be duplicated in any classroom or lab. All those childhood memories came back to me on a recent hunt in New Mexico with Yeti (Booth #2836) ambassador and five-time world-champion steer wrestler Luke Branquinho and his nine-year-old son, Cade. Luke surprised Cade with his first elk hunt, a youth-only muzzleloader hunt during the rut. Many states offer youth-only hunts, and some allow mentor-style programs where an adult can take a youth on a hunt using their tag. New Mexico isn’t alone, and elk isn’t the only game. You don’t even have to be a parent to help take someone on their first hunt. Doing so is a richly rewarding way to introduce someone to the sport. Cade was a surprisingly patient hunter, even passing on bulls that I would have gladly shot on the first day. More than once we had a bull within 25 yards, and he stayed steady, made his decision,

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and opted to wait. We did run into the normal hunting issues after day two. The full moon was altering when the elk were feeding, and a freak rainstorm the week prior had made them move into some areas where they didn’t frequently go until winter had set in. By day four, the decision was made to make our way to the high country, and we prepared Cade for the long day of walking that was about to happen. We also made sure to pack lots of mini candy bars and a couple of Mountain Dews, just in case we needed some emergency energy spikes. I would like to tell you that the adults in the group handled the long hike up to the top of the mountain with poise and strength, exhibiting to our much younger hunter how to maintain energy throughout the day. It’s safe to say, however, that Cade taught us the benefit of youth, and just how quickly the sugar from a soda can be transferred into energy. He easily got to the top, put the stalk on a bull that he wanted, and made a 200-yard shot. In four short days, Cade walked almost 27 miles and 11,000 vertical feet, and created a lifetime’s worth of memories that he and his father will surely cherish for the rest of their days.

1/24/18 3:17 PM

NEWS

Innovation On Display at Supplier Showcase

n Monday and Tuesday, January 22–23, the NSSF held its second Supplier Showcase at the SHOT Show. The showcase provides an ideal opportunity to see the supply side of the industry, and innovation was on display everywhere, from plastics manufacturers, engineering, and software firms to specialty machining companies.

One of the cutting-edgetechnology companies that took a booth is SolarCore (a division of Oros Technology), a NASAinspired insulation manufacturer to the soft-goods industry. To demonstrate the unique properties of its garments, the display in the booth included a tank of liquid nitrogen. “We are trying to prove that a human won’t be freeze-dried at minus 321 degrees Fahrenheit on the show floor,” said Jeff Nash, CTO of Oros, as he sprayed founder and CEO Michael Markesbery. Markesbery was wearing an Oros Orion Series Parka and is reported to be doing fine. American Swiss of Pittsford, New York, was another first-time floor displayer. “We have been

A new garment with groundbreaking insulation helps the wearer survive a blast of more-than-ice-cold liquid nitrogen.

NSSF PAC MEETING Jack Carr is a former Navy SEAL turned novelist who understands that the pen might be mightier than the sword, but he also knows the impact of a few well-placed rounds. Carr found the 10-ring when he met with members of NSSF’s Political Action Committee (PAC) earlier this week to give them a sneak peek at his upcoming novel, The Terminal List. “Everyone in this room tonight means so much to me, so much to my family, and so much to our country,” Carr said. “We’re all here because we all support the Second Amendment.” Carr said that in August 2004, he’d finished what was among the most intense combat operations of his career: the battle for Najaf, Iraq. It was two weeks of nonstop urban warfare. But Carr also said it was not lost on him that many on the NSSF PAC were waging their own campaigns to maintain American freedoms at home— namely, the fight for the gun rights of every American. “While we were fighting overseas, you—all of you in this room—were fighting for us,” Carr said. Carr also noted that the innovation and design of the firearms market is providing special-operations teams with the firearms that were critical to their missions. He thanked the industry for its commitment to producing the reliable and accurate firearms that are the hallmark of today’s firearms industry. “Thank you for the innovation. Thank you for pushing the boundaries of technology. Thank you for coming together as a united front on the issues that threaten our Second Amendment rights.” —Mark Oliva

Meet & Mingle Today

eet & Mingle is a SHOT Show social event presented for and by women of the shooting, hunting, and outdoor industries. Hosted by Bonnier, Meet & Mingle provides a place where women who work in the industry can network and enjoy light refreshments. “We are delighted to host a gathering where women in the industry can meet and network,” says Barbara Baird, publisher of Women’s Outdoor News and contributing editor to SHOT Business and SHOT Daily. “This is the only event that we know of during this time that includes all women attendees and does not discriminate based on occupation levels or interests.” Julie Golob has been helping to coordinate this event for three years running. “Julie’s innovative approach and understanding of the mission to get more women into the shooting and hunting sports has played an important role in the growth and outreach of this event,” says Baird. The 2018 Meet & Mingle will be held today from 4 p.m. to 6 p.m. in the

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coming to SHOT for six years, and this event has been one of the best selling days we’ve ever experienced at a trade show. It’s been a great value,” said Rebecca Luce, president of American Swiss. Attendance at the showcase, now in its second year, grew significantly in just one year, and NSSF expects it to grow more in 2019. “As the scope of the show grows, it’s exponentially more difficult for firms to meet their clients while looking for new business. The Supplier Showcase allows critical industry businesses to have a booth and be part of the show,” said Bill Dunn, NSSF’s managing director of marketing communications. —Peter B. Mathiesen

The Meet & Mingle reception is an important networking opportunity for women in the industry.

Bonnier Sportsman’s Lounge, which is located on Level 3, San Polo 3501, in the Sands Expo Center. Participants are encouraged to bring business cards for inclusion in a directory, which event coordinators will be compiling and making available to attendees and to sponsors. Wine, beer, and appetizers will be available. Admission is free, and participants are invited to drop in for a few minutes or for the entirety.

The following sponsors are underwriting this year’s event: Babes with Bullets, Beretta, Crossbreed, DIVA WOW, Jagemann Sporting Group, National Shooting Sports Foundation, NRA Women’s Network, Remington Outdoor Company, Smith & Wesson, and The Well Armed Woman. For more information or to participate, contact Barbara Baird. (Barbara@ womensoutdoornews.com)

1/24/18 3:55 PM

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1/10/18 10:46 AM

NEW PRODUCTS PETZL TACTICAL

The Rig is a self-braking descender that allows the user to easily position himself by using the handle to lock the device in place on the rope. Easy to grasp, this descender is intuitive and convenient to use. With its innovative and compact design, the Rig offers a simple, efficient alternative to traditional descenders. The multi-function handle of the Rig allows the user to unlock the rope and control the descent with a hand on the free end of the rope to position himself without having to tie off the device.

ZRODELTA Gen 2 Cowl Induction Brake achieves a recoil reduction of up to 70 percent.

ZRODelta

The Gen 2 Cowl Induction Brake (CIB) has a tapered design that meets 3 Gun competition requirements. It also achieves a recoil reduction of up to 72 percent. The internal geometry of the Gen 2 CIB efficiently redirects the potential energy of the high-

(comforttecinternational.com)

pressure expanding gases exiting the barrel to effectively counteract recoil without a noticeable increase in sound to the shooter. Horizontal ports minimize ground signature, keeping debris away from the shooter, and tapered ports give it a sleek look. A matteblack nitride coating is standard, but Cerakote colors can be had as well. Available in .223/5.56, 6.5mm, and .30. SRP: $199. Booth #N361. (zrodelta.com)

Heat Factory

Heat Factory USA is teaming with Mossy Oak to offer hunters Heat Factory’s battery-heated Extreme Hand Muff in Mossy Oak Break-Up Country camo. Each muff comes with a compact,

SPRINGFIELD The 911 .380 features a crisp, 5-pound trigger with a G10 Trigger shoe.

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rechargeable 5V 10000mAh power pack (with three settings) that not only provides hours of heat, but also charges phones and other portable devices. The muff has Heat Factory’s proprietary insulation, Easy Warm, a dynamic heat-retention lining layer that absorbs and holds the heat. A water-seamed zipper makes it resistant to moisture, and its ergonomic design enables hunters to seamlessly slip hands into the heating pouch. A separate front pocket holds small essentials. SRP: $149. Booth #1214.

In addition, the automatic return system on the handle limits risks in the case of an involuntary action by the user, and the handle storage position reduces the risk of snagging when the descender is being carried on the harness. Other features include a safety gate on the moving side plate that helps keep the user from dropping the device as well as facilitating rope installation when passing intermediate anchors. A pivoting cam facilitates taking up the slack in the rope. SRP: $200. Booth #30307. (petzl.com)

HEAT FACTORY Extreme Hand Muff comes with a rechargeable 5V power pack. #13151. (springfield-armory. com)

Springfield

The 911 .380 features a crisp, short-reset 5-pound trigger with the industry’s only G10 Trigger shoe produced by Hogue. This quick, positive trigger allows a shooter to squeeze off repeat rounds with reassuring precision, a key factor in surviving defense situations. Other features include a loaded chamber indicator, an ambidextrous safety, an Ameriglo Pro-Glo green tritium front sight inside a yellow luminescent circle, and a tactical rack U-notch rear sight with green tritium inside of white luminescent circles. The low-profile design ensures a snag-free draw. In addition, Springfield’s Octo-Grip texturing on the mainspring housing and front strap allows for a secure grip. Available in four configurations. SRP: $599 to $789. Booth

Ridge

The Ridge Momentum tactical boot is built on an athletic last for speed, agility, and performance. The form-fitting design reduces bulk and weight, and adds greater stability and performance. Features include a 90-degree heel for braking during rapid descents and ladder climbing, and a medial sidegrip arch for fast-roping and climbing. The open-lug outsole makes for easy cleaning, and side zips allows for easy on/off. The rubber outsole is oil- and slip-resistant. The 8-inch model (SRP: $135) features a polishable full-grain leather toe; the 6-incher (SRP: $120), a breathable mesh toe with an abrasion-resistant toe cap. Sizes: D, 4-11.5, 12-15; EE, 7-11.5, 12-15. Available in March. Booth #20021. (ridgefootwear.com)

1/24/18 3:55 PM

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