SHOT Daily 4 2014

SHOOTING HUNTING OUTDOOR TRADE SHOW 1979–2014

NSSF

NEW PRODUCT REPORTS SHOT Daily hits the floor to find what’s new in the world of airguns P. 16 and airsoft P. 22

DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2 014

The Daily News of the 2014 Las Vegas SHOT Show Brought to You by The Bonnier Corporation and the NSSF

Millions and Billions

NEWS *RAM RETURNS TO THE FOLD

The Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition has been updated and will be back in the 2014 lineup. SEE PAGE 4

*THE HUNTING MSR

The right accessories can turn a modern sporting rifle into a finely tuned hunting tool. SEE PAGE 12

*OVER-THE-COUNTER CUSTOM SCOPES

U.S. Optics enters the commercial market with off-the-shelf models with popular features found on custom scopes. SEE PAGE 59

*IT’S A GAS!

The Umarex Octagon is a gasspring break-barrel air rifle that’s both powerful and accurate. SEE PAGE 60

Spending by American target shooters and hunters helped pump more than $110 billion into the nation’s economy.

T

he National Shooting Sports Foundation has released a major new report at the 2014 SHOT Show documenting the importance of targetshooting activities to the U.S. economy.

The report—“Target Shooting in America: Millions of Shooters, Billions of Dollars”—provides a first look at U.S. target-shooting-related expenditures. The report

complements the existing “Hunting in America” report released by NSSF and the Association of Fish & Wildlife Agencies last year.

In 2011, spending by target shooters added $23 billion to the nation’s economy and supported more than 185,000 jobs. Retail sales related to target shooting accounted for nearly $10 billion. Rifle and handgun shooting were the leading contributors, followed by shotgun and muzzleloader shooting.

In all, target shooters and hunters poured a staggering $110 billion into the nation’s economy, fueling more than 866,000 jobs. “These combined statistics are impressive,” says James Curcuruto, NSSF director of industry research and analysis. “In addition, target shooting was responsible for more than $15 billion in taxes,” which is split roughly fifty-fifty between state and federal coffers.

“These reports give us a more complete understanding of the economic impact of the shooting sports in America,” says NSSF president and CEO Steve Sanetti. “We’ve long known about the recreational benefits of these activities. And now we know how much they contribute to our country’s financial wellbeing.”—Peter B. Mathiesen

Software Serves As GPS Ranging Tool

FEATURES *NSSF HELPS NEW SHOOTERS

A new app, WhereToShoot.org, makes finding a range easier than ever. SEE PAGE 26

*SHINE A LIGHT

SureFire has upgraded the output on its Outdoorsman line of flashlights and weapons-mounted lights. SEE PAGE 44

*NEW CONCEALABLE SNIPER RIFLE

Remington Defense’s new CSR is accurate, hard-hitting, and a treat to shoot. SEE PAGE 50

United States Night Vision, along with GPS Ranging of Portland, Oregon, released a GPS operating system app at the SHOT Show. The software performs as a GPS ranging unit for the iPhone and iPad. The app allows a shooter to get a GPS reading of where he’s standing by simply taking a photo of a distant object with a range estimate; the software will calculate a GPS coordinate of the subject’s location.

The app has a 4X zoom and can be used with an adapter on most cameras, spotting scopes, or even riflescopes. “With the help of a 50X spotting scope, a hunter could view an animal at more than a mile away, get a visual, take a photo or video, and, using a rangefinder, get an exact GPS location,” says Mike Skoro, CEO of GPS Ranging. Once the image is on the iPad or iPhone, the information can be shared instantly via social media.

The program is proving to be a revolutionary scouting tool, and

many hunters find its best use is for game recovery. “Once you have a GPS location, recovering a downed animal even a canyon away is a walk in the park,” says Skoro.

The app is available at Apple’s app store for $3.99. Booth #20105. (360216-5525; gpsranging.com.)

A new software app with a 4X zoom lets hunters use their iPhone or iPad as a GPS ranging tool.

Helping Veterans

Yesterday on the show floor, representatives from Cabela’s Inc. and Windham Weaponry presented the Outdoor Recreation Heritage Fund with a check for nearly $96,000.

The Fund, established in 2001, provides locations and covers expenses for wounded and disabled veterans to hunt and fish across the country.

Jack Hazel, who coordinates the trips with his wife, Shelly, said that for many of the vets, the excursions are more like therapy sessions that help them cope with stress-related issues.

DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ 1

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news

Ram Returns to the Fold

A

fter a one-year hiatus, the Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition is returning to the truck brand’s model lineup. Updated for 2014, the Mossy Oak Edition will now be available for the first time with the RamBox cargo-management system in two bed lengths. The 2014 Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition further extends the multi-tiered relationship between the Ram Truck brand and America’s top camouflage brand.

The Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition has been updated and will be back in the 2014 lineup.

“Ram Truck is focused on the needs and wants of truck buyers,” says Reid Bigland, president and CEO, Ram Truck, a division of Chrysler Group LLC. “Our Ram Truck owners are passionate about hunting and fishing. The Ram

Mossy Oak Edition gives hunting enthusiasts a way to proudly proclaim their love for the outdoors.”

Ram 1500 owner demographics illustrate that love for the outdoors: 30 percent hunt, 44 percent fish, 27 percent are boaters, and 42 percent

are campers.

“The Ram Truck brand has been a great partner to Mossy Oak,” says Ronnie “Cuz” Strickland, Mossy Oak’s executive vice president. “The people there love trucks, but they’re also into hunting and fishing, and

Nighthawk Custom Aims High

N

ighthawk Custom has experienced steady growth since its inception 10 years ago, and has expanded the line from the original two pistol models to more than 28 1911 models, as well as custom shotguns, handmade leather goods, and knives. To further its aims, the manufacturer has consolidated ownership under Mark Stone, one of the original founders.

“I have been truly blessed in the opportunities given

me throughout my life,” Stone says. “We have established great relationships that we truly value with our employees, customers, and vendors. Our partnerships with individuals and companies, such as Richard Heinie, Bob Marvel, Knights Armament, Magpul Dynamics, Advanced Armament, and Chris Costa, undeniably adds to our level of design and craftsmanship.

These relationships, along with strong loyalty and integrity in everything we

To assure consistent high quality, each Nighthawk Custom 1911 is built by one gunsmith.

do, have made our future very bright.”

Founded in 2004 by four 1911 enthusiasts and craftsmen, and based in Berryville, Arkansas, Nighthawk Custom has a plan: to offer a custom 1911 that was not only a beauty to behold, but functioned flawlessly as well. To ensure that, each 1911 was built with all fully machined components by one gunsmith from start to finish, with his initials stamped under the grip panel of every custom build.

“This mark signifies their ownership and commitment to the highest level of craftsmanship,” says Stone.

Our mantra is, ‘We never say, that’s good enough.’”

Because of that dedication to quality, Stone says, the manufacturer has a reputation for quality.

“Our success is because of our people, our customer service, and the quality of our product.” Booth #12479. (877-268-4867;

they understand that their customers are, too. To have Ram take that relationship to the next level by offering a special Mossy Oak Edition speaks volumes about their commitment to hunters and outdoorsmen and women, and we are extremely proud to partner with them.”

The Ram 1500 Mossy Oak Edition’s bedcaps and tailgate are covered in Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camouflage pattern, and the Mossy Oak logo is prominently displayed on the rear quarter panels.

Break-Up Infinity–patterned lower cladding is also available.

Inside, the center column of the Ram’s instrument panel is finished in Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity, as are the door panel inserts. The Mossy Oak logo is embroidered on the four primary headrests. Buyers also can opt for Espresso Tuscany– colored Katzkin leather seats with Mossy Oak seatback embroidery.

Booth #11305. (662-494-8859; mossyoak.com)

Loss Prevention tips The NSSF held a Retailer Education Seminar for retail-business owners on loss-prevention strategies yesterday. Bill Napier, a consultant and speaker who has worked in loss prevention and law enforcement for three decades, provided tips and strategies that addressed everything from employee evaluation to preventing shoplifting and other potential crimes.

“The entire time we’re talking here is designed to add margin to your bottom line. That’s what we’re all here for, to sell merchandise and make a profit,” he said.

Napier presented not only organizational strategies to mitigate loss due to employee error, poor record keeping, and inconsistent procedures, but also many examples of how bad guys operate and what retailers have to be aware of to keep from being robbed blind.

He laid out a common scheme in which thieves buy a product, carefully open the box, replace the contents with a brick, reseal it, and then return it for a full refund. Some thieves will print their own UPC stickers and retag a package, buying it at the register for a fraction of the product’s cost.

The most important thing a retailer could take away from the vast amount of information Napier presented is that vigilance, established procedures, and relationships with local law enforcement personnel can go a long way toward preventing profits from walking out the door. —David Maccar

nighthawkcustom)

4 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 4, January 17, 2014

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NEWS

Slaton L. White, Editor Margaret M. Nussey, Managing Editor David E. Petzal, Shooting Editor Maribel Martin, Senior Administrative Assistant James A. Walsh, Art Director Judith Weber, Production Manager

NOW YOU CAN SHOOT HANDGUNS

IN THE BACKYARD!

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS

Larry Ahlman, Barbara Baird, Scott Bestul, Philip Bourjaily, Chris Christian, Christopher Cogley, David Draper, Jock Elliott, William F. Kendy, Mark Kayser, Peter B. Mathiesen, Brian McCombie, Tom Mohrhauser, Robert Sadowski, Robert F. Staeger, Peter Suciu, Wayne Van Zwoll

Eric Zinczenko, Executive Vice President ADVERTISING: 212-779-5316

Gregory D. Gatto, Publisher Paula Iwanski, National Sporting Goods Director Brian Peterson, West Katie Logan, Sporting Goods Sales John Driscoll, Vice President, Corporate Sales Elizabeth A. Burnham, Chief Marketing Officer Ingrid Reslmaier, Creative Services Director

BUSINESS OPERATIONS

Tara Bisciello, Business Manager

CONSUMER MARKETING

Robert M. Cohn, Consumer Marketing Director Barbara Brooker, Fulfillment Manager

MANUFACTURING With the extensive line of authentic Umarex action pistols, you can train in the convenience of your own backyard* — no need to pack all your gear, jump in your truck, and trek to the gun range. Umarex air pistols have the authentic shape, weight, and feel of their frearm counterparts, but use readily available, low cost ammunition.

That means more trigger time, less money, and no hassle.

Laurel Kurnides, Group Production Director Stefanie La Bella, Associate Production Director

BONNIER Chairman, Jonas Bonnier Chief Executive Officer, Dave Freygang Executive Vice President, Eric Zinczenko Chief Content Officer, David Ritchie Chief Financial Officer, Nancy Coalter Chief Operating Officer, Lisa Earlywine Chief Human Resource Officer, Leslie Glenn Chief Brand Development Officer, Sean Holzman Vice President, Consumer Marketing, Bruce Miller Vice President, Corporate Communications, Dean Turcol General Counsel, Jeremy Thompson

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 22, issue 1. Copyright © 2014 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.

Printed in the USA.

For Customer Service and Subscription questions, such as Renewals, Address Changes, Email Preferences, Billing and Account Status, go to: shotbusiness .com/cs. You can also email shotbusiness@emailcustomer service.com, in the U.S. call toll-free 866-615-4345, outside the U.S. call 386-246-0188, or write to SHOT Business, 2 Park Ave., New York, NY 10016. For editorial inquiries, write to Slaton L. White, SHOT Business, 2 Park Ave., New York, NY 10016

For editorial inquiries, visit Venetian Level 3, San Polo 3501, in the Sands Expo & Convention Center.

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news

mtm’s deep lineup

Shooting rests, handgun cases, dry boxes, ammo boxes, shooting-range boxes, gun-cleaning equipment, shooting benches—the list goes on and on.

MTM Case-Gard has been developing innovative products for shooters and sportsmen since 1968, and the company has no intention of slowing down.

MTM products are spread far and wide across the shooting sports, but boxes and rests are the products for which it is most recognized. If you reload or you’re a serious shooter, then there’s a really good chance you own and use MTM ammo boxes. They’ve been around forever and continue to grow in popularity. The MTM shooting rests are some of the most popular on the market and sell for a fair, affordable price. As do its shooting benches.

A unique new product MTM CaseGard is having success with is the Survivor Ammo Can. A bucket-style underground storage container with a double O-ring-sealed lid and a protective cap, it comes with a vapor-corrosion-inhibitor plastic bag liner and a desiccant pack to control humidity. The Survivor Ammo Can allows you to bury possessions without the fear of damage. You can bury ammunition, a firearm, money, or just about anything else.

“Consumer demand is high. The Survivor Ammo Can is a great seller, and customers are really happy with the product,” says Al Minneman, vice president of sales and marketing.

The Survivor Ammo Can launched on the heels of successful sales of the Zombie Ammo Can. Even if you’re not a fan of the zombie market, you must admit that the zombie craze has raised some sensible awareness that should a situation arise in which you find yourself on your own, will you be prepared? Will you have the necessities for survival?

An MTM Case-Gard Survivor Ammo Can, buried in the right place with money, food, ammunition, copies of important documents, and basic survival gear, could realistically be the difference between surviving or not surviving a catastrophe or natural disaster.

“MTM remains a family-owned and operated business, as it has been since my father, William Minneman, founded it in 1968,” Minneman says. “We take pride in every product we produce.”

Booth #16120. (800-543-0548; mtmcase-gard.com) —Brandon Butler

The Browning Camp Chair now has a capacity of 425 pounds. But if customers require a heavier-duty model, the Kodiak can handle as much as 800 pounds. The Alps Outdoorz Horizon, a 360-degree swivel stool, gets upgraded with a backrest for added comfort.

Camp Comfort

D

espite its name, Alps Mountaineering has a lot to offer the hunting market.

Two of the company’s brands, Alps Outdoorz and Browning Camping, offer packs, deer and turkey blinds, and chairs designed specifically for hunters. Last year’s big introduction was the full line of four Browning blinds, including the Powerhouse, an 82-inch-tall blind that allows archers to shoot standing up.

This year, Browning Camping sees a number of improvements to best-selling items in the line.

Browning Camping’s best-selling item, the Browning Camp Chair, gets an improved cup holder. With its high back and flat, non-sagging seat, the Camp Chair is more comfortable and much more durable than the less-expensive chairs sold at big-box stores.

The Camp Chair has a 425-pound capacity. If that’s not enough for your customers, you can steer them toward the Kodiak Chair, which supports a full 800 pounds. The Browning line also

includes several low chairs for turkey hunters, as well as dove stools. Booth #15538. (800-3442577; browningcamping.com)

Over on the Alps Outdoorz side, you’ll find several chairs designed specifically for use inside deer and turkey blinds. This year, the best-selling Horizon stool, a perfect fit for a deer blind or dove field with its 360-degree swivel seat, gets a backrest for added comfort. Like all Browning/ Alps products, it is priced higher than the cheap chairs but below other premium brands. That puts them in an attractive niche, says Justin Leesman of Alps: “Our chairs cost a little more than the cheapest models, but they are backed by a lifetime warranty. These aren’t throwaway products. They are priced well below other brands, yet they have a lot of the same features.”

Your customers want a comfortable seat for waiting out that big buck or trophy top. Booth #4049. (800-344-2577; alpsoutdoorz.com) —Phil Bourjaily

Retired High-Level ATF Official Audrey Stucko Named NSSF Consultant Audrey Stucko, who began her career with the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives in 1977 and retired after 36 years with that agency, has joined the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s FFL Compliance Program as one of its consultants. Stucko’s work with ATF was extensive and varied, culminating in her selection as deputy director for the Office of Enforcement and Programs Services and, finally, as acting assistant director of Human Resources and Professional Development.

Her focus with ATF was to ensure that the regulated industries comply with appropriate and reasonable regulations with minimal intrusion on business operations while strengthening the safety and security of the American people. Now, she can apply her knowledge and experience as an important member of NSSF’s FFL Compliance consul-

tant team. As such, she will be available to personally visit NSSF member retailers to assess their level of ATF compliance, conduct a review of internal controls over firearms and record keeping, and train the retailer and staff to help the business be prepared for an ATF compliance inspection and pass it with flying colors. Such an on-site consultation is free to NSSF Premium Retailer Members and only $499 to other NSSF members.

“By adding another wellrespected and highly knowledgeable former ATF official, NSSF continues to enhance our unrivaled compliance resources that are available to our industry members,” says Steve Sanetti, NSSF president and CEO. “NSSF offers the best compliance value for a dealer’s money. If you are a dealer, we invite you to shop and compare, then join NSSF and save money and your license.”

8 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 4, January 17, 2014

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1/16/14 6:29 PM

NEWS

Retired U.S. Navy SEAL and author Rorke Denver (far right) was on hand at SOG Knife and Tool’s new product Meat and Greet along with friend, hunter, and TV personality Steve Rinella.

Knife Night SOG hosts Navy SEAL By David Maccar

T

he folks at SOG Specialty Knives and Tools know how to show off their new products: put a bunch of knife people in a room with free food of a carnivorous variety, blades, a pig to butcher, a couple of big salmon to fillet, and some great stories from a retired Navy SEAL.

Aside from getting to play with some of the cool new offerings from SOG this year, the highlight of the event was a talk given by LCDR Rorke T. Denver, a former Navy SEAL who starred in the film Act of Valor and whose book about his experiences—Damn Few: Making the Modern SEAL Warrior—was just released in paperback.

Denver has run every phase of training for the U.S. Navy SEALs and led special forces missions in the Middle East, Africa, Latin America, and other international hot spots. After completing the legendary Basic Underwater Demolition program (BUD/S) in 1999, Denver began an actionfilled 13-year career as a platoon commander and training leader. In 2006, Denver was the officer in charge of BRAVO Platoon of SEAL Team THREE in Iraq’s Al Anbar Province in one of the most combat-heavy deployments of any regular SEAL team since Vietnam. His team conducted more than 190 missions, including sniper operations, direct assaults, special reconnaissance, and ground patrols. He was awarded the Bronze Star for valorous action in combat.

His presentation to the SOG crowd was a sneak peek into the mind of a true modern warrior and how he thinks about the tools he uses on the battlefield. In a way, it was also a personal love letter to knives from a man who has depended on them in the most critical situations imaginable in some

of the world’s harshest environments.

“When SOG reached out to me, it was a treat because it’s real,” he said. “The very first knife I was ever issued as a SEAL was a SEAL Pup. And so you go through this arduous training out in Coronado—we have this whole program down there where about 80 percent of the people who show up don’t see the finish line—and then you get assigned to either Virginia Beach or San Diego. So I got Virginia Beach, where all the tough SEALs go,” Denver said with a chuckle.

“About a week after they beat you up and make you feel like you don’t belong and that it was obviously a complete error that you made it through the training program, you get your gear issue, you get your kit. You get about 15 of these kit bags—it’s like the greatest Christmas present ever for a young man.

“In those bags you have hunting gear, camping gear, stuff to prosecute missions, you’ve got carabiners and masks and snorkels and wet suits and all this super-Gucci stuff. But I can say with every confidence—and I’ve got another teammate in the room who’ll nod when I say this— everyone goes to the knife first. It’s like, yeah, there’s all this gear, where’s the knife? You wanna grab this thing. And I remember getting my hands on the SEAL Pup. I carried that mostly in a maritime environment for most of my career.

When I had a SEAL Pup with me, it never failed

to do its job and take care of me.

“Then I went into combat in the Afghan theater, and I was in Africa for a while and then Iraq. I carried a Pentagon, so there was another another SOG knife. And these are tools of the trade that become essential.

“I think knives and guns are two categories of tools that have their own gravity. Other than at SHOT Show, where there are knives and guns everywhere, if you had a gun out, everyone would be very much focused on that gun, and a knife is very much the same. Once a knife is presented, it feels like it has its own kind of energy. We use all these tactical blades, multi-tools—they all have to work, but that’s what I like most about the tools.

[They] very much demand your attention and demand your respect.”

Now retired with a wife and two children, Denver is getting back in the field, but with a very different mission. After meeting big-game hunter, author, and TV personality Steve Rinella, Denver plans to go after some less dangerous game for a change.

“The transition now is when you finish your time in the SEAL teams, what do you go to next?

What’s your next ridgeline, your next focus? I met Steve Rinella. We both like to write, and Steve’s a world-class hunter. I’ve been hunting two-legged critters for the last decade, now I want to transition to four-legged critters, so I’m going to go with Steve up into some wild places,” Denver said. “My personality and our brotherhood is real comfortable with a weapon and a knife up in rugged terrain and that feels like the place I should be. I’m delighted to have this chance to carry SOG again and look forward to carrying it in different environments and have it take care of me as it has in years past.”

Rinella later joked that he plans to try and sneak up on Denver while camping on a hunting trip and see if he can swipe all his gear without waking him. Denver simply smiled and said, “Okay.” Booth #425. (sogknives.com)

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NEWS

A wide range of accessories available for MSRs, including replacement stocks, triggers, sling attachments, and rail covers, allow a shooter build a rifle to his particular specs.

The Hunting MSR

The right accessories can turn a modern sporting rifle into a finely tuned hunting tool

I

t’s no secret that modern sporting rifles are some of the hottest firearms on the planet right now. Their impressive following has grown, in part, because of the great handling, reliability, accuracy, and amazing versatility offered by the MSR platform. The modular design of the MSR also allows a shooter to tailor one gun to a variety of intended uses—including many hunting applications.

Jacob Edson, marketing communications specialist for Federal Premium Ammunition, Weaver Optics, and Blackhawk, says he sees MSRs taking over not just the sport-shooting market, but the fields and forests of America, too. “I built a hunting MSR for last fall out of a basic configuration A3 flattop,” he says. “My goal was to make it my deer stand rifle for the Minnesota gun season, but I know I’ll easily be able to adapt it to any other hunt that might pop up, from Texas hogs to Alberta bears. A bunch of my buddies are outfitting similar guns because of the versatility and the fact that MSRs are just a pleasure to shoot.”

Ammunition Is Critical

➤ Edson says there’s no doubt that MSRs are up for just about any hunting task in North America—from whitetail deer in the Midwest and hogs in the South to varmints anywhere.

However, the ammunition a hunter chooses is critical in maximizing the rifle’s performance.

“Bullet construction has advanced tremendously during the past few decades,” he says. “Today’s premium bullets offer carefully controlled expansion specifically tailored to the intended use.”

One example, he says, is big-game bullets that offer reliable, rugged expansion that is controlled to allow the bullet to do maximum damage and penetrate deeply. Another is varmint rounds that expand more quickly, and are designed to hit with extreme energy (for a fast kill), but minimum pelt damage.

“Some rounds, such as the new Fusion MSR loads, are optimized for performance in MSRs

and offer bullet construction that is up to the task for game animals,” he says. “The key is helping hunters realize that hunting ammunition is crafted to a different set of standards than the target ammunition they regularly consume at the range.

An MSR is only as effective as the bullets it sends downrange. It is imperative hunters select ammo that is matched to their intended game and hunting conditions.”

Sight Insights

➤ Edson admits that sighting options for MSRs can be dizzying because flattop-style rifles can accommodate just about any optic ever devised.

“Non-magnified illuminated dot sights such as Weaver’s Micro Dot give hunters the quick, precise handling needed for species such as hogs and bears,” he says. “The illuminated dot is visible in low-light situations, making accurate shots possible during dawn and dusk, when many game animals emerge from heavy cover. Most dot sights feature variable intensity, so the brightness of the dot can be adjusted for the available light.”

One of the biggest advantages of dot sights is that they offer unlimited eye relief. Scopes and traditional sights require the shooter’s eye to be properly aligned close to the gun’s receiver. As a result, most scopes have eye relief distances of just 2 or 3 inches. However, dot sights work with any eye alignment, near or far. This can be a huge advantage when shooting at moving game, or from a quick, off-hand position at an unexpected angle.

A wide field of view is another advantage of dot

sights. Riflescopes offer magnification of distant objects, but that magnification narrows the view inside the scope to just a portion of the target area. Many dot sights, however, are not magnified. This means it is easier to quickly find the target and line up the shot.

“Small, single flat-lens-style dot sights, such as Weaver’s Micro Dot, offer a wide-open view that rivals that of open sights,” he says. “In fact, this wide field of view and lack of magnification allow shooters to use dot sights with both eyes open.

The shooter’s brain will superimpose the image of the dot into the correct position from the dominant eye, while the subordinate eye adds full depth perception. This allows the shooter to be more aware of the area around the animal and to track moving game through cover.”

Whether you go with a tube-style dot or a smaller single-lens optic, dot sights are extremely easy to mount and work great for an array of close- to intermediate-range hunts for turkeys, whitetails, bears, hogs, and a host of other game animals.

“Weaver Optics offers both tube-style and single-­lens dot sights,” he says. “They are weatherproof, affordable, and incredibly durable.”

Of course, many hunters will choose to outfit their MSRs with more traditional riflescopes because the increased magnification of these scopes is critical for distant shots.

“The newly redesigned Grand Slam scopes feature a 4X range and large objectives for maximum light gathering,” Edson says. “Side-focus parallax adjustment on select models provides extreme accuracy, while the advanced Micro-Trac Adjustment system delivers rugged, precise windage and elevation adjustment.”

And Edson urges retailers not to overlook Weaver’s specialized mounts that are optimized for MSRs. “For example, the Thumb-Nut SPR Optics Mount delivers optimal height with a forward cantilever design that creates near-perfect eye alignment,” he says. “The integral recoil lug base offers reliable accuracy and return-to-zero capabilities for hunters who want to swap optics for different situations—dot sights for hogs and a riflescope for deer, for example.”

Final Considerations

➤ Of course, much of the enjoyment in owning an MSR is customizing the platform.

“Blackhawk offers a variety of functional addons that can make an MSR more comfortable to shoot and stylish on the range,” Edson says.

The Knoxx Replacement Adjustable Carbine Rifle Buttstock provides multiple color options and is engineered to adapt to several sling attachment options. Another popular add-on, the Blackhawk Grip, is perfect for hunters who wear gloves. It has finger grooves that create a sure, consistent grip. The aggressive texture minimizes slippage and is virtually impervious to the elements.

One of Edson’s top choices is the Blackhawk Offset Safety Selector.

“It’s great because it makes the safety easier to manipulate and it makes the rifle ambidextrous.

I have a buddy who is a lefty, and now he can borrow my gun outfitted for whatever special hunt he has planned,” he says. “Blackhawk has dozens of other accessories that can help hunters fine-tune their guns, including sling attachments, a quad rail forend, rail covers, slings, and rifle cases.” All of which make a visit to the booth for a closer look worthwhile. Booth #14551. (800-831-0850, weaveroptics.com; 800-694-5263; blackhawk.com)

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Crosman The compact Wildcat BB pistol is a good choice for beginners.

AIRGUNS 2014

Crosman The Benjamin Marauder is now available in an ergonomic, ambidextrous wooden stock. The internal-shroud barrel provides precision and ultraquiet operation.

Expanding Horizons

Airguns create fun for customers, profit for retailers

By Jock Elliott

A

irguns can expand shooting horizons for your customers and profits for you. Legal to shoot and hunt in many places where firearms are forbidden, airguns deliver high shooting fun on a low cost-per-shot basis with eye-catching fit and finish.

Here’s what’s new for 2014.

Crosman Corporation

➣ Benjamin Airguns will be introducing NP2, a new Nitro Piston technology that will deliver 15 percent more speed, up to 35 percent more foot-pounds of energy (fpe), and 9 pounds (22 percent) of reduction in cocking force. The patent-

pending piston has been completely re-engineered to significantly increase energy while reducing friction. It has been precision-machined and optimized for air rifles using CAD software. Recoil arrest reduces piston “bounce back,” which significantly affects secondary recoil. Furthermore, tail guides act as stabilizers to keep

the piston centered in the bore and eliminate metal-to-metal contact, reducing friction and vibration.

The first guns to incorporate this game-changing NP2 technology will be the Benjamin Trail series. Breakbarrel air rifles in the series have undergone even more changes than those made to the power plant, how-

FX With interest in bullpup airgun designs on the rise, it’s no surprise that FX Airguns is right there with an innovative new design for the FX Bobcat and Indy bullpup series. Designing a unique trigger mechanism gives FX a leg up in maintaining excellent trigger feel while allowing the entire action to shift back in the bullpup stock (to make for a shorter overall length). The stock was engineered to fit comfortably, and there’s even a place in the stock for storing spare magazines. The Bobcat utilizes a 300cc air cylinder; the Indy has a built-in air pump to make it self-sufficient. Both models are fully equipped with a repeating action and full-power performance. SRP: $1795, Bobcat; $1,895, Indy. Booth #13707c. (480-461-1113; airgunsofarizona.com)

16 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014

ever. In addition to enhanced speed, power, accuracy and ease of use, the newest Benjamin Trail rifles include a new, enhanced two-stage adjustable trigger, providing a noticeably crisper pull. The stock is ambidextrous, incorporating a rubber recoil pad, and the bull barrel is rifled. The integrated sound-suppression system helps to create an even quieter shot.

These Trail Series rifles include a CenterPoint 3–9x32mm scope designed specifically for the rigors of airguns. SRP: $250.

Following in the footsteps of last year’s Benjamin Marauder Synthetic, the Benjamin Marauder has undergone a model evolution, not unlike those that motor vehicles enjoy every few years. In response to customer requests, the stock now features a slimmer profile, and a raised comb was added to provide shooters with a custom fit. The ambidextrous stock is lighter, and the trigger system was moved for shooting comfort and enhanced ergonomics. The new Marauder incorporates the same enhancements as the synthetic version, but with an elegant hardwood checkered stock. The internally shrouded rifled barrel provides both precision and ultra-quiet operation, producing accurate and silent shots.

The two-stage, adjustable, matchgrade trigger helps make every shot smooth and steady, and the innovative multi-round magazine allows for fast follow-up shots. SRP: $600.

The Benjamin Titan XS is a Nitro Piston powerhouse of excitement.

From its all-weather, ambidextrous, synthetic stock to its sizzling 1,200 fps velocity, the Titan XS is full of desirable features, but it’s priced to keep you in the field hunting to your heart’s content. SRP: $160.

The American-built Crosman 760 Pumpmaster is a classic, a variable pump BB/pellet rifle that has sold more than 16 million units. For 2014, Crosman debuts a sleek new design that places emphasis on enhanced ergonomics and reduced pumping force. In addition, the redesigned

PRODUCTS

DAYSTATE LTD Originally launched as a .303-caliber in high-power only, the Wolverine has rapidly become popular as a large-bore airgun. Now Daystate LTD is bringing out the long-anticipated mid-power version, the Wolverine Mk2. Seven years in development, the Wolverine Mk2 sports a thumbhole ambidextrous Turkish walnut stock, a fully shrouded barrel, finely tuned valving set to optimize power and performance, a two-stage adjustable trigger, and a solid one-piece breech assembly for consistency and build strength. SRP: $2,095. Booth #13707c. (480-461-1113; airgunsofarizona.com)

stock features a convenient loading port location and offers a better hold.

SRP: $50.

The Comrade AK is a tactical-style semi-auto multi-shot CO2-powered BB rifle. With velocities of up to 600 fps and a stunning 150 shots per CO2 cartridge, you can enjoy shooting all day, firing BBs as fast as you can pull the trigger. SRP: $99.

The Crosman Wildcat semi-auto, CO2-powered pink pistol is a compact BB pistol that’s great for beginning shooters and plinkers. This American-built gun delivers velocities of up to 480 fps and up to 140 shots per CO2 cartridge. SRP: $50.

The Marines Airguns Military Occupational Specialist (MOS) Series of airguns is designed for airgun and military enthusiasts. These Americanbuilt guns are themed to educate people about key roles within the U.S. Marines. The MOS 0311-Rifleman airgun is for shooters who like the adaptability of the MSR platform. This variable pump pellet/ BB gun features a rifled steel barrel and rugged, all-weather construction in the distinctive green-black Marine Corps color scheme. The gun has an adjustable stock for shooters of every size and incorporates an elevationadjustable rear sight. The MOS 0311 Rifleman has a convenient storage area in the magazine for the pellet clip and sight-adjustment tool.

SRP: $99.

The MOS 5811 Military Police CO2-powered pistol features the same color scheme and is reminiscent of sidearms carried by the USMC

Military Police. SRP: $50. Booth #13940. (800-724-7486; crosman.com)

Leapers

➣ The etched-glass AccuShot 1–4.5x28 30mm CQB Scope with 36-color Circle Dot Reticle is a short- to medium-range scope that features emerald-coated lenses for unrivaled clarity and high-speed accurate shooting. Designed for maximum performance with a 100yard parallax setting, this scope makes a tack driver out of any MSRstyle firearm, but it will perform equally well on a shotgun while you’re stalking your next deer. The proprietary Leapers/UTG 36-color EZ-Tap IE illumination allows the shooter to pick the right color for the situation, and the 1.8 MOA inner dot with a 36 MOA outer circle reticle makes target acquisition easy.

Built on the Leapers/UTG True Strength platform, with zerolocking­/resetting turrets, 145IECDQ has one-time “set and forget” zeroretention capability and has been torture-tested to endure violent recoil. TactEdge integral sunshade, flip-open lens caps, and low-profile Max Strength QD scope rings come standard with this package. SRP: $139.97.

The UTG 3–9X32 Compact CQB Bug Buster IE Scope is built on the proven True Strength (TS) Platform and is completely sealed and nitrogen-filled, making it shockproof, fogproof, and rainproof. Other premium

features include the zero-lockable/ resettable windage/elevation target turrets, a UTG-unique adjustable parallax from 3 yards to infinity, high-tech emerald-coated lenses, a large field of view, and a range estimating mil-dot. This model includes UTG’s exclusive Illumination Enhancing (IE) System, which provides either red/green or any color from the 36-color spectrum for its mil-dot reticle to accommodate all weather and light conditions. It comes with a 2-inch sunshade, patented Max Strength QD lever rings, and flip-open lens caps. SRP: $107.97. Booths #2146 and #2246.

(734-542-1500; leapers.com)

Umarex USA

➣ The successful .177 Ruger Talon introduced in 2013 is being followed by a hunter’s edition—the Ruger Talon Hunter Air Rifle—that’s sure to please small-game hunters. This new .22-caliber pellet rifle is a powerful break-barrel equipped with features for out-of-the-box use in the field. In addition to the Umarex SilencAir downrange noise suppressor, the Hunter comes with a sling and swivels, and is capable of firing a lead hunting pellet at 800 fps with plenty of energy for squirrel-size game and pests. Its all-weather synthetic stock, custom metal Picatinny mounting rail, and an upgraded 3–9x32 air rifle scope round out the package. SRP: $189.99.

New technologies continue to provide quiet and powerful pellet rifles such as the new Umarex Fuel. This

Umarex The Ruger Talon Hunter Air Rifle is a powerful break-barrel .22 that is sure to appeal to small-game hunters. Features include a Umarex SilencAir suppressor and a 3–9x32 air rifle scope.

18 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014

rifle is a .177-caliber powerhouse powered by a ReAxis gas piston that slings alloy pellets downrange at 1,200 fps. It can launch lead pellets at speeds as fast as 1,000 fps. Its downrange muzzle noise is reduced by its SilencAir 5-chamber noise-dampening system. Equipped with a synthetic black stock and a built-in bipod, combined with a metal Picatinny rail to ensure the included air rifle scope stays locked down, the Umarex Fuel is ready for steady target acquisition.

SRP: $199.99.

The Walther PPS handgun, originally introduced as a centerfire handgun by Walther Arms Inc. in 9 mm and .40, will be available as a .177 steel BB-firing replica—the Walther PPS Air Pistol—from Umarex in 2014. This slim and compact semiauto repeater features heavyweight metal construction and a blowback cycling slide for near-live-fire realism. The PPS air pistol fires steel BBs at 350 fps and has a drop-free 18-round magazine. Innovation from Umarex continues, as this pistol’s backstrap removes to reveal a springloaded hex key for turning the CO2 puncturing screw, thereby negating the need for a turn knob sticking out of the magazine plate. SRP: $79.99.

The new Umarex TDP 45 TAC Air Pistol is a great airgun for people looking to get started with an action pistol. It’s a semi-auto repeater with a 19-round drop-free metal magazine that shoots at 410 fps. It’s a package deal, giving it great shelf presence, with a tactical railing, a red laser sight, and a mock-silencer. It also comes with two CO2 capsules and 400 steel BBs, making it an attractive gift set as well. SRP: $59.99.

Full-metal pistols provide a lot of realism, and when you combine that with a cycling slide, a known model (such as Beretta), and the ability to fire it in your garage or backyard, you have an airgun that can become the talk of the shop. All that translates to dollars at the register. All

PRODUCTS

Umarex The compact air rifle cleaning kit includes a flexible rod, cleaning brushes, a multi-function handle, and six screw bits.

new for 2014 from Umarex, the Beretta Mod. 84FS air pistol will fire BBs at 360 fps. It is an authentic full-metal replica with a blowback slide action and a drop-free 17-round magazine that will shoot just as fast as you can pull the trigger. SRP: $89.99.

The Uzi is one of the most unmistakable gun shapes on the big screen, and this new carbine looks and acts the part. From its mock-silencer to its functioning trigger safety, blowback charging handle, and folding stock, the Mini Uzi airgun will become a legend of its own. Shooters can punch and knock down targets at 390 fps when in semiautomatic mode. The CO2 capsule that powers the unit is cleverly hidden in the grip. SRP $99.99.

Umarex is bringing the Colt Python Air Pistol to the market as a six-round BB revolver with removable casings. It’s a metal-frame pistol that features real revolver action, right down to a functioning casing ejector, a swing-out cylinder, and an adjustable rear sight. At 400 fps, you’ll want to take advantage of the included speed loader and may want to stock up on spare casings. SRP: $119.99.

Every airgun owner needs a cleaning kit. The Umarex Airgun Cleaning Kit is equipped for general maintenance of both .177 and .22 models and comes in a classy, compact case that’s easy to peg.

At just $16.99, it contains a 33-inch flexible cleaning rod, brass brushes, cleaning patches, a multifunction handle that converts to a screwdriver, six screw bits, and a thread adapter to accommodate the included .177 and .22 accessories. Booth #14745. (479-646-4210; umarexusa.com)

ON THE FLOOR KIM RHODE The five-time Olympic medalist will be signing autographs at TruckVault (Booth #12979) from 8:30 to 9:30 a.m.

SIMON “JJ” RACAZA The world-ranked competitive shooter and one of the newest members of the U.S. Shooting Team, Racaza will be appearing at Caracal (Booth #2829), through 3 p.m.

R. LEE ERMEY The former marine whose long history of film and TV appearances range from Full Metal Jacket to Kung Fu Panda will be signing autographs and taking pictures with fans at SOG (Booth #425) this morning from 8:30 a.m. to noon.

PAUL CAPELLO Paul Capello, the Airgun Reporter, will be at AirForce (Booth #2036) till 3:30 p.m.

Crosman The Game Face GF529 utilizes a synthetic stock and a precision metal barrel for long-range accuracy.

AIRSOFT 2014

Mastering the ’Soft Sell For play or for training, airsoft delivers the goods By Jock Elliott

T

here is something seductive about airsoft replica firearms, which shoot 6mm plastic BBs. Kids love ’em, adults can’t seem to keep their hands off them—and they can provide a nice boost to your profits. Popular for backyard fun, force-on-force training, and scenario play, airsoft replicas deliver high fun at low pershot cost. Here’s the latest for 2014.

Crosman Corporation

➣ New from Crosman Elite Airsoft, the Crosman Elite Battlemaster AK47-style airsoft rifle is a full- or semi-auto AEG rifle with a handsome wood-grained polymer stock, forearm, and grip. The 430-round high-capacity magazine features the convenient wind-up style for fast reloading. This versatile gun includes sling mounts and a sling for comfortable, over-shoulder carrying.

SRP: $50.

The Crosman Elite M14 Carbine is a spring-powered single-shot bolt-action airsoft carbine that doesn’t require batteries, so it will never run out of power while the user relives the action of the past.

The Crosman Elite Stinger R25 three-quarter-scale airsoft gun is great for CQB skirmishing and is a versatile size for small-framed play-

ers. It features an adjustable hop-up, snap-in magazine that holds 230 rounds, has a convenient carry handle, and generates velocities of up to 300 fps. SRP: $35.

The Game Face GFRS is an electronic, full- or semi-auto airsoft rifle combined with a spring-powered shotgun. The unique design provides double the firepower and a built-in backup when batteries run low. The rifle portion features a tactical, adjustable Crane-style stock, a Picatinny mounting rail, an adjustable hop-up, a flip-up rear sight, and a rechargeable battery. With its 400-round high-capacity magazine, the carbine fires at up to 300 fps.

The shotgun portion boasts a metal barrel, a 175-shot reservoir, an adjustable hop-up, and velocities of up to 295 fps. SRP: $150.

The Game Face GFSMG is a classic vintage-style airsoft AEG

Crosman The Elite Battlemaster AK47-style rifle (top) offers a handsome wood-grained polymer stock, forearm, and grip. The GFSMG (bottom) evokes the Roaring Twenties with its vintage profile.

Leapers The D-Grip UTG Quick Release Bipod Grip (left) transforms into a bipod in seconds. The UTG Rubber-Armored Metal QD Bipod can withstand hard environments. rifle that represents a piece of history. Its compact design is perfect for trench skirmishing, CQB, or gangster warfare. The GFSMG features a metal barrel, an 800-round magazine, authentic rotary controls for safety and select fire, and awesome firepower at 320 fps. SRP: $130.

The Game Face GF529 is an accurate and powerful sniper rifle that holds 29 rounds and features a precision metal barrel for long-range sniping. The synthetic stock includes a comfortable, rubber recoil pad for added shooting stability. The package also includes an adjustable hopup, an easy-to-load magazine, and an ammo speed loader.

The Game Face GFAP13 represents the first-ever Game Face AEG combat pistol design. This rugged pistol features full- or semi-auto firing modes, a metal barrel and gears, and a 30-round magazine. The gun features an adjustable hop-up, a fixed-blade front sight, a fixed-notch rear sight, and an under-barrel Picatinny mounting rail. SRP: $130.

The Game Face GFM311 is a spring-powered single-shot pistol that boasts full-metal construction in a sidearm that never runs out of power. The heavyweight GFM311 has a convenient quick-release magazine that holds 12 rounds, and the repeater shoots at up to 320 fps.

The Game Face GFRV is a CO2powered eight-shot revolver featuring a heavyweight metal and polymer construction, a realistic, swingout cylinder, and an eight-round clip. Classic and robust, this revolver walks the walk, and delivers velocities up to 425 fps with .20g ammo. SRP: $79.99. Booth #13940.

(800-724-7486; crosman.com)

22 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014

Leapers

➣ The D-Grip UTG Quick Release Bipod Grip is a foregrip that transforms into a bipod in a matter of seconds, perfect for taking the shooter out of a CQB environment and propelling him into one that requires precise longrange shooting. The deployable legs fold out from the back with the push of a button. Its full-metal construction and hard-coat anodizing enable it to withstand rough treatment. State-of-the-art ergonomics and a non-slip grip with its rubberized surface make the foregrip easy to use, and a patented QD lever-lock mounting base allows for quick attachment/detachment. SRP: $64.97.

With a total length of 1.14 inches, UTG’s sub-compact red laser can operate in a normal solid-dot mode or an enhanced pulse-dot mode with an effective range of 500 meters. Its memory feature remembers the last operating mode you used. Built on UTG’s True Strength (TS) platform, it offers exceptional ruggedness. The super-compact body houses a robust TS four-point design with double-coil-erector return springs, providing precise zero-holding windage/elevation adjustment. Four AG5 batteries and an integral Picatinny mounting base are included. SRP: $64.97.

UTG’s Rubber Armored Full Metal QD Bipod represents years of research, experimentation, creative thinking, and careful planning. This bipod’s aluminum/steel construction is designed to withstand tough environments. UTG improved bipod ergonomics and comfort by using impact-resistant rubber to cover

PRODUCTS

both legs. The bipod also incorporates a bi-­ directional leg-folding design for versatile application. Adjusting the length of the legs is easier and more precise with its five extension notches for positive and secure positioning; lockable thumb wheels help provide precision adjustment.

The bipod’s non-slip rubberized foot pads can tackle any terrain or surface, and it can quickly attach or detach from any Picatinny rail with its lever lock-system. SRP: $59.97. Booth #2146.

(734-542-1500; leapers.com)

Palco The Blackwater 1911R2 features full-metal construction, easy-acquisition sights, and a railed frame.

Palco

Umarex USA

palcosports.com)

(479-646-4210; umarexusa.com)

➣ For years, airsoft enthusiasts have been asking for a realistic blowback Smith & Wesson M&P airsoft pistol. The new M&P Compact features interchangeable backstraps that allow any shooter to customize the grip size. In addition, this pistol carries a 16-round magazine, a full-metal slide, an adjustable spin-up shooting system, and a realistic blowback mechanism for the ultimate shooting experience. The S&W M&P Compact also gives the shooter the option to fire in fully automatic mode. SRP: $149.99.

Also new for 2014 is the Blackwater 1911R2 CO2 Pistol. The 1911 design has long been one of the most recognized pistols in the world.

While the original 1911 is beloved by many, a large number of shooters have been asking for a “modernized” 1911 platform. In response, Blackwater 1911R2 features full-metal construction, low-mount, easy-acquisition sights, a railed frame for quick accessory additions, and grips designed to give the user a secure hold. Each trigger pull will unleash an airsoft BB at well over 300 fps, while providing the shooter with a crisp blowback recoil impulse. SRP: $149.99.

Requests for a new Smith & Wesson M&P spring pistol have been heard loud and clear. The result is the Smith & Wesson M&P40 Dark Earth spring pistol. This model features a black slide over a dark earth frame, a 60-round magazine capacity, a BAXS patented shooting system, a railed frame, and a velocity of 325 fps. This pistol is the perfect choice for beginners and experts alike. It’s easy to load, easy to cock, and easy to fire—what more could any shooter want? SRP: $29.99.

It has been a while since anyone created any real innovation in the area of airsoft shotguns.

Enter the Mossberg Chainsaw shotgun. The allnew, removable chainsaw handle allows for much faster cocking and firing—up to five times faster than a conventional airsoft shotgun. In addition, the Mossberg Chainsaw sports a velocity of 355 fps, a 180-round magazine capacity, and the patented BAXS shooting accuracy system. SRP: $39.99. Booth #3025. (800-882-3025;

Umarex The G36X is a licensed H&K product that offers an adjustable cheekpiece, a tactical railing for optics, and a collapsible stock.

➣ Active airsoft simulators desire great firearms replicas, and the compact Beretta Mod 84 FS fits the bill. It’s a full-metal construction airsoft pistol with a realistic recoil action for the ultimate in close-quarter realism. SRP: $99.99. The Walther PPK/S Operative is now available in a springoperated airsoft kit that contains a faux silencer, an extra 10-round magazine with a 15-BB reservoir, and a 400-count bottle of 6mm .12-gram BBs. SRP: $19.99 Three new offerings from Umarex fall under the Red Jacket Firearms label. There’s a spring-powered 1911 with a skeleton trigger, a 12-round dropfree magazine, and RJF grips (SRP: $19.99), a Double Gun Kit that contains two spring 1911s, a gel target and 800 BBs, and a Red Jacket AKU with a fixed commando stock that shoots full-auto with the power of a rechargeable battery. SRP: $99.99.

The zombie craze continues, and Umarex is adding to its lineup of Zombie Hunter offerings with its ZH9 tactical-looking spring airsoft gun that has a 23-round long-stick drop-free magazine. It comes with a bottle of 6mm airsoft BBs. SRP: $19.99.

IWI is “Home of the Legendary Uzi,” and also the X95. Umarex is offering this model in an electric airsoft rifle. This modern-day rifle has an ABS polymer body and high-cap mag that holds 300 rounds. It’s powered by an included rechargeable battery that propels BBs at 300 fps and comes with a wall charger. It comes in dark earth brown with black externals. SRP: $99.99.

Beretta’s ARX160 is a modern rifle that deserves a place on airsoft fields, and Umarex is giving it a home. This full-auto AEG boasts a 300-round magazine and a folding stock, and comes with a rechargeable battery and charger. SRP: $99.99.

The HK G36X airsoft rifle is an Umarex offering that not only displays the officially licensed mark of Heckler & Koch, but it also has an impressive rate of fire and a velocity of 330 fps with .12-gram airsoft BBs. It has a built-in hop-up to promote accurate BB flight, a tactical railing for adding optics, and an adjustable cheekpiece and a collapsible stock. It comes with a rechargeable battery and charger. SRP: $129.99. Booth #14745.

F E AT U R E

Your smartphone can direct you to the nearest gas station, the nearest coffee shop... and, since last summer, the nearest place to shoot. NSSF’s Where To Shoot app puts a comprehensive directory of shooting ranges right at your potential customers’ fingertips.

NSSF Helps New Shooters

P

Looking for a place to shoot? There’s an app for that! By David Draper eople new to the shooting sports often cite having a place to shoot as one of the biggest challenges they face.

Even experienced gun enthusiasts sometimes have trouble finding a range, especially when moving or traveling to a new area. The National Shooting Sports Foundation recognizes that one of the biggest barriers to recruiting new people into our ranks and retaining shooters over the course of their lifetime is not having access to a safe, affordable shooting site. To combat that challenge, the NSSF manages a directory of shooting ranges at WhereToShoot.org, and now, to make finding a range even easier, the NSSF offers a new mobile app for iPhones and iPads, as well as Android-powered phones and tablets.

“The Where To Shoot app puts North America’s most comprehensive directory of shooting ranges in the palm of your hand,” says Bill Dunn, managing director, marketing communication for the National Shooting Sports Foundation. “It allows you to search for nearby ranges as well as locations across the country. All of the information is pulled from NSSF’s Where To Shoot database, which includes thousands of ranges.”

Once they find a nearby range, users will also be able to access essential information,including addresses and directions, phone numbers, accessibility info, activities offered, and what types of services and competitions are available to visiting shooters. The updated app is more than just a list of ranges, however. Much like the full-­ service Where To Shoot website, it also contains a wealth of information related to the shooting sports, including news, firearmsafety information, and a

wide range of video tips for shooters available for viewing right on their mobile devices.

Launched last summer, the updated app quickly found an audience among shooters hungry for accurate, up-todate range and shooting info.

26 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014

“We’ve gotten a lot of positive feedback about it,” says Dunn. “Shortly after its launch the app soared to the No. 4 spot for free sports apps in Apple’s App Store, right up there with popular sports apps from ESPN, Yahoo! Sports, and Major

League Baseball.”

Check Your Listing

➤ To ensure the app is both accurate and comprehensive, all of the listings are pulled directly from

NSSF’s Where To Shoot database, where information is entered and updated by the ranges themselves.

“All of the ranges currently listed are verified listings, which means the ranges have added their information to our database,” he says. “If you don’t see your local range listed, please encourage them to add their businesses.”

Dunn also encourages range owners to ensure their facility is among those listed.

“Simply visit whereto shoot.org and click on List Your Range,” he says. “From there, you can provide all of the essential information about your range. And best of all, it’s completely free.”

The Where To Shoot app is also free to shooters and available in Apple’s App Store and on Google Play, though Dunn suggests the easiest way to download it is to either visit wheretoshoot. org on your mobile device or get the app directly at the following links: iPhone and iPad, wheretoshoot.org/iOS; Android, wheretoshoot.org/ Android.

F E AT U R E

Initiative, have introduced thousands of newcomers to shooting and hunting. The programs also provide support for those already participating.

NSSF announced before the new year it had reached a milestone of 10,000 members. And with a steady influx of new members and a 90 percent member retention rate—significantly higher than other trade organizations’—that number should continue to grow.

Government Relations

➤ NSSF’s proactive government-relations program maintains an office in Washington, D.C., where it sponsors an annual Congressional Fly-In for industry leaders to meet with members of Congress. The program also helps educate voters on firearms issues. NSSF’s efforts in 2005 were instrumental in the passage of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. NSSF has also campaigned against attempts to ban traditional ammunition, and against microstamping. In 2012, NSSF helped to draft, and pass, legislation to protect the rights of hunters and target shooters to use traditional ammunition—considered the most significant shooting sports legislation in a generation.

Communications

2008 4,300

2009

2010

2011

2012

MEMBERSHIP

2013 10,000

NSSF by the Numbers Industry trade association doubles membership—again By Cathy Glazer

S

o is the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the firearms industry’s trade association and advocate, doing its job? A look at the numbers tells the story. Membership has now climbed past 10,000. That means NSSF has doubled its membership twice over the past nine years. But the real test of an organization’s relevance and worth is not just the number of members that join, but how many stay, year after year.

“Our membership retention rate far exceeds the average for trade or professional associations,” says Chris Dolnack, senior vice president and chief marketing officer. “We’re well into the 90 percent range.”

This is an important figure, as numbers have clout. “You make a powerful impression when you can say to an elected official that we represent 10,000 businesses,” Dolnack says.

NSSF’s steady growth is a tribute to the vision and guidance of its governing board of industry leaders and its staff who develop creative programs and strategies to carry out the 53-year-old organization’s mission of promoting, protecting, and preserving hunting and the shooting sports.

“Our staff takes great pride in serving our members and the industry,” says Dolnack. “Their commitment makes all the difference.”

Another key to NSSF’s success is that they listen to their members.

“Whether it’s through social media and the

internet, member surveys, phone calls, or face-toface meetings here at the SHOT Show, listening to our members is a huge priority,” says Bettyjane Swann, NSSF director, member services.

“We talk to members and prospective members to find out what they need from us in order to help them be successful,” says Swann. “It comes down to listening. We ask, we listen, and we act on their feedback. Our goal is to deliver value—that the value members receive far exceeds the cost of their membership.”

NSSF’s efforts focus on four key areas: recruitment and retention, government relations, communication, and member services.

Recruitment and Retention

➤ Innovative programs, such as First Shots, Families Afield, the Scholastic Clay Target Program (SCTP), and the Collegiate Shooting Sports

28 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014

➤ NSSF’s award-winning communications team delivers timely information to members on issues of importance to them, from updates on proposed gun legislation to the latest innovative programs that can bring new shooters to your store or range.

As the voice of the industry, NSSF’s editorial and public affairs staff communicates the industry’s message to mainstream as well as outdoors media, government officials, and members and their customers. NSSF’s communications team also has built a solid reputation as an accessible, accurate, and respected source on firearms issues.

Member Services

➤ NSSF’s member services team prioritizes listening to members and responding to their needs by developing the programs and services that will help them grow their businesses. Members enjoy a variety of benefits, including access to NSSF’s industry research, publications such as SHOT Business magazine and various online publications, and numerous discounts, including SHOT Show discounts and privileges.

NSSF provides materials and programs to assist retailers and ranges with ATF and OSHA compliance and regulatory issues, as well as access to compliance consultants. To better serve retail members, NSSF has expanded services to retailers, including the addition of a new position, director of retail development. Last fall, NSSF began offering a Premium Retailer Membership, which includes access to a legal defense fund and site visits by compliance consultants to help retailers pass ATF inspections.

SHOT Show Funds Further Programs

➤ And there’s the SHOT Show. Owned by NSSF since its inception, the SHOT Show is the largest outdoor products trade show in the world, providing exhibitors, buyers, retailers, and the media with an exclusive networking opportunity.

Proceeds from the show go back into NSSF programs that help grow and protect your business and your sport.

To learn more about NSSF programs and the benefits of NSSF membership, visit nssf.org, or stop by the NSSF booth here at the SHOT Show.

You can also contact Bettyjane Swann, director, member services, at bswann@nssf.org, or Samantha Hughes, member services coordinator, at shughes@nssf.org.

F E AT U R E

Left: Lead management is a crucial issue with any indoor range, and NSSF’s two-day Lead Management and OSHA Compliance Workshop offers valuable training. Above: NSSF’s Indoor Range and Retail Development Workshop is now available in a DVD package for a special price at SHOT Show.

NSSF Helping Indoor Ranges Get Prepared for OSHA Don’t assume the government won’t come knocking By Christopher Cogley

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unning an indoor range is a challenge, even in the best of circumstances. In any given day, there are countless issues that can pop up and get your heartburn flaring, your neck muscles flexing, and your headache pounding. But few things can cause a five-alarm anxiety attack faster than hearing that the Occupational Safety & Health Administration is planning to come knocking on your door.

“It really creates a lot of panic, and as an organization we realized that we had to do a better job of getting ranges prepared for how to handle it,” says Zach Snow, manager of shooting promotions at the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

As a way to achieve that goal, NSSF set up Lead Management and OSHA Compliance Workshops for their members. These intensive workshops were held at several locations across the country last year and were designed as a way to educate members on what to expect when OSHA comes knocking. And Snow says that the first thing that range owners need to expect is that in all likelihood, OSHA will come knocking, sooner or later.

“Our goal is to better prepare ranges and make them more proactive in managing their business so they aren’t as likely to get a visit,” Snow says. “But there’s also a mindset out there of, ‘OSHA won’t ever come to my range,’ and we need to get people to change that mindset to one of, ‘We’re prepared when OSHA does decide to come to my range.’”

One of the primary areas that indoor range owners need to concentrate on is the management of lead at their facility. If the lead situation isn’t handled correctly, OSHA won’t be the only intimidating federal agency that pays the range a visit.

“OSHA is going to be looking for lead blood levels in employees,” Snow says. “But if a range

isn’t properly disposing of their lead, then the Environmental Protection Agency will get involved, too.”

A Workshop that Really Works

➤ Through NSSF’s two-day Lead Management and OSHA Compliance Workshop, range owners can learn what policies and procedures they should put into place to be compliant with federal regulations regarding lead, as well as a wide variety of other issues on OSHA’s extensive checklist.

“Lead is usually the biggest element that OSHA is focusing on when it comes to indoor ranges, but there are definitely other areas they’re going to check,” Snow says. “They have been known to dig really deep.”

And while the prospect of having to analyze every minute aspect of your business and ensuring that all your bases are covered isn’t something any range owner looks forward to, the alternative to being prepared is much more unpleasant.

“Fines for non-compliance can be pretty severe,” Snow says. “You need to be prepared to protect your business, and this workshop helps you do that.”

For more information about attending a workshop before you get the call from OSHA, check nssf.org/ranges/complianceworkshop.

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Range Development Workshop Now on DVD The National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Indoor Range and Retail Development Workshop (which is different from the NSSF Lead Management and OSHA Compliance Workshop) is a priceless tool for people who are exploring the idea of starting an indoor shooting range.

But because NSSF recognizes that it might not always be possible for prospective range owners to travel across the country to attend one of these invaluable events, it has now captured the essence of the workshop on a series of DVDs that allows you to have access to all the essential information from the comfort of your living room.

“We wanted to create the ultimate go-to guide for anyone who is considering getting into the range business, and this is definitely it,” says Zach Snow, manager of shooting promotions at NSSF. The set includes eight DVDs that capture an entire workshop including all the presentations and panel discussions that cover every conceivable aspect of opening and running an indoor shooting range. The package also includes a CD-ROM with the same handouts that workshop attendees receive as well as all the forms necessary to get a shooting range open.

“This is really a wealth of information,” Snow says. “For anyone who wants to be successful in the business, this is your road map.”

The Range Development Workshop DVD package is normally $695 for nonmembers and $350 for members, but NSSF is running a special during the SHOT Show and offering the package to members for only $300. For more information about the DVD package, visit nssf.org/ranges/workshop. To get your package at the special SHOT Show price, stop by the NSSF booth (L221).

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NSSF’s website got a dramatic overhaul this summer. It’s a great place for industry news research and learning about upcoming legislation issues, but it’s been made more user-friendly—and accessible from any mobile device.

Information at Your Fingertips

The new NSSF.org website delivers more, faster

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By David Draper n today’s world, information flows at an ever-quickening pace, and keeping up requires both agility and adaptability. It also helps to have a stable of reliable online assets to stay informed and educated, especially in the hunting and shooting sports industry. To keep its members in the know, as well as serve as a portal to the public, the National Shooting Sports Foundation has placed itself ahead of the curve by redesigning its popular NSSF.org website. The upgrade debuted last September.

If you’ve visited the site in recent months, you’ve probably noticed the change. If you haven’t, let me encourage you to take a moment to do so, and yes, you can do it right from your smartphone or tablet. As part of the relaunch, NSSF has ensured the NSSF.org site is optimized for users who have increasingly shown a preference for getting information from mobile devices.

“There is a ton of information on the site.

From the latest research to information about legislation affecting the industry to learning about the basics of hunting and the shooting sports, it’s there,” says Bill Dunn, managing director of marketing communications for the National Shooting Sports Foundation. “More people are using mobile devices to access websites, so we’ve brought the site up to date and made it compatible with smartphones and tablets as well as given it a more modern look and feel.”

Visitors will notice the new NSSF.org is a substantial upgrade from the previous site, which itself was the product of a redesign just three years ago.

“A lot can change in three years on the internet,” says Dunn. “I think all of our regular visitors are very pleased with the upgrade. And I think new and regular visitors can find what they’re looking for much more easily.”

With improved navigation, better search functionality, and ready access to news and information about the industry as well as hunting and the shooting sports, NSSF.org now serves as the hunting and shooting industry’s most comprehensive resource on the internet. If it has to do with the industry or hunting and the shooting sports,

visitors will find it at NSSF.org, including the latest news and updates, industry fact sheets and backgrounders, firearms safety tips, and educational information. The new site’s responsive, mobile-friendly design even allows visitors to watch all of NSSF’s latest videos on their iPhone, iPad, or other mobile device.

After a stop at the NSSF.org homepage, which puts all of the latest industry news front and center, visitors can then access sections tailored specifically to their area of interest, whether they’re retailers or range owners, manufacturers, members of the media, or the general public interested in finding out more about hunting and the shooting sports. An enhanced government relations resources section includes state and federal bill trackers, a legislative action center, and quick access to other helpful pages.

“The section of the website for retailers includes retailer-specific news, trends, and updates, compliance resources, videos, and webinars, access to SHOT Business magazine, and many other helpful resources,” says Dunn. “The same goes for ranges, with tons of information available for range owners and managers.”

Since its founding, the National Shooting Sports Foundation has held tight to its stated mission to promote, protect, and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. The new NSSF.org website is online evidence of those guiding principles, delivering the organization’s resources and information to its members, the media, and the public with the speed and ease demanded by today’s fast-paced world.

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Hosting a First Shots Program at Your Range To get the ball rolling on your first First Shots experience at your firearms range, simply visit firstshots.org and request a copy of the First Shots Reference Guide.

Or call or e-mail Tisma Juett, NSSF First Shots manager (tjuett@nssf.org; 203426-1320 ext. 219).

The First Shots Big City Tour brings First Shots programs to new shooters in urban areas. Tour weekends—with events hosted at numerous local ranges—usually see about 300 participants. More than 43 percent of First Shots participants return to the host range an average of six times within six months.

What the First Shots program provides

➲ A concise agenda based on accepted firearms training practices ➲ Full Powerpoint presentation available on request ➲ Reimbursement of 50 percent of advertising costs up to $3,000 for NSSF member ranges ➲ Print, radio, and TV ads ➲ Promotion of your event on NSSF websites with a link to your website ➲ A First Shots banner for your range ➲ Technical and logistical support and planning assistance on request ➲ Safety literature and other giveaway items

No Mentor?

No Problem!

NSSF First Shots “Tour” targets entry-level shooters By Cathy Glazer

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SSF’s highly successful First Shots entry-level seminar program is helping shooting ranges gain new customers with a promotion that targets potential new shooters in big cities. The First Shots Big City Tour involves getting a number of shooting ranges in a selected major metropolitan area to host free First Shots seminars on the same weekend, co-sponsored by NSSF, which helps with much of the costs.

Since the Big City Tour kicked off at five Chicago-area ranges over a November weekend in 2011, nearly 2,000 urbanites have discovered their local ranges and taken their first shots with fellow first-timers in Miami, Houston, Sacramento, Atlanta, Washington, D.C., and Madison, Wisconsin. On average, tour weekends draw about 300 participants. The seminars are free and open to the public, but pre-registration is required.

Once they’ve tried it, they’ll be back, says NSSF First Shots manager Tisma Juett.

“Ranges that hold First Shots seminars report a significant increase in activity. Six-month follow-up surveys show more than 43 percent of First Shots participants return to the host range an average of six times within six months. Many bring a friend or family member with them.”

They spend, on average, more than $500 on equipment, according to surveys. At least one in 10 will purchase a membership at the host range.

Two in 10 will take a firearms training course.

Comments from new shooters who took part in

the Washington, D.C.–area tour were typical.

“First Shots gave me a great education about the different types of handguns, different options, and programs for my area,” said a woman from Maryland. “It’s a great program.”

“I learned how to hold the gun, load the cartridge, the stance,” said a young woman who had never shot before. “I got a little more comfortable each time—I wasn’t as nervous.”

“I learned about safety, how to aim and shoot,” said another first-timer. “First Shots is first-rate, and I’ll be back to do a couple more courses.”

“The majority of the program was safety, safety, safety,” another observed.

“As soon as I put the gun down, I was sold.

Next time I’ll have a couple of friends come out with me.”

Recognizing that it can be awkward to downright intimidating to simply walk in to a shooting range and learn to shoot with no idea of what to expect, NSSF launched First Shots in 2005. It was designed as an entry point to put new customers on a path to training classes, regular range visits,

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What the surveys say

First Shots participants return to the host range, continue shooting, bring their friends to the range, and purchase equipment, according to six-month follow-up surveys. The survey found: ➲ Four in 10 returned to the range to shoot an average of seven times ➲ More than half met their state’s requirements for handgun ownership ➲ Two in 10 had taken a formal firearms training course ➲ Over half had invited a friend to go shooting ➲ 49 percent purchased equipment ➲ At least one in 10 purchased a range membership

and club membership.

With an emphasis on safety, First Shots seminars provide a welcoming venue for those who want to try shooting but have no mentor to show them how to get started. The program dispels misconceptions about the shooting sports and demystifies firearms ownership and the responsibilities that accompany it, including safe handling and storage, and understanding federal, state, and local laws.

Classroom instruction is followed by a live-fire session with a certified instructor. The time frame for a First Shots event is three hours, allowing ranges to schedule more than one session in a day.

From the first seminar, First Shots has proven its worth and is now one of NSSF’s most important target-shooting development programs. As of January 2014, around 46,000 people have attended First Shots seminars hosted by hundreds of ranges across the country since the program began.

Hosting a First Shots program involves an investment of time and commitment, and not

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NSSF Five Star Rating Program Allows Ranges to Shine First Shots takes away the “intimidation factor” by giving newcomers a chance to try shooting in a relaxed environment.

much in the way of out-of-pocket costs. “The program is a minimal investment for the ranges and no cost to the participants,” Juett says, pointing out that NSSF provides the core curriculum, promotion and advertising materials, and safety literature, and will match advertising costs up to $3,000. NSSF also provides the ammunition for participants.

“I think First Shots was a big success,” says Tom Davis, an instructor at Range 82 in Midland, Virginia, a host range for the Washington, D.C., tour. “It was really refreshing, as a firearms instructor, to see the big smiles of not only the young adults but also those my age and older, as they were coming off the firing line, just having a great time. It’s been a great experience for those participants.”

“First Shots was excellent,” says Tina WilsonCohen, an instructor at Sharp Shooters Small Arms Range in Lorton, Virginia, another D.C. host range. “It brought the people out from the community to the range, and it takes the intimidation away from it. They left with happy smiles on their faces and with enthusiasm.”

“If you own a range, you need to at least look into the First Shots program,” says NSSF president and CEO Steve Sanetti. “First Shots is the first step for that first-time shooter to become a lifelong shooting-sports enthusiast and a new customer for your range.”

The First Shots Big City Tour will visit more cities this year. To find out if the tour is coming to a city near you, visit firstshots.org. “You don’t have to wait for the tour—any range can hold a First Shots event any time,” says Juett. “Visit the site and request a First Shots Reference Guide to get started.”

For First Shots program statistics and results of follow-up surveys, request the Industry Intelligence Report on First Shots from NSSF Research (nssf.org/research). For specific questions about the First Shots program, contact Tisma Juett at tjuett@nssf.org. Or stop by the NSSF booth (L221) to arrange a time to speak with her during the show.

Top-quality ranges deliver a high-quality shooting experience By Christopher Cogley

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or years, people have recognized a five-star rating as a symbol of excellence in hotels, restaurants, and even movies. With the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Five Star Rating program, shooting ranges across the country have the opportunity to show their potential customers that they deliver that same level of excellence.

“This is a program we developed several years ago, and we’ve been working hard to try to encourage ranges to get involved because it’s a great way for them to show their customers that they really have a top-quality facility,” says Zach Snow, manager of shooting promotions at the National Shooting Sports Foundation. “More and more ranges are seeing the benefit of the program lately, and it’s really starting to take off.”

Snow says that in 2009, there were only 12 Five Star ranges in the program, and now it’s surpassed 30—an increase of more than 100 percent—and the current popularity doesn’t show signs of slowing down.

“Customers like to know that they are going to have a quality experience before they even walk in the door,” Snow says. “The Five Star rating program shows them that the range they are choosing to visit has been thoroughly evaluated and proven to be excellent.”

The program assesses ranges in six categories—Appearance, Management, Customer/ Member Focus, Customer/Member Development, Community Relations, and Amenities. The first step of the program allows participating ranges to rate their performance through a self-evaluation of each of those categories. Next, they have the opportunity to give their customers or members the chance to rate the range based on the same criteria.

“That’s really a great tool in and of itself because sometimes there’s a disconnect between how a range thinks it’s meeting its customers’ needs and how the customer feels the range is meeting their needs,” Snow says.

“Through this step, range owners can see what areas they’re excelling at and which areas they might need to improve upon.”

Through the customer and self evaluations,

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ranges receive scores based on their performance and the services they offer. Once the scores are tallied, ranges write a synopsis of their facility and provide examples and images of how their range meets the criteria needed to be considered for a Five Star rating. The final step is an on-site visit from Snow.

“They know I’m coming, but they don’t know who I am,” Snow says. “It gives me a chance to see the range from a new customer’s point-of-view, and that is usually very telling.”

If the range delivers the kind of high-quality experience that’s expected from a top-notch facility, it earns the coveted Five Star rating from the NSSF. But the standard of excellence this rating represents isn’t meant solely as a way to attract new customers.

“We see the Five Star ranges as the model ranges for the industry,” Snow says. “This is a level of quality that we hope every range will aspire to.”

It’s also a level of quality that typically begins before the doors to the range are ever opened.

“The criteria we use to evaluate existing ranges are actually a great tool for someone who is considering opening a new range,” Snow says. “I always suggest that potential range owners visit several of the Five Star facilities so they can see the standard of excellence these ranges have achieved. Then, not only will they know how high the bar’s been set, but they’ll also have a great example to model their business plan after.”

Because, like every other aspect of the shooting sports, if you shoot for excellence, you usually hit what you’re aiming at. For more information on the Five Star rating program, visit nssf.org/ranges/fivestar.

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Getting to the Next Level

DPMS unveils the next generation of the LR-308 By Brian McCombie

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he big news from DPMS for this SHOT Show?

The next generation LR-308 rifles, known as DPMS GII. DPMS has made considerable changes and upgrades to this rifle line, which encompasses six variations on the GII theme, as part of a three-year research-and-development project to make this the best all-around .308 MSR the company can create.

If you have used a LR-308 in the past, the first thing you’ll notice about GII is that it is lighter—considerably so. DPMS has shaved off nearly one pound. Much of that weight reduction came through redesigned upper and lower receivers. Improved machining operations on the receivers, paired with a 7075 forging, allows the GII’s upper receiver to be smaller and lighter yet stronger than the current LR-308 design. DPMS also improved the bolt geometry to relieve stress lines, crafting an 8620 forged monolithic impingement carrier with a Carpenter 158 bolt.

The standard GII Carbine weighs in at a nifty 7.25 pounds. Recoil?

Surprisingly, it is less that the heavier LR-308. Now, that might seem counterintuitive, because a heavier rifle absorbs more recoil, right? But as Adam Ballard, product manager for Freedom Group’s modern sporting rifles lines, explains, the lighter bolt-receiver configuration actually means less weight being driven back at the shooter, reducing the felt recoil.

Other GII features include an identical length rear of the mag well to a standard AR15, a significantly reduced profile to the current LR-308 receiver, a steel feed ramp, an improved extractor, a titanium firing pin, an M4

The author checks out a GII Recon model with a 16-inch barrel at the Remington tactical seminar held at Gunsite last month. Although the new rifle is a pound lighter than its predecessor due to redesigned upper and lower receivers, felt recoil has been reduced.

commercial six-position stock, an A2 pistol grip, and a DPMS Glacier Guard hand guard that is compatible with aftermarket furniture.

I recently shot the GII in the 16-inch barrel Carbine and Recon models, as well as the 18-inch SASS and 24-inch Bull models. Retailers might consider promoting the carbine length models as great truck and ranch guns, given their light weight and maneuverability. They would also be a good choice for those home-defense consumers who want a nifty rifle that provides .30-caliber punch. Those models with longer barrels (18-inch SASS and 24-inch Bull) were long-range accurate and should have many applications in bench and silhouette shooting.

“We have shot hundreds of thousands of rounds through these rifles,” says Ballard. “We purposely tried to break parts, and we did. We then went back to the drawing board and made those parts better. We’ve made this the best rifle we could.” SRP: $1,499. Booth #14229. (800-578-3767; dpmsinc.com)

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Beginning with a Mossberg Model 500 Turkey Thug model, the author replaced the factory stock with an adjustable pistol-grip stock. He then removed the stock barrel and installed a Mossberg breacher barrel wrapped with an ATI heat shield. And that was just for starters.

Building a Custom Mossberg 500

Creating the pump equivalent of a hot rod is a lot easier than you think By David Maccar

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ast year saw the landmark ten-millionth production Model 500 pump roll off the O.F. Mossberg & Sons (Booth #12734) assembly line in Connecticut, making it the fastest-selling shotgun model of all time. With so many guns, in various configurations and gauges used by law enforcement, military personnel, and hunters, America is awash with the Mossberg 500 in numbers only few firearms models can match.

So what does this mean to someone in the market for a new shotgun (new to them, anyway), but uncertain of what to get? Or to a real shooter who is looking for something fun, but not necessarily their new go-to duck gun? It means the Model 500s you can find on the used gun racks are like a mess of LEGOs in the hands of a creative child. Get one, or get pieces of several, and you can build a beast of a shotgun.

I decided to do this myself over the past couple of years. In a way it was an accident, but I learned a lot during the process, so I’m going to go ahead and just say I planned it this way.

The first gun I tuned wasn’t a Mossberg 500; it was its more tactical brother, the Model 590.

Modifications came in dribs and drabs, mostly because I couldn’t decide what to do first. Hitting the internet becomes an intimidating experience, just because there is such a breadth of aftermarket parts and accessories for both the 500 and 590 out there. It’s hard to tell what’s what without devoting some serious research hours.

Browsing wasn’t working. I needed to decide what the gun would be used for first. I wanted my eight-shot, 12-gauge 590 to be a home-defense gun—something reliable, simple, and powerful that was easy to use in the dark with adrenaline coursing through the system.

First, the standard stock had to go. The hollow plastic works fine, but is it comfortable? Not really.

Is it visually appealing? Uh-uh. And because there’s nothing to it, the gun doesn’t feel balanced. So, I swapped it out for a Blackhawk SpecOps NRS

adjustable stock with a pistol grip, modular cheekpiece, and a five-shell carrier (Booth #14562). I added a rubber grip sleeve, also from Blackhawk.

That took care of the back-end. I didn’t have to worry about optics, since the shotgun came with integrated ghost ring sights. Again, I looked at the gun’s intended function. If I ever have to use it, it will likely be in a dark, stressful situation. Well, I could eliminate the dark, at least.

I clamped an inexpensive Laserlyte tri-rail mount (Booth #11214) on the magazine tube behind the welded bayonet mount, and now there was a place to mount a green CMR-203 Rail Master laser sight and tac light, both from Crimson Trace (Booth #11214).

So there I had it. A 12-gauge with nine rounds, a comfortable pistol grip with a stock adjusted to my length of pull, a horrifyingly bright light, a laser, five extra rounds on board, and a bit more peace of mind. And then I added a heat shield. You know, cause it’s freakin’ cool.

I couldn’t believe how much I was able to do to my 590 with simple-to-install add-on parts, and how well the finished product came out. I got the shotgun I wanted, and I got to play a bit. This deserved far deeper investigation. Lo and behold, I came across a 12-gauge Model 500 with a 3-inch chamber on the used rack at my local gun store for about $200. The thing still had factory grease on it.

It was a Turkey Thug model, hence the 3-inch chamber, but that also meant it came with a nicer LPA trigger.

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There was no question about the purpose of this gun. It was going to be the rudest, ugliest, meanest little pump on the range. It would be the gun I show to my friends and say, “Hee hee, look what I did.”

I decided on a product I’d found while scouring the web for parts for my 590 to be the base of the build: the Sidewinder Venom conversion kit from Adaptive Tactical. The kit can also be sourced from Brownells (Booth #805). A very similar kit was produced by Knoxx in the 1990s and has since been discontinued. But spending any time in Model 500 forums, of which there are many, it’s obvious the Knoxx kits were one of the most coveted out-ofprint Model 500 kits out there until Adaptive Tactical began producing them again.

The kit takes a bit of finesse to install, and a lot of patience, but in the end I replaced the magazine tube with the new mag well for the drum and follower tube mechanism in my garage with no special tools that weren’t included with the kit.

Once I reassembled the receiver, I replaced the Mossberg stock with another adjustable pistol-grip stock, this time a Talon from ATI (Booth #620), which came with a mount for a single-point sling. I went back to Blackhawk for its comfortable singlepoint Storm Sling.

With that done, I replaced the 24-inch barrel and turkey choke with an 18-inch breacher barrel I ordered from Mossberg wrapped in an ATI heat shield. It all went together like a dream. The receiver, like many new 500s, comes with holes already tapped on top of the receiver. I screwed on a piece of Picatinny rail and a no-frills red-dot sight and my beast was ready. The thing just looks mean, and at the range, I was able to run 16 shells with a reload (the kit came with a 5-round box magazine in addition to the 10-round drum) in 21 seconds.

And it’s just so much fun to shoot.

The lesson in all this? It’s fun to build up a gun into something it wasn’t before, and the average customer can do it with a good base gun, the help of a couple of YouTube videos, and some guidance from a knowledgeable retailer. Adding a stock will get them past the fear of “messing” with the gun, because there’s really nothing they can ruin. When they ask about this at your shop, your job is to say, “Yes, you can,” and then suggest appropriate accessories, all of which they can source through you.

After that, the confidence gets that aftermarket imagination running wild. The possibilities continue to grow and more toys will be bought, all of which is good business for you.

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Meeting the Demand

Remington makes a major investment in ammo production

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t’s certainly no secret that ammunition has been in short supply the past couple of years. No doubt, some of these shortages are caused by consumers worried about legislation that may limit their ability to purchase the ammo they want. But Keith Enlow, Remington’s senior vice president and general manager for ammunition, says it’s more than that. “It’s not just hoarding,” he says. “We’re seeing new customers and new ranges, both of which are good things.

That is helping fuel overall demand as well.”

And though some members of the shooting sports community may believe the federal government is getting the lion’s share of the output, Enlow says this is not the case. “The federal government and the law enforcement community are getting a smaller percentage of our output than the commercial markets.”

That answer may not satisfy some consumers and retailers, many of whom are still dealing with profound shortage issues, but Enlow stresses Remington has worked hard to meet demand.

But it’s still not enough, which is the main reason Remington broke ground late last summer on the expansion of its operations at the Remington ammunition plant in Lonoke, Arkansas. Work on the expansion, which includes the construction of a new 40,000-square-foot state-of-the art building, represents an investment of $32 million.

“The new facility will help us to increase product availability and improve on-time delivery,” Enlow says. “It reinforces our commitment to deliver the finest quality products for our customers, and it helps us meet increasing global demand for superior ammunition products.”

The latter is a sore point for him. “We know consumers buy ammo on three factors—price, performance, and brand. Right now a lot of shooters are buying cheap import ammo simply because they can’t get enough of our product. We make a superior product, one that is 100 percent American.”

Remington is banking that when the new plant gets up to speed and more of its well-known products, such as Core-Lokt (which is celebrating its 75th anniversary in 2014), hit retailer shelves, American shooters will welcome the green boxes with open arms. Booth #14229. (800-243-9700; remington.com) —Slaton L. White

The upgraded Outdoorsman line of flashlights now boasts higher output.

All three models also feature longer runtimes. The EL2L will run for as long as 67 hours with a 5-lumen output.

That kind of longevity can really help in an emergency situation. The EL2AA runs on AA batteries (rather than 123A lithium batteries).

SureFire Looks to Light Up Outdoors

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By Peter Suciu ureFire, a manufacturer of high-performance flashlights and weaponmounted lights, recently upgraded the output on its Outdoorsman line.

These models were designed for those who love the great outdoors and know that being prepared can mean the difference between a great trip and possibly being the subject of a search-and-rescue mission.

Purpose-built for use outdoors, the upgraded SureFire Outdoorsman E1L/E2L models are now even more effective at farther distances, making these ideal for emergency preparedness and survival kits. The models feature long runtimes—the E1L offers up to 90 lumens of light for six hours or 5 lumens for 41 hours, and the E2L will run for 7.25 hours at 125 lumens and 67 hours with 5 lumens. The 123A lithium batteries in these models offer a 10-year shelf life.

“What sets these lights apart from the rest of our tactical line is their extended runtime,” says Thomas Carlson, SureFire’s public relations specialist. “If you need one light for a non-tactical application, any of the Outdoorsman series make a great option.”

In addition, the Outdoorsman line also includes the E2LAA model, which utilizes AA alkaline/lithium batteries for added convenience but without sacrificing the runtime. It can run for 8.5 hours and provide 115 lumens, and offer 5 lumens for more than four days from the bat-

Remington’s ammunition plant in Lonoke, Arkansas, will get an investment of $32 million that will add 40,000 square feet of production space.

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teries. “The E2L-AA will run for more than 100 hours on low, which is crucial in extended stays while in the backcountry,” says Carlson.

All three models are lightweight, compact, and designed to be easy to handle for everyday use. And they feature an integrated two-way high-strength steel clip that makes securing the flashlights in a pocket or to a cap bill or brim hassle-free. These rugged models offer dualoutput, extended runtimes, and feature O-ring and gasket seals to ensure that each flashlight can stand up to the elements. They are even waterproof to 1 meter.

Made of high-strength aerospace-grade aluminum with a mil-spec Type III hard-anodized finish, the lights are equipped with SureFire’s tailcap click-switch that provides easy and secure operation and feature a shock-resistant LED emitter that is optimized for maximum output and efficiency. In addition, the SureFire Total Internal Reflection (TIR) lens has been designed to deliver light in a tight beam while allowing for enough surround light for close-range awareness.

SRP: $225, E1L; $255, E2L; $250, EL2AA. Booth #13968. (800-828-8809; surefire.com)

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Wood N’ Stream Back in the Woods and Streams

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n the late 1880s, from the back of his father’s Milwaukee cobbler shop, Albert Weinbrenner set out to design specialized work boots for the new trade of telephone lineman working around the state of Wisconsin installing private and public exchanges. These specialized work boots, designed to allow the lineman to securely grip telephone poles with their legs (and hold on tight), were called “jobber” boots (job-fitted safety work boots), and first appeared around 1892. Popularity for Weinbrenner’s jobber boots spread quickly in trade circles, and by 1905, they were being distributed nationally.

Nearly 125 years later, the Weinbrenner Shoe Company, now employee-owned, is still the leading manufacturer and pioneering force in the occupational footwear industry. The Thorogood brand, first introduced in 1918, has grown into the company’s premiere collection, including both safety and non-safety styles designed for all varieties of occupational and safety requirements.

Like many footwear companies today, Weinbrenner builds product in the United States and imports selected product from the Asian rim.

The strategy allows the company the flexibility to deliver “value” products at a price its customers demand, all the while retaining the ability to craft premium product at a higher price point.

“Our domestic product originates from our manufacturing plants in northcentral Wisconsin

and is managed in partnership with members of local labor unions,” says company president Patrick Miner. “For generations, these trained union craftsmen have been dedicated to making high-quality comfortable boots and shoes. Our imported product is also managed from our headquarters in Wisconsin, with the same dedication to quality, comfort, and safety. We are constantly exploring new opportunities to improve the safety, comfort, and performance of every product.”

Last fall, Weinbrenner announced the re-introduction of its Wood N’ Stream Outdoor Footwear line. Originally established in 1957, the Wood N’ Stream line encompasses both domestic and imported models.

“These hunting boots will feature proven technology leveraging Weinbrenner’s extensive indus-

The re-introduced Wood N’ Stream line includes a Visible Gel System (VGS) that reduces repetitive impact stress.

try experience and manufacturing capability for high-value, high-performance products,” Miner says. “We believe sportsmen will appreciate the superior comfort, durable construction, and quality materials that go into each pair of Wood N’ Stream boots.”

Features of the re-introduced line include the Visible Gel System (VGS) and the GEN-flex3 Series. According to Miner, the state-of-the-art interactive VGS lessens repetitive impact stress in the heel with three layers of shock absorption, which reduces stress on the knees and back.

Miner is obviously proud of the product. “The first time you put on the boots, you’ll say ‘ahhhh,’” he says. “They’re that comfortable.”

Suggested retail prices range from just under $100 to $300. Booth #20040. (800-826-0002; weinbrennerusa.com)

F E AT U R E

Approximately 3.5 million women have made a first-time firearm purchase in the last three years; that’s a market too big for forwardthinking manufacturers to ignore.

Understanding the Women’s Market

These new gun owners are a powerful market, but only if you know how to reach them

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By Barbara Baird emington’s press relations manager Jessica Kallam walks the walk when it comes to her interest in firearms. “I, like a lot of women in the market today, understand the responsibility and need for personal protection. Being a single mother, I want to pass along to my daughter the responsibility of safe firearm handling, the fun of shooting, and ultimately the ability for her to protect herself. We need products that fit and ones we can practice with comfortably,” she says.

According to Kallam, Remington’s market research reveals the following facts: Female shooting participation has boomed over the past six years; approximately 3.5 million women aged 21 to 75 have made a first-time firearm purchase in the last three years; in recent purchases, women chose handguns at a more than two-to-one ratio over every other category; and women who are purchasing firearms tend to focus on personal defense.

In response to this research, Remington unveiled the R51 subcompact handgun just days ago. “The R51 is a product that we have spent countless hours engineering to ensure the lightest slide-racking force and the lowest muzzle flip in the category.

What we were able to achieve is a product that is not only easy to conceal, but also easy to operate and easy to shoot,” says Kallam. Booth #14229.

(800-243-9700; remington.com)

By the Numbers

Beretta’s web and social manager, Matteo Recanatini, is a numbers guy. “Our industry is rife with seasoned professionals who are extremely sharp at predicting trends before any sign is readable on a balance sheet. However, we tend to get tunnel vision and trust our instincts when we should seek a second opinion,” he says. “For this reason, a growing portion of our staff is dedicated to data analysis, which serves as a voice of reason in all the decisions we make.”

Beretta, like most companies, also conducts market surveys. “We understand that new consumers have questions that we may not be used to answering for the average multi-gun owner. These questions are often not voiced in the same places where seasoned shooters and hunters usually gather.”

So, Beretta has created a place on its website where a new gun buyer can find a “journey partner.” The special section includes, according to Recanatini, “educational content, places to ask questions—a space where future gun owners can learn the basics at their pace, and where they can ask questions without concerns of whether they are using the correct term or not.” Beretta has taken this information and created products with first-time users in mind— products such as the Nano, already a popular choice among first-time female buyers, and the Pico, which will be available late in the first quarter of 2014.

Booth #13962. (301-283-2191; berettausa.com)

Laser Focus

Celia Crane handles PR and social media for LaserMax Inc. “LaserMax’s purchase confirmation data reveals that the company’s customer base is made up of a far higher number of female shooters than in previous years. Concealed carry is gaining traction with women in their 40s who have had no previous exposure to shooting sports,” she says. In response to the trend, LaserMax created a Facebook fan page, “Armed and in Charge,” that addresses the needs of new female shooters. The company also supports the NRA Women’s Network and is the founding sponsor of the annual Women’s Industry Dinner at SHOT Show.

“Women don’t want to be handed equipment and gear that was designed for men and then painted pink. The firearms manufacturers we work with recognize this paradigm shift and are all moving in the direction of addressing the women’s market with pistol options designed for discriminating tastes and real-world needs,” Crane says. “As these new models emerge, LaserMax will be right there to design lasers offering seamless integration as well as safety and tactical benefits that no other laser systems offer.” Booth #12771. (800-527-3703; lasermax.com)

F E AT U R E

Remington Defense’s new Concealed Sniper Rifle (CSR), a 7.62 NATO/.308 Win. boltaction, will initially only be available for LE and military use, but could join the civilian ranks soon.

Remington Defense Debuts New Concealable Sniper Rifle It’s accurate, hard-hitting, and a treat to shoot By Brian McCombie

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y first shot with Remington Defense’s new Concealable Sniper Rifle (CSR) was a miss, though I didn’t feel too terrible about sliding the .308 Win. bullet just over the top of the circular, 12-inch steel target—at 400 yards! I worked the bolt, chambered another round, and made a hit, then two more before taking on a bull’s-eye painted on a steel door 600 yards in the distance. According to my spotter, my next three shots were misses. I was a little frustrated by the third “Miss!” my spotter called out, so I racked back the bolt to clear the CSR, twisted around, and asked him, “Just how bad am I missing?”

“Like an inch left and an inch or two high on every shot,” he said, grinning. “Miss!”

That, I decided, was a set of misses I could live with. It was also quite a testament to Remington Defense’s new-for-2014 CSR, a 7.62 NATO/.308 Win. bolt-action that will be available to Law Enforcement and military customers this year. It very well could hit the consumer market soon afterward, too.

Built on a RACS Lightweight Chassis, with a 16-inch carbon barrel made

by Proof Research, the CSR comes in at a surprising 9 pounds. Remington Defense took the bolt action it uses on its MSR sniper rifle and shortened it to create the Remington CSR Titanium Action with a 60-degree throw. The CSR has a right-folding, lightweight, and fully adjustable buttstock and a modular handguard with removable accessory rails. The rifle I used had a black Cerakote Gen II IR-reducing finish. The rifle employs a detachable magazine, and uses a two-position safety. It will also come in a 20-inch fluted barrel version, and alternate calibers are in the works.

Pull down on a throw lever under the barrel, and the CSR easily breaks down into five separate components that will easily fit into a suitcase or other less noticeable package.

“Right now, the CSR is being built strictly for a government contract,” 50 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014

says Adam Ballard, product manager for DPMS Firearms. “There isn’t a consumer version, yet. But we are expecting it will have a lot of potential in the consumer market as the government contract plays out.”

I fired the CSR at Gunsite in Paulden, Arizona, one of the nation’s top shooting facilities, last month as part of a Freedom Group new tactical products seminar. This CSR was equipped with a Leupold Mark 6 3–18x44mm scope, and I was using Remington Premier Match ammunition, with 168-grain MatchKing BTHP bullets.

As a civilian recreational shooter, I can’t wait for this rifle to hit the consumer market. It was extremely accurate, and had a smooth-as-silk twostage trigger. The bolt worked easily and locked positively. With an Advanced Armaments Corporation 762-SD suppressor on the end of the barrel, the rifle had very minimal recoil.

Admittedly, my experiences with the CSR were limited. But to be dinging steel at 400 yards with shot number two, and then coming within a few inches of the bull’s-eye at 600 yards? That tells me the CSR will have a lot of applications for rec shooters like me who like pegging steel at distance, and it should have some impressive long-range hunting applications, too. Booth #14262. (800-548-8572; remingtondefense.com)

F E AT U R E

MINUTES WITH…

Mike Galloway

Vice President of Sales and Marketing, Hard Core Brands

It’s Not Easy

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Hard Core Brands, like its name, has no interest in taking the easy way out By Slaton L. White ard Core Brands is an Illinois-based manufacturer of serious waterfowl gear. But it doesn’t just want to be known for wingshooting; it also makes gear for deer and turkey hunters. The company has been around for 10 years, but never quite got traction until a new management team came aboard two years ago. In little more than 18 months, the number of SKUs went from 36 to more than 600. And Mike Galloway says more is on the way.

SHOT Daily: Your website says, “Our goals are

rent, and push water along to the back end of the keel. It keeps the decoy moving back to front, like a real duck.

simple: Customer Service, Customer Service, Cus­tomer Service. Hard Core Brands, International…IT’S NOT EASY!” No kidding. How do you achieve your goals?

SD: You’ve also introduced a cool-looking Texas-

Mike Galloway: To achieve our goals of

having superior customer service, we have four full-time customer service representatives available to answer customer questions and concerns, but it doesn’t stop there. Anyone can call our number [800-YOU-HUNT] and reach me, or the vice president of product development, or even the president of the company. We’re all accessible to our customers. We love to talk to our customers.

That’s not all. We have more than 125 pro staffers who are available and prepared to talk to our customers, too. We rely on them to answer specific questions. If a customer in Mississippi who hunts rice fields calls and has a product-use question, we’ll have a pro-staff member in that area who hunts rice fields call that customer and answer his or her questions.

SD: Your website seems to take a lot of pains to

rigged decoy system as well.

MG: What we wanted to do was offer our custom-

Hard Core Brands vice president Mike Galloway wants customers to know the company’s products were all designed by dedicated hunters.

including Cabela’s, Bass Pro Shops, Dick’s, and many more, including independent retailers. We stand behind our blinds, just like any of our other products, and that goes for the mom-and-pop stores all the way up through the biggest chains.

That commitment has helped in the success of the blinds and other products.

show the people behind the brand are die-hard outdoorsmen. How important is that image to the success of the company?

SD: Your new dove decoys look really lifelike. How

MG: It’s very important. I want our customers to

really looked hard at the manufacturing process.

We wanted a dove decoy that was fully flocked and portable. For that to work, you have to understand the flocking process and the materials involved.

The flocking has to stick to the material, yet we needed a material that would let the decoy collapse and be portable. Once we solved that, the rest is in the carving. We have world championship-level carvers who created an amazing decoy.

know that our products weren’t developed by someone who has no idea how they will be used in real hunting applications. Our products are developed by hard-core hunters who are out there using the products. If you believe in something you sell and it’s something you use, it comes across to those who are buying the product. We believe in everything we sell because we rely on it to have success on our own hunts. But it’s more than an image. We go to great lengths to develop features in our products that separate us from our competitors.

SD: Last year you showed us the layout blind. We liked its solid construction and portability. How did your customers receive it?

MG: I believe we have one of the best-selling

blinds on the market. The proof is in the pudding, so to speak, but with our blinds, the RunN-Gunner, the Man Cave, and the Apprentice, we can’t make ’em fast enough.

Our blinds are carried by all the major players,

did you do that?

MG: The devil’s in the details, and in this case, we

ers the best decoy with the best paint (we have a three-year warranty) and have it so the hunter can buy the decoys, take them right to the lake, clip on the weights, and be ready to hunt. We wanted the decoys to be affordable, too. For so long, guys would have to buy decoys, then buy the rigging, and then take the time to set it all up. But after a season of hunting, the decoys would need to be repainted. Today, people just don’t have the money to repaint decoys at the end of every season. The Texas-rig system is one of the easiest ways to set up a decoy for hunting. It’s all assembled and ready to use. All of our decoys have the hole pre-drilled for using the Texas rig, too. I would say that all of our new buyer sales have been the pre-rigged decoys.

SD: Can you explain the design process of the tree rest for your dog?

MG: A lot of trial and error went into the the

deke a truly lifelike look in the water. How did you accomplish that?

Hard Core Dog Timber Stand. We tried a lot of different stands, many of which had features we liked. We took those good features and worked on creating a stand that met all of our, and our dog’s, needs. It had to be portable, lightweight, and easy to set up in the dark. Drainage was also key. Most other stands have a plastic or wooden base. Your dog ends up freezing to the base. That just doesn’t work. You have to take care of your dog. We looked at a lot of the features of the best portable treestands used for bowhunting, as well, to create what we feel is the ultimate dog timber stand. We made a video that explains it very well.

[Check it out at tinyurl.com/timberstand.]

MG: You’re talking about our Whaletail Keel,

SD: Why should a retailer invest in your company

SD: Your new duck decoys utilize a keel to give the

something that took more than four years to perfect. To get truly lifelike movement from your decoys, you need to look at the flow of water past the keel. The inspiration was a whale’s tail. A lot of people look at the large hole in the front of the keel and assume it is just a finger hole for throwing out the decoys. It was actually designed to control the flow of water with the slightest of cur-

52 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 4, JANUARY 17, 2014

and your products?

MG: We’re not doing our job if we’re not driv-

ing people into the retailer looking for Hard Core product. The retailer’s job to put it on the shelf; it’s our top priority to make sure there is a consumer demand for the product. Booth #11030.

(815-587-8700; hardcore-brands.com)

F E AT U R E

Meet the Masters of Customer Service

MasterPiece Arms commits to making customer service priority number one

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oo often, in the rush to capitalize on market demand, manufacturers can forget about the folks who actually bought the product. Not MasterPiece Arms, the Georgia-based maker of tactical rifles, pistols, and related accessories. Like many other firearms manufacturers over the past couple of years, MasterPiece has experienced robust sales, so much so that the volume strained its customerservice operations.

“We focused all our efforts on filling outstanding orders,” says CEO Phil Cashin. Although those efforts certainly bolstered company coffers, in the process Cashin noticed a critical issue had raised its ugly little head.

“We recognized that our customers were experiencing problems with accessory orders and with our warranty repair orders,” he says. “It was just taking too long to get the product to them.”

Cashin and his team conducted a MasterPiece Arms has strengthened its commitment to providing the best customer service.

thorough evaluation of their procedures. They then decided that customers who had supported MasterPiece on the sales side needed, in turn, to be supported by MasterPiece on the service side.

So, last fall the manufacturer assigned dedicated personnel (as well as the appropriate resources) to remedy the shipping delays.

“The new MasterPiece Arms Customer Service Mission states that all warranty repairs will be completed and shipped back to the customer within 48 hours of receipt,” Cashin says. “Orders for all in-stock accessories will be shipped to the customer within 48 hours of

the receipt of the order. If, for any reason, MasterPiece Arms does not notify the customer or ship the warranty repair or in-stock product within 48 hours, MPA will issue a $25 certificate to be used on any MPA accessory or service.”

Cashin notes that the guarantee does not apply to out-of-stock parts, and shipping is limited to weekdays only. But still, this is a company that understands that when it comes to service, it needed to put its money where its mouth was. Consider it a tip of the hat to those who got them there.

Booth #2716. (770-832-9430; masterpiecearms.com)

F E AT U R E

Going the Distance

Remington’s Hypersonic rifle ammo extends the range of the hunter By David Draper

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espite the high velocities that hunters always seem to be chasing, faster is not always better when it comes to big-game bullets. Increasing velocities has a way of also increasing problems in both ballistic and terminal performance, particularly among lesser-made loads. They either lack extreme accuracy to make the long shot, are too fragile and do not perform well at close ranges, or resist expansion at the longer ranges where the terminal velocity of the bullet is drastically reduced. Still, in many respects, speed does kill, especially at longer ranges, and that’s what consumers increasingly ask for. To meet that need with a bullet that works, Remington developed the Hypersonic Bonded ammunition for centerfire rifles.

“We wanted to provide hunters and shooters with a product that would extend the effective range of their existing firearm by developing game-changing velocity and flatter trajectory loads, combined with extreme accuracy and terminal performance in the most popular cartridges they already use,” says Nick Sachse, Remington’s senior product manager of centerfire rifle ammunition and ammunition components.

“Simply stated, you can shoot farther, accurately, and you can rest assured knowing that the specially engineered bullet is absolutely going to do its job when it gets there.”

First introduced at last year’s SHOT Show, Remington Hypersonic Rifle Bonded ammuni-

tion gained a few new SKUs this past fall, including a 180-grain .308 offering and a 7mm Remington Magnum in 160-grain. All Hypersonic rifle cartridges feature Remington’s proprietary blend of loading components specifically developed to deliver a deadly combination of increased velocity and flat trajectory.

To achieve increased velocities of 100 to 150 feet per second faster, Remington worked with its industry partners to create efficient propellants that deliver the precise burn rates necessary to maximize the acceleration while maintaining operating pressures within industry standard safe levels. The company then added first-rate primers and quality cases, to optimize the com-

pany’s CoreLokt bullet.

“Our CoreLokt Ultra Bonded bullets were intentionally designed to shoot accurately at the elevated velocities achieved with Hypersonic Rifle Bonded ammunition,” says Sachse.

“This precision accuracy equates to extended-range capability and superior terminal ballistic performance at the velocities seen at both up close and extended distances.”

Like the original CoreLokt bullets, the jackets are drawn on one-ofa-kind presses that create virtually no wall thickness variation that can lead to poor accuracy and erratic terminal ballistic performance, especially at high speeds. The mid-­section is further thickened and tapered to control expansion without sacrificing

Remington’s Hypersonic Rifle Bonded ammunition takes the CoreLokt Ultra Bonded bullets and maximizes their speed while keeping a flat trajectory.

its ability to reliably initiate expansion at the lower speeds seen at long range. A proprietary manufacturing process ensures the bullet is completely homogenous in its construction, meaning there are no voids to be found between the jacket and lead core or within the lead core that could lead to poor accuracy and, of course, the soft lead core is chemically bonded to the jacket to ensure they will not separate upon impact.

“Loaded to Hypersonic velocities, the CoreLokt Ultra Bond makes it possible for hunters to ethically and effectively extend the range of their existing firearm in existing chamberings,” says Sachse. Booth #15427.

(800-243-9700; remington.com)

NEWS

Golden Moose Award Winners Last night Outdoor Channel revealed the winners of the 14th Annual Golden Moose Awards. Among the winners were Jim Shockey’s The Professionals, Best Overall Production; Shooting USA’s Impossible Shots, Best Shooting; Ram Outdoorsman, Best Show Open; Hornady’s Dark and Dangerous, Best General Interest Show; and MidwayUSA’s Gun Stories, Best Conservation/Educational/Instructional.

In the Fan Favorite category, winners included Ted Nugent’s Spirit of the Wild; Chris Brackett’s Arrow Affliction; and Adam LaRoche, Ryan Langerhans, Tombo Martin, Luke Bryan, Jason Aldean, and Willie Robertson of Buck Commander: Protected by Under Armour.

In addition, Larry Potterfield was given an honorary Lifetime Achievement award.

S&W’s Snubby .460

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here’s something comforting about holding a pistol that feels like you can use it to club a bear to death if necessary. The new snubby Smith & Wesson .460 XVR Performance Center revolver is a real hunk of steel—but it’s a very well balanced and comfortable-­shooting hunk of steel.

Lots of shooters shy away from large-caliber handguns for a variety reasons. Seeing a little 2.5inch barrel on a handgun that previously sold as a long-barreled hunting handgun is a tad disconcerting at first. But, we must venture forward to learn our limits, so I stepped up to the range as others shook their heads and said, “No thanks.”

This is the first short-barreled offering of the S&W X-Frame .460XVR with an unfluted cylinder, bringing the revolver out of the field and into the self-defense arena. I eased my way into the big single/double-action gun, loading a .45 Long Colt, a .454 Casull, and, finally, the hefty

Supporting Semper Fi Medford Knife & Tool, a manufacturer of highend tactical knives, and Moteng North America, a distributor of hunting, shooting, and tactical products, recently teamed up for a good cause.

Greg Medford created a one-of-a-kind Praetorian folder and donated it to Moteng to help support the Semper Fi Fund (semperfifund.org). The

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S&W .460 Magnum.

The Colt round barely made the 60-ounce gun flinch. The Casull barked with a little muzzle flip, as did the .460, but just barely. The contoured synthetic grip is just plain comfy. More important, all three rounds were right on target. Booth #13731. (smith-wesson.com) —David Maccar Semper Fi Fund is a nonprofit organization set up to provide immediate financial assistance and lifetime support for injured and critically ill members of the U.S. Armed Forces and their families.

Moteng held an online auction last fall. The high bidder would be flown to the 2014 SHOT Show (at Moteng’s expense), where he would receive the knife at a presentaiton at the Medford booth. The winner, James Hontz, who bid $3,000, received the custom-made knife yesterday. Moteng then added $2,500, making for a total donation of $5,500. Booth #10263. (medfordknifeandtool.com)

1/16/14 3:57 PM

NEWS

MINUTES WITH…

MINI SCABBARD ® Conceived for Men,

Adam Blalock

President and CEO, Walther Arms, Inc.

Crucial Move But Women Love It Too!

Walther has reestablished itself in the United States By Slaton L. White

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alther is a highly regarded brand, and its products grace the homes of many American shooters. But until recently, the company, based in Arnsberg, Germany, didn’t have a corporate presence in the U.S. That changed when Walther Arms Inc.—the U.S. division of Walther, which is headquartered in Fort Smith, Arkansas—officially took over all aspects of the U.S. business. SHOT Business sat down with Adam Blalock, president and CEO of Walther Arms, Inc., to get his take on Walther and the state of the shooting-sports industry as a whole.

SHOT Daily: Walther recently reestablished itself in the U.S. with an impressive facility in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Why was this a crucial move for the company? What does it mean for retailers?

MSRP

99

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• Premium cowhide • Detailed molding • Adjustable tension device

Adam Blalock: It was an absolutely crucial move. Providing world-class service to U.S. customers requires a U.S. presence—a presence in all respects. Primarily, that means dedicated Walther personnel, but the physical presence of a worldclass facility for the operation is also vital. Our campus in Fort Smith is the right tool for our mission. And I’m proud to be located in a state that is friendly and supportive to gun owners.

Arkansas welcomed Walther with open arms.

SD: What is the relationship between the U.S. arm and its German parent?

AB: We are family-owned, and legally and

Please visit us at Booth # 10962

We didn’t invent concealment, we just perfected it!

technically, the two companies have common ownership [shareholders]. But as it relates to a real “relationship,” the answer is simple: We are one team. In every aspect of the business, Walther associates on both sides of the Atlantic work together.

SD: Your role as president and CEO provides you with a unique perspective on the shooting-­sports industry. What would you say is the current state of the industry? What are its greatest challenges?

800-GUNHIDE 631-841-6300 www.desantisholster.com 431 Bayview Avenue, Amityville, NY 11701

BC_023287_SBDD413P.indd 1 058_SHD04_5MW-AB.indd 58

AB: Of course, 2013 was an extraordinary time in our market, one unmatched in history. The ongoing legislative challenges and relentless assault on our right to keep and bear arms at the federal level and state by state is an obvious challenge for our industry. But we also have an extraordinary opportunity in front of us—we’re fortunate to have so many new first-time gun owners. What will our industry do with that opportunity? Can we continue to recruit new

participation? Will our industry be welcoming, friendly, and enthusiastic toward first-time participants in order to retain and grow our market?

When I visit with shooters, retailers, distributors, and competitors, I’m more than optimistic because it seems that most everyone recognizes the opportunity and wants to grow the whole pie.

SD: When you wake up in the morning, what gets you excited about your business?

AB: Aside from the opportunity to be part of a

company and a brand that is nearly 130 years old, I love the culture of our industry. This includes work, family, customers, press, and competitors. In the population we call “the gun industry,” you find an extraordinary number of solid people with strong values and fabric. They express deeply held beliefs about family, faith, and work ethics. They are patriots and defenders of freedom. I’m humbled to be a part of that.

11/21/13 4:05 PM 1/16/14 3:03 PM

NEWS

Over-theCounter Custom Scopes U.S. Optics enters commercial market

The SR-4C dot sight features true 1X power and a daylight-visible red-dot sight (second focal plane) rolled up in a lightweight and rugged 30mm hardanodized aluminum body. The red dot can be set at any of 12 pre-programmed intensity settings. The lower four settings are night-vision-compatible.

By Robert Sadowski

F

or nearly a quarter century, U.S. Optics has been building custom riflescopes. But to the general shooting public, the manufacturer has been the optics industry’s best-kept secret. Not anymore.

The company began life in the garage of its founder, John Ben Williams Jr., in 1990. His intent was to create an optics company that would provide truly custom telescopic rifle sights that were designed by shooters for shooters. He did just that.

Over the years and after numerous custom riflescope orders from around the world, U.S. Optics saw a commonality of requested features from military and law-enforcement personnel, competitive shooters, and hunters. These similar features—such

as magnification range, reticle type, reticle illumination color, and exterior finish—were the genesis of the U.S. Optics commercial off-the-shelf (COTS) product line.

“U.S. Optics has always serviced the shooting community with a large amount of features for shooters to truly customize a scope for their intended purpose,” says George Syrengelas, director of sales operations for U.S. Optics. “Now, with a distilled and pared-down line of core products, U.S. Optics will be more flexible and better suited to build larger numbers.”

Syrengelas is careful to note that U.S. Optics is not looking to omit customized models from the lineup. The intent is to get excellent-quality scopes in the hands of shooters faster.

The new off-the-shelf models that make up the commercial product line were designed to meet the common and popular features found on custom-made scopes; there is very little difference between them and the custom-built optics.

All COTS products come off the same production lines and are assembled by the same skilled technicians who build every custom scope.

The 2014 product line nomenclature is based on purpose-driven product groups with respective model number prefixes—SR for Short Range, MR for Mid Range, LR for Long Range, and ER for Extended Range. Within each product group, there are two or more models from which customers can choose. Booth #20031. (714-582-1956; usoptics.com)

CT45 NEW!!

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Height: 5.25” Slide Width: 1.01” Length O/A: 6.57” Weight: 23.7 oz

MSRP: $449.00

CT40 NEW!!

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NEWS

It’s a Gas! The Umarex Octagon is a gas-spring air rifle that’s both powerful and accurate

By Jock Elliott

T

he Octane is Umarex’s first venture into making and bringing to market a gasspring break-barrel air rifle.

The 48.5-inch, 10-pound 3-ounce air rifle (with included scope) delivers a ton of power, accompanied by a neighbor-friendly report.

Available in .177 caliber and .22, the heart of the Octane is a powerplant that Umarex has dubbed the “Reverse-Axis Gas Piston,” or ReAxis for short.

The ReAxis powerplant uses a gas cylinder—very similar to the gas strut that lifts the rear gate of minivans and SUVs—to store and release energy.

By contrast, conventional spring-piston airguns use a steel spring for energy storage.

The ReAxis mechanism works the same way as a conventional spring-piston powerplant; when you pull the barrel down and back, you drive the piston down the cylinder, compressing the gas inside the gas spring. The cocked powerplant sits

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Powered by Umarex’s innovative ReAxis powerplant, the Octagon operates silently and smoothly—especially in conjunction with the SilencAir airgun suppressor. The two-stage adjustable trigger lets off at 3.5 pounds.

there, storing energy until the shooter pulls the trigger. When that happens, in an instant the gas spring drives the piston forward, compressing air in front of it until the compressed air squirts through the transfer port into the breech, blasting the pellet down the barrel.

There are several advantages to the gas spring powerplant. There is no spring noise during the cocking stroke; it’s as silent and smooth as a bank vault and requires about 42 pounds of effort on the Octane. In addition, there is no spring torque, twang, or vibration when the shot goes off; all you’ll feel is a quick pulse of recoil and the shot goes downrange. Further, you can leave a gas piston airgun cocked for days without worrying that a steel spring is going to weaken or take a “set.”

Finally, experienced air-rifle hunters report that gas-spring air rifles are easier to shoot well off sticks or a rest because they are less “hold sensitive” than conventional spring-piston air rifles.

ReAxis is unique in that the gas spring operates in reverse of other gas springs, providing more mass behind the piston. The result is more power at the muzzle. Although the Octane box claims 1,250 fps with alloy pellets and 1,050 fps with lead pellets, for greatest accuracy, it’s best to keep pellets well below the speed of sound (1,100 fps at

sea level). The .22 Octane I tested would launch 14.3-grain pellets at an average of 838 fps for an impressive 22.5 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. With proper shot placement, that’s more than enough to anchor that raccoon that’s been molesting your garbage cans or a woodchuck in the garden.

The Octane, which comes with a three-year warranty, features an all-weather ambidextrous composite thumbhole stock with a soft-rubber buttpad. The two-stage adjustable trigger lets off at about 3.5 pounds. The 3–9x40 AO duplex reticle scope connects to the receiver through a Picatinny rail adapter for secure mounting. In addition to the scope, there are front and rear fiber-optic sights.

At the end of the 19.5-inch barrel is the SilencAir, a molded polymer five-chamber nonremovable airgun-silencing system. SilencAir drops the report significantly, which should help to keep peace with the neighbors.

I found the Octane to be solidly built and fun to shoot. I was impressed by its power and smooth operation. At 20 yards, it delivered dime-sized five-shot groups. It’s an airgun I could happily recommend for hunting and pest control. SRP: $245.

Booth #14745. (479-646-4210; umarexusa.com)

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NEWS

The modular MVP bolt-action rifles take advantage of the company’s innovative FLEX locking system.

Tactical Advantage

Mossberg steps large into the tactical shooting market By Brian McCombie

L

ike a growing number of shooters and hunters, I love firearms, optics, and gear that reflect a tactical heritage. So I was pleased when Mossberg debuted several new tactical rifles, including one I had a chance to use recently: the MVP FLEX, a bolt-action chambered in 7.62 NATO (.308 Win). At first sight, the MVP FLEX got a thumbs up from me, thanks to its black composite stock, the medium bull barrel, six-position MSR-style stock, and Picatinny rail atop the receiver.

Even better, it proved to be very accurate at the range, and the magazine-feeding system worked flawlessly. In the field, the rifle got bumped around a bit, enduring rain and dirt without missing a beat. And that toughness allowed me to take two black bears in northern Alberta. I’ve

reviewed a number of tactical boltactions over the past couple of years, and the MVP FLEX is right at the top for functionality, looks, and price.

Hold on, you say. “Tactical” and “Mossberg”? Those terms don’t go together, do they?

Actually, they do—probably more

so than most people realize.

In fact, Mossberg has been in the tactical business for nearly 30 years, in the form of the Mossberg 590A1 pump shotgun for the U.S. military.

The manufacturer still has an active military contract for those shotguns.

The 590 is also the shotgun of

choice for the Texas Department of Public Safety and the New York City Police Department, and numerous other state and federal agencies.

Meantime, if you flip through a recent Mossberg catalog, you’ll see a variety of tactically focused shotguns, bolt-actions, and modern sporting rifles (MSRs). So why don’t more people know about this?

“For years we didn’t talk about the military and tactical pedigree we have,” says Tom Taylor, Mossberg’s senior vice president of sales and marketing. “It wasn’t really a conscious decision. For decades, our focus has just been the traditional hunting market. And it’s still a huge part of what we do.”

But several years ago, Mossberg started offering shotguns geared toward the personal self-defense market. Many of these shotguns, like the Cruiser, are variations of the flagship Mossberg 500 shotgun. Plus, Mossberg dived into the centerfire bolt-action market in the mid-2000s, starting with the ATR and later the 4x4 bolt-action offerings.

“Probably 99 percent of those early bolt-actions were for hunting,” Taylor notes. “But we also offered the ATR Night Train boltaction, with more of a tactical look, as a kind of niche rifle. It was a

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surprisingly good seller.”

In 2012, Mossberg entered the MSR market with the Mossberg Modern Rifle, or MMR. At that point there was no doubt about it: Mossberg was fully invested in selling tactical firearms to the general firearms buyer.

“Right away, we had an unbelievable backlog on the MMR,” Taylors says. “It came out before the big MSR surge, and before we knew it, we had a one-year backlog on MMR orders.”

Offered in 5.56mm/.223 Rem., the MMR is a solid, well-designed MSR, capable of great accuracy. I found this out on an Oregon varmint shoot, where, with quality optics, I was able to hit diminutive ground squirrels out to 250-plus yards. With an adjustable six-position tactical stock, a Picatinny quad-rail forearm and top rail, and a black phosphate/ anodized finish, the standard model MMR (there are eight model offerings) retails for just under $800 at many outlets. This at a time when many basic MSRs have an asking price of $1,000 or better.

For 2013, Mossberg upped the tactical ante with the MVP FLEX and MVP Patrol rifles in 5.56mm/.223 Rem. and 7.62 NATO (.308 Win.). One of the key features of both rifle lines is that they use standard MSR-style magazines.

Mossberg first made its bolt-actions MSR-magazine capable with the MVP Predator and Varmint models a couple of years ago.

In 2012, Mossberg launched the FLEX series in its 500 shotgun line, with the patented FLEX TLS (Tool-less Locking System), which allows shooters to easily switch out stocks and forends for fit and application. With the MVP FLEX rifles, Mossberg combined the MSR magazine capabilities of the MVP series with the ease of stock changing from its FLEX series.

My MVP FLEX arrived with the rifle’s standard six-position adjustable tactical stock. But Mossberg also sent along three other traditional stocks and buttpads in two thicknesses. The FLEX system being all about, well, flexibility, I decided to see just how easy it was to change up the stock and buttpad.

As advertised, it was a breeze. I simply pulled up on the half-moonshaped locking piece on the top of the stock’s wrist, then turned it 90 degrees once the key was fully extended. The stock was released and I pulled it out. I slid a new stock onto the now-exposed metal peg.

Once the stock was in place, I turned the locking piece back in the opposite direction, pushed it down, and the new stock was firmly secured.

Recoil pads are even easier. A small tab is located at the toe of the stock, just before the pad. I squeezed the tab from both sides with my fingers, and the pad was released. I pulled it off and snapped on a different pad.

Value-Oriented

➤ So how is Mossberg’s move into the tactical arena going over with firearms buyers? At Herb Bauer Sporting Goods, an NSSF-member retailer in Fresno, California, the answer is, very well.

“Customer demand for both Mossberg’s self-defense shotguns and their tactical MVPs is outstanding,” says John Lewis, hunting department manager and buyer. “What is so great about Mossberg’s extensive lineup is just that—a huge variety of firearms with a number of individual characteristics. Take, for instance, their Tactical 464 SPX 30-30 [lever action]. We have many local hunters that have bought this rifle due to the fact that the tactical stock is adjustable for young sons or daughters. The Picatinny rails provide another unique look, especially with the fiber-optic sights and the MSR-type muzzle brake. This is niche marketing at its finest.”

Lewis notes that the retailer is

able to sell every MVP it gets. “This was a great addition to Mossberg’s lineup because they are utilizing MSR mags. They have great-looking laminated stocks, too, and a variety of choices within the lineup.”

Mossberg has always had a reputation for providing firearms at a moderate price. Some will remember Mossberg’s marketing slogan from years back: “More gun for the money.” Lewis says that’s still the case with Mossberg’s tactical lineup.

“The MVP typically sells from $600 to $750, several hundred dollars cheaper than an equivalent model [from competitors],” he says.

“It pretty much sits in its own price class, and it sells itself all day long.

Mossberg is truly value-oriented in their pricing structure.”

Booth #12734. (203-230-5300; mossberg.com)

The author with a black bear he took with a traditional stocked Mossberg MVP FLEX.

Tibet GTX® Hi NEW Z-8S GTX®

Field & Stream’s 2013 Best of the Best / Outdoor Life’s 2013 Editor’s Choice

HANDCRAFTED IN EUROPE

• • • •

Special medial sole wrap to prevent rope abrasion while rappelling (on the new Z-8S GTX®).

Patented tongue stud with X-Lacing to hold the foot firmly, with no hot spots or pressure points (on the new Tibet Hi GTX®).

Patented, lasted GORE-TEX® linings for waterproof / breathable comfort with virtually no chance of blisters.

Shock absorbing PU midsoles that last far longer than the cheaper alternatives.

It’s why LOWA continues to be the only outdoor footwear manufacturer to hold ISO 9001 status for highest quality construction and process standards.

To see the entire 2014 line of LOWA Boots, visit www.lowaboots.com © 2014 LOWA Boots, LLC. GORE-TEX® is a registered trademark of W.L. Gore & Associates Inc. VIBRAM®, the Octagon Logo, and the Yellow Octagon Logo and the color Canary Yellow are registered trademarks of Vibram S.p.A.

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NEWS

NEW PRODUCTS SureFire The Dedicated Shotgun Forend WeaponLights line now features ultra-high light output.

SureFire

➤ SureFire has completely re-imagined its Dedicated Shotgun Forend WeaponLights from the top down.

New DSF-Series shotgun forend models feature an ultra-high output of 600 lumens on high setting and 200 lumens on low. Additional features include a precision reflector, ambidextrous switching, and sleek,

high-impact polymer that is textured for a secure grip in any tactical situation.

The new DSF models are designed to replace the factory forends on the Remington 870, Mossberg 500/590, Winchester Defender 1300 and SPX, FNH P-12, and Benelli M1 Super 90 and M2 models. No permanent modification to the host firearm is

necessary for installation, and all models seamlessly integrate into the place of the factory forend.

The DSF features large, tactile momentary and constant-on switches on both sides for precise control by left- or right-handed shooters.

Selecting the LED’s output is achieved by activating the light in constant-on mode and then pressing the output-mode selector switch until the desired output level (200 or 600 lumens) is set. The selected output can then be left in constant-on mode or switched to momentary activation, and it stays at that output level until reset. Every DSF-Series WeaponLight also features an integrated system-disable switch to prevent accidental activation during transport, storage, or stealth operations. All DSF models produce tactical-level light (over 50 lumens) for three hours on two 123A lithium batteries. SRP:

$375 to $395. Booth #13968. (800828-8809; surefire.com)

Thermacell

➤ Thermacell heated remote—control insoles help keep hunters comfortable in cold weather. The one

ThermaCell Remote-control inserts are now available with removable, rechargeable batteries.

E R O M t E G U O Y , S E M I SOMEt

thAN YOU PAY FOR. AND YOUR CUStOMERS WILL APPRECIAtE thAt.

Del-Ton Incorporated offers a full line of AR-15 style modern sporting rifles that promise your customers a great value for a modest investment. We back that up with a lifetime warranty on our rifles* and great customer service.

SHow T o H S y b p Please sTo

7 0 4 0 3 # B TH

*Warranty applies to original owner.

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Our online dealer portal makes it easy to order parts, upgrades and accessories, so please visit del-ton.com for more information.

www.del-ton.com

www.facebook.com/deltoninc

1/16/14 6:16 PM 12/19/13 9:51 AM

news

Browning Trail Cameras Strike Force and Dark Ops trail cameras are virtually undetectable by game animals.

#2348. (866-753-3837; thermacell. com)

Flambeau Outdoors

issue has been when the charge runs out while a hunter is still on stand.

But the new ProFLEX heated insoles go a long way toward solving that problem. These heated insoles retain all the benefits of the original product, but add one key additional feature—a rechargeable, removable battery that can be pulled out and replaced with a fully charged spare for extended operation. In addition, the battery cover is made from Poron, an anti-microbial shockabsorbing cushion, and the waterresistant insoles use a more flexible material for easier insertion into a variety of hunting boots.

ThermaCell has also revised the charging system by including a wallcharger and a USB port. Booth

.

➤ The M.A.D. Walking Tom is the first gobbler decoy in the industry in a non-threatening walking pose.

While strut and half-strut decoys excite aggressive, territorial responses in many gobblers, they frighten just as many away. The Walking Tom still challenges other toms, but won’t scare as many away.

It’s sized to look like a smaller, 18-pound gobbler instead of a giant boss. The decoy is finished in realistic feather detail and paints, and is made of collapsible plastic and can crush down to fit in a gamebag.

The beard can be displayed full length or shortened to look like a jake beard to make the decoy even less threatening. The plastic beard supplied with the decoy can be replaced with a real one. Grommets on the sides let you attach real wings for added authenticity. The lightweight decoy will move easily in the wind and comes with a folding stake. SRP: $49.99. Booth #1750. (flambeaucases.com)

Browning Trail Cameras

➤ The new Strike Force and Dark Ops Trail Cameras measure only 4.3x3.8x2.4 inches, making them so small they are virtually undetectable by animal or human eyes. Each camera is conveniently powered by six AA batteries, sets up easily, and features time, date, temperature, moon phase, and camera ID on the data strip of every image.

Trigger speeds of .67 seconds, recovery times of 2.1 seconds, and increased power efficiency allow the cameras to capture more than 10,000 images on a single battery charge.

And when it comes to infrared images, the auto-adjusting illumination feature prevents overexposed images in nighttime photos and videos while the extended illumination feature brightens the entire field of view and eliminates dark edges. Booth #15642. (888-618-4496; browning

flame-resistant properties of Nomex while offering the combination of authentic military style and functionality. It is available in sage, black, and khaki. The Z24P021CWU-45P offers the same Nomex fabric and cut, is available in brown, and is equipped with a removable lining for added warmth.

The Z21P026-U.S. Government A-1 offers the classic lines of an A-2 Flight Jacket, and is made of the company’s exclusive fire-retardant cowhide leather. Available in black, the jacket has large patch pockets with flap closures. Booth #8009.

(212-575-1616; cockpitusa.com)

trailcameras.com)

Cockpit USA

➤ Cockpit USA is flying high with a new line of lightweight Nomex Jackets. The Z26P005-CWU-45P, a modified CWU 45P, features the Cockpit USA Cockpit’s new line of lightweight Nomex jackets combine classic style and utility.

EOTech’s Holographic Weapon Sight is superior to red dots: • Large ring around the dot gets you on target faster • The smallest dot in the industry provides better accuracy • Square window offers the largest feld of view

transform your arsenal.

XPS Black

.

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3 9:51 AM

For more information, visit www.eotech-inc.com/products/sights/xps2

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Communications Company © 2013, L-3 EOTech

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show scenes SHOT Business Editor Slaton L. White presented CorBon/ Glaser with the Company of the Year Award.

Competitive shooter and instructor Todd Jarrett “caught in the act.”

Bushnell Outdoor Products presented a check to the Folds of Honor Foundation to help families of veterans.

At the NSSF State of the Industry Dinner Tuesday night, NSSF president Steve Sanetti told attendees to “be proud” of upholding “a precious American tradition.”

Galco Gunleather debuted a new shoulder-rig platform that securely holds almost any knife sheath.

Smith & Wesson had its snubby new Performance Center .460XVR revolver ready to fire on Range Day. The gun handles .45 Long Colt, .454 Casull, and .460 magnum rounds.

Known for combining comedy and magic, Penn & Teller closed their show with the “bullet catch” illusion.

SHOT Daily, the daily newspaper of the 2014 SHOT Show, again chronicled the events of another recordbreaking show.

Megan Erskine aims a KPOS Generation 2 P.O.W. conversion kit from FAB Defense, which allows you to turn your handgun into a fully adjustable personal-defense weapon with multiple rails, a scope, and a folding stock.

One of the lovely sights from SHOT Show: women shooters, who are joining our ranks in record numbers.

66 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 4, January 17, 2014

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