shooting hunting outdoor trade show 1979–2011
NSSF
NEW PRODUCT REPORTS SHOT Daily goes to the floor and profiles the latest optics at this year’s show p. 16. Also, see what’s new in ammunition p. 28 and outerwear p. 36
News *SHOT Business
presents Awards Industry leaders are honored for their dedication to the shooting sports industry. SEE PAGE 4
*raw-goods commodity crisis First, there were the steep price hikes in ammo. Now, steel yourself for the next price crisis, this time in the clothing industry. SEE PAGE 8
*welcome back, colt The new LE901, a multi-caliber modular weapon system, debuts at SHOT Show. SEE PAGE 78
*atk hits the road
ATK trailers travel the U.S. helping dealers attract customers and sell products. SEE PAGE 91
The Daily News of the 2011 Las Vegas SHOT Show Brought to You by The Bonnier Corporation and the NSSF
Shot U. Hits 10-Year Mark
M
ore than 300 firearms retailers from around the country attended the 10th annual Shot University Monday at the Sands Convention Center. “I was very pleased about the attentiveness, the note-taking and how the Q&A sessions went,” says Randy Clark, NSSF managing director of business development. “It’s very obvious that these retailers are serious about growing their businesses and that we hit the mark with the class schedule and educational content.” Subjects covered ranged from the basics of ATF compliance and merchandising to financials and how to take advantage of gunsmithing opportunities. New this year was a seminar, conducted by Tracy Moffatt, on analyzing numbers and planning for the future. Moffatt is a veteran of the golf retail industry and has no experience in the firearms arena.
Wounded Warrior Raffle
FEATURES *remington’s
versatile versaMax The autoloader is designed to feed and cycle reliably. SEE PAGE 54
*authentic products, unique designs
Filson, with a new CEO aboard, moves forward. SEE PAGE 56
*the mossberg way
The new deer-turkey combo gets the job done for not a lot of money. SEE PAGE 58
Day 2 , January 19, 2 011
International Supplies will raffle off a Novak Custom Tactical Model 870 Remington to help raise money for the Wounded Warrior Project. Tickets are $5, and all proceeds from the raffle will go toward the Wounded Warrior Project. Booth #1266.
More than 300 firearms retailers attended the 10th edition of SHOT U. Attendees learned the value of inventory control and turnover ratios.
“We brought Tracy in because we thought it would be refreshing for our retailers to hear what’s the norm outside of our industry,” says Clark. “If I had to choose two key areas for retailers to home in on, it would be inventory control and turnover ratios,” says Moffatt. “The reality is that retailing is retailing, regardless of whether you sell golf balls or bullets.”
Many retailers polled at the end of the day agreed it was a day well spent. “We have been attending SHOT U. for the past three years, and it’s worth every penny,” says Al Noyes of Grrr Gear Inc. from Orange, Massachusetts. “The seminars are excellent, and it’s great to be able to talk to other dealers who face the same issues we do.”—William Kendy
ATK Names Dealer of the Year ATK has named Kittery Trading Post its 2010 Dealer of the Year. The store used unique marketing techniques and took advantage of co-op programs to post impressive sales in 2010. Located in Kittery, Maine, Kittery Trading Post, founded in 1938, employs more than 400 people and has more than 100,000 square feet of retail space. It carries nearly the entire line-up of ATK brands, and in 2010, the retailer did a good job of moving a variety of products. “Kittery gave exceptional support in our accessory brands, especially with Weaver Optics and RCBS Reloading,” said Bart Biedinger, ATK dealer services manager. “Their creative marketing and smart use of co-op dollars make them a most deserving dealer of this prestigious award. They understand how to grow brands and increase turns.” Kittery’s success continues because of its knowledgeable staff, great location, competitive pricing and impres-
Fox Keim and Kim Adams of the Kittery Trading Post display ATK’s 2010 Dealer of the Year Award.
sive selection. “We do what we call team-building exercises,” said Fox Keim, Kittery Trading Post’s vice president. “We try out new products to familiarize ourselves with the latest and greatest.” ATK prides itself on supporting independent retailers, and it offers dealers a variety of support options. “We’re glad we’ve found a great partner like ATK, which offers aggressive programs that allow us to make a profit,” said Keim.
day 2, January 19, 2011 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ 1
A CLASSIC PERFECTED SLC 42 HD. CRYSTAL CLEAR, ERGONOMIC AND RUGGED
The lifelike color reproduction and exceptional transmission of this binocular is mainly due to high performance HD optics that guarantee an outstanding image quality from dawn till dusk. Its new focusing mechanism for quick, precise, adjustment coupled with the time-tested, ergonomically designed thumb rests and depressions for secure and comfortable handling demonstrate an effortless combination of state-of-the-art technology with long-established tradition.
or trem lyx en stm ju
S
fec
l op ty sin ou h
ick u
d n
recis
NEW FOCUSING MECHANISM
quick aand p precise ffor eextremely q adjustmentt ad
HIGH PERFORMANCE HD OPTICS C s
for maximum color ďŹ delity, perfect er t contrast and impressive transmission smis ion
COMPACT AND RUGGED
esd thanks to an ergonomically a l optimized imiz design ign and lightweight magnesium um housing g
SEE THE UNSEEN
WWW.SWAROVSKIOPTIK.COM SWAROVSKI OPTIK NORTH AMERICA LTD. 2 Slater Road, Cranston, RI 02920 Phone 800 426 3089, Fax 401 734 5888 info@swarovskioptik.us
BN_026416_SHBD211.indd 2
Visit us at Booth#12120
11/29/10 1:48 PM
ON TARGET
Z6(i) WITH BALLISTIC TURRET
The Ballistic Turret (BT) allows you to stay on target when sighting in at different distances and lets you take precise, long-range shots with confidence.
f rth l Available as an option od esm n for o these modelss Z6(i) 1.7-10x42 Z6(i) 2-12x50 Z6(i) 2.5-15x44 Z6(i) 2.5-15x56 Z6(i) 3-18x50 Z6(i) 5-30x50 efit The Ballistic Turret can b an be fitted d s p o on your existing rifle scope c e
SEE THE UNSEEN
WWW.SWAROVSKIOPTIK.COM SWAROVSKI OPTIK NORTH AMERICA LTD. 2 Slater Road, Cranston, RI 02920 Phone 800 426 3089, Fax 401 734 5888 info@swarovskioptik.us
BN_026416_SHBD211.indd 3
Visit us at Booth#12120
11/29/10 1:48 PM
news
Taurus 2011 Defender of Freedom Award
Steve Urvan (holding plaque), of GunBroker.com, accepts the award for Company/Organization of the Year, which was presented to him at the Bonnier Outdoor Group breakfast by SHOT Business editor Slaton White (on Urvan’s left). The staff of GunBroker.com joined Urvan in accepting the award.
SHOT Business Honors Leaders in the Industry
S
HOT Business magazine took center stage at the Bonnier Outdoor Group breakfast yesterday morning to honor six industry leaders. The honorees were Retailer of the Year, Richard Sprague, Sprague’s Sports; Distributor of the Year, Lipsey’s; Manufacturer’s Representative of the Year, Mike Gladson, Ruger; Range of the Year, Ed Santos, Center Target Sports; Company/Organization of the Year, Steve Urvan, GunBroker.com; and Person of the Year, David Baron.
The purpose of the SHOT Business Award Program is to acknowledge industry leaders who preserve and promote America’s hunting and shooting heritage. “The winners represent the top of every field,” said Slaton White, editor of SHOT Business. “Every year, the SHOT Business Awards acknowledge leadership in the shooting-sports industry and the communities in which our representatives reside. In addition to—and perhaps more important than—being good in their respective fields,
each of these winners gives back to our industry and to their communities. They are also involved politically, in one way or another, in the all-important fight to bequeath the heritage of our sports to another generation of Americans.” “It is a tremendous honor to be named Company of the Year by SHOT Business magazine in recognition of the service we provide to the gun industry. We would like to thank our customers for helping to make us the number-one website for converting trade-ins, excess or surplus stock, consignments and other inventory into cash for the benefit of the retailer,” said Steve Urvan, president of GunBroker.com “I’m humbled and honored by the recognition,” said Richard Sprague, owner of Sprague Sports. “This is my 32nd straight SHOT Show. As usual, this is a team award—a lot of people have contributed to our success. I’m fortunate to be part of an industry that continues to support what we do, and continues to evolve. I’m also thankful to the NSSF, particularly for being such a great, supportive trade organization. —John Burgman
At the ring of the first bell at SHOT Show today, Bob Morrison, president and CEO of Taurus International, announced that Jim Land is the 2011 Taurus Defender of Freedom Award recipient. “Marine Jim Land, distinguished rifle and pistol marksman, has spent his entire life upholding the constitutional rights we have to be free, to bear arms and to call ourselves Americans,” said Morrison. “In the service, and in his private life, he has served as a model for strong leadership, a sense of duty and a protector of our freedoms. Sharing his exceptional skills as a shooter, he has trained so many of our armed forces to shoot straight, both at the range and in life. His bravery and his resolve have helped to defend our constitution and to preserve our way of life.” Land is secretary of the National Rifle Association. An NRA Benefactor member, Land has served the association in many capacities, including five years as director of the Membership Division. Land also managed the NRA’s grassroots activities as director of Field Services, and served as an NRA field representative. An avid shooter and competitor, Land has won distinguished badges in both rifle and pistol marksmanship, and has set seven national shooting records in competition.
Field & Stream Honors Industry’s Best of the Best
Anthony Licata (right), Field & Stream’s editor, presents Mark Gregory, general manager of Moultrie, with a Best of the Best Award.
Field & Stream presented its 13th annual Best of the Best Awards yesterday at the SHOT Show. “The Field & Stream Best of the Best Awards is one of the most popular issues we publish,” says Field & Stream editor Anthony Licata. “With more innovation than ever in our industry, readers depend on Field & Stream to find and evaluate the truly great products that are available to sportsmen and shooters.” Taking honors this year were the following products: Caesar Guerini Ellipse shotgun; Nosler Model 48 Trophy Grade rifle; Traditions Vortek Ultra Light muzzleloader; Minox Comfort Bridge BL binoculars; Nikon Monarch M-223 riflescope; Polaris Ranger EV ATV; Yamaha Grizzly 450 EPS; Matthews Z7 compound bow; Winchester
4 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
Ballistic Silvertip lead-free varmint ammo and Nosler Custom Trophy Grade varmint lead-free ammo; Federal Premium Black Cloud snow goose shotgun shells; Traditions Smackdown SST muzzleloading bullets; Cold Steel Pendleton Lite Hunter knife; and Tops/Buck Csar-T LinerLock Folder. “Being chosen as best in class is a big honor,” said Matt McPherson, founder and CEO of Matthews, Inc. “I’m thankful to have such a great team at Matthews and one of the top magazines in the industry supporting all of our hard work.” Companies interested in having their products considered for 2011’s Best of the Best should go to fieldandstream.com/bobentry for details and an entry form.
Mother Nature is full of surprises. Be prepared for all of them with the Zippo Outdoor Line. From a hand warmer to an emergency ďŹ re starter kit, this rugged, durable line is designed to keep outdoorsmen warm in any conditions that the great outdoors throws their way.
Enter to win the Zippo Outdoor Adventure Getaway to Jackson Hole, WY, at Shot Show Booth #14810.
BN_026404_SHBD111.indd 1
11/29/10 11:28 AM
news
NSSF
With BuckWear’s New Hats, T-Shirts & Casual Wear!
Slaton L. White, Editor Margaret M. Nussey, Managing Editor David E. Petzal, Shooting Editor John Burgman, Assistant Editor Maribel Martin, Senior Administrative Assistant James A. Walsh, Art Director Shayna Marchese, Associate Art Director Andrea C. Uva, Assistant Art Director Justin Appenzeller, Photo Editor Paul L. Catalano, Production Manager
Contributing editors
Larry Ahlman, Michael Bane, Scott Bestul, Philip Bourjaily, Chris Christian, Christopher Cogley, Jock Elliott, Doug Howlett, William F. Kendy, Mark Kayser, Peter B. Mathiesen, Brian McCombie, Tom Mohrhauser, Robert Sadowski, Robert F. Staeger, Marilyn Stone
Eric Zinczenko, Vice President, Group Publisher ADVERTISING: 212-779-5509
John Graney, Associate Publisher Gregory D. Gatto, National Endemic and Online Director Paula Iwanski — Northeast Brian Peterson — West Stephen Mitchell — Southeast Classified: (800-445-2714) Francis McCaffrey Elizabeth A. Burnham, Associate Publisher, Marketing & Online Services Ingrid Reslmaier, Marketing Design Director
Business Operations
Tara Bisciello, Business Manager
CONSUMER MARKETING
Robert M. Cohn, Consumer Marketing Director Ray Ward, Senior Planning Manager
Manufacturing
Stefanie LaBella, Production Manager Laurel Kurnides, Group Production Director Barbara Taffuri, Production Director
The Bonnier Corporation Jonas Bonnier, Chairman Terry Snow, Chief Executive Officer Dan Altman, Chief Operating Officer Randall Koubek, Chief Financial Officer Mark Wildman, SVP, Corporate Sales & Marketing Bruce Miller, Vice President, Consumer Marketing Lisa Earlywine, Vice President, Production Bill Allman, Vice President, E-Media John Haskin, Vice President, Digital Sales & Marketing Shawn Larson, Vice President, Enterprise Systems Cathy Hertz, Vice President, Human Resources Dean Turcol, Vice President, Corporate Communications Michael Starobin, Vice President, Corporate Communications John Miller, Brand Director Stanley Weil, Director, Licensing & Merchandising Martin S. Walker, Publishing Consultant Jeremy Thompson, Corporate Counsel
SHOT Business (ISSN 1081-8618) is published 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 19, issue 1. Copyright © 2010 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 064702359. 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. REPRINTS: Wrights Reprints, 877-652-5295. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to SHOT Business, P.O. Box 1884, Lowell, MA 01853-9982. Printed in the USA.
For editorial inquiries, visit Venetian Level 3, San Polo 3504, in the Sands Expo & Convention Center.
BN_026649_SHBD211.indd 1
12/6/10 12:51 PM
Your Future Is Our Business It’s Also Our Mission and Passion
National Shooting Sports Foundation® Join the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Help us attract, excite and inform new hunters and shooters – and turn them into your customers. All of us are a part of the lucky few who make a living pursuing our passion. We are the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association of the firearms, ammunition and shooting industry. By becoming a NSSF member, you enable us to attract, excite and inform new hunters and shooters in every state about the sport we love . . . new enthusiasts mean more business for everyone. Whether it is in the field, on the range, in Washington, D.C. or 50 state capitals, we stand proudly as your voice. Help us make your voice louder and stronger where it counts.
For 50 years, our mission has always been to promote, protect and preserve our hunting and shooting sports. Now more than ever, it’s time to shoot for more and become a NSSF member. To join, contact Bettyjane Swann at (203) 426-1320 or bswann@nssf.org.
The future of your business depends on it. © iStockphoto.com/Sami Photography
Come visit us at Booth L221
www.nssfmembership.com
BN_026483_SHBD211.indd 1
12/2/10 11:16 AM
news
Leatherman Tool Group Sees the Light
In a way, flashlights are one of the few bright spots in a relentlessly challenging economy. According to one estimate, the category grew by as much as 35 percent last year. More than that, the light market has experienced strong growth since 2006, powered by the performance, cost savings and significant functional advantages of LED technology over traditional incandescent technology. The continued strength of LED lights spurred Leatherman to enter the category last month, when it announced that it had signed a definitive agreement to acquire a majority interest in Zweibrüder Optoelectronics GmbH & Co. KB, the German manufacturer of LED Lenser flashlights. Founders Rainer and Harald Opolka will remain in partnership with Leatherman as minority shareholders in Zweibrüder Optoelectronics. Leatherman CEO Jake Nichol will head up both Leatherman Tool Group, Inc., and the new subsidiary that will become the majority shareholder in Zweibrüder Optoelectronics. “Founded in 1994, LED Lenser revolutionized the flashlight market with cutting-edge innovation and precise German engineering,” says Nichol. “With more than 1,000 employees worldwide, the company is now one of the world’s leading flashlight manufacturers. LED Lenser lights use bright, highquality LEDs and patented optical, electronic and manufacturing systems. The lights are built to withstand the rigorous demands of military, law enforcement, rescue, backcountry and industrial applications.” Sounds like the same attributes built into Leatherman’s multi-tools. “This partnership supports our strategy of expanding into adjacent markets with an emphasis on innovation and precision engineering,” Nichol says. “By combining Leatherman’s advanced manufacturing capabilities with LED Lenser’s innovation, the entire team becomes that much more agile, and our business practices that much stronger.” LED Lenser will continue to sell its products under the LED Lenser brand. Booth #14512. (800-847-8665; leatherman.com)
Best known for its innovative multi-tools, Leathermen is also entering the flashlight market with the acqusition of LED Lenser.
John Maser, Rocky Brands’ vice president of apparel development and sourcing, acknowledges that the steep increase in the cost of raw materials will be difficult to manage. However, he feels Rocky’s growth and diversification strategy has the company better prepared than some of its competitors.
The Next Commodity Crisis R
etailers and consumers alike have struggled in the past few years to come to terms with the ramifications of a global surge in demand for raw materials. In the ammo world, steep price hikes in lead, copper and brass have resulted in much higher prices for ammo of all kinds, and a consequent falloff in consumer demand. Now hunters need to steel themselves for another price crisis, this time in the clothing industry, which is facing massive price hikes on raw goods sourced from the Asian Rim. For many retailers, this couldn’t come at a worse time, as they’ve been dealing with recession-weary consumers who are demanding more value for their dollar. For manufacturers, the challenge is finding a way to price their fall runs in such a way as to be profitable and saleable. The latter objective is key; retailers have said loud and clear that they won’t stock items that won’t move. Yet despite all of these challenges, one manufacturer has moved boldly to increase its clothing footprint. According to John Maser, Rocky Brands’ vice president of apparel development and sourcing, the company has been quietly expanding its commitment in the high-tech apparel industry by increasing staff and factory capacity as well as by developing cutting-edge designs. Although Maser acknowledged that the steep increase in the cost of raw materials would be difficult to manage, he said that Rocky’s growth and diversification strategy has the company better prepared than some of its competitors. “Our relationships have expanded to factories beyond China to Vietnam and India,” he says. “These options enable us to put the best, most cost-effective facility to work at the best price.” That means Rocky is, fortunately, able to contain the cost of labor. But Maser did caution that a price increase was inevitable for garments that use a large quantity of suddenly more expensive fabric. Maser was in China last month, and while he was there he says cotton and certain polyesters had
8 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
production-price guarantees that lasted only 12 hours. “This is the kind of commodity buying that puts a company’s foreign production resources to the test,” he says. “And yet, we are confident that we can still bring some of the most innovative, comfortable, breathable and waterproof outerwear in the industry to the consumer at a suggested retail price of between $115 and $145.” While most manufacturers find these circumstances to be daunting, Maser says Rocky Apparel views them as unique opportunities. “It takes a highly dedicated internal staff and strong relationships with our factories to control our pricing, product design and timely distribution. We are making hunting clothing that fits comfortably yet is exceptionally quiet. The bottom line is that we deliver our products at a highly competitive price that a dealer can make money on, and that will always create sell-through.” One of the ways that Rocky maintains its unique product position is that the company designs its own proprietary fabrics. “We do our level best to make sure every garment that comes from our office meets and exceeds the demanding standards that are set by our staff and field testers,” he says. An in-house development team works together to design each piece from concept through completion. And, in most cases, they are cut from the company’s own fabrics. To size garments, the company uses up to 15 different hunters who are considered the same general size to make sure that the garment’s field fit will be perfect. “We start with touch,” he says. “Our first priority is that the coat or pant must be super-soft. Our ultimate goal is to create a garment that’s silent.” Rocky’s obsession with quality (yet affordable) outerwear is matched only by a commitment to creating a brand-loyal customer at retail. As Maser puts it, “We make sure that when a guy wears our clothes on a deer stand, they’ll never make a sound.” Booth #11034. (800-848-9452; rockyboots.com)—Peter B. Mathiesen
Luck is for people who don’t prepare for reality. If you push your limits, the world will eventually push back. Make sure you see it coming with SureFire’s new 6PX™ Pro and G2X™ Pro LED flashlights. Dual-output switching lets you select a 200-lumen spotlight or a long-running 15-lumen task light. Bomb-proof construction and advanced technology mean they’re always ready, even when you’re not.
www.surefire.com/6PX-G2X
Visit us in booth # 13968 in the Law enforcement section and ask about our shot show speciaLs.
BN_026380_SHBD211.indd 1
12/1/10 12:54 PM
news
An Industry Leader That Makes Hunters More Successful David and Carman Forbes started their business, Hunter’s Specialties, with just one product, the No-Mar Camo Gun & Bow Tape. Today, the company manufactures more than 900 products.
H
unter’s Specialties, one of the longestattending manufacturers to the SHOT Show, has become a leader within the hunting industry in terms of size, brand building and research and development. For 2011, the company has a line of new products designed to bring success and fun to the outdoors enthusiast, including the Rasp Pack (a set of three of its most popular diaphragm calls for turkey hunting) and the new Hide ’N Hunt blind. “Over the years, we have always come at the business from the hunter’s perspective,” says coCEO Carman Forbes. “We both have been longtime outdoors enthusiasts and take great pride in bringing products to market that deliver more fun and more success to hunters.” Today, Hunter’s Specialties manufactures more than 900 products. Yet, owners David and Carman
Forbes, who live by the company motto, “For Sportsmen, By Sportsmen,” started their business with just one product—the No-Mar Camo Gun & Bow Tape, in 1977. Then, in 1984, Carman Forbes created the highly successful Camo-Compac concept, which put multi-color camouflage makeup in a pocketsize compact design with a built-in mirror. It became a “must-have” for hunters, as well as for action television series, movie producers and branches of the military. In fact, a customdesigned compact was used in Operation Desert Storm. The product became an integral part of the company’s camo line. Hunter’s Specialties next entered the rapidly growing wild turkey call business in 1985. In 1988, the manufacturer created a superior diaphragmframe assembly named Premium Flex. It made
mouth calls much more comfortable to use and retained their shape and perfect calling pitch. Today the Hunter’s Specialties turkey call line is well known as H.S. Strut, and the company is the world’s largest manufacturer of wild turkey calls. “We have grown through the years, but as of late, we have made some bold entries into new markets that have been very positive for us,” Carman Forbes adds. “These new product lines will allow us to deliver yet more technology to hunters worldwide. You know, at the end of the day, that’s what Hunter’s Specialties is all about—delivering products that make hunters more successful.” In 2010, Hunter’s Specialties hit it big with its two new product categories: Scent-A-Way Tek4 and i-KAM XTREME video eyewear. The Scent-A-Way Tek4 clothing line utilizes state-of-the-art silver technology to control human odors for the life of the garment and help make hunters “smell invisible.” It uses 33 percent more silver than other available silver-based garments, providing unmatched odor control. Hunter’s Specialties also acquired the exclusive rights to i-KAM XTREME video eyewear, which incorporates an advanced mobile video recorder into a lightweight pair of glasses. It is a completely wireless operation, free from tangling cords and clumsy battery packs. The 4GB recorder can record up to three hours at a time. “With the momentum we have generated over the last couple of years, we are very excited about the future,” says co-CEO David Forbes. “We will invest in new technologies and stronger ways to communicate with consumers. Of course, we’ll continue to emphasize our responsibility to move consumers into retail outlets looking for our brands.”—Brian McCombie
Mossberg Launches Triple Crown Dealer Program
T
he carrot and the stick is a classic incentive program. So is “Do it or else!” Mossberg, however, believes its new Triple Crown Dealer program is a far better way to boost sales, as the program is designed to not only motivate and reward sales personnel, but raise consumer awareness and knowledge of Mossberg products as well. As befitting the name, the program, which launched last fall, is made up of three parts. The first component is the Stocking Dealer Purchase Program. It offers the dealer free firearms with multi-gun package purchases built to increase sales and profitability. This program is limited to a one-time purchase (per store location, per program year), with no limit on the number of packages purchased at that time. A dealer can choose from 10-, 20- or 30-gun packages. As an added incentive, with any package purchase, a dealer will receive the bonus point-ofsale materials that come with being a Triple Crown Dealer. This program will run until September 30, 2011. The second component is a Dealer Sales Associate Incentive Program and Xtreme Training Experience, both of which are intended to reward dealer sales associates for selling more guns. There
is no limit to the total number of prizes an individual can win. Grand Prize winners will enjoy a two-day Xtreme Training Experience at the world-famous U.S. Training Center (formerly Blackwater) in Moyock, North Carolina. Other prizes associated with this program (upon qualification) include free guns, including Mossberg’s New Blackwater Series shotguns, as well as other Mossberg shotguns and rifles, and Mossberg Performance Jackets. This program will run until May 31, 2011. The third component is the Point-of-Sale Support Package. The purpose of this program is to increase visibility and awareness at the sales counter and provide support for your new selection of Mossberg firearms. The dealer who purchases any multi-gun package in the Stocking Dealer Purchase Program will receive Authorized Triple Crown Dealer premium items, including banners, a neon clock, window decals and rubber counter mats, key chains, pens and hats. This program will run until September 30, 2011. In addition to all the incentives in the Triple Crown Program, Mossberg is offering a VIP Discount Purchase Program (a 40 percent discount off the SRP for up to two Mossberg or
10 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
Tom Taylor of Mossberg believes that the company’s three-part Triple Crown Dealer Program will help drive sales and profit.
Mossberg International firearms per year) to show appreciation to the many people who help make Mossberg products a success. This is a great incentive for all staff members; it encourages participants to become more acquainted with the entire Mossberg line and promotes use of the products in the field. “Mossberg has made a significant commitment to better serving the dealer by creating programs and promotions that pull product through the store,” says Tom Taylor, vice president of sales and marketing. “Our new Triple Crown Program gives the dealer an assortment of Mossberg products, along with values that help drive sales and profits.” Booth #12734. (203-230-5300; mossberg.com)
For Ultimate Cold Weather Performance © 3M 2010. All Rights Reserved.
Give them the brand most trusted for warmth When your footwear carries the 3M™ Thinsulate™ Ultra Insulation tag, hunters know it’s built to perform. It’s the ultimate insulation for cold weather boots— thin, warm, lightweight—with the durability to withstand long hours of hard wear and keep feet warm even in damp conditions. 3M™ Thinsulate™ Insulation is the brand people trust for warmth. No other insulation delivers more name recognition or a broader range of product options. Its distinctive hang tag sets your footwear apart in the marketplace for a powerful point-of-sale advantage. For more information on using Thinsulate insulation in your footwear, contact us at Thinsulate.com.
BN_026811_SHBD111.indd 1
12/28/10 2:27 PM
news
REASONS TO OWN A
trip advisor top 20
Restaurants in Las Vegas
1. Off the Strip—Just Real Food Cuisine: American Price Range: $15–$20 10670 Southern Highlands Pky. 702-202-2448
2. Roy’s Cuisine: Seafood Price Range: under $80 620 E. Flamingo Rd. 702-691-2053
3. Vic & Anthony’s Steakhouse
Durability Designed to exceed the most stringent military endurance tests, Px4 Storm pistols have fired up to an amazing 150,000 rounds in shooting ranges without any parts breakage.
The Px4’s unique rotary barrel dissipates recoil energy in a radial direction, reducing felt recoil and muzzle rise. You have more control when you fire your sidearm. More control equals more accurate
Cuisine: Italian Price Range: $30 2850 E. Tropicana Avenue, Las Vegas 702-433-4967 casadiamore.com
7. Stripburger
ì
Cuisine: American 3200 Las Vegas Blvd 702-737-8747 lasvegasstripburger.com
î
DOWN TOWN with the
at
8. Rosemary’s Restaurant Cuisine: Seafood, Steak, Contemporary, Eclectic Price Range: $80+ 8125 W. Sahara Ave. 702-869-2251 rosemarysrestaurant.com
9. Tableau Cuisine: American, French Price Range: $25–$35 3131 Las Vegas Blvd. S. 702-770-9966 wynnlasvegas.com
BOOTH #13956
10. The Cheesecake Factory
www.berettausa.com
BN_026719_SHBD211.indd 1
www.px4storm.com
12/8/10 12:22 PM
Cuisine: Belgian, French Price Range: $25–$100 3600 Las Vegas Blvd. S. 877-234-6358
13. In-N-Out Burger
Cuisine: American, Eclectic, International Price Range: $21-$100 202 Fremont St 702-385-401 hugoscellar.com
6. Casa Di Amore
SURVIVE
12. Le Cirque (Bellagio)
4. Jean-Philippe Patisserie
Cuisine: American Steakhouse Price Range: $41–$80 3925 Paradise Rd. 702-796-0063
The 17 round 9mm flush magazine provides exceptional magazine capacity, but it can even be extended to an incredible 20 rounds using the optional extension.
Cuisine: American, Casual 3255 Las Vegas Blvd. S. #1580 (at the Palazzo)
Cuisine: American Price Range: $5-$10 4888 Dean Martin Dr in-n-out.com
5. Del Frisco’s
Capacity
11. Grand Lux Café
Cuisine: American, Seafood, Steakhouse Price Range: $30–$80 129 E. Fremont St. 702-385-7111
Cuisine: Desserts Price Range: $ 3600 Las Vegas Blvd South 888-987-6667 http://www.bellagio.com/restaurants/jean-philippe.aspx 702-733-7411
Accuracy
702-792-6888 thecheesecakefactory.com
Cuisine: American, Eclectic 3500 Las Vegas Blvd. S. (Flamingo Rd.), Caesars Palace
14. Hugo’s Cellar
15. CUT at The Palazzo Cuisine: Steakhouse Price Range: $60-$80 3339 Las Vegas Blvd. 702-607-6300 palazzolasvegas.com/cut.aspx
16. Jamm’s Restaurant Cuisine: American, Coffee Shop, Diner Price Range: under $20 1029 S. Rainbow Rd. 702-877-0768 jammsrestaurant.com
17. Mon Ami Gabi at Paris Las Vegas Cuisine: French, Steakhouse Price Range: $21–$80 3655 Las Vegas Blvd. S. 702-944-4224
18. Fleur de Lys Cuisine: French, Mediterranean Price: $50 3950 Las Vegas Blvd S. 702-632-9400 fleurdelyssf.com
19. Maggiano’s Cuisine: Italian Price Range: $40–$60 3200 Las Vegas Blvd. S. 702-732-2550 maggianos.com
20. Eiffel Tower Restaurant at Paris Las Vegas Cuisine: French Price Range: $41–$80 3655 Las Vegas Blvd. S. 702-948-6937 eiffeltowerrestaurant.com
BN_026525_SHBD111.indd 1
12/1/10 1:06 PM
news
shot show 2011
services Facilities and services to help make
* other NssF Locations
NSSF Seminars will be held on Venetian, Level 4. Its Primary Office is located in Room 305 of Sands,
the most of the SHOT Show
Level 1, and its booth can be found on Sands Level 2 (#L221) in the
* Coat Check Sands Level 1, inside taxi lane
* My show Planner
* security
Lobby next to Registration.
Conveniently located at all 13
Sands Level 1, Room 302
* safety Advisors
Product Locators
* Exhibits
Information Counters throughout
The Exhibits are located in the
the Show.
Sands, Level 1, Room 404
* NssF Member
Business Center
* show office
* shot show
Venetian Level 3, Lido Ballroom
Sands, Level 1, Room 304
Venetian Level 4 Lando
* NssF Friends
* shuttle Bus
Sands Expo on Levels 1 and 2, and in all Venetian Ballrooms on Levels
Command Post
University
1 and 2.
* New-Product
Meeting Room
Pick-up and drop-off is at Venetian,
Venetian Level 2, Bassano 2803
Level 1
The Ship-A-Box program is once
* show hours
* overnight storage
* Press Room
again offering its services and
Venetian Level 3, Murano Ballroom
January 18–20, 8:30 a.m. to
Level 1 Sands, Room 302; Level 2 -
can be found at the SES Service
All members of the press must be
5:30 p.m.
Hall D, front of 16,000 Aisle, and
Desk Window on Level 1 and also in
registered—registration takes place
January 21, 8:30 a.m. to 4:00 p.m.
Bassano 2801-2802
the Venetian Corridor on Level 2.
outside the press room.
* First-Aid station
* sales office
Sands Level 1, near Room 401
Venetian Level 1 Lobby (next to the
(January 18 only)
Center
Venetian Level 1, Lobby
* shipping services
BINOCULARS
MONOCULARS
New-Product Center)
THE JOURNEY IS THE DESTINATION Whether you’re sight seeing, catching the big game, observing that rare bird or hunting at a remote location, Celestron has you covered! Celestron is taking
Imagine the possibilities
www.celestron.com
sd02_p14_NEWS_services.indd 14
meetings at the Venetian! If you would like to review the exciting new products from Celestron, please contact Celestron’s VP of Sales and Marketing, Victor Aniceto, at (310) 245-6014 or vaniceto@celestron.com during or after SHOT to set up a demo.
12/21/10 11:40:44 AM
Visit us at booth #12240.
Red Dot Sight
There’s more to our tactical sights and lights than meets the eye
Rotary Diopter Sight
Tactical Defense Light
THE RUGGED, RELIABLE, AND AFFORDABLE TACTICAL LIGHTS AND SIGHTS FROM ITAC DEFENSE Double AR 30-round Magazines
Innovative thinking and rugged dependability go into every tactical light and sight we design. Our Tactical Defense Light combines a powerful 700* lumen LED light with an integrated laser, in a design that can be hand held or easily mounted to an accessory rail. Our Red Dot Sight gives you the versatility you want with the dependability you need. See our entire line at www.itacdefense.com.
Intelligent design. Proven performance.TM
*Approximate lumens
HOLSTERS • MAGAZINE POUCHES • AR MAGAZINES • SIGHTS • TACTICAL LIGHTS Make the intelligent choice. Purchase now online at www.itacdefense.com or call (866) 964-4822
BN_026569_SHBD211.indd 1
12/6/10 12:42 PM
PRODUCTS
Barska The 2.5–15x56mm AR6 scope offers fully multi-coated lenses and a mil-dot reticle. Its 1-inch tube is built to withstand recoil from large-caliber rifles.
l e n h s u
Bushnell The BowHunter Chuck B Adams Edition laser rangefinder features Angle Range Compensation (ARC) to determine true horizontal distance from 5 to 99 yards when shooting uphill or downhill.
s;a rd e h n ito d .) 9 1 ters n u h w o e g an y lg o
A Clear View
From budget-priced performers to top-end superstars, sportsmen will see it all this year By Robert Sadowski
I
t’s a sure bet that when singer Johnny Nash recorded “I Can See Clearly Now” in 1972, he wasn’t thinking about optics. And yet...thanks to state-of-the-art advances in optical technology, hunters and shooters can clearly see a whole lot better now than they could just a few years ago. These days, even price-point optics offer budget-minded shooters decent glass, and the products at the high end can deliver performance that boggles the mind. Here’s a look at what’s new for 2011.
Aimpoint
Designed specifically for use on LE carbines, the Patrol Rifle features a 30mm tube, a band-pass coating that allows use of all generations of nightvision devices and a 2 MOA red dot. Booth #14562. (703-263-9795;
fully multi-coated optics and a mildot reticle, and is built to withstand recoil from large-caliber rifles. It features side parallax adjustment and the Accu-Lock system that locks the inner tube to keep the scope zeroed. Flipup scope caps are included. Booth #3258. (888-666-6769; barska.com)
aimpoint.com)
Barska
The 2.5–15x56mm AR6 scope (SRP: $499) has a 1-inch tube construct,
Bushnell Outdoor Products
The Bone Collector scope series now includes a 3–9x40mm with the DOA
Aimpoint Designed for use on LE carbines, the Patrol Rifle is a 2 MOA red-dot sight. A bandpass coating allows the use of all generations of night-vision devices.
(Dead on Accurate) 600 for centerfire rifles and a 3–9x40mm DOA 250 for inline muzzleloaders. Both allow users to quickly and easily choose the proper crosshairs that correspond to the distance they are shooting. The DOA 600 is calibrated out to 600
y yards; the DOA 250 to 250 yards. The BowHunter Chuck Adams T Edition laser rangefinder (SRP: E $199.99) is designed specifically for $ bowhunters and features Angle b Range Compensation (ARC) techR nology, which determines the true n horizontal distance from 5 to 99 yards when shooting uphill, downhill or from a tree stand. Also endorsed by Chuck Adams is the 10x42mm Chuck Adams binocular (SRP: $209.99), featuring fully multi-coated optics with BAK-4 prisms and PC-3 Phase Corrective Coating for superior resolution and clarity. They have a rubber-armor coating in Advantage Max-1 camouflage. The Elite 1600 ARC laser rangefinder (SRP: $499.99) reads distances from 5 to 1,600 yards. The new Vivid Display Technology makes it easy to read even in low-light conditions. It comes with ARC and Variable Sightin distance (VSI), which allows shooters to set the holdover/bullet drop information for their rifle’s zero and select between 100-, 150, 200and 300-yard sight-in distances. The 2–6x32mm Elite handgun scope (SRP: $299.99) is made to withstand hard recoil, and has 20-inch eye relief. It is available in matte black or silver finish. The
Burris
The Eliminator LaserScope is now compatible with thousands of popular centerfire rifle cartridges, as well as muzzleloaders, slug guns and rimfire cartridges. The 4x-12x-42mm Eliminator was selected by Field & Stream magazine as one of 2010’s Best of the Best; it combines optics with laser rangefinding capability and trajectory compensation. The Fullfield E1 riflescopes include five models: 1x-4x-24mm, 2x-7x35mm, 3x-9x-40mm, 3x-9x-50mm and 4.5x-14x-42mm. All feature a sleek profile, upgraded windage/elevation knobs and integrated power ring, and an eyepiece that accepts flip-up lens caps. They also feature Burris’s Ballistic Plex E1 reticle, which has a series of cascading dots to the left and right of the reticle to help compensate for crosswinds. Booth #12755. (970-356-1670; burrisoptics.com)
16 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p16_Optics 2011.indd 16
12/16/10 3:58:31 PM
UNDISPUTED CLASS LEADERS FROM THE WORLD LEADER. 8 out of 10 of your customers will buy from these categories this year.* Turn this statistic into profit by stocking these class-leading products from the world leader in optics and outdoor technologies. Bushnell.® We’ll take your gains to the next level in 2011.
trophy cam™ The short magnum of trail cameras. An astounding 1-year battery life, 1-second trigger speed and new Field Scan time-lapse technology round out the industry’s most impressive lineup of features. bowhunter™ chuck adams edition With ARC, the industry’s most advanced technology. Tested, proven and endorsed by the world’s most successful bowhunter.
©2011 BOP
*2010 Trophy Research Study
elite® riflescopes Brightest in the world, better than ever for 2011.
.bushnelco w
DESIgNED IN THE U.S.A.
vISIT US AT
dm ethropfiblusn
legend® ultra•hd Best-in-class performance backed by the best guarantee in the business.
on raigM da 0p.m
organ
bOOTH #12519 an
BN_027246_SHBD211.indd 1
s
C aley M& eat H .O G To dy & r Tom 1: 0 p.m.
eBo H To aay chael 2: 0 avisT.
l h Co delaw ne k nd
Craig Morgan, da Grand Ole Opry ® Member of the and host of “All 0p.m Access Outdoors”
T Th Mi Tr & nic To y 3:
www.bushnell.com ww m ne eC ors: W , ur r Mu t
Michael, Nick and Travis
.
12/16/10 4:20 PM
PRODUCTS
Carson Optical The 3D Series riflescope line includes a 4.5– 14x44mm (below left) and a 6–18x50mm (below). Each has a mildot reticle, 1-inch tube, 1/4 MOA adjustments and 4 inches of eye relief.
m x8 0 –6 : P R S r eg -d 5 e rim e lytco fu d an rism p -4 K A s en . o sm tran h ig
g 20–60x80mm n o p liteS 2 e E p co Elite Spotting h vers.T o S Scope ((SRP: $ $899.99) features r : a straight or P R (S m x0 –4 5 o ry fau th o ic.B ep 45-degree eyepiece. 4 e D Both .) featuren 9 0 2 d ED E 0 m x5 –6 L en isp D w xtra-o Prime Extra-Low P E las, Dispersion : P R S Lglass, yX h p ro .)T 9 3 2 g BAK-4 prisms and fullyp B arf multi-coated cesw S g tin o d en ag m rcisp o llenses for f p ucrisp images n tim dand o elsoptimum th d rf,an -p g llight transmission. frn aed ti-co lym u The Elite Tactical scope series is built for military and law enforcement situations, target shooting or 3-Gun competitions. The 40mm objective models include a 10x40mm (SRP: $249.99) and 5–15x40mm (SRP: $449.99); 50mm models come in 6–24x50mm (SRP: $789.99), 6–24x50mm (SRP: $999.99) and 4.5– 30x50mm (SRP: $899.99), as well as a 2.5–16x42mm (SRP: $799.99) and a 3–12x44mm (SRP: $999.99). They feature mil-dot reticles and a matte finish. The 44mm objective and the 6–25x50mm have the reticle in the first focal plane. Trophy XLT DOA 200 scopes in 2–7x36mm (SRP: $159.99) and 3–9x40mm (SRP: $169.99) are designed for shotgun-slug hunting with a reticle calibrated to 50, 100, 150 and 200 yards. They come with a set of Butler Creek flip-open scope
h rsig .)featu 9 8
c covers. The 15–45x50mm (SRP: 1 $209.99) and $ a 2 20–60x65mm ((SRP: $ $239.99) Trophy XLT T reS Spotting f o aterp Scopes aare w waterproof aand ffog-proof, re and the lenses aare ffully multi-coated for clarity and light transmission. The body has a rubber-armor coating, and it comes with a compact tripod and both hard-sided and soft-sided cases. The Fusion 1600 ARC rangefinder-binocular line expands with a 12x50mm (SRP: $999.99). They feature BAK-4 roof prisms, a built-in battery-life indicator and fully multicoated optics with RainGuard HD coating. The built-in laser rangefinder measures distances from 10 to 1,600 yards. It features ARC technology and VSI to accommodate holdover on longer shots. The Legend Ultra HD binocular line includes compact models in 8x26mm (SRP: $99.99) and 10x26mm (SRP: $109.99). The compact and valuepriced Sport 850 laser rangefinder (SRP: $169.99 to $179.95) ranges from 5 to 850 yards. Camo SKINZ protective covers (SRP: $19.99) for
Crimson Trace
Lightguard combines a 100-lumen white tactical light and a LaserGrip. It features the same one-touch activation as LaserGrips, and is available for popular polymer-frame pistols like the Smith & Wesson M&P, Glock and Springfield XD. The Laserguard series now includes a model for HK45c. Booth #16733. (800-442-2406; crimsontrace.com)
the Scout 1000 ARC laser rangefinder feature four different patterns: Realtree AP, Realtree MAX-1, Realtree AP Snow and Realtree AP Blaze. Booth #12519. (913-752-3400; bushnell.com)
Carson Optical
The 3D Series riflescope line includes a 4.5–14x44mm (SRP: $300) and 6–18x50mm (SRP: $325), both with a mil-dot reticle, 1-inch tube, 1/4 MOA adjustments and 4 inches of eye relief. Other 3D models include the 3.5–10x44mm (SRP: $290), 4.5–14x44mm (SRP: $300) and 6–18x50mm (SRP: $325), which feature a Multiplex Reticle. Booth #810. (631-963-5000; carsonoptical.com)
CenterPoint
Crosman’s riflescope division’s new Game TAG (Trajectory Aiming Guide) scope line features a longrange, ballistic reticle calibrated to 20 of the most commonly used bullet combinations, and provides aiming points from 100 to 600 yards. A shotgun/muzzleloader model in 3–12x44mm and two rifle models in 4.5–14x44mm and 6–20x50mm (SRP: $179.99 to $249.99) are available. Varmint hunters may take an interest in the Universal Laser and Flashlight Kit (SRP: $60), which mounts on any 1-inch scope tube. The flashlight illuminates targets out to 30 yards, and the laser sight is visible to 200 yards in low light and up to 50 yards in daylight. The batterypowered CenterPoint Laser Boresighter (SRP: $59.50) works on handguns, rifles and shotguns for calibers from .17 to .50, as well as 12-, 16- and 20-gauge shotguns. Booth #12740. (800-724-7486;
Insight Technology
The WL1 ($249.99, pistol; $329.99, long gun) and WL1 with laser (SRP: $399.99, pistol; $479.99, long gun) both feature a 150-lumen light. The WL1 also has a laser designator for aiming and illumination capabilities. Both units use two AA batteries and have a 90-minute battery life. Booth #20359. (866-509-2040; insighttechnology.com)
Konus
The Impact line of riflescopes boasts ballistic reticles that provide precise ranging to 650 yards. Models include a 4–16x50 (SRP: $199.99), 3-9x40IR (SRP: $159.99) and 3–9x40 (SRP: $129.99). All feature one-piece tube construction, multi-coated optics, glass-engraved reticle and 1/4 MOA adjustments. The Sight Pro Fission (SRP: $129.99) electronic-dot sight is small and lightweight, and features dual color dots. It mounts on Weaver-style or ⅜-inch dovetail bases. Booth #642. (305-262-5668; konususa.com)
CenterPoint The Universal Laser and Flashlight Kit mounts on any 1-inch tube. The flashlight illuminates out to 30 yards; the laser is visible out to 200 yards in low light.
centerpointhunting.com)
18 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p16_Optics 2011.indd 18
12/16/10 3:58:42 PM
one polymer supplier could show you over 5,000 ways to turn your concepts into cash? It can — when you work with PolyOne. We help manufacturers turn great ideas into real products. With over 5,000 polymer and elastomer options, we make it easy for you to hit the mark by balancing weight, durability, fit and aesthetics, with a solution that meets the uncompromising needs of your customers, AND your bottom line. For answers to the biggest questions facing your business, visit www.polyone.com/options.
Make it possible.
Š2010 PolyOne Corporation
BN_026935_SHBD111.indd 1
12/10/10 12:09 PM
PRODUCTS
pact and sub-compact pistols with an accessory rail. Booth #12771. (800527-3703; lasermax.com)
Leatherwood/ Hi-Lux
The Uni-Dial 4–16X50mm Medium-Long Range Illuminated etched-glass reticle (SRP: $499) scope now features an illuminated reticle in either green or red. For tactical situations or hunting big game, the 1–4X CMR (CloseMedium Range) (SRP: $359) scope features a circular tactical reticle that aids in quick target acquisition. It is compact and lightweight, with a 3.5inch eye relief. It also features a zero locking system. Booth #1017. (888-
Konus The Impact scope line includes a 3–9x40mm model (bottom) and a 4–16x50mm model (center). The ballistic reticles in both deliver precise ranging out to 650 yards. The Sight Pro Fission electronic-dot sight (right) uses dual color dots.
LaserLyte
The Subcompact V3 laser (SRP: $99.95) needs less than ¾ inch of Picatinny rail space, making it compatible with the smallest of subcompact pistols. It offers an auto-off feature that activates after five minutes. The Rear Sight Laser (RSL) is now available for Ruger Mark I, II and III pistols and 10/22 rifles, as well as Smith & Wesson Sigma pistols (SRP: $199.95). The easy-to-install RSL
445-8912; hi-luxoptics.com)
replaces the gun’s rear sight. The Rear Sight Laser Installation Tool (SRP: $199.95) removes the rear sight from the dovetail of most semi-auto pistols. The Mini Laser Bore Sight (SRP: $64.95) is now half the size of the previous model. It can be used to zero scopes, lasers or iron sights on any firearm from .22- to .50-caliber. It also works with most flash suppressors and muzzle brakes. Booth #340. (928649-3201; laserlyte.com)
Leupold & Stevens
The VX-R 3–9x40mm Illuminated
LaserMax
The super-compact Uni-Max Micro (SRP: $129) rail-mount laser has a miniaturized design for use on com-
Leatherwood The 1–4X CMR (Close-Medium Range) scope features a circular tactical reticle that aids in quick target acquisition. It is compact and lightweight, and has 3.5 inches of eye relief.
The World’s Finest Gun Cleaning!
BOOTH #14213
The Industry’s Most Exciting Superstars! Autograph sessions at Booth #14213! © Pyramont GMC 2011
KIM RHODE
4 Time Olympic Medalist Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri - 2PM
DOUG KOENIG
World’s Best All Around Shooter Wed, Thurs - 11AM
MATT HUGHES
9 Time UFC World Champion Tues, Thurs - 3PM, Wed - 4PM
PATRICK FLANIGAN
8 Time World Record Holder Tues, Wed, Thurs, Fri - 12PM
MARK WILLS
Country Music Entertainer Tues, Wed, Thurs - 10AM
®
APPEARING WEDNESDAY! 10AM 11AM 11AM 12PM 1PM 2PM 2PM 3PM 4PM 4PM-6PM
Mark Wills Outdoor Trails Radio w/Jim Ferguson Broadcasting Live Doug Koenig Patrick Flanigan Ron Spomer Host of Winchester World of Whitetail Outdoor Trails Radio w/Jim Ferguson Broadcasting Live Kim Rhode Legendary Sniper Chuck Mawhinney & SM Jon Cavaini Matt Hughes Happy Hour!
Spin the Wheel for Cash & Prizes!
Otis Technology 6987 Laura St. Lyons Falls, NY 13368 (800) OTIS-GUN WWW.OTISTEC.COM
sd02_p16_Optics 2011.indd 20
OTIS TECHNOLOGY
12/21/10 2:14:09 PM
BN_027521_SHBD111.indd 1
12/22/10 10:33 AM
PRODUCTS
Kowa Optimed
The high-end Genesis/XD 33 binocular uses Prominar XD lens technology in spotting scopes. The line is waterproof and features a locking diopter control and phase-coated prisms. Booth #614. (800966-5692; kowa-usa.com)
riflescope has a one-button design that allows users to select between eight intensity settings and a fiberoptic light pipe. It’s powered by a CR-2023 battery, and has a motion sensor that automatically deactivates after five minutes of inactivity and reactivates as soon as any movement is detected. It features a 30mm tube and matte finish, and is waterproof
sd02_p16_Optics 2011.indd 22
and shockproof. The CM-R2 reticle is now available in Leupold Mid Range/Tactical (MR/T) and Close Quarters/Tactical (CQ/T) riflescopes. The CM-R2 is designed to allow the shooter to focus more on the target and less on the reticle. It is an illuminated 0.5 MOA dot surrounded by a 5.0 MOA semi-circle. Hash marks on the horizontal stadia are calibrated for leading moving targets at 5, 10 and 15 mph, respectively. They are calibrated for 5.56mm NATO/.223 Remington ammunition. The BX-3 Mojave line of openhinge binos now includes models in 8x42mm, 10x50mm and 12x50mm. Added to the BX-2 Cascade series of binoculars are 7x42mm and 10x42mm models. The BX-2 Acadia binocular is now available in an 8x42mm, and the smaller-sized BX-1 Yosemite bino now comes in a 6x30mm. The 20–60x80mm Boone & Crockett Golden Ring Spotting Scope is lightweight, rugged and waterproof. It uses Leupold’s Folded Light Path (FLP) lens and mirror optical system, which offers an effective optical path of a scope nearly twice its length. Horus H32 and H36 reticle options are available for the Mark 4 12–40x60mm Tactical Spotting Scope. The Mark 4 spotter is the standard Scout Sniper Observation Telescope of the U.S. Marine Corps. The H32 has a mil line for target
Insight The WL1, which features a 150-lumen light, can fit on pistols or rifles. The unit has a laser designator for aiming and illumination use. The WL1 runs on two AA batteries, which supply enough power for 90 minutes of use.
measurement and speed estimation, while the H36 features an inverted “L” in Inch Of Angle (IOA) for easy ranging. The Mark 4s are rugged, weigh 37 ounces and are waterproof. Booth #11962, #13123. (503-5261400; leupold.com)
Minox USA
The MD 8x42 CWP (SRP: $109) monocular includes an integrated compass. The reticle allows ranging of targeted objects. It weighs 13 ounces and has non-slip rubber
armoring. The BV 8x56 BR (SRP: $499) binocular has a large 56mm optical lens for greater light-gathering ability and phase-correction coated prisms to ensure precise detail and contrast of images. The BL 15x56 BR (SRP: $899) binocular delivers bright, high-contrast images in a rubber-armored aluminum body that’s waterproof and fogproof. The LensPen OutdoorPro kit (SRP: $35) includes the LensPen Original and MiniPro II with slide-out brush to remove dust and dirt from the lens or eyepiece. The MicroKlear is an soft microfiber cleaning cloth used to clean the housings of binoculars, and
12/22/10 10:04:44 AM
PRODUCTS ©2011 BEN CH MAD E K N IFE CO. O R EG O N CITY, O R, USA. BEN CHMADE.CO M
USA PROUD
Nightforce Optics
New reticles are available for the NXS 3.5–15x50 F1 first-focal-plane riflescope. The unique Nightforce Velocity reticle features a 1,000-yard version. This reticle is also available in some NXS series models. ZeroStop provides an instant return to zero, no matter how many adjustments have been made. Booth #20449. (208-4769814; nightforceoptics.com)
the FogKlear natural fiber cloth offers anti-fog protection. All are included in a compact nylon carrying case that fits on a belt. Booth #15351. (866-469-3080; minox.com)
Nikon
The next generation of EDG binocular series features ED glass for brilliant, high-resolution images. The redesigned chassis has rubber amour over a magnesium-alloy body for an easy grip and lighter weight. Booth #11221. (800-248-6846;
ture. They are waterproof and fogproof, and come with a TruPlex reticle. The LRF600 laser rangefinder (SRP: $119.99, black; $139.99, ATAC Camo) accurately reads distances from 10 to 600 yards. The ProSport roof binocular line now includes four models: 8x42mm (SRP: $69.99), 10x50mm (SRP: $79.99) and 12x50mm (SRP: $89.99) in black finish, and a 10x42mm (SRP: $79.99 black, $99.99 ATAC camo). They feature multi-coated lenses with BAK-4 prisms for bright, sharp images. Booth #12519. (800-285-0689; simmonsoptics.com)
nikonsportoptics.com)
Simmons
Predator Quest scopes in 4.5–18x44mm (SRP: $189) and 6–24x50mm (SRP: $229) models feature 30mm tubes and side focus for a clear sight pic-
Sightmark
The Eclipse 2x24 Gen 1 Night Vision Monocular (SRP: $179.99) features multi-coated optics and a wide-angle field of view. The built-in IR illuminator helps acquire the target in the dark, and the
Leupold & Stevens The BX-3 Mojave line (bottom) of open-hinge binoculars now includes models in 8x24mm, 10x50mm and 12x50mm. The Mark 4 spotting scope is the standard Scout Sniper Observation telescope of the U.S. Marine Corps. For 2011, it receives Horus H32 and H36 reticle options. The BX-2 Cascade series of binoculars (right) now comes in 7x42mm and 10x42mm versions.
915 TRIAGE™
a thing of beauty N680 CORROSION RESISTANT BLADE FOLDING HOOK SAFETY CUTTER CARBIDE TIP GLASS BREAKER
VISIT US IN BOOTH #10357
sd02_p16_Optics 2011.indd 23
12/21/10 2:00:45 PM
PRODUCTS
Schmidt & Bender
Minox The BL 15x56 BR binocular (left) delivers bright, highcontrast images in a rubber-armored aluminum body that’s waterproof and fogproof. The MD 8x42 CWP monocular (above) includes an integrated compass. The reticle allows ranging of targeted objects. It weighs 13 ounces, and has non-slip rubber armoring.
The Zenith 1–8x24 was designed for African and dangerous-game hunting. At 19.4 ounces and 11.5 inches in length, it is easily mounted on a double rifle. It features reticle illumination for low-light situations, and at one power, FlashDot technology for fast, precise shot placement. Booth #15153. (800-468-3450; schmidt bender.com)
Swarovski
The time-tested EL series of binoculars now includes a 10x50mm and 12x50mm. Both incorporate a flattener lens that produces sharper image resolution right up to the edge of the field of view without distortion. They are compact for a large objective binocular, and feature a rubber-coat armouring, ergonomic thumb rests and redesigned focusing wheels. Booth #12120. (800-426-3089; swarovskioptik.com)
battery will last 72 hours of continuous use. Coyotes don’t stand a chance with the Night Raider 3x60 Gen 1 Night Vision Riflescope (SRP: $899.99). The built-in high-power IR illuminator, with beam focus, increases viewing capabilities. It features a titanium body and an adjustable twocolor rangefinding reticle. It is lightweight and waterproof.
The Triple Duty CRL (SRP: $83.99) laser sight for handguns features a laser for quick target acquisition, with visibility up to 300 yards at night and up to 20 yards in daylight. Its ultra-compact low-profile design has a built-in Weaver mount and an integrated secondary rail for mounting accessories. Booth #1549. (877-431-3579; sightmark.com)
TruGlo
The Tru-Brite Open-Bridge binocular series features a compact roof-prism design and an openbridge design with a single adjustment wheel. Two models, a 8x42mm and a 10x42mm, are available. Booth #11723. (972-774-0300; truglo.com)
U.S. Optics
THE OLDEST NAME IN GUN PARTS AND ACCESSORIES IS THE NEWEST IN LAW ENFORCEMENT SUPPLY! Talk to our experienced Law Enforcement professionals and find out how we can support your duty gear needs.
• InDuStrY-LeaDIng CuStOMer SerVICe • 1,000’S OF IteMS reaDY tO SHIP
• aLL PrODuCtS BaCKeD BY tHe BrOWneLLS FOreVer guarantee • 24/7 WeB OrDerIng
The SN–4 1-4x SFP (SRP: $1,500) AR-15 riflescope combines a simple red-dot sight and variable riflescope to deliver performance in CQB situations and at longer-range precision shots. The reticle is calibrated for the .223 cartridge and has hold positions from 200 to 600 yards. Booth #20031. (714-994-4901; usoptics.com)
Vortex
The mid-range-price Talon HD series of binoculars in 8x42 and 10x42 feature an open-hinge design that’s waterproof and fogproof. Booth #4151. (800-426-0048; vortexoptics.com)
Weaver
The 8x28mm Buck Commander 1,000-yard laser rangefinder (SRP: $470) features precision read-
Simmons The LRF600 laser rangefinder accurately reads distances from 10 to 600 yards.
LE officers come by and get scanned and you’ll receive free batteries.
24 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p16_Optics 2011.indd 24
BootH #10574 800-741-0308 Source Code: CQY
12/21/10 2:02:30 PM
BN_026368_SHBD211.indd 1
11/24/10 12:34 PM
PRODUCTS
v a
r
c s e g n
Weaver We e T The 3–15x50mm Illuminated Longe p
a th e b u
4 – 5 tb o ie
ings on deer out to 600 yards, and up to 1,000 yards on reflective targets. It is waterproof, has a low-battery indicator and measures distance in feet, yards or meters. The Buck Commander 2–8x36mm scope is engineered to handle the aggressive recoil of shotguns, muzzleloaders and rifles, and is available with either a Dual-X reticle (SRP: $254.95) or a Command-X reticle (SRP: $254.95) with ballistic drop calculation marks tuned for Federal Premium’s Barnes Expander shotgun slugs. Buck Commander binocular models include a 8x42mm (SRP: $493.95), 10x42 (SRP: $512.95), 8x25 Compact (SRP: $222.95) and 10x25 Compact (SRP: $242.00). All feature a phase-coated roofprism system and have a waterproof rubberarmored finish and easy-grip molded surface. The 3–15x50mm Illuminated Long-Range scope boasts a 30mm argon-purged tube that houses a firstfocal-plane mil-dot reticle. It offers five red and five green brightness settings, 1/10 mil click adjustments and side-focus parallax. The 1–5x24 Illuminated Intermediate Range scope was designed for use on modern sporting rifles. The illuminated scope now offers five red and five green brightness settings, reset-to-zero turrets and multi-coated lenses with an extra-hard coating. The 15–45x65mm Classic (SRP: $398) spotting scope gives hunters a choice of either angled- or straight-eyepiece models. The 40/44 Series 2–7x32 shotgun scopes are engineered to handle recoil. Two reticles are avail-
Ra o Range scope (top) boasts a 30mm argon-purged ttube that houses a first-plane mil-dot reticle. T The 1–5x24 Illuminated Intermediate R Range scope (center) is designed for use on AR-15-style rifles and offers five red and five green brightness settings. The 115–45x65mm Classic spotting scope ( (bottom) features angled or straight eyep piece models.
able—a Dual-X or Ballistic-X. The Ballistic-X reticle features ballistic drop calculation marks calibrated for Federal Premium’s Barnes Expander shotgun slugs. The 8x28mm 1,000-Yard Laser Rangefinder (SRP: $450.95) is waterproof, ranges moving targets and measures distance in feet, yards or meters. For AR-15 platforms, the Fixed Back-Up Iron Sight (SRP: $79.95) is compatible with mil-spec front sights and features ½ MOA clicks. The Picatinny Riser Set (SRP: $37.95) adds ½ inch of rail height. The Tactical SPR (Special Purpose Rifle) 30mm Optics Mount fits 30mm tube optics and has adjustable knobs for easy no-tool attachment. The AR-15 Flat Top Riser Rail–20 MOA CANT (SRP: $60.95) is a full-length riser rail engineered specifically for AR-15 rifles. The .22 See-Thru Dovetail Rings (SRP: $11) allow for use of iron sights or rimfire rifle scopes. The Multi-Slot Remington 870 one-piece base (SRP: $9.95) was designed for the Remington 870 and 11-87 model shotguns. The T-22 Base Pair (SRP: $9.95) converts a ⅜-inch grooved receiver to accept Weaver-style rings. The Top Mount BaseScout Scope Mount (SRP: $44) is designed for model 1894, 1895 and 336 Marlin rifles. These easy-to-install bases accept Weaver-style scope rings. The two-piece muzzleloader ring and base set (SRP: $39) fits 2010 and newer model CVA muzzleloaders. They fit 1-inch scopes. Booth #14540. (608-836-0922; weaveroptics.com)
Zeiss
The Victory DiaScope T* FL Spotting Scopes now have straight or angled eyepieces in 15–56X (SRP: $2,649) and 20–75X (SRP: $3,149.99). These eyepieces s e offer the highest power range on the market rk a m et today, and feature a Dual Speed Focus System t m ys e (DSF) that combines focus in e in s both u c o n the fast and fine f f i a single control. Enhancements to the DiaScope include a sleek rubber-armored exterior for improved feel and protection. The DiaScope was awarded the 2010 Outdoor Life Editor’s Choice Award. A new aluminum tripod (SRP: $529) for the DiaScope offers a Photo/Video Head for quick-and-easy observation and photography. Booth #13913. (800-441-3005; zeiss.com)
sd02_p16_Optics 2011.indd 26
12/21/10 2:10:47 PM
BN_026464_SHBD211.indd 1
12/1/10 12:51 PM
products
Federal Premium Black Cloud High Velocity Duck Loads feature fastmoving (1,635 fps) 3-inch 1 1⁄8-ounce 12-gauge loads in No. 3 and No. 4 shot. The Cape-Shok Safari line expands to include .458 Lott.
Practical Shooting
Whether your clientele is interested in self-defense, practice, handgun hunting, rifle work or waterfowl hunting, 2011 will see some very useful new loads from the major ammo makers By chris christian
T
here was a time when factory ammo really wasn’t all that good. It was designed and manufacturered to be an avergae product for an average guy. That’s why you saw so many wildcatters and reloaders out there, trying to do on their own what they couldn’t get from the factory—reliability and accuracy. That was then. Nowadays, the quality of factory ammo is simply beyond belief. Need a bonecrushing special load for dangerous game in Africa.? You got it. Need the ultimate cartridge for personal defense? You got that, too. And take a look at all the specialized turkey and waterfowl shotshells, many of which use components undreamed of a generation ago.
CCI
New for 2011 is a .22LR load designed specifically for the new crop of MSR-style rifles now being offered in .22LR chambering. After extensive testing, CCI engineers found that the rifles performed best with a 40-grain plated bullet at 1,200 fps. The new CCI 22LR Tactical load clocks at 1,200 fps and features a target-grade bullet with a copperplated nose for smooth feeding. Factory-test accuracy produced 1.5inch groups at 100 yards. It will be available in a 375-round loose-pack reclosable box. Booth #14540. (800256-8685; cci-ammunition.com)
Federal Premium
The Swift A-Frame bullet has earned an impressive reputation in the game fields. The bonding process assures that the jacket and lead core will hold together for maximum weight retention, all the while delivering controlled expansion. This year, Federal adds it to its Vital-Shok
CCI The new .22LR load has been developed especially for use in modern sporting rifles chambered for .22LR. The 40-grain bullet heads downrange at 1,200 fps.
A new line of handgun hunting loads, the introduction of mil-spec 5.56mm NATO loads in the American Eagle line and additions to the alternative (non-lead) shotshell line are the highlights of this year’s crop of new Federal loads.
handgun hunting line. It will be available in .357 Magnum (180grain/1,130 fps), .41 Remington Magnum (210-grain/1,270 fps), .44 Magnum (280-grain/1,170 fps), .454 Casull (300-grain/1,520 fps), .460 S&W Magnum (300-grain/1,750 fps) and .500 S&W Magnum (325-
grain/1,800 fps). In 2010, Federal introduced its Prairie Storm lead loads with great success. This year, Federal brings hunters the same load with steel shot. The Federal Premium Prairie Storm Steel features the rear-braking Flitecontrol wad and Flitestopper steel shot. The payload and energy are designed to replicate No. 5 leadshot performance. It will be available in No. 3 and No. 4 steel-shot size in 12- and 20-gauge 3-inch loads with a 1 ¼-ounce payload. Federal’s high-velocity Black Cloud Snow Goose loads (1,635 fps) proved popular with goose hunters, and this year Federal expands that highvelocity line for duck hunters. The Federal Premium Black Cloud High Velocity Duck Load features the same velocity with the Flitecontrol wad, and will be available in a 3-inch 1 1⁄8-ounce 12-gauge load with either No. 3 or No. 4 steel shot. Federal extends its Mag-Shok Turkey line with the addition of a 2 ¾-inch 20-gauge load. The new 20-gauge uses the Flitecontrol wad for tighter patterns and 1 1⁄8-ounce of No. 7 heavyweight shot (250 pellets per shell) at a velocity of 1,100 fps. This shot payload offers the same downrange energy as a 1 ½-ounce load of lead No. 5 shot. Federal claims it produces a 40 percent reduction in recoil over a 3-inch 20-gauge load.
28 ■ sHot BusINEss dAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p28_Ammo 2011.indd 28
12/16/10 5:05:35 PM
BOOTH 14856 www.Colt22Rimfire.com ©2010 Umarex USA Made by Carl Walther. COLT® is a licensed trademark of New Colt Holding Corp. Marketed and distributed by UMAREX USA, Inc.
ZEROED IN
BN_026666_SHBD111.indd 1
12/6/10 11:54 AM
PRODUCTS
On the rifle front, the Federal Premium Cape-Shok Safari line will expand with the addition of the .458 Lott that will be offered with either the Trophy Bonded Bear Claw bullet or the Swift A-Frame. The popularly priced Fusion line will see the addition of the .375 H&H Magnum and the .458 Lott. These loads will feature the chemically bonded Fusion in a boattail design ballistically matched to Federal’s Cape-Shok loads using the Trophy Bonded Bear Claw bullet. Doing so allows hunters to use either load in their rifles. Owners of modern sporting rifles always appreciate affordable ammo, and the new Federal American Eagle Tactical 5.56 provides it. The load is designed specifically for semi-auto rifles and are assembled with milspec primers, brass and powder. Chambered in 5.56mm, and loaded to NATO pressure levels, the new American Eagle loads will be available in a 55-grain softpoint and a 50-grain JHP, and are recommended for use in 1-in-9 or 1-in-12 twist barrels. Booth #14540. (800-256-8685; federalpremium.com)
Hornady
The Hornady Critical Defense line expands with the addition of .44 Special and .45 Long Colt loads. The
Nosler
200-grain JHP and a .45 ACP 230 FMJ. These will be available in 250-count boxes. Best-known for component products, Nosler has The Ballistic Tip Varmint Bullet will now be availalso recently begun manufacturing its own premium able in 1,000-count boxes as the Ballistic Tip Value ammunition. The Trophy Grade line is assembled Varmint Pack, in .22 caliber 40- or 55-grain projecwith Nosler’s popular AccuBond, Partition, Ballistic tiles. The Nosler Custom Competition line expands Tip, Ballistic Tip Lead Free and E-Tip bullets in with the addition of a 107-grain 6mm and a 200Nosler Custom Brass. Nosler is confident enough in the quality that it uses the Trophy Grade line to back grain 8mm bullet. They will be available on 100- or 250-count boxes. up the accuracy guarantees of its upper-level Bulk packaging will now be offered in additional Trophy Grade rifles. Custom Competition bullets. That will include For 2011, the Trophy Grade line expands significant.22-caliber bullets in 52, 69, 77 and 80 grains (250ly with the addition of the following loads: .204 Ruger and 1,000-count boxes), 6mm 105-grain (250 32-grain Ballistic Tip Lead Free; .223 Rem. 35-grain count), 6.5mm 140-grain (250 and 1,000 count), Ballistic Tip Lead Free; .223 Rem. 40-grain Ballistic .30-caliber 155- and 168-grain (250 and 1,000 Tip Lead Free; .223 Rem. 60-grain Ballistic Tip; .22count), .30-caliber 175-grain (250), .30-caliber 190250 Rem. 35-grain Ballistic Tip Lead Free; .243 Win. grain (1,000) and .45 ACP 185-grain (1,000). 90-grain E-Tip; .25-06 Rem. 100-grain E-Tip; .270 Lastly, Nosler’s Custom Brass line provides virgin Win. 130-grain E-Tip; .308 Win. 168-grain E-Tip, .30cases with flash holes trued and with case mouths 06 168-grain E-Tip; .300 RUM 180-grain E-Tip; .300 deburred and chamfered. Each case is Wby. Mag. 180-grain d n a eE-Tip and tthe h f m h c n a d re u b d hand-inspected and weightvenerable .35 with a 2 225ith Whelen - w 5 2 e p -is d n a h sorted w within +/- .5 grams. The grain AccuBond. d rte n so ith Custom B Brass line expands with Although is s loaded ammunition ito n u m a m to s r Cu addition of the following the big newsh this year, isat Nosler r a e t y , e h n ito d tthe ad cases: ..257 Roberts+P, .257 reloaders weren’t d ignored,, and n a : e s 5 ca 2 Wby., .270 there are significant additions s n ito d d 7 .,2 y Wb 0 Wby., 7mm SA UltraMag, to the component e lines. The h l ra M , U t g 7mm RUM, 8x57 JSMauser, AccuBond line sees the addiid d s u a M r JS e 8mm Rem. Mag., .325 WSM, .338-06 A-Square, tion of a 90-grain 6mm bullet l u b et W .338 RUM, .340 Wby., for the popular n d.243 Win. and a .35 Whelen, .350 Rem. 6mm Rem. The Nosler Mag., 9.3x62 Mauser Sporting Handgun and 9.3x74R. Booth Bullet line expands with #12791. (800-285-3701; the addition of a 124grain 9mm JHP, a 10mm nosler.com) l s o n
Made with Pride in the U.S.A.
CW9093
The Kahr CW series (available in 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP) has the combination of features that makes it the best Concealed Carry Pistol in the market. It has the ideal combination of stopping power and shooting comfort, and is smaller, slimmer and lighter than competitive brands. Its smooth double-action trigger reduces flinch, improving shot placement, and is safer. In stressful situations, fine motor control is impaired contributing to the possibility of accidental discharge with traditional single-action triggers found on many semi-autos and revolvers. The CW Series' natural point of aim and low-felt recoil make them the ideal guns to shoot and carry.
CW4043
CW4543
See the CW Series along with new 2011 models at Kahr's SHOT Show booth #15951 Æ
sd02_p28_Ammo 2011.indd 30
KAHR ARMS: 130 Goddard Memorial Drive, Worcester, MA 01603 | Sales Support & Service: 508-795-3919 | Websites: www.kahr.com
12/21/10 11:39:17 AM
.
1095 OTH# BO
©CO B K C U M L A N O 1E 0 2 T H IG R Y P NIN C F K M R A S I™ W O D N E T
Y
201 OTSHW SH
ai in t at clm o h to takeas ckage. 1 # 1 5 9 0 Pa y boot™h u ing Game b p o t tH 120 . S eond iWi n H S W O i tN n SH T O unt to ootoras h b f e h t o r i g fr pa gbr in wafrein ep gWe’ ’er in rin eb l u d cou ge.am Y
FEISN’LI
ckbot mu
BN_026786_SHBD211.indd 1
YSCOMFRTBE.U ALW
pany. m co
co m
cs porein g the to
Aricame
’s pierme
g huntin
SHOULDBE.
12/8/10 12:26 PM
PRODUCTS
.44 Spl. load features a 165-grain FTX bullet that clocks 910 fps from a 2.5-inch barreled revolver; it offers nearly 10 inches of penetration in properly prepared ballistic gel when fired through the standard FBI Heavy Clothing protocol. The .45 Long Colt launches a 185-grain FTX slug that clocks 910 fps when fired from a 3-inch Taurus Judge. In the same test, it penetrated 13 inches. The LEVERevoultion line expands with the addition of three loads firing the new Hornady Monoflex bullet. The new loads consist of a .30-30 with a 140-grain bullet, .308 Marlin Express with a 140-grain bullet and the .45-70 5 6 1 th w M C R 0 s,.3 feg o rain Govt. with a 250-grain slug. Hornady’s Dangerous Game n ito d ammo line expands with the addition a ea- of the .416 Remington Magnum ffeaturing a 400-grain DGX or 400grain DGS bullet at 2,400 fps. se Hornady’s Superformance line u uses y lg o n ech specially blended powder ttechnology eralib to increase the velocity on a caliberc to-caliber basis while creating no more recoil than standard loads. It d has proved to be a popular line, and n a e it expands significantly this year. The h T e Superformance Varmint line sees the h t addition of a .222 Rem. with a 50-grain V-Max bullet at 3,345 fps f(which duplicates the performance o of . em a standard .223 Rem.). A .223 Rem. R let load features a 53-grain V-Max bullet u b ad at 3,465 fps. The .22-250 Rem. load o l
launches a 50-grain V-Max at 4,000 fps, while the .243 Winchester load sends a 58-grain V-Max out the barrel at 3,925 fps. (All stated velocities were achieved through a 24-inch SAAMI test barrel.) Two new loads join the standard Superformance lineup: the 6.5x55mm Swede with a 140-grain SST bullet at 2,750 fps, and the venerable .35 Whelen with a 200-grain SP-RP bullet at 2,910 fps. The Interbond bullet will now be available in the Superformance line with a .270 Win. 130-grain load, 7mm Rem. Mag. with a 154-grain load, .308 Win. with a 165-grain load, .30-06 with 150-, 165- and 180grainew g yofferings, .300 RCM with 165lsm ad th g frin o
and 180-grain loads, .300 Win. Mag. with 165- and 180-grain slugs, .338 RCM with a 225-grain load and the .338 Win. Mag. with a 225-grain bullet. The Superformance Match line sees the addition of a .223 Rem. with a 75-grain BTHP at 2,930 fps and a 5.56mm NATO with a 75-grain BTHP at 2,920 fps. The Hornady Custom Ammunition line adds the 6.8 SPC with a 120-grain SST slug, the 7mm Weatherby Mag. with a 139-grain GMX and the .300 Weatherby Mag. with a 165-grain GMX. Although conventional loads dominate the Hornady line this year, one new offering that dealers might really n
want to take a close look at is its new Steel Match line. Using a “fire and forget” polymer-coated steel case, Hornady has created a practice/range ammo line. It’s popularly priced, even though it’s loaded with the same Hornady bullets and powders used in the Custom Match line. Handgun loads will use the Hornady HAP bullet and will be available in 50-round boxes of 9mm (125-grain), .40 S&W (180-grain) and .45 ACP (230-grain). Rifle shooters will find the Steel Match line in .223 Rem. (53-grain HP and 75-grain BTHP), .30 Carbine (110grain FMJ) and .308 Win. (155-grain BTHP). Booth #13145. (308-3821390; hornady.com)
Federal The Vital-Shok handgun hunting line expands in 2011 to include Swift A-Frame bullets in .357 Magnum, .41 Remington, .44 Magnum, .454 Casull, .460 S&W Magnum and .500 S&W Magnum.
Winchester Ammunition
The big news from Winchester in 2011 is the new Blind Side steel shot load, which will be available this fall. For starters, it uses cube-shaped, rather than round, shot. Each individual pellet is a hexahedron shape that incorporates corners, edges and six uniformly flat sides. That results in an increase in the tissue damage caused by each individual pellet, due to the flat impact surfaces and the natural tumbling effect. Non-round shot normally creates fliers within a shotshell pattern, but
The Regent R100 is an authentic version of the classic M1911 A1. Offered by Umarex USA with Hogue® grips and made under the strict requirements of ISO 9000 & AQAP 120 NATO quality standards, the Regent is made with a level of quality that’s unparalleled for a retail of under $500. Check it out at booth #14856 then order the Regent R100 .45 ACP from your distributor.
BOOTH 14856
An Affordable
1911Quality with the
Customize
MARKETED AND DISTRIBUTED BY UMAREX USA, INC. ©2010 WWW.UMAREXUSA.COM
sd02_p28_Ammo 2011.indd 32
Hogue®Grips
1911 A1 .45 ACP
ZEROED IN
To
12/21/10 11:43:41 AM
ASSEMBLED IN THE USA
Booth 3544
The new MeoProTM series riflescopes
You asked... we delivered. The new MeoPro series 1” riflescopes. TM
★★★★
“Killer Value” OutdoorLife Magazine Optics Test 2010 / MeoPro 3-9x42
3-9x42 | MAP $399 | Reticles: M-Plex | 4
4-12x50 | MAP $499 | Reticles: M-Plex | 4
0 x5 8 -1
6-18x50 6 AP$59 59| MAP M R -PxI $599 eticl:M $eticl: | -PlexReticle: R IM-Plex M III MEOBRITE 550 ION ASSISTED LENS COATINGS
E F SHIELD K EYPILENS COATING IC U MEO S U C E ANTI-ABRASION
MEO TRAK II POSI-CLICK ADJUSTMENT
MEO M OO Q QUICK FAST FOCUS EYEPIECE C
adeo LLoaded c ithfeaursndgoplEm w with features and designed to surpass the leading European and domestic rands, bbrands, he tthe new MEOPROTM s heigst iis tthe highest ing, erfom pperforming, ost m fordablemost aaffordable iu rem ppremium ifl escopvrdu.Fatingm 1” rifl r escope ever produced. Featuring a premium grade optics 1” optics assembly that’s M TTM lyu ulti-coaedw sg, ffully m 50InA B hrM PR EO M delivrsanutyghm o delivers an industry leading light transmission f9.8% 9.8% per oof 99.8% 9 per lens surface. multi-coated with our MB550 Ion Assisted lens coating, MEOPRO M TTM eTrk opta’lM M l ews aalleoTrak nnewak M enyprovihc r Iadjustm III adjustment system provides the precision curay aaccuracy ndtrackigpbleshoy aand tracking a abilteshor ccapabilities p that others an nlyhopet can c only o hope to achieve. A fast Meopta’s MeoTrak M ocus yepic,sltonfdarw ghkufocus f e PR the MEOPRO EO M eris, TTM series, s making these eyepiece, selection of second focal plane reticles and waterproof, fogproof, shockproof construction round out fd,y rpcM m ogw hebstvaluin.A tthe best value in the business. Along with the highest margins in the premium optics category, Meopta offers dealer direct sales, a strictly disciplined scopes distribution strategy, US manufacturing and service and a minimum advertised pricing policy. As a result, Meopta dealers can count on high inventory turns, strong consumer demand and maximum profitability. Meopta... leading the way in optical precision for over 78 years. tics. p o ts m For more information about Meopta USA and our precision optics please call: 800-828-8928 or visit: www.meoptasportsoptics.com
BN_027524_SHBD211.indd 1
12/22/10 10:29 AM
A Match at a Mile
We thought it would be impressive to see a match at 1 mile with Carson's new 3D binoculars. Turns out, testing* proved it was 5 miles! Come see for yourself, Carson's new revolutionary optical platform.
SERIES BINOCULARS
1-800-967-8427 | www.carsonoptical.com
SHOT Show Booth # 810
products
Winchester has developed a rear-deploying Diamond wad that provides excellent pattern control. During some actual hands-on tests, I found that the new Blind Side load was as choke responsive as premium-plated lead shot. With an IC choke, 25-yard patterns were what one could hope for with good lead shot. At 35 yards (Mod. choke) and 45 yards (Full choke) the patterns were uniform and effective. Some of that might be due to the fact that the Hex shot not only allows more pellets to be stacked into the shell, but allows the factory to add extra shot to the pattern. Winchester notes that the stacking effect allows 10 to 15 percent more pellets per load. A 3-inch 12-gauge shell that would normally carry a 1 ¼-ounce steel-shot load can now launch 1 3⁄8 ounces of the Hex shot. Solid-copper big-game bullets have been a hot topic in recent years, and for 2011, Winchester introduces its own bullet. The new Power-Core 95/5 ammunition line promises performance equal to the traditional Power Point lineup, but with a solid-copper slug that meets California ammunition regulations while offering quick expansion and nearly 100 percent weight retention. It will be available in 64-grain .223 Rem., 130-grain .270 Win., 150-grain .30-06, .300 Win. Mag. and .3030, and a 140-grain 7mm Rem. Mag. load. The ammunition line promises to be priced at a popular level, and offerings in various calibers will be available beginning in the second quarter of 2011. In the PDX1 handgun line, Winchester expands its bonded-core bullet offerings to include a 125grain load in .357 Magnum and .357 SIG. Both feature nickel-plated cases and low-flash powders. For those who favor the .223 Rem. for home defense in a modern sporting rifle, the PDX1 line also includes a 60-grain .223 load designed specifically for this purpose. A protected hollowpoint design with a front lead core (which is not bonded to the bullet jacket) creates massive initial expansion, while the rear bonded portion of the bullet produces required penetration. The popularity of the Taurus Judge has prompted a number of ammo makers to introduce homedefense .410 shotshell loads, and Winchester upgrades its version with the new PDX1 .410 Defender. The 3-inch shell carries a 15⁄16-ounce (410 grains) payload consisting of four plated Defense Disks and 16 plated BB-sized shot. Three new loads join Winchester’s Power Max bonded rifle bullet line. They are 64-grain .223 Rem., 220-grain .325 WSM and a 200-grain .338 Win. Mag. loads. The ETIP Lead Free line sees the addition of a 168-grain .308 Win. loading. Also in the Lead Free category is the new Winchester Lead Free Rifled slug. Designed for smoothbore barrels, it features a 1-ounce zinc slug in a 2 ¾-inch 12-gauge loading, with an advertised velocity of 1,400 fps. Winchester’s rimfire line expands with four new offerings. The Varmint Lead Free line sees the addition of a 15.5-grain .17 HMR Lead Free with an advertised velocity of 2,550 fps. The Varmint HV (High Velocity) line gets a 30-grain plated, polymer-tipped V-Max bullet at 2,250 fps, while the Varmint HE (High Energy) line is joined by the 3/1 Fragmenting .22LR. The Winchesterdesigned bullet in this load uses a programed hollowpoint designed to fragment into three forward segments, with a solid rear core to assure penetration. Lastly, shooters using .22LR versions of the modern sporting rifle will want to look at the new M-22 load. It features a 40-grain, plated roundnose slug to produce reliable feeding in high-capacity magazines. Booth #13129. (618-258-3835; winchester.com)
*For testing parameters, conditions and results visit www.carsonoptical.com
sd02_p28_Ammo 2011.indd 34
12/21/10 11:40:20 AM
2
S
V
e th o get
T F GI
gh ds u ro roun h t gG
Goovin Pr
C Trainer 4
E E FRooth
a
t
0 7 1 #11
B
rockyboots.com
Autograph Session
Jan. 18th & 19th 10 AM with Hank Parker Booth #11034
BN_026629_SHBD211.indd 1
Autograph Session
Jan. 18th & 19th 2 PM Booth #11034
12/6/10 12:44 PM
PRODUCTS
Heavy Duty
When it comes to outerwear, consumers are opting ilty b for durability a over fashion By Peter B. Mathiesen
C
onsumers continue to be extremely o price-sensitive, no n doubt a result of a barely vry. discernible economic recovery. eco r To meet the challenge, h -most retailers reported tthey genn eyg erated steady traffic over the past e- year only by creating sspep cial sales and discounts. As a result, in 2010 many brands were marketed below suggested retail pricing. We can expect more of the same in 2011.
In another trend, designs migrated from the work-clothing industry to the hunting arena, with a definite emphasis on heavy fabrics with greater durability. On the manufacturing side, companies created more branded fabrics for 2011 under their own corporate banners, reducing the amount of licensing activity from their Asian supply factories. Finally, tactical clothing manufacturers continued to experience the most significant market growth; even so, hunting clothing companies managed to hold their own. Here’s a short list of what’s new in outerwear for 2011. cesth u o n al n rig eo h
511 Tactical
The wind-resistant and water-repellent Chameleon Softshell Jacket uses an unassuming outdoor design to mask its real purpose—undercover or off-duty wear. Ideal for layering in moderate weather conditions, this jacket is made of a polyester-bonded soft-shell material with a brushed lining that includes a mesh liner and a drop tail. Taffeta around the inside of the hem serves as abrasion resistance, so the garment can be worn over a duty belt. The Chameleon includes three exterior pockets, with two large hand warmers and an upper arm sleeve
Rocky The BroadHead ArcherFit jacket and pant use compression and zippers to conform to a hunter’s body for a warm, comfortable fit. pocket. Available in three colors: black, dark navy and a moss/black combination, in sizes XS to 3XL. SRP: starts at $99. Booth #10376. (209-527-4511; 511tactical.com)
Browning
For 2011, Browning aannounces the return of Hydro-Fleece, tthe original waterproof fleece material pioneered by the company in 1993. The original Ultra Fleece was one of the first fabrics to offer hunters super-quiet waterproof clothing. The new Hydro-Fleece offers an improved water-shedding treatment, along with softer and quieter fabric. The outerwear also features Browning’s new HMX bi-component waterproof and breathable outer shell fabric with OdorSmart, an antimicrobial lining to help control bacteria that can cause human odor. New models include a PrimaLoft parka, jacket, bib and pant as well as a softshell jacket and pant. All will be
Filson
rio A smooth-finish knit exterior e rsurface conceals a warm layer e y of fleece in the Outfitter Jacket. The sheared interior fleece lining consists of Polartec Thermal Pro, considered one of the highest warmth-to-weight ratios available. The jacket is highly breathable and will dry quickly if it gets wet. Using traditional Filsonquality construction, there is an inside zipper security pocket, an antique brassfinish front zipper, a draw-cord waist and comfortable articulated elbows. The product is made in the U.S. SRP: $190. Booth #15724. (866-860-8906; filson.com)
36 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p36_Outerwear 2011.indd 36
12/17/10 12:23:15 PM
nce
Ne un ta No ha
e r .
2 1/2”
shotel,.45ACPr–anicmbdyu fide .
.410 Shotshell
.45 ACP
.45 Colt
B SH W TSH O
H #13729
COME SEE THE S&W CHAMPIONS IN THE SMITH & WESSON BOOTH Demonstration and Autograph Sessions Julie Golob, Doug Koenig, Jerry Miculek 10:00 - 11:00am and 2:00 - 3:00 pm
BN_026709_SHBD211.indd 1
12/6/10 12:56 PM
PRODUCTS
Prois
The new Pro-Edition Soft-Shell line (pants, vest and jacket) features the popular Mossy Oak Infinity camouflage pattern combined with technologically advanced fabrics. Other performance-enhancing features include a warm microfleece lining, oversize cargo pockets with Prois signature whisper-silent magnetic closures, and 9-inch boot zippers for easy access in and out of the pants. Like all Prois gear, the pants were built specifically to fit a female hunter’s anatomy. The vest and jacket use compressed microfleece to provide warmth, and both use a nylon lining system to make them easy to slip on and off. Other features include scapular drop pockets that can house activated hand warmers between the shoulder blades, and spacious lumbar compartments across the lower back, where additional hand warmers or soft goods can be stored. Booth #10223. (970-641-3355; proishunting.com)
NEW ERA OF INNOVATION rd l a n ito o rn e d rt. fo m
Irish Setter The Deer Camp Wool Field Coat uses a ttraditional a buffalo-plaid pattern, but it also takes advantage of a m modern o wind-resistant and waterproof membrane to ensure comfort.
offered in the Mossy Oak Break-Up Infinity camo pattern. SRP: starts at $232. Booth #13940. (801876-2711; browning.com)
Blackhawk
Ultimate Low Light Performer
The 5.5-ounce Warrior Wear Ultralight Tactical Pants deliver weightless comfort without sacrificing durability. The woven cotton-nylon blend resists water on the surface, and a smooth underside improves wearer comfort. Styled with a modern fit, the Ultralight Tactical Pants use high-quality YKK zippers and Prym snaps. A silicone grip strip in the waistband helps keep shirts tucked in. The expandable waistband and gusseted crotch allow for greater movement, and the extra-wide reinforced belt loops can accommodate duty belts. SRP: $79.99. Booth #12271. (800-694-5263; blackhawk.com)
Old-school hunters will gravitate toward the traditional Deer Camp Wool Field Coat and its classic red-and-black buffalo plaid pattern. Ideal for layering in moderate weather conditions, the Ultra Dry wind-resistant and waterproof membrane helps reduce the chill factor while deer hunting. The coat comes with a center-front zipper that’s covered with a snap-front placket. There are two large lower dual-entry pockets, and the coat is fully insulated. In addition, the jacket is sized large to allow for layering. Available in men’s sizes M to 3XL. SRP: $129. Booth #10047. (800-
The new BroadHead ArcherFit Jacket and Pant is built to conform to the hunter’s body using compression and zippers. The comfort stretch material makes a user feel as if he were wearing a customized fit, ideal for bowhunting. The line includes Rocky’s well-established clothing standards like SilentHunter suede fabric with micro-denier fibers that wick moisture away from skin. The HydroShed water-repellent soft shell is ultra-quiet and comfortable. Both garments use the SiQ Atomic scent-control system to help control odor. The compression technology is utilized in the jacket front, side and forearm zippers. The jacket also features 40 grams of Thinsulate insulation, and has a zippered front and back trunk pockets. Available in Mossy Oak Infinity and Realtree AP. SRP: starts at $119.99. Booth #11034. (740-753-
738-8370; irishsetterboots.com)
1951; rockyboots.com)
Irish Setter
l o 10 x 42 Also available in 10x56, 8x56, 8x42
Every hunter knows the challenge of short dusk and dawn periods or the difficulty of scouting in pre-dawn. For those passionate hunters that hunt in demanding low-light conditions or in the extremely long dusk periods of northern latitudes Steiner has developed a new lens system that captures and intensifies even the smallest amounts of light. This new binocular is named “Nighthunter” for its unparalleled ability to penetrate dusk and dawn and revealing the smallest detail where movement is suspected but can’t be seen with standard optics.
Rocky
e rin
e g ti d e n f o v t n e m 0 re rp o c n u o ith if c e p u o ith e h a a x r
Wolverine W ve
Designed D s to o endure tough conditions while providing freedom of and comfort, the Finley Jacket is made from o movement m e 100 percent 12-ounce cotton duck canvas. Extra fabric 1 p c incorporated into the back of the jacket provides flexibilii without bulkiness. The Finley’s reinforced elbows are ty w specifically designed to accommodate movement s without restriction. w The T jacket is lined with 100 percent Polyfill for warmth, and quilted taffeta-lined sleeves allow for w easy layering. A three-piece draw-cord hood provides e extra warmth for the head and neck, while the lowere front kangaroo pockets have reinforced openings to f prevent wear. Available in men’s sizes M to XXL in p bison, black, hickory and olive. Booth #10540. (800-545-2425; wolverine.com)
See us in booth #12755 www.steiner-binoculars.com
sd02_p36_Outerwear 2011.indd 38
12/22/10 10:06:22 AM
BN_025811_SHBD211.indd 1
11/9/10 3:01 PM
f e at u r e
Leading the Charge
Fifty years of promoting, protecting and preserving the shooting sports By Christopher Cogley
T
here’s no doubt that America is becoming more populous and more urbanized. For many families and individuals, however, our shooting, hunting and outdoors heritage is as important today as it’s ever been. For the past 50 years, the National Shooting Sports Foundation has been dedicated to preserving, protecting and promoting that heritage. It’s been 50 years of ups and downs, setbacks and accomplishments, milestones and memories. But mostly, it’s been 50 years of growth.
The idea for the organization that would eventually become the National Shooting Sports Foundation was hatched in a small meeting of key industry experts sponsored by Field & Stream magazine in the late 1950s. The early goal of the organization was to promote the shooting sports as a way to increase people’s understanding and acceptance of America’s hunting heritage. “At that time, I think everyone involved saw the need for an organization like the NSSF, and probably even recognized the potential of what it could become,” says Steve Sanetti, president of the NSSF. “But I’d be surprised if, back then, anyone could have imagined how big the NSSF would become and the role it would play in preserving, protecting and promoting the shooting sports industry.” Sanetti says that while the potential was always there, it wasn’t until 1978, and the creation of the first SHOT Show, that the NSSF started unlocking that potential. “That was the seminal event that really propelled the NSSF from a small promotional organization into a major trade association that repre-
sented the needs of the entire industry,” he says. “The show literally brings everyone in the industry under one roof. But it’s more than just a symbolic event; it also brings in much of the funding for the programs we’ve established over the years to promote, protect and preserve the industry.” Those programs have played a crucial role in helping the industry weather the storms that have threatened it when the country went through various political, social and ideological shifts. That staying power is one of the organization’s most admirable accomplishments, says Doug Painter, former president and CEO and current senior advisor at
the NSSF. “The single most daunting challenge our industry has faced came in the late 1990s,” he says, recalling the first significant lawsuit that was filed against the industry, followed six months later by the tragedy at Columbine. “It was a time when the issue of firearms was a central agenda in the nation, and in a very short period of time, an antigun spotlight was focused on the industry like we’d never seen before.” It was a spotlight that very well could have burned a hole in the industry, had it not been for the resolve of the NSSF and its members. “It took some time, but eventually we began to make progress on the
One of the signal achievements of the nSSF was the creation of the SHOT Show, now in its 33rd year. at left, the ribbon-cutting ceremony from the first show, held in St. Louis in 1979. Over the years, the show has grown dramatically.
legislative and political fronts, and started to pass legislation that would prohibit future lawsuits,” Painter says. “At the same time, we had to face down the misconceptions that the media and the public had about our industry.” The intense need to demonstrate to lawmakers and the general public that the NSSF and its members were as concerned as anyone about the unlawful use of firearms led to the formation of some of the NSSF’s most successful and influential programs, such as Project ChildSafe, which expanded upon voluntary programs some manufacturers had already established by shipping firearms with appropriate locking devices. It also demonstrated to the industry, and to gun owners across the country, how critical it was to have an organization like the NSSF that is dedicated to promoting, protecting and preserving hunting and the shooting sports. “It was the finest hour in the history of the association, and it was a tribute to the entire industry. The NSSF couldn’t have weathered that storm by itself. Everyone in the industry had to come together,” Painter says. “But that’s what we’ve always done. Our ability to pull together in times of need is one of the traits that has always defined our industry.” With the NSSF leading the charge, it will likely continue to be a defining characteristic of the shooting sports industry for the next 50 years—and beyond.
40 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p40_NSSF_fifty years.indd 40
12/16/10 5:08:32 PM
GEAr
TH At
C O m MaN D S
AtTentio n.
36 NEW PRODUCTS!
m o c R E D N A M O K C U .B w
w
L
K BOOTH NAME: AT 0 BOOTH #: 1454
The Buck CoMmandER crew
by the charismatic personality of Willie Robertson—and a roster » ofLedMajor League Baseball
celebrities—this fun-loving group of athletes enjoys sharing the adrenaline rush of chasing monster whitetails.
“Meet us at the booth! Grab some autographs from the crew.” -W.R.
FT TO RIGHT: PICTURED FROM LE ngerhans, Tom Martin, La an Ry Chipper Jones, ff. am LaRoche, Matt Du Ad , on rts be Ro llie Wi
18 Date: Tuesday, January pm 0 3:O 0– 1:3 Time:
BN_026646_SHBD211.indd 1
12/6/10 12:49 PM
f e at u r e
The aim of First Shots is to introduce the shooting sports to non-shooters in a supervised activity that promotes safety and fun.
Nearly half of all First Shots participants are first-time shooters, so the ones that continue will have to equip themselves. Forty-three percent of them do, spending an average of $588. “When a manufacturer supports the program, the First Shots attendees see those names, and they’ll remember their experiences with them,” says Dalena. “Keep it simple, safe and fun; those are the three keys to success.”
The Next Step
First Shots, Five Reasons
An innovative program that helps recruit new shooters continues to reap dividends By rob Staeger
F
irst Shots, the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s outreach program, has been introducing people to the shooting sports since 2005. The classes invite newcomers to a range for firearms instruction and some supervised shooting. First Shots classes can focus on handguns, rifles or shotguns, or incorporate all three. Range operators recognize the program’s potential to build interest in shooting and bring newcomers onto their lanes. Here are five reasons why.
Outreach
First Shots is a great way to reach out to the community, where people might be interested in shooting but wary of making a financial commitment. By offering a free chance to learn to shoot, First Shots removes the money barrier to entry. “If they just want to try it or they’re curious, and a shooting class costs $100, they might not go for that,” says Cyndi Dalena, manager of the First Shots program. “But if they can go to a range for the cost of nothing but three hours of their time, a lot more people will come. It’s a ‘try before you buy,’ if you will.” This outreach serves two segments of the shooting industry: not-for-profit shooting clubs and commercial ranges. Commercial ranges, of course, always want new customers, but gun clubs find First Shots an invaluable outreach tool as well. Lower Providence Rod and Gun Club in Audubon, Pennsylvania, uses First Shots to build membership. Mike Alexander coordinates the events for the club. “First Shots is about opportunity,” he says. “By design, it gives people the opportunity to try their hand at shooting in a safe, informative and friendly atmosphere.” The results are significant. “First Shots gives our club the opportunity to showcase our facility to members of the com-
munity,” he says. “This results in new interest and new memberships.”
Furthermore, even the people who never return to the range have received a valuable education. “While they might not be coming back, they have at least been provided with a good experience and a good image of the range and shooters in general,” says Dalena.
Education
Easy to Do
First Shots offers safety training with rifles, shotguns and handguns. “Most recently, modern sporting rifle seminars have taken a leap forward,” says Dalena. “People are learning that MSRs are really no different from a traditional rifle.” It’s an invaluable learning experience, and the program knows just how to hammer the point home. “Rifle, shotgun or handgun—when they’re hitting targets in a safe environment, they’re loving it and want to do more.” A lot happens in the three hours of a First Shots seminar. “You build a relationship with the instructor, you get to know staff and you start to understand your way around the range,” says Dalena. “It removes the barriers. Next time, you can just call or walk right in and sign up for a class or rent a lane.” J. Doug Alley, of Ammo Alley in Hartsburg, Missouri, has seen it happen. “We’ve been hosting First Shot events about once a quarter and have found them an outstanding way to introduce and increase new business in the range and the retail facility.” Alley has even taken it a step further, educating younger shooters as well by modeling a youth program on First Shots.
The best part about this education and outreach? The NSSF and First Shots sponsors do much of the heavy lifting. Host ranges provide the certified instructor and the safety officers. The NSSF and the sponsors can supply the rest, including safety literature, banners and signage, ammo and targets and even loaner guns. The NSSF can supply the advertising and offers a 50/50 co-op advertising plan for the program. “The industry has been very generous with this program,” says Dalena. “The actual dollar outlay to ranges is in advertising only. And we offer the advertising co-op so that they, in effect, can double their ad dollars.” Manufacturers who sponsor the program see benefits, too. Leading rimfire manufacturer Ruger is a longtime sponsor of First Shots. “Shooting teaches safety and discipline, and rewards participants with a sense of accomplishment and responsibility,” says Ruger spokesperson Ken Jorgensen. “Starting people in the shooting sports with rimfire firearms makes so much sense, as the firearms and ammunition are affordable and their lack of recoil doesn’t create bad habits at the beginning.”
Of course, after the class is over, what’s next? Once introduced to shooting, some people want to continue right away. “I’ve seen a lot of ranges incorporate a free lane rental for the rest of the day,” says Dalena. “It can be pretty instantaneous sometimes.” It’s important that the First Shots seminar lets people know what they can do to continue. “Let them know where to go, what it costs, and where they can participate again,” she says. “Providing the next step is important.” One such step is 2nd Round, a more advanced First Shots that focuses on a single shooting topic, such as personal protection, skeet or a Try-a-Gun opportunity. Some ranges are beginning to offer this 2nd Round regularly, too.
Results
At the end of the day, First Shots is remarkably effective at creating new shooters—and customers. In the six months after they take part, four out of 10 participants return to the host range and continue shooting. In a class of 30, that’s 12 new regulars. One in every 10 participants purchases a membership. “You know what they say about marketing,” says Dalena. “Getting them through the door is half the battle.” Mike Alexander agrees. “The new interest created by a First Shots program is a significant opportunity for the entire firearms industry,” he says. The program is so successful that many of the 145 ranges that have participated have made it a regular part of their marketing plan. Range owner Doug Alley is one such regular. “The First Shots program has been such a huge success for getting new business through the door. I’m certain we’ll continue to host First Shots, as well as other NSSF events, for years to come,” he says. The enthusiasm isn’t surprising. As Dalena says, “A 10 percent return rate for any marketing program is pretty darn good. What’s not to like about that?” For more information, contact Cyndi Dalena (203-426-1320; firstshots@nssf.org).
42 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p42_NSSF_first shots 5 reasons.indd 42
12/16/10 5:09:20 PM
UP $#!+ CREEK? HERE’S YOUR PADDLE. INTRODUCING THE NEW! SOL ORIGIN , everything you need from the world’s first essential survival tool. TM
TM
Come see Adventure Medical Kits (booth #4142) and witness the global launch of the SOL brand, including ®
TM
the Origin and other new industry-defining survival tools. TM
WATERPROOF CASE RESCUE FLASH
®
FIRE STARTER
ADVENTURE MEDICAL KITS ®
BOOTH #4142 COMPASS
TM
RESCUE KNIFE LED LITE RESCUE HOWLER
d s
BN_026647_SHBD111.indd 1
A AdventureMedicalKits.com sal le @ sales@adventuremedicalkits.com
12/6/10 11:53 AM
f e at u r e
Buck on the Right Track
The long-term payoff for the nSSF Congressional Fly-In is handsome, as that valuable face-to-face time really can help the industry get its points across.
Sees one-millionth 110 Folding Hunter roll off the assembly line
T
hough many economists insist the recession ended 18 months ago, the average American would be hardpressed to agree. We’re all coping with a tepid recovery that continues to sputter along like a barely smoldering candle. But Buck Knives begs to differ; the knifemaker not only sees light at the end of the tunnel, it knows it’s not the beam of an approaching locomotive. That’s because on a Friday afternoon last fall, employees at the Post Falls, Idaho, plant witnessed a sure sign of recovery, in the form of a 110 Folding Hunter—the one-millionth knife to roll off the line in 2010. “We’re breaking records,” Phil Duckett, Buck’s chief operating officer, said at the time. “It’s awesome.” Another positive sign of growth has been the addition of 40 new employees this year, bringing Buck’s total workforce at the plant to 250. “This is a testament to our commitment to making our products in America,” Duckett said. “The troops on the floor worked hard to get us to these impressive numbers.” The 108-year-old family-operated knife-making company, now in its fifth generation, has stayed the course in difficult times. Doing so required making “some tough business adjustments to cope with the economic slowdown,” said Duckett. “But the results indicate we’ve made the right decisions, and we’re now on the right track.” Right track, indeed. Here at the SHOT Show, Buck is rolling out several new models, one of which is the Model 113 Ranger. It combines the style and feel of the Model 112 Ranger folder with a streamlined full-tang 3 ⅛-inch skinning blade. SRP: $80. Booth #14504. (800-326-2825; buckknives.com) Typical of the teams that helped Buck Knives turn out more than one million knives in 2010 are these five people, l. to r: Mitch Konell, Cell 1 waterspider; Crystal Bostwick, Cell 1 lead; Jeff Hubbard, value stream manager; Bill Keys, director of manufacturing; and CJ Buck, president.
Face to Face
NSSF Congressional Fly-Ins: Where industry issues gain altitude By Cathy Glazer
S
ince 1937, when the Federal Aid in Wildlife Restoration Act, better known as the Pittman-Robertson Act, became law, firearms and ammunition manufacturers have been required to pay an excise tax on a biweekly basis on goods shipped to dealers during the preceding two weeks. Because payments for those goods may not yet have been received, the tax schedule forced some manufacturers to borrow money to pay the tax on time. Other sporting goods industries, which became subject to the tax more recently, were required to pay on a more manageable quarterly basis. To correct this inequity without disrupting important conservation programs funded under Pittman-Robertson, five years ago the NSSF’s government affairs division, together with a coalition of conservation partners and stakeholders, began lobbying for reform legislation. Those efforts paid off last summer, when the Firearms Excise Tax Improvement Act of 2010 arrived on President Obama’s desk to be signed into law. Helping to provide the wind beneath the wings of this historic reform and other significant legislative gains in the last year was the NSSF’s Congressional Fly-In program. Begun three years ago and organized by the NSSF’s Government Relations team, these annual early-spring events provide valuable facetime between senior industry officials and key legislators during a two-day blitz of meetings on Capitol Hill. “The Fly-Ins really helped get that excise tax schedule changed,” says Steve Sanetti, NSSF president. “They give us a forum to pursue industryspecific issues, and, as anyone can see, the results speak for themselves.” In terms of legislation, 2010 was one of the most successful years in the industry’s history, says Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF senior vice president and general counsel. In addition to the excise tax reform, positive results were realized in three other areas targeted by Fly-In participants. Preserving traditional ammunition: “After the EPA considered banning traditional ammunition last August, members of Congress flooded the agency with calls to reject any petition
calling for such a ban,” Keane says. The need for a study of the flawed concept of firearms microstamping: “We educated key con-
gressmen and -women about this unreliable technology and the need for more research. A federal study bill was introduced last summer, coinciding with the defeat of a microstamping bill in the state of New York,” Keane says. The need for export-control reforms to help u.S. firearms manufacturers compete in the world market: “The White House is currently
working on the very reforms we advocated,” Keane says. “We were extraordinarily successful last year. Every one of our legislative priorities was met subsequent to the Fly-In,” Keane adds. “The Fly-Ins are significant for two reasons,” says Sanetti. “First, they show the people on Capitol Hill that the firearms industry is a significant American industry that has legitimate business concerns that Congress needs to address. Second, it shows them that the NSSF, with more than 6,000 members, is the trade association for the firearms industry—that we represent everyone from manufacturers, distributors and retailers to shooting ranges, gun clubs and outdoor media. It establishes our bona fides with Capitol Hill.” The NSSF’s Government Relations team began planning last summer for the next Fly-In, tentatively scheduled for April 6–7. “We encourage all NSSF voting members to make their attendance a priority,” says Keane. “The importance of the Congressional Fly-In simply cannot be overstated.”
NSSF Launches PAC at Congressional Fly-In
at its annual Congressional Fly-In event last year, the national Shooting Sports Foundation (nSSF) announced it was launching the nSSF Political action Committee website (nssf.aristotle .com). The nSSF PaC is a non-partisan, Federal Election Commission–registered political action committee. The nSSF PaC was established by the nSSF to support pro–Second amendment, pro-sportsmen and pro-industry candidates seeking election or re-election to federal office.
44 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p44_buck fly in.indd 44
12/17/10 5:06:17 PM
With “Strike Two” capability, the Taurus 800 Series delivers the next evolution in
“Strike-Two” Capability.
semi-autos. Exclusive features include an external hammer, unique take down
Industry-leading reliability that provides
levers for quick field stripping, customizable backstraps and genuine Novak®
you with a second chance at striking a faulty
sights. Pure performance in any situation.
round. No need to do anything else, just pull the trigger.
www.TaurusUSA.com
FREE one-year NRA membership with the purchase of any new Taurus firearm.
BN_026954_SHBD211.indd 1
12/13/10 4:12 PM
f e at u r e
Traditional Ammunition: The Attacks Continue
NSSF leads the fight against a wave of baseless assaults on lead-based ammunition By Brian McCombie
A
lthough there have been several attacks on traditional ammunition containing lead components recently, the gauntlet was definitely thrown down last summer when the Center for Biological Diversity (CBD) petitioned the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to ban traditional (lead-based) ammunition (and lead fishing tackle) across the nation. CBD wrongly claimed that the Toxic Substance Control Act of 1976 authorized the EPA to ban all traditional ammunition because, claimed CBD, lead components represented an unreasonable risk of harm to wildlife, in particular bald eagles and other raptors that may feed on entrails or unrecovered game left in the field. The CBD also suggested that consuming game harvested with traditional ammunition posed a health risk to humans. Bear in mind that the petition would ban all lead ammunition, even cartridges used on indoor ranges and for self defense.
When the EPA indicated it was seriously considering the petition and had opened it up for public comment, the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) issued a government relations alert that immediately generated tens of thousands of responses urging the EPA to drop the petition. Within just 48 hours of the alert being issued, the EPA announced that it was denying the petition on the grounds that the agency lacked the legal authority to ban ammunition under the Toxic Substances Control Act, a point the NSSF made in a letter sent to EPA administrator Lisa Jackson before the EPA began accepting public comment. That’s the good news. The bad news? This won’t be the last attempt to ban traditional ammunition. “Early in the summer of 2010, we learned that the CBD would launch a nationwide effort to ban traditional ammunition,” says Lawrence G.
Keane, NSSF senior vice president and general counsel. “So we began gathering information to defend against whatever claims they were likely to make.” “There is simply no scientific evidence that the use of traditional ammunition is having an adverse impact on wildlife populations that would require restricting or banning the use of traditional ammunition beyond current limitations,” adds NSSF president Steve Sanetti. The CBD petition, for example, suggested lead was harming eagles and other raptor populations. Yet, according to the United States Fish and Wildlife Service, from 1981 to 2006 the number of breeding pairs of bald eagles in the United States increased 724 percent. Much as with the bald eagle, raptor populations throughout the United States are soaring, too. The petition also claimed that tradi-
alternative ammo will cost more, and as a result there would be less shooting and hunting—and less money to support wildlife conservation as well.
tional lead ammunition was a human health threat. However, that’s clearly contradicted by a Centers for Disease Control (CDC) study. In 2008, CDC examined blood lead levels of North Dakota hunters, following baseless allegations that consuming game harvested with traditional ammunition was harming people. The CDC found that the average lead level of the hunters tested was lower than that of the average American. In other words, if you randomly pick someone on the street, chances are that person would have a higher blood lead level than the hunters in the CDC study. Consider that the adult with the highest lead level (9.82 micrograms per deciliter of blood) was still below
the CDC-recommended threshold for that of a child (10 micrograms per deciliter of blood) and well below the CDC-recommended threshold for an adult (25 micrograms per deciliter of blood). And, in this case, the CDC didn’t even know whether or not that person had consumed any harvested game. Obviously, a nationwide ban on traditional ammunition would have a huge impact on the ammunition industry. No one knows how many tens of millions of dollars it would cost ammunition makers to manufacture non-lead components and to retool their operations for non-lead production. What is known is that alternative ammunition made with different metals and alloys would undoubtedly cost consumers a good deal more. That would not only result in less hunting and shooting, but less wildlife conservation, as the federal excise tax that manufacturers pay on the sale of the ammunition (11 percent) is the primary source of wildlife conservation funding and the financial backbone of the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. “Through the excise tax, sportsmen spend hundreds of millions of dollars every year for wildlife conservation projects in this country,” Sanetti says. “If this ban on traditional lead ammunition ever goes through, that funding number is going to go way down—at a time when state and federal budgets for conservation are already very tight.” “Needlessly restricting or banning traditional ammunition absent sound science will hurt wildlife conservation efforts, as fewer hunters take to the field,” says Keane. “Hunters and their ammunition have done more for wildlife than the CBD ever will. And the CBD’s scientifically baseless petition and endless lawsuits against state and federal wildlife managers certainly do not serve the wildlife that the organization claims to protect.” Indeed, the bald eagle’s recovery, a truly great conservation success story, was made possible by and funded by hunters using traditional ammunition—the very ammunition organizations like the CBD are now demonizing. The NSSF fully expects more of these agenda-driven attacks against traditional lead ammunition, attacks that will likely try to muddle the real issues and the science behind them. “This is a priority issue for the NSSF,” Sanetti says.
46 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p46_NSSF_Lead Ammo.indd 46
12/16/10 5:00:51 PM
NO INVESTIGATION NECESSARY. If you need forensic evidence to prove that CCI® loads are devastating on impact, then you must be shooting blindfolded. Take a closer look at our exciting new AR Tactical option and fill your magazines with this specialized ammunition. CCI now brings .22 Long Rifle ammunition to the AR platform. Any modern sporting rifle shooter will appreciate this fast-action, accurate rimfire technology.
THE LEADER IN RIMFIRE AMMUNITION® www.cci-ammunition.com NEW FOR 2010
© 2010 CCI
SHOT SHOW BOOTH #14540
BN_026645_SHBD211.indd 1
12/6/10 12:47 PM
LIGHT HIM UP. ®
TM
TM
The new LEUPOLD VX-R illuminated scope with exclUSIVE firedot reticle.
POWERED FIBER OPTIC
The VX-R™ features one touch illumination with proprietary powered fiber optics that are fully visible in daylight, while delivering optimum light transmission and reticle contrast in low-light settings. Extends precious minutes at daybreak and at the end of the day, with the superior optics and legendary ruggedness you expect from Leupold®. Choose from four exclusive FireDot™ reticle options. So, light him up and put him down.
ALL STATES LEGAL
CENTERFIRE RIFLE BIG GAME
» see the all-new vx-R and learn more at BOOTH 13123.
WHY TRUST YOUR NEXT HUNT TO ANYTHING LESS? » No other mounting system delivers the rock-solid, dependability of
Leupold. Available in a variety of styles and finishes. See your Leupold dealer for the perfect mount for your riflescope.
1-800-LEUPOLD
www.leupold.com
BN_026771_SHBD211.indd 1
©2011 Leupold & Stevens, Inc.
12/8/10 12:24 PM
BX BINOCULARS AND SX SPOTTING SCOPES –READY FOR YOUR APPROVAL. Getting our new Synergy Built™ binoculars and spotting scopes into your hands will be a breeze compared to getting them out of the hands of the Synergy Project Team. These 21 dedicated Leupold® designers, engineers, and production and quality control specialists left no stone unturned to re-think, re-engineer, and re-produce a line of optics unlike any other in the industry. From a distinctive look and feel, to the superior optics, to our legendary ruggedness, Synergy Built reflects the best we have to offer in every way.
» see the all-new synergy built 1-800-LEUPOLD
www.leupold.com
BN_026772_SHBD211.indd 1
TM
lineup at BOOTH 13123.
©2011 Leupold & Stevens, Inc.
12/8/10 12:25 PM
F E AT U R E
ASAP Launches Grab-n-Go Survival Kits
Q
uick! How would you find your spouse and children if an earthquake cut you off from your loved ones? Do you have a designated meeting place? Do you know that you may be able to reach them with a text message when you can’t on a voice line? ASAP Survival Gear teamed with Dr. Bob Arnot—former chief medical editor at NBC News, who has been on-site at some of the globe’s worst disasters—to create emergency preparedness packs. Whether you’re in the Rocky Mountains on an elk hunt or sitting out a Nor’easter at home, the packs have the tools to help you survive the first few days of an emergency. But the folks at ASAP didn’t stop with Arnot’s experience. They also mined the wisdom learned the hard way from Hurricane Katrina and 9/11 survivors, as well as “top secret” tips from experts in their fields. The result is four different packs, each of which is stocked with such survival essentials as potable water and food. But these day packs carry a 21st-century perspective; they are “pocket-rich” environments that allow storage of a SPOT satellite messenger, a crank-powered AM/FM NOAA emergency radio and Cyalume light sticks, as well as other gear. Leatherman, Adventure Medical Kits, Black Diamond and Mainstay are among the major outdoor brands contributing products. You’ll be able to add your personal gear and gadget touches in the space left over. Maybe you’re thinking you already have survival supplies in your hunting gear. Hunters typically (but not always) are better stocked up on emergency supplies than the average American. But what if you had only minutes to flee? Would yo be able to find the essentials in the clutter of a garage or basement? Why take the chance? With ASAP, all you need to do is grab the bag and go. In addition to providing a handy go-bag, the packs come with a 160-page book and 90-minute video on disaster planning and recovery in the aftermath. SRP: $129 to $559. Booth #12734. (866-377-3033; asapsurvivalgear.com) —Marilyn Stone Most hunters tend to have plenty of survival gear… scattered all over the garage. But ASAP kits are ready to grab and go when you need them most.
The 2011 SHOT Show utilizes a new, more contemporary logo that replaces the upland hunter logo, which is being retired after more than 30 years of faithful service in representing the show. Elegant and versatile in its simplicity, the new logo carries over an important element—the target.
On Target
New logo marks new era for the SHOT Show By Cathy Glazer
L
ong gun over his shoulder and faithful setter by his side, the upland bird hunter was a familiar sight to all SHOT Show participants for more than 30 years. His image, on a target background representing target sports, was the show’s official logo and could be found on everything from marketing materials to souvenir pins. The hunter had a long and successful career representing the SHOT Show. He’d seen it grow from a handful of exhibitors to an industry mustattend event that today only a few convention centers in the country can accommodate. He saw the products displayed at the show become more diverse and witnessed the growth of an enriching diversity among those who use the show’s products, as new and creative outreach efforts opened pathways to the outdoors for more young people, women and minorities. Although hunting remains a vital component of the SHOT Show, the show has grown to reflect the diversity of today’s outdoor industry and outdoor sports participants. And so it was time for the hunter logo to be retired. “We needed a logo that would reflect what the show is today,” says Mark Thomas, managing director of marketing communications for NSSF, the show’s owner. The NSSF selected two top-flight design firms whose branding efforts have helped make a number of products household names. The NSSF’s own in-house graphics team was in the game as well. “We looked at hundreds of different versions,” says Thomas. “It was a pretty tough assignment because of how much it needed to represent.” In the end, it was the home team that hit one
out of the park. The culmination of an 18-month process, the logo selected by NSSF senior officials was the work of the NSSF’s own in-house creative services team: Deb Moran, creative services director, and graphic artist Noelani Dommel, NSSF’s long-time designing women, and their assistant Greg Miller. Elegant and versatile in its simplicity, the new logo carries over an important element—the target. Incorporating the target into the design pays homage to its predecessor and links the show’s heritage with its future in a way that past SHOT Show participants will easily recognize. The green color matches that of the NSSF’s own new logo, bringing the SHOT Show’s marketing materials under the umbrella of the NSSF’s recent re-branding efforts. It’s also a subtle reminder of who owns the show. “There are still people who come to the SHOT Show and don’t know it is owned by the NSSF,” Thomas says. “This logo is simply more modern,” says Chris Dolnack, NSSF senior vice president and chief marketing officer. “Its unique elements and clean look make our marketing materials stand out. It makes the signage pop, it’s easier to read and works well with all types of marketing and communications scenarios. We have a new logo for a new era of the SHOT Show. And I couldn’t be more proud of our NSSF creative services team.”
50 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p50_NSSF_Logo.indd 50
12/17/10 11:32:23 AM
metolius clip folder
tm
Gerber is constantly innovating to design products for work, play
and the everyday. Built specifically for hunters, the metolius clip folder is a thin, yet strong, everyday carry knife with grippy tm
tacHide inlays. gerbergear.com tm
BootH #13614 a d d i t i o n a l 2011 H u n t i n G p r o d u c t s i n c l u d e :
Gator two-fold saw 速
BN_026959_SHBD211.indd 1
Gator macHete pro 速
freeman Guide folder tm
12/13/10 4:18 PM
f e at u r e
SureFire’s High-Capacity Solution
In battle, it takes the average soldier four seconds to reload his weapon and reacquire a target. “That’s time better spent engaging threat targets,” says SureFire public-relations manager ron Canfield. “and, at best, typical 30-round magazines allow an individual soldier to fire no more than 150 rounds in 30 seconds.” SureFire believes it has found a better way with its new high-capacity magazines. “a soldier’s ability to respond to an attack with overwhelming force is critical,” Canfield says. “ambushes in Iraq and afghanistan are commonplace, and the outcome is often determined in the first 30 seconds. Firepower and the ability to stay in the fight are key. Our 60-round magazine gives a war fighter on full-auto the ability to discharge 240 rounds in 30 seconds, and our 100-round magazine ups that to 293 rounds.” Canfield notes that SureFire’s new HCMs will fit into the host weapon with the bolt closed when loaded with the maximum round count. “The design of the magazine takes into account the allowable tolerances of cartridges manufactured to naTO and SaaMI specifications,” he says. He also says that the 60-round magazine will fit into most nylon pouches with Velcro cover flaps intended for two 30-round magazines. double magazine pouches with stitched partitions, however, may require alteration. The magazines can also be disassembled for periodic cleaning. all an operator need do is use a punch, the tip of a cartridge or any other common tool to remove the floor plate from the magazine body. The magazines will be available in states that don’t restrict the sale of high-capacity magazines. SrP: $129, 60-round models; $179, 100-round models. Booth #13968. (800-828-8809; surefire.com)
SureFire’s HCMs will fit into the host weapon with the bolt closed when loaded with the maximum round count. The 60-round maga-
zine will fit into most nylon pouches intended for two 30-round magazines.
Bane Honored by POMA and NSSF
Journalist received the Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator Award last night
T
he Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA) and the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) honored veteran journalist Michael Bane last night with the prestigious POMA/NSSF Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator Award during the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show State of the Industry dinner. Tom Gresham presented the award. Michael Bane has had a long and storied career, but he has truly left his mark as a multi-media pioneer in the shooting sports industry. He early on recognized the significance of new media and eagerly embraced podcasts and online videos. He also writes a daily blog.
When Bane was informed that he’d be honored, his usual edgy barrage of commentary was stilled—for a few moments. “I’m honored, almost to the point of speechlessness, which is abnormal for me,” Bane admitted. “Within my field, the field of media, this is the preeminent award. Selection means you have the respect of your peers, and that means so much to me. A lot of what I’ve done is take risks, as an early adopter of new media. I’m honored that POMA and the NSSF look out there and recognize new media.” In honor of legendary outdoors communicator Grits Gresham, POMA and the NSSF developed the Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator Award in 2005. It recognizes communicators within the firearms/shooting sports/ Second Amendment arena who grasp the ideals, foster the commitment and display the talent Gresham showed during his storied career. Bane’s biography reads like an adventure novel. His escapades climbing big mountains, scuba diving in flooded cave systems and kayaking spectacular rivers around the world have been chronicled in such magazines as National Geographic Adventure, Men’s Journal, Men’s Fitness and hundreds of others. Additionally, he has authored 21 books, including Over the Edge: A Regular Guy’s Odyssey in Extreme Sports. However, it’s Bane’s career as a shooter and his multimedia vision and expertise that found him center stage and being honored as the 2011 Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator. “Michael has been a pioneer in firearms multimedia for years. From magazine articles, books and television shows to podcasts, online videos and a daily blog, he is a leader when covering competition, self-defense with firearms and gun news. And
he always strongly supports gun rights,” Tom Gresham said. “I’m especially happy to have the award go to a media veteran who explores all aspects of responsible gun use. Just as my father, Grits, was a pioneer in bringing the message of shooting and conservation to the public through network television, Michael spreads the word, and introduces new people to our sport, using all forms of new media. Michael promotes the basic message that others would do well to follow: that no matter what kind of gun you are using, shooting is fun!” “As a television show, website and podcast host, blogger and exceptional writer, Michael embodies the new breed of media professional who is adept at using all the tools at his disposal to reach gun owners, shooters and hunters with news they need to know,” said NSSF president Steve Sanetti. “His work with NSSF’s Media Education Seminars program helped journalists from major news organizations better understand firearms and firearm issues, and continues to have a positive effect on media stories to this day. Michael joins a prestigious list of communicators who have earned this award, and he is most deserving of it.” Bane, a five-time Telly Award winner for excellence in cable-television programming, is executive producer and co-host of Shooting Gallery and The Best Defense. He is also co-founder of Down Range TV, the largest firearms video website, and host of DownRange Radio. Nominations for the Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator Award come from all corners of the shooting sports industry. Affiliation with a communications or industry organization is not required. Shooting sports industry professionals are encouraged to make nominations through the POMA website (professionaloutdoormedia.org).
52 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p52_FEAT_poma.indd 52
12/17/10 12:36:34 PM
BN_026372_SHBD111.indd 1
11/24/10 12:30 PM
f e at u r e
The VersaMax’s gaspiston operating system helps the new semi-auto cycle flawlessly. On the author’s dove hunt in argentina, the group expended 48,000 rounds without a serious malfunction.
Remington’s Versatile VersaMax
A new autoloader designed to feed and cycle reliably proves its worth in Argentina By Slaton l. White
E
ven though Remington is one of the hallowed names in American firearms, the manufacturer knows it can’t survive forever on endless iterations of the Models 700, 870 and 1100. That’s one reason the company became an early adopter of hunting versions of the modern sporting rifle. But when it turned to a new autoloader a couple of years ago, the company stumbled badly. The much-heralded CTI 105 ran aground, mainly because it failed to feed and cycle reliably.
Last summer, however, Remington took a giant step forward with the introduction of the new VersaMax autoloading 12-gauge shotgun. The heart of the gun is the patented VersaPort gas-piston system; it consists of seven gas ports and two gas pistons that work in tandem to achieve dependable cycling no matter which length shell is used. This is a critical feature, as many hunters want a semiauto that can handle 2 ¾-, 3- and 3 ½-inch shells reliably. And since there are only two moving parts—the pair of pistons—the gun should prove to be very reliable in the field. It will also be a whole lot easier to clean. “We began work on a prototype in 2005,” says John Trull, Remington’s vice president of firearms brand management. “The struggle was to devise a system that effectively feeds and cycles different-length shotshell loads, and we needed a metering system that could do this on its own with no input from the operator. We also had to make sure we didn’t overdrive the system, and what we eventually came up with is really simple.” Initial offerings included a 28-inch black synthetic version with custom gray overmolded grips and a 28-inch Mossy Oak Duck Blind full-camo version with black overmolded grips.
At the SHOT Show, look for two additional 12-gauge models—a 26-inch black synthetic offering with gray overmolded grips and a 26-inch Realtree AP camo version. Both the 26-inch and 28-inch black synthetic models come with five Flush Pro Bore chokes (Full, Mod, Imp Mod, Light Mod and IC), and both camouflaged versions come with four Pro Bore Extended choke tubes (IC, Mod, Full and Extra Full). All models feature a soft-touch finish on the stocks and forends. Other features include a TriNytecoated barrel with nickel-plated bore (camo guns have nickel-plated barrels and bores, with camo outer layer), nickel-Teflon-plated internal gas-system components, a stainless-steel magazine tube, an aluminum action tube and nickel-plated springs. To improve grip in bad weather, the softtouch synthetic stock uses rubber overmolded grip panels in the stock and forend. In addition, a larger trigger guard and an oversize cross-bolt safety improve functionality while the shooter is wearing gloves. The VersaMax takes advantage of a mil-spec anodized-aluminum receiver to improve corrosion resistance and reduce weight. This decision required a realignment of floor space at
Remington’s Ilion, New York, facility. Because the receivers on the other lines were made from carbon steel, “accommodating the aluminum receiver was a big challenge,” says senior research engineer Andrew Haskin. “When we began laying out the line for an aluminum receiver, we realized most of the equipment couldn’t be used due to contamination issues. So, we purchased a new high-speed horizontal machining center, which was better-suited to cut aluminum. We also needed to segregate most of the finishing equipment and designate it as ‘aluminum only.’” That challenge met, Remington went after another—the need for this gun to feed and cycle reliably. After it put hundreds of thousands of rounds through the gun in temperatures ranging from -20 degrees F. to 120 degrees F., the company pronounced the gun ready. But would it work reliably where it mattered most—in the field? I had an opportunity to find out on a dove hunt in Argentina. Haskins, who accompanied me, kept the tally for our eight-man group. After the trip he told me, “The final count for our trip was 47,925 rounds. The malfunction rate worked out to 0.131 percent, which included any ammo mal-
functions. Shooting ranged from between 4,225 to 7,850 rounds per gun. Since we tend to use a more regimented test, clean and inspection protocol for our shooting at the Ilion facility, I was pleasantly surprised by how well the guns performed across the four-day hunt without any cleaning or lubrication.” As low man on the totem pole (4,225 rounds), I experienced just two failure to feeds in four days. This kind of sustained shooting tends to reveal a gun’s flaws very quickly— typically cycling or recoil issues. I couldn’t find any. Simply put, this is a 12-gauge that shoots more like a 20-gauge. That’s due, in part, to the gas-piston system, but also to the design of the SuperCell recoil pad that completely tames felt recoil. Remington also includes an adjustable length-of-pull spacer kit as well as interchangeable padded cheek comb inserts so a shooter can customize the fit. After the first day of shooting, I switched out the standard insert and put in a higher comb to give me a better sight picture. The swap is dead-nuts simple and can be done without tools. The VersaMax comes with a hard plastic carrying case. As an added bonus, all VersaMax shotguns come standard with Remington’s Platinum Service Plan. Free to all who participate, the plan includes one courtesy cleaning and detailed inspection within the first 12 months of purchase, seven-day turnaround on all repairs and free shipping on all warranty repairs. With a suggested retail price that starts at $1,399, Remington has clearly set its sights on imported semi-autos. Breaking the thousand-dollar barrier has been difficult for Remington (the discontinued Premiere failed to do so), but it’s an important objective nonetheless. Here, dealer acceptance is vital to the success of the VersaMax. One of the hunters on our Argentina sojourn was Robert Frenna, executive vice president of Academy Sports & Outdoors. He believes Remington has a winner. “The VersaMax will be a game changer for Remington because it brings a new and exciting technology to the firearms industry,” he says. “They have developed a gas-operated semi-auto shotgun that has less recoil and is as reliable as a pump shotgun; it’s a good partner for their famous 870. Avid hunters and shooters can now buy an American firearm that performs equal to the higher-priced semi-autos such as the Browning Maxus and Benelli Super Black Eagle. I shot 6,200 rounds over four days without cleaning the gun, and only had six misfeeds. Word will spread fast, and avid hunters and firearms enthusiasts will want to own this gun.” Booth #14229. (800-2439700; remington.com)
54 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p54_Feat_versamax.indd 54
12/16/10 4:36:11 PM
Stop by the Woolrich Elite Series Tactical Booth #13162 for all these great activities and give-aways! JANUARY 19 Tactical Skill Demos: 10:30 AM Covert Tactical Weapons Defense Demo 3 PM Selecting Appropriate Apparel in a Covert Environment
BN_027117_SHBD211.indd 1
10 AM – 12 PM and 2 – 4 PM Dick Kramer, military and SWAT artist, to sign and give away first color print 4 PM Cocktails and hors d'oeuvres plus Give-aways throughout the hour!
12/16/10 4:14 PM
f e at u r e
Authentic Products, Unique Designs Filson, with new CEO aboard, moves forward By Slaton l. White
F
ilson, an outdoor brand known for its American heritage and styling, recently named Mark Korros, 58, as CEO and president. Korros has more than 35 years of experience in management, brand development, product merchandising, direct marketing, e-commerce and retail and wholesale sales. Before working for Filson, Korros served as president at Samsonite, FranklinCovey and Central Restaurant Products. In addition, he held senior executive positions at Reebok, Levenger and Health-Tex Childrenswear. great care to ensure that we do not stray far from that platform. This being said, we’ve heard the demands from younger customers that they want Filson quality, design and comfort to wear after they leave the field, range and stream. The type of product they are requesting from us has a refined look with all the ingredients that make the product a Filson. We’ve also partnered with other brands with a strong history that appeal to a younger clientele. By working with Levis and Vans, we have designed products that equally embrace our history and what these brands bring to the table. The power of these collaborations has proven to be very successful for Filson.
SD: Would you consider cobranding with other classic companies—Danner, for example—to broaden Filson’s appeal? MK: Yes, as long as the brand we partner with shares our values and respects our heritage. The comingling of brands can be a good thing, as we have seen with our previous collaborations. We welcome the opportunity to introduce Filson to a new family of consumers.
Mark Korros, Filson’s new CEO and president, intends to chart a course that preserves the heritage of the 113-year-old company, while creating products that also will appeal to new, younger customers.
“Mark has a solid track record in not only preserving the heart and soul of established American consumer brands, but also in growing their customer bases,” says Bill Kulczycki, Filson’s former CEO and president. “He understands the apparel, footwear and luggage businesses, including the dynamics of how to grow a brand in a changing marketplace. His expertise will be a strong asset to Filson’s growth.” “This is a tremendous opportunity to work with an iconic American brand that people trust,” says Korros.” We have a 113-year-old brand with a legacy of greatness that has transcended changing consumer tastes and needs with classic styling,
performance and durability. I look forward to working with our very talented Filson team as we move the Filson brand forward.” Given the prominence of the brand, SHOT Daily sat down with Korros last fall and asked him about his plans to move the brand forward.
SHOT Daily: Filson could be considered a “heritage” brand. How do you manage the line to keep the Old Guard on board while appealing to new, younger customers? Mark Korros: Filson has a loyal following that has contributed to our success and evolution over the years. Our customers are emotionally connected to our heritage, and we take
SD: Given your background in apparel, footwear and luggage, what lessons from those can you apply to Filson? MK: Filson’s authentic product design is truly unique. Our products have transcended generations and evolved from the prospecting days to today’s most-demanding outdoor sports. I am excited about the opportunity not only to tell a head-to-toe product story, but to provide our customers with great bags and accessories to fit their everyday lifestyle needs. We look forward to making our products more accessible with expanded distribution into better department and specialty stores both in the U.S. and internationally. Our luggage and accessory products are built with the same great quality materials and workmanship as our apparel, and we enjoy the same great heritage of building products that
last a lifetime. My job is to make our brand more accessible and tell the story about our great heritage and enduring quality. We have a unique value proposition for delivering consistent quality that is built right here in our Seattle factory. All of our products, including the ones made outside of our Seattle factory, go through the same rigorous quality inspection standards to ensure that we live up to our “might as well have the best” commitment.
SD: Filson is known for its wool Mackinaw and Tin Cloth products. Any chance it will also move into products that feature synthetic materials as well? MK: Our wool Mackinaw and Tin Cloth products have been incredibly important to Filson over the years. We are always looking at new fabrications and developing new applications of our existing proprietary fabrics. We introduced waterproof, breathable stockingfoot waders in May 2008, and they were well received by our customers. This gave us the green light to move forward with introducing other styles that incorporate synthetic materials, such as our three-layer Wingshooting Jacket and Pants. We are also blending synthetics with natural materials to give the product a Filson look, like, for example, our Elliott Bay & Down pieces that blend wool with polyester. We take great care to make sure the fabric and details of these products are in line with the Filson design aesthetics. We are committed to providing the best, and if we are presented with new technologies that provide our customers with greater performance, we will certainly consider bringing them to market. Our customers are constantly asking us to look at new ways to help serve their needs or help improve performance. In an industry in which technology and performance are a driving force, we are committed to giving our customers what they are looking for. SD: Overall, just how important is “style” to Filson—in particular, and in hunting products in general? MK: We have a variety of consumers who are drawn to the Filson brand, and each of those consumers has a different sense of style. Style works hand in hand with function and durability, and is a strong consideration for our design team. We are in constant contact with the most avid hunters, shooters and fishing advocates that guide and validate our products from a function and style prospective. At Filson, we believe great quality and authenticity never go out of style. We have many products that have been part of our line for more than half a century, and demand continues to grow each year. Booth #15724. (800297-1897; filson.com)
56 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p56_Feat_filson.indd 56
12/17/10 4:08:34 PM
Visi t
NAMES: Bill, Paul, Kevin, Mike, Dennis and Amy DEPARTMENT: Supply Chain Management PHILOSOPHY: Getting it right the first time and every time through careful planning, manufacturing and distribution.
Us a 2024t Booth 9
NAME: Cindy DEPARTMENT: Customer Service PHILOSOPHY: I strive to provide our customers with the highest level of urgency, respect and service possible. I know my actions directly affect those that serve to keep our great nation safe so it’s very important to me to always be on top of my game.
NAMES: Brian DEPARTMENT: IT PHILOSOPHY: Every day I embrace the challenge of keeping Diamondback’s technology running smoothly and on the cutting edge. I strive to do my job well, knowing that it ultimately affects our customers, the men and women that are serving to protect the great USA.
The year 2010 was an extraordinary one for Diamondback Tactical with the acquisition of First Choice Armor’s product portfolio. Diamondback now offers its customers a turnkey solution for personal protection products. Diamondback has proudly been outfitting our nation’s elite military, federal agencies and law
enforcement personnel with innovative, high quality body armor and tactical nylon products for nearly a decade. We understand our employees are our most valuable asset and it shows in the quality of our gear. After all, men and women that serve our great nation protect us, and we are proud to protect them.
800.882.7667 BN_026710_SHBD211.indd 1
12/21/10 8:20 AM
F E AT U R E
The 835 LPA (Lightning Pump Action) is a classic Mossberg two-barrel combo (deer and turkey) that features the adjustable Lightning Trigger.
The Mossberg Way
Like all guns from this American maker, the new deer-turkey combo gets the job done for not a lot of money By Phil Bourjaily
T
he new Mossberg 835 Ulti-Mag Lightning Pump Action deer-turkey combo I shot recently exemplifies the qualities of all guns that Mossberg makes: It’s versatile, converting quickly from a scoped, rifle-barreled, Monte Carlo–stocked deer gun to a lightweight, field-stocked turkey gun; it’s innovative, with an adjustable Lightning Trigger that’s the first of its kind on a turkey gun; and it’s inexpensive, selling for $612 as a two-barrel package. Such a bargain does mean a trade-off: The 835, with its plastic safety button and roughly finished parts, is not a finely made shotgun.
Although founder O.F. Mossberg died in 1937, he would have recognized the 835 deer-turkey combo’s mix of cost cutting and cutting edge. Building affordable, groundbreaking guns has been the Mossberg Way since 1919.
The Guns of O.F.
Iver Mossberg serves as CEO today, representing the fourth generation of Mossbergs to run the company founded by his great-grandfather Oscar, who immigrated to the U.S. from Sweden in 1886 at age 20. O.F.’s mechanical aptitude landed him a job with Iver-Johnson Arms and Cycle Works in Fitchburg, Massachusetts. After working for that and other gunmakers, Oscar went into business with sons Iver and Harold in New Haven, Connecticut, in 1919. Their first product was a four-barreled break-action rimfire pistol called the Brownie. A hammerless pump .22 rifle followed, and the inventions kept coming. Mossberg flourished during the Great Depression, expanding as other companies struggled. The Mossberg Way—offering guns that were versatile, innovative and inexpensive—was a success formula for hard times. For instance, the Model 30 and 40 rimfires, introduced in 1933, came packaged with Lyman-style target sights, making them low-price guns with high-end features. The sights had interchangeable apertures for both hunting and target shooting. Other Mossberg inventions of the era included the first rangefinding scope and the detachable rimfire
magazine that could be adjusted for .22 short or LR by removing a screw. World War II brought government contracts for gun parts and thousands of .22 rifles for training.
The Fortunate 500
Mossberg made its first pump shotgun in 1955, the odd Model 200 (picture a boltless bolt-action shotgun with a box magazine and a plas-
Early 500s had cheap-to-make alloy receivers and stamped parts. Over time, Mossberg incorporated plastic parts and non-walnut stocks to further cut costs. The 500 was also the ideal platform for new ideas. It was the first production shotgun to be offered with a fully rifled slug barrel, or with an accessory .50-caliber muzzleloader barrel. The Dual Comb stock, introduced in 1991, let you raise the comb for scope use, or O.F. Mossberg with a Great Depression–era Model 30 rimfire that came packaged with a Lyman-style target sight. The company survived the tough times by producing guns that were versatile, innovative and inexpensive.
tic slide on its one-piece stock-forearm). The company hit a grand slam with the 200’s successor, the Model 500. Debuting in 1961, the inexpensive 500 now ranks second only to the Remington 870 in numbers made—9 million vs. the 870’s 10 million plus. Mossberg phased out all other guns when it acquired its first Numerical Control (a predecessor of CNC) machine, and the 500 took off in popularity in the 1980s. “It was just a question of meeting demand,” says longtime employee Joe Bartozzi. “We had to devote all our resources to making Model 500s.”
lower it to field dimensions in a minute. With two stocks, screw-in chokes, and multiple barrels for any purpose available, the 500 “shooting system” became the most versatile Mossberg ever—until the 835. Introduced in 1988, the Model 835 Ulti-Mag was the first 12-gauge shotgun to be chambered in 3 ½ inches. A collaboration with Federal Cartridge, the project was kept a secret, not just from the competition, but from Mossberg employees, as well. “The plans were all labeled ‘10gauge,’” says Bartozzi. “I was qualitycontrol engineer on the project, and
even I didn’t know what kind of gun it really was.” In typical Mossberg fashion, the gun built a custom feature—overboring—into an inexpensive production shotgun. With a barrel of 10-gauge (.775-inch) internal diameter on a 12-gauge frame, the 835 handled large steel shot well. Unlike a 10, it offered tremendous adaptability because it could shoot any load from a 12-gauge target load to a near-10gauge magnum.
A Modern Mossberg
The newest 835, the deer-turkey Lightning Pump Action (LPA) twobarrel combo, features yet another first: Mossberg’s adjustable Lightning Trigger, a complete redesign of the Lightning Trigger that appeared last year on Mossberg centerfire rifles. It’s a two-bladed trigger, with the smaller blade serving as a safety, allowing the main trigger to have a light, yet safe, pull. On my test gun the trigger broke at a consistent 3 pounds out of the box. With the turkey barrel in place, the LPA is a ringer for the 835 I hunted with happily for several years, except that the new trigger makes it even easier to put a tight pattern on target. Set up as a turkey gun, it weighs an even 7 pounds. The heavy-contour, rifled 24-inch barrel with a cantilever scope mount increases the gun’s weight to 7 ¼ pounds. I mounted a Nikon 3X–9X slug scope and tried three-shot groups of Remington ManagedRecoil BuckHammers and Copper Solids and Winchester XP3s. All of these slug loads printed just under 3 inches at 100 yards, which is excellent deer-killing, if not recordsetting, accuracy. Although the action is slick, the gun feels like what it is: a compromise built to a price. It’s lighter and harder-kicking than I would like a slug gun to be. The sharp back edge of the plastic forearm dug into my hand when I patterned magnums. The fiber-optic turkey sights are flimsy. These things aren’t dealbreaking faults; I’m just pointing out there are trade-offs to value and versatility. Millions of satisfied 500 and 835 owners gladly accept those trade-offs, which are, and always have been, the Mossberg Way. Booth #12734. (203-230-5300; mossberg .com)
58 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p58_Feat_Mossberg Way.indd 58
12/16/10 4:35:28 PM
BN_026731_SHBD111.indd 1
12/23/10 1:24 PM
F E AT U R E
Fast shooting and equally quick gun-handling skills characterize action pistol games. In this sequence (top to bottom), the shooter makes a slide-lock reload (with the safety officer running the timer right behind), then swings back to engage multiple targets with a fresh magazine before finishing his targets.
Selling Action Pistols
These fast-paced games can raise your sales By Chris Christian
T
here have been games with guns for as long as there have been guns—and shooters willing to pit their skills against others. That was true in the days of flintlocks, and it is doubly true today.
Competitive sport shooting has long been a significant part of the firearms industry. Regardless of the gun one owns, there is a game to be played. In the handgun arena, traditional one-handed marksmanship was long the dominant sport, but recent years have seen a significant rise in the numbers of action pistol shooters. And it’s not hard to see why this game has become so popular. In contrast to the measured and precise pace of traditional bull’s-eye
marksmanship, action pistol is just that—action! In most cases, the string of fire will start with the handgun loaded in a holster. Electronic timers record the time of each shot fired to within a hundredth of a second. When the start buzzer goes, shooters explode into action. They’ll engage multiple targets, sometimes while moving, reloading as necessary (often on the run). They’ll shoot their way through a multiple-target course that might include paper targets with scoring
Though many participants opt for semi-autos, revolvers are equally at home in the action games.
rings, metal targets that drop when hit or a combination of both. It’s a rare shooter that doesn’t love a shooting gallery, and action pistol provides it.
Tracking the Numbers
The oldest, and largest, action pistol organization is the United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA). Its membership, combined with its 2007 acquisition of the Steel Challenge match, is about 20,000 strong. The fastest-growing organization is the International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA). Founded in 1996, its membership is more than 16,000. The Glock Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF) has approximately 7,100 members, and the NRA Action Pistol division currently boasts about 4,000. The International Confederation of Revolver Enthusiasts (ICORE) is a recent addition, with about 1,000 members. On a nationwide level, the 45,000 combined membership pales in comparison to hunters and gun owners in general. What does set them apart, however, is that they are actively engaged in their sport throughout the year. And, in some areas, that participation can be significant. For example, within a 50-mile radius of Jacksonville, Florida, the first three Saturdays of each month— 12 months a year—will see a total of four action matches (two IDPA and two USPSA) held at different ranges. Some shooters attend more than one match, others just one. The combined total of individual action shooters who compete in this area each month is more than 250. Each will fire 75 to 150 rounds per match, plus an equal or larger number of practice rounds between matches. All require gun-cleaning gear. A number of newer shooters
(and more and more show up each month) will also discover that their equipment is not as appropriate as it could be and will be looking to accessorize. They’ll consider the purchase of new holsters, ammo carriers, additional magazines (speedloaders, if they shoot a revolver), shooting glasses, ear protection, range bags or even a new handgun. That is a significant number of potential customers, and it’s hard to imagine any shop that wouldn’t love to see even half of them walk through their doors every month. Whether or not that happens for your store depends upon your having the products those shooters want and letting them know you have them. Before you stock up, however, it’s wise to determine how big a market exists in your area. Participation is heavy in some locales and virtually nonexistent in others. The easiest way to figure out what level of participation exists in your market area is to visit the website for each organization. All have a listing of member clubs and normally provide a contact phone number or e-mail address for a club official. A few minutes of basic research can determine whether or not pursuing an action pistol clientele will be worthwhile.
Speak the Language
If the market exists in your area, the next step is to “speak the language.” That’s easily done by downloading (from the various websites) the rule book for the action pistol game(s) prevalent in your area. This will show the courses of fire and procedures. Interesting reading, yes, but not nearly as important as the sections on equipment and allowable ammunition. There is a degree of commonality within the games regarding the actu-
60 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p60_Feat_Action Pistol.indd 60
12/17/10 11:57:52 AM
BN_027462_SHBD211.indd 1
12/21/10 10:18 AM
F E AT U R E
Top Guns Don’t Have to Cost Top Dollar
Those unfamiliar with action pistol shooting often assume the games require custom handguns with exotic red-dot sights, compensators and other expensive modifications. The reality is quite different. High-tech raceguns and custom pistols are used, but in actuality, such guns might make up 15 percent of the total number of guns used. The majority of handguns in action are little different from those commonly used by law enforcement officials or by civilians for self-defense. In fact, that’s one of the reasons the IDPA has experienced its rapid growth; they don’t allow the high-tech raceguns and mandate “practical” equipment. That philosophy has proven so popular among action pistol shooters that the other organizations have created divisions specifically for production-type handguns. It’s important to keep in mind that it doesn’t take big bucks to get into the game, nor to enter the Winner’s Circle. Popular choices include the Glock 9mm G34; .40 S&W G35; .45 ACP G21; and Springfield Armory XD in 9mm and .40 S&W. The 1911 platform is not the driving force in competition that it once was, but there are still enough devotees that IDPA and USPSA have gun divisions created specifically for it. The Taurus PT1911 is popular, and S&W has an extensive line of competition-ready 1911s in both 9mm and .45 ACP.
Though revolvers make up less than 10 percent of the action shooting market, those who favor wheelguns are serious about it. Choices here include the S&W 625 JM .45 ACP and the 686 .357 Stock Service Revolver. The Ruger GP-100 is also a good choice.
Fast reloads require proper magazine carriers. They are often overlooked by new shooters, which creates a selling opportunity for you.
al shooting. That also extends to the guns used. Each organization places shooters into different gun divisions, based upon caliber, capacity and gun type. But the divisions are broad enough that there is a place for any handgun chambering the 9mm/.38 Special or larger calibers. If the shooter doesn’t know which division his gun fits into, he’ll be told when he signs up for the match. rfcatd n esig h The significant differT ay ce n stih n e lstero eence iis in the h holsters d n n ito u m ari- aand aammunition ccarri-m ye lo p h .W ed w salo ers allowed. Whatt er e rksin o ive/d am works in one g w game/divirkiyn o tw a m sion may not work in si nh esiw h t o r.T another. This is whereeh an ter o kscan o lb eru the rule books can bee rin th g e b valu n .a lesto iinvaluable ssales tools. f lacko w o n g led A lack of knowledge k a t u o b tm en ip u q les aabout eequipment rrulesrescip u n to r ed o ifrh ffor tthe differ-estg n am eent games o tn h ig might not m st o p o h ccost a shop s a n n ital ale, aan initial i ssale, h r h p w lo
h em e The 1911 in .45 ACP is eminently suitable for IDPA or USPSA competition. It is a great choice for the one-gun shooter who wants to compete in both venues.
but it may well cost them a high-volume repeat customer. As an IDPA Safety Officer/Range Officer, I frequently deal with new shooters and have had to tell more than a few that the equipment recommended to them by the “gun shop” was either not allowable or not suitable. That sure didn’t generate “warm and fuzzy” feelings toward the shop. Consulting a rule book is a simple way to avoid that. But, why not take it w a step further? Do you have an eemployee who might like to participate? If so, why not send him? No p one knows the needs of a competitive o sshooter better than a competitive sshooter. Having one on your staff can bring a lot of people through the door. b All competitors must wear eye and eear protection. Those who don’t wear prescription glasses will need shooting p glasses, and having a few models on g hand is a plus. As for ear protection, h many new shooters start with foam m eearplugs, but quickly discover their sshortcomings. Inexpensive ear muffs aare the next step, but if they stay in tthe game, many shooters will move up to electronic muffs. The top comu petitors wear these muffs because they p aallow them to clearly hear range commands and the “ping” of a bullet hitting a steel target, which tells tthem they can move on. The upperllevel muffs will run more than $300, but there are some very serviceable b units in the under-$50 range. Range bags are another item often missing from inventory, and yet every competitor needs one in which to carry gear.
Shooters also need ammunition. But just because they’re shooting in a pistol match doesn’t mean they need “match ammunition.” The reverse is generally true. The target array and distances in action pistol do not require tack-driving loads. The majority of those shooters who buy factory loads are well served with basic practice ammo. The most popular calibers used in all the action events are 9mm, .45 ACP, .40 S&W and .38 Special, and one of the most popular loadings is Winchester white box Target/Range. Federal American Eagle and Remington UMC are also popular and commonly purchased at the Big Box stores. They are inexpensive and work well. Those shooters who can find a quality (but less expensive) brand of commercially remanufactured ammunition will buy it. That’s one way to attract shooters, but keep in mind that not all action pistol shooters buy their ammunition. A significant percentage load their own. This group requires powder and primers. Those can be ordered online, but HazMat shipping fees run the cost up. If a local shop can provide those components at a
reasonable price, they’ll draw shooters. A recent Internet survey on a competition forum revealed that the most popular powders for reloading the four most-used cartridges were Hodgdon (Clays, TiteGroup and Longshot) and Winchester (231, Super Field and Super Target). Stocking a few 1-pound canisters of six different powders is not a logistical problem. Primers are even easier. Of the four most-popular calibers, the .45 ACP uses standard large pistol primers. The other three use standard small pistol primers. Sometimes even the most seemingly innocuous items can increase traffic. One shop owner I know always makes sure he has revolver moon clips on hand. It’s a small item with a small sales volume and a small markup, but once the shooters who used them knew they were there, they came through the door—and they never left with just moon clips. Although their numbers may be small, action shooters can spend big on a regular basis. Understanding their special needs is a sure way to increase your sales.
FYI
United States Practical Shooting Association (USPSA); 360-8552245; uspsa.org
International Defensive Pistol Association (IDPA); 870-545-3886; idpa.com
Glock Sport Shooting Foundation (GSSF); 770-432-1202; gssfonline.com NRA Action Pistol; 800-672-3888; nra.org International Confederation Of Revolver Enthusiasts (ICORE); icore.org
62 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p60_Feat_Action Pistol.indd 62
12/17/10 11:57:59 AM
BN_026722_SHBD111.indd 1
12/7/10 3:02 PM
newS
Gore’s Successful Run
T
here was a time, and not all that long ago, when hunters expected to be wet and cold (read: miserable) when in the field. It was just part of the game. But 25 years ago, a game-changer showed up in the duck blinds and deer camps around the country. W.L. Gore & Associates, inventors of Gore-Tex fabric, partnered with Danner as its first hunting footwear customer. Gore never looked back, and the industry hasn’t been the same since.
“That first step was consistent with our value proposition, providing solutions for consumer needs,” says David Dillon, leader of Gore’s hunting category. “In this case, hunters were looking for comfort and protection in footwear and outerwear that would withstand the worst that nature could throw at them.” From there, Gore unleashed a series of innovative solutions that revolutionized the footwear and outerwear industries. For example, in the late 1980s, the company introduced the Gore-Tex “Guaranteed to Keep You Dry” promise to the consumer, which guaranteed the performance of the end product (gloves, footwear, jacket, pants)—even though Gore did not manufacture the end product. In the early 1990s, Gore developed the Windstopper liner with camouflage printing, and then unveiled a quieter version of Gore-Tex fabric that was more breathable and durable. At the end of the decade, the company debuted a fabric featuring scent-suppressant technology that made it possible to reduce the problems of heat loss and wind chill while simultaneously minimizing human scent with permanently embedded activated carbon.
Not long after that, Gore developed a selectively permeable scent-blocking membrane for hunting footwear; the membrane kept odors locked in while allowing sweat to vent off as moisture vapor. More recently, Gore partnered with Sitka Gear to launch Gore Optifade Concealment. This innovative product is the first-ever visual-concealment pattern based on the science of animal vision. “Developed by a team of experts, including an animal-vision scientist and a military officer who specializes in digital concealment, the technology considered the way a deer perceives color and the ratio of positive to negative space in an effort to make the hunter blend in with his environment,” says Dillon. “The pattern also breaks up the symmetry of the human body to prevent a deer or elk from recognizing the hunter as a predator.” All in all, it’s been a pretty successful run. Dillon credits this success to four major factors. “First, our product fits the needs of the end user; second, the product does what it says it will do; third, we thoroughly test our product both in the lab and in the field—sometimes for as much as four years— before we launch; and finally, our products have been consistent in quality and performance—based on sound science—which, in turn, has generated a loyal end-user audience that knows they can trust the products and technology that Gore invents.” But part of Gore’s success rests, in part, on the company’s uncanny ability to solve what Dillon terms “unmet needs.” In other words, Gore anticipates what a customer wants before he can even articulate it. I believe that’s called vision. Booth #10370. (800-431-4673; gore-tex.com) —Slaton L. White
recently, Gore partnered with Sitka Gear to launch Gore Optifade Concealment, which features camo patterns based on the science of animal vision, particularly the manner in which deer perceive color.
HAVA Honors Veterans
The Third annual HaVa national Family day was held last fall in Texas. More than 225 people attended the day-long event.
yamaha Motor Corp., u.S.a., is one of seven leading outdoors industry manufacturers that helped found Honored american Veterans afield (HaVa). as part of HaVa’s continued efforts to facilitate hunting and shooting activities for veterans, yamaha, among others, supported, staffed and sponsored the third annual HaVa national Family day in San antonio, Texas, last fall. More than 225 people participated in the all-day event, including 126 disabled veterans and active-duty military personnel and their families. In addition, more than 100 volunteers came to support the event from the outdoors industry, VFW posts and surrounding active military units. The event featured stages of fire for sporting shotgun, rifles, pistols and cowboy action—even a tactical shooting course for youngsters with airsoft guns. “Volunteering at this event and supporting our american veterans is extremely rewarding,” said Steve nessl, yamaha’s aTV/Side-by-Side (SxS) group marketing manager. “Making a small difference in the lives of disabled veterans who have given so much to our country is at the heart of HaVa’s mission—and as a founding member, it is at the core of yamaha’s involvement as well.” Participants were also treated to a display of shooting skill from army Marksmanship unit members Sgt. Glenn Eller (2008 Olympic Gold Medalist in double Trap) and multi-national and world champion Ssg. Josh richmond. The shotgun exhibition was introduced by Multi Shotgun champion and nBC Olympic Shooting host Shari LeGate; competitive shooting champions Jerry Miculek and Max Michel wowed with their speed-shooting skills. “We continue to have an incredible sense of pride to be involved in helping these great american heroes,” said HaVa chairman Tom Taylor. Hosting sponsors were Smith & Wesson, yamaha, SureFire, Hornady, Mossberg, Leupold, Crimson Trace, FMG Publications and nra. Other major contributors involved with this event were Cor-Bon, Colt, XS Sights, aimpoint, Savage, SIG Sauer, Larue Tactical, remington and Flip ‘n Targets. HaVa is a 501(c)3 organization formed to raise awareness and assist disabled veterans with their healing process through guided hunts, shooting sports and other outdoor sports activities.
64 ■ Shot BuSineSS Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
sd02_p64_news_gore/hava.indd 64
12/16/10 5:03:46 PM
Calibrated to
PREVAIL.
A worthy warranty. In the unlikely event of a warranty issue, we take care of your customers. All Premier riflescopes are backed by a lifetime warranty that guarantees against defects in workmanship. We reserve the right to repair or replace any product returned for warranty service.
tohelpyurv.Bffng aim oductshafiln
Our scopes tend to sell themselves at retail, assuming the right kind of customer is engaged. And few things intrigue high-end consumers like a good story, which we have: In 1946, Bob Thomas--- a Navytrained military optics craftsman and grandfather of our current president--- began repairing binoculars and telescopes for GIs home from WWII. Soon he was handcrafting custom reticles out of spider web. And then glass fibers. And finally metal. This sought-after reticle expertise set the stage for Premier to engineer today’s offerings; riflescopes of the highest order.
We aim to help you prevail at retail. By offering premium e optical pr products idethat fiturhi alongside gsest yo your ice highest intrgh pr price po point riflescopes. fl Giving your customers another outstanding option for their shortlist. Our Heritage™ 3-15x50mm Tactical was recently adopted as the official sniper scope of the United States Marine Corps. The tactical line includes the Premier Heritage 3-15x50mm, the 5-25x56mm, and the all-new V8 1.1-8x24mm. Also new for 2011, the Premier Heritage 3-15x50mm Hunter. This scope is built on the exact same platform as our 3-15x50mm Tactical, with the exact same optical performance. Which means your upscale hunting customers can add an unprecedented level of optical prowess to their collections. In a world given to compromise, Premier goes the other way. Your way.
Premier Heritage 3-15x50 mm Tactical
Booth 5018 dealers@premierreticles.com 386.748.2484
New. Premier Heritage 3-15x50mm Hunter
©2011 Premier Reticles All Rights Reserved.
BN_026867_SHBD211.indd 1
12/13/10 4:09 PM
NEWS
The Accuracy Revolution Factory rifles have come a long way By David E. Petzal
The .308 Icon Warlord from Thompson/Center is a custom-shop tactical proposition capable of putting five shots so close together, they all could be covered by a thumbtack.
O
n a steamy June morning when no one but a true gun nut would be anywhere except in front of an air conditioner, I shot a new rifle from Savage called the Axis (Booth #11955). It’s a .308, and sells for under $300 in the real world. With ammo it liked, the Axis shot under a minute of angle. A week before that, I tested a .308 tactical rifle from Thompson/Center (Booth #14129) called the Icon Warlord. Unlike the Axis, it’s a custom-shop proposition that costs the better part of $4,000, and it put five shots through a hole that could be covered by a thumbtack.
The Savage Axis bolt-action sells for under $300 and can shoot minute-ofangle groups. How’s that for cost-effective performance?
In the last couple of years I’ve tested a great variety of rifles and, almost without exception, they shot to a standard thought impossible only a decade or so ago. It’s as though passenger jets could suddenly fly at 750 mph instead of 500. (Which would be moot, because the flight would be delayed, your bags would be lost and the screeching brat in the seat next to you would puke in your lap.) The key to building an accurate rifle lies in creating rigidity and in controlling vibration. When a gun goes off, it twists and squirms like a pole dancer and twangs like a tuning fork. The less it twists, squirms and twangs, the better it shoots. And rifle makers now have learned how to control all that stuff to a fare-thee-well.
Locks...
Gun builders have known for a long time that many bolt-actions flex and
squirm under recoil; if you want to make a truly accurate rifle, you have to start with a stiff action that does not writhe and wriggle. The first really stiff action was the Remington Model 700. In cross section, it’s a tube, and a tube is stiffer than any other shape. Because of its simplicity, the 700 is also extremely easy to bed solidly. The latest bolt-actions have gone a step or two further. They have extremely stiff actions, made more so by thick receiver walls, small ejection ports and, in some cases, integral Picatinny rails. Notable examples are the Savage Model 12, Thompson/ Center Icon and the Tikka T3.
Stocks...
In the 1970s, custom gunsmiths began building the first practical synthetic stocks for hunting rifles. Made of fiberglass and epoxy resin, they
were not only light, but absolutely inert. Unlike with wood, temperature and humidity had no effect on them, and for the first time rifles had 100 percent stable platforms. Top-flight synthetic stocks are now made of Kevlar and graphite as well, and they incorporate the second major improvement in stock building, which is pillar bedding (reinforcing a stock with aluminum inserts). There are two ways to make a stiff stock (or a stock stiff). The first is to construct something that is inherently rigid, like the Kevlar/graphite stocks made by New Ultra Light Arms or High Tech Stocks; the second is to build something that is less expensive and then reinforce it with an aluminum bedding girder, which is the method H-S Precision (Booth #16751) uses. When you torque down the screws on these modern stocks, nothing moves anywhere, ever.
...And Barrels
When a rifle goes bang, the barrel not only vibrates, but writhes like a snake. In the old days, gunmakers thought that the way to control this was to full-length-bed the barrel. They believed the pressure applied by the forend would quiet things down. This works, but only if a) you do a perfect bedding job, and b) the forend wood never swells or shrinks. Unfortunately, a and b are possible only on custom rifles, not on factory guns. The alternative answer was to freefloat the barrel, giving it no contact with the forend. That way, it could do whatever it damn well pleased, and since there was nothing to influence the way it twanged and writhed, it would twang and writhe the same for each shot. This works to perfection, and today, all the factory rifles I see are free-floated. Melvin Forbes of New Ultra Light Arms (Booth #13867) has a variation on this. His barrels are full-lengthbedded, but there is no pressure on them. The forend makes contact with the barrel, but no more. Forbes believes that this technique effectively dampens vibration. Kevlar is completely inert, so the shifting problems created by wood are gone, and Forbes’s rifles shoot like hell. These are just some of the reasons why your customers’ rifles are so much more accurate than they once were. And all that enhanced accuracy should bring smiles all around.
66 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p66_news Accuracy.indd 66
12/16/10 4:36:59 PM
Triangular Aiming Point and Clear Pin Provide and unobstructed view of your target.
Brightest Pin in the Industry Tritium Phosphor and fiber optic illumination provide an aiming point brighter than any other.
Adjustable AccuDial™ Mount The laser etched dial is adjustable with a range of 60 positions. .
BowSync™ Technology Infinitely variable transmission enables exact range adjustment and bow/arrow synchronization.
It’s Like an ACOG for Your Bow.
BW50G-BL Matte Black
Designed by the people who created the Trijicon ACOG® (the trusted optic of thousands of military and law enforcement members around the world) comes a brilliant aiming solution for the bow—the Trijicon AccuPin™. The heart of this bow sight’s innovative design lies in its triangular aiming tip and clear aiming pin. Together they allow hunters to aim with pinpoint accuracy and zero obstructions—providing the highest levels of confidence when it matters most. Add Trijicon’s acclaimed battery-free dual-illumination system, the revolutionary AccuDial™ mount and legendary toughness and the AccuPin provides unrivaled aiming precision and durability.
Precision Point AccuPin Post
Finish Options
Reticle Color Options
To see the Trijicon AccuPin® and Trijicon’s other innovations for 2011, visit the Trijicon exhibit at booth #12117 and #10473.
Green
Other related Trijicon products: Trijicon AccuPoint®
Variable Power Riflescopes
Trijicon j RMR™
Sigh Ruggedized Parallax-Free Sight
Trijicon ACOG®
Dual Illuminated Fixed Power Magnified Sight
PML7004 REV. (0)
Brilliant Aiming Solutions™
BN_026742_SHBD211.indd 1
Proudly Made in the USA
© 2011 Trijicon, Inc. | Wixom, Michigan USA
1.800.338.0563
www.trijicon.com
12/22/10 10:32 AM
NEWS
Adapt, Enhance and Overcome Crimson Trace’s new military division to provide innovative solutions to hostile situations
C
d n ip aserg L rimson Trace Corporation, manufacturer of Lasergrips and ew systems, recently launched a new n Laserguard laser-sighting iltarydivision targeting military-supply channels with m militarygrade product. The division will be called CTC Defense. l civilvab o em Don’t expect to see reworked rip ian products here. CTC Defense will g u ro h feature new products built from the tig n u o ground up, using new technologies and resources that will be, according iru to director of CTC Defense Dale eq atlefid Suzuki, “innovative solutions for ets,clm viro n today’s hostile environments. Adapt, enhance and overcome—these are the key needs for today’s modern-day war fighter.” Nonetheless, expect the products to focus on CTC’s core strengths: white light, infrared, and quick-change day-to-night sighting systems. Suzuki says two of the first products offered by CTC Defense will be Lasergrips for the SIG Sauer P226 that incorporate a red laser and an infrared laser for use with night vision, and the MVF-600, a railmounted vertical foregrip for the M4/AR series of rifles that includes a white LED light as well as red and infrared lasers. The light and the
r lasers will be housed in removable modules on each side of the g grip t and readily interchangeable through the use of a throw-lever m mounting system. r “These products meet the requirements now faced on the b battlefield due to changing eenvironments, closequarter encounters and new technologies,” he says. The new division got a running start when it was selected by the Crane Division of Naval Surface Warfare Center (NSWC Crane) to supply the LGD-645 Laserguard infrared laster-sighting system for the Heckler & Koch HK45C handgun carried by members of Naval Special Warfare. “This contract represents a significant number of Laserguards to be delivered over the span of three years and came after a considerable codevelopment effort between NSWC Crane and CTC Defense,” he says.
LaserMax’s Value Pack
A time-tested way of selling accessories is to bundle several different items into one package. This simplifies both the decision process for the customer and the selling process for the retailer—but in this economy, the tactic works only if the bundled items create value for the customer. That’s the idea behind LaserMax’s value pack for rifles, which brings together many of the items a rifle owner would need to fully equip his gun with a laser-sighting system. The bundle includes the Uni-Max Rail Mount Laser, a Momentary Activation Switch (MAS) for remote activation and LaserMax’s newly released MantaRail Momentary Cord Control System, which securely attaches the MAS to the Picatinny rail using supplied clips to keep the cord from snagging on anything. Since its inception in 2006, the Uni-Max Rail Mount Laser has become one the more popular laser sights due to its light weight, compact size and the flexibility to fit on almost anything with a Picatinny rail, from pistols to rifles and shotguns. According to LaserMax, the Uni-Max “gives the highest power laser beam allowable by law from a package that is smaller than a matchbox.” Previously, the persistent challenge with MAS pressure pads was the loss of adherence, which often forced shooters to use Velcro, tape, adhesives and other crude substitutes for re-application. But the MantaRail solved this issue by eliminating the need for any adhesives. In addition, the clips included in the package eliminate the potential hazard of the cord dangling or snagging. The clips fasten the cord close
CTC Defense will focus on providing U.S. war fighters with products that reflect CTC’s core strengths: white light, infrared, and quick-change dayto-night sighting systems. One of the first products is the LGD-645 Laserguard infrared laser-sighting system for the HK 45C.
“The LGD-645 is a rugged, waterproof and compact laser-sighting device that attaches to the trigger guard of the HK handgun, offering instinctive activation of the IR laser onto the target.” The company views CTC Defense as a natural progression to its growing business model. “We are very proud and excited to launch this new
brand and division,” says Lane Tobiassen, Crimson Trace president. “With our significant resources, superior innovation and patented technologies, we are able to provide the military with unique products that expand and enhance their ability to be the supreme force on the battlefield.” Booth #15555. (800-4422406; crimsontrace.com)
to the rail. The three products—the Uni-Max Rail Mount Laser, the MAS and the MantaRail Momentary Cord Control System—sell for $219. Booth #12771. (800-527-3703; lasermax.com)
68 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p68_News.indd 68
12/17/10 4:26:31 PM
BN_026679_SHBD111.indd 1
12/6/10 12:01 PM
S W E
I G r O
NEWS
Steyr: Back in the USA
SIG Sauer’s popular .380 P238 semi-auto remains a popular seller. This year, the P238 will be joined by the P290 semi-auto in 9mm.
yS a rS e u SIG S Sauer Says s o“ rN e “Order d !” Now!” w
F
or gun enthusiasts, the SHOT Show has become one of the most anticipated events of the year. As more and more media representatives flock to the event, shooters around the country log on to news sites and blogs to see the latest firearms being introduced at the show. These potential customers have become more eager than ever to buy the new products they’ve seen or read about. Unfortunately, product delays and back orders caused by the large influx of orders after the show can lead to lost sales for retailers. SIG Sauer saw this firsthand after the company introduced the P238 pistol at last year’s show. The overwhelming consumer demand for the P238 led to back orders. Dealers who placed their orders right at the show, however, were able to get the product out to a consumer market clamoring for the little .380 semi-autos. At the 2011 SHOT Show, SIG Sauer will be introducing a number of innovative new products, such as the subcompact P290 in 9mm, the SIG716 rifle in 7.62 NATO and the Extreme Series P226 and P238. The company anticipates demand for these offerings to be similar to the P238 launch.
Fortunately, as one of the few firearms manufacturers to sell directly to dealers, SIG Sauer offers a number of ways retailers can place their orders while at the show. Dealers can either order directly from SIG Sauer or from one of its distribution partners: Sport South (Booth #15734), RSR Group (Booth #12229) or Ellett Brothers (Booth #13905). By ordering directly at the show, dealers can avoid the risk of a post-show rush that can create product back orders and delays. “For a number of products, the first time we’ll be taking orders will be on the show floor,” says Bill Silver, vice president of commercial sales. “One of the best ways to make sure your order is at the top of the list is to place it as soon as possible at the show.” Being proactive allows dealers to have the hot products available for eager buyers instead of having annoyed customers waiting for back orders to be filled. Dealers who fail to take advantage of direct sales opportunities like this may find themselves playing the waiting game, to their ultimate regret, with their customers. Booth #12240. (603772-2302; sigsauer.com)
Bushnell Expanding Folds of Honor Partnership Across the SHOT Show, you’ll find numerous companies introducing new products that they hope will make a difference in the lives of shooters and sportsmen. One company, however, is introducing a product that aims to make a difference in the lives of the families of wounded and fallen veterans. In 2010, Bushnell introduced a special edition Tour V2 laser rangefinder as part of its Patriot Pack. It then donated a portion of the proceeds to the Folds of Honor foundation. Established in 2007 by Major Dan Rooney, a former F-16 fighter pilot who served three combat tours in Iraq, the Folds of Honor foundation provides scholarships to the spouses and children of military service members who have been disabled or killed in the line of duty. “One of the distinguishing aspects of the United States of America is our access to the greatest education system in the world,” Rooney says. “Education really does have the potential to impact an entire generation, but sadly, nearly 90 percent of the families of wounded service members don’t qualify for federal education benefits.” As a way to help Folds of Honor provide those families with access to educational opportunities
that they might not otherwise receive, Bushnell is partnering with the foundation again this year. “Bushnell is honored to be associated with such an inspirational person as Major Dan Rooney,” says Blake Lipham, president and CEO of Bushnell. “In 2011 Bushnell is expanding their support of the Folds of Honor Foundation by producing special packages for the hunting and shooting industry. Portions of the proceeds from these products will also be donated the foundation.” At the 2011 SHOT Show, Bushnell is launching a new Scout 1000 ARC laser rangefinder with a Folds of Honor Skinz cover. The rangefinder will include a $30 rebate offer that sportsman can choose to have donated to the foundation. “There are certainly some great patriots in the hunting and shooting communities, and we’re looking forward to working with them to make a difference in the lives of these families,” Rooney says. “Together, we can change the legacy of these families of fallen and wounded soldiers, families who have sacrificed so much to protect the freedoms we all cherish.” Booth #12519. (800-4233537; bushnell.com) —Christopher Cogley
Steyr Arms has good news for its American fan base. The Austrian firearms manufacturer recently announced that it is bringing back its popular M-A1 and S-A1 semi-automatic handguns to the United States. The first batch of these pistols arrived at the Steyr Arms headquarters in October, and the pistols should be now available to retailers. Nearly identical in form and function, the M-A1 is the full-size series with a 4-inch barrel while the S-A1 is the compact series with a 3.6-inch barrel. Chambered in either 9x19mm Luger or .40 S&W, the M-A1 and S-A1 have received praise from American shooters for their ergonomics, safety features, sighting system, accuracy and reliability. “Both pistol series feature polymer frames that offer shooters a high grip and a low barrel axis that mitigates muzzle rise as well as a grip angle designed to provide a natural point of aim,” says Steyr CEO Scott O’Brien. “The frames include Picatinny rails for mounting illumination and laser-aiming devices. The barrels are cold-hammerforged with polygonal rifling, and the chambers are fully supported. A trigger safety with a Reset Action System trigger requires positive finger pressure to operate the double-action-only The striker-fired pistols e ig s e h .T n rikdesign. d s t also l o a rp c in a s incorporate t a safety lock.” In says O’Brien, the n d , n ito I addition, ad s shape of the front g n ria r la e triangular p a h t u s sight naturally ix d r -p w ,lo fil fixed, f e low-profile o directs the ir c ts t o s e h d e t shooter’s eye toward the target, which e th rd a w to t helps acquire the lp e a h t o h s a shooter s faster. t e rg t r target s ta fa e “Almost every day for two t s o lm “A e we have received e ,w rs a a years, ye h calls e-mails from cusl a il a -m e d n c s and a tomers asking when we a rs e m g in k to s were to bring back g re g in we going o the S-Series pise - n h d t MM and a tols,” he says. “I am very e ,”h ls to a pleased to l a t d e s pe o be able to say the is e im h e s t time t i now.” O’Brien said the re-intros n rie ’B O duction off the M- and n tio c du S-Series complements the ris e S Sc return lastt year of the AUG. s la rn tu re “We’re extremely excited to ’rx e “W t re-introduce two iconic tr -in re o and l ig h d n a highly desired firearms to s m o ar t the American shooting h o ti s o n market,” he says. .S s y sa SRP: R $649, for both bot series. Booth #2843. (2054 8 2 # 6 r y
467-6544; 4 steyrarms.com) ste
The Steyr AUG bullpup rifle will now have company; the M-A1 and S-A1 semi-auto handguns should now be available.
70 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p70_News.indd 70
12/17/10 5:30:54 PM
drop dead gorgeous
THE NEW PPQ
PERFORMANCE. PROTECTION. QUALITY.
Cutting-edge German engineering ensures PPQ performance lives up to its looks. Featuring one of the best trigger systems on the market, PPQ introduces the new Walther Quick Defense Trigger™. Its short travel, light ™ pull and quick audible reset puts a fast, more confident response firmly in the palm of your hand.
WALTHERAMERICA.COM
SHOT Show Booth #14556 A
BN_026702_SHBD211.indd 1
Partner
12/8/10 12:20 PM
NEWS
Steiner Gets a New American Distributor
FNH USA is sponsoring the Allegheny Sniper Challenge in West Virginia, in which dozens of snipers engage steel targets over two weekends. The gunmaker is providing each shooter with an FN SPR A5 .308 long-range precision rifle for the event, and considers it a valuable opportunity to test new products and a keen source of user feedback.
FNH Tests Itself in Sniper Challenge
M
any firearms manufacturers support competitive shooting events. It’s a good way to see how products match up where it counts. FNH USA’s support extends to a one-of-kind event held in the mountains of West Virginia that offers steel targets only, at varying angles across steep mountain valleys, at distances up to 1,200 yards. The Allegheny Sniper Challenge, the brainchild of long-range shooters Rod Hansen and John Maxwell, is designed to provide the nearly 50 participants with a challenging test of marksmanship over two weekends. “This match places each competitor on a level playing field and represents the most extreme and complete test of each shooter’s skill and knowledge of ballistics,” says Hansen. “And, we couldn’t have done it without the support of FNH.” FNH USA provided each competitor with an FN SPR A5 .308 long-range precision rifle equipped with a standard 20-inch fluted barrel, McMillan stock and a MIL-STD optical rail with 20 MOA forward cant. Competitors were also issued identical scopes, rings, slings, ammunition and bipods provided by other manufacturers. However, no one was allowed
to use electronics of any sort, including range finders. “We are proud to put our products into the hands of these competitors,” says FNH USA’s instructor and master . firearms 5 1; 6 5 -3 0 7 9 specialist ein la u c o r-b Benjamin Voss. “These types of events allow us to receive direct feedback from the people who use our guns.” Voss’s teammates are Justin Daley, a police sniper, and Jason Thompson, both of whom served with Voss in the Marines as snipers. “These events also give us an opportunity to test prototypes as well as new ideas. It all helps us to continually improve our product line,” he says. Hansen and Markwell designed the course of fire, but they also instituted an intriguing wrinkle. Shooters engage 50 targets and are allowed to fire up to 125 shots. But when it comes to scoring, only the misses, not the hits, count. The shooter with the lowest score wins. “These events also give us an opportunity to test prototypes and new ideas to continually improve our product line,” says Voss. All in all, not a bad to way to conduct product research. Booth #13462. (703-288-1292;
When Burris acquired German optics manufacturer Steiner three years ago, the idea was that the addition of a “prestige” marque to the Burris line would help it better compete against such topend companies as Carl Zeiss and Swarovski. Burris was surely also aware of Steiner’s record of innovation (it was the first to introduce pocket-sized and rubber-armored binoculars to the American market). Steiner benefitted as well, as it needed to be part of an organization that had strong distribution channels and serious marketing muscle. So last fall, Steiner parted with ways with its longtime American distributor, Pioneer Research, by moving its American operation from New Jersey to Burris’s headquarters in Greeley, Colorado. Burris now will oversee sales and marketing of the Steiner line to all current sales channels in the United States, including marine, hunting, birding, outdoors, military and law enforcement. With access to a larger, more structured organization, Steiner hopes to expand its distribution and customer service capabilities. To support this effort, Steiner has recruited personnel from Europe as well as key staff members from Pioneer Research. Burris will work with Steiner in Germany to better serve markets and customers in America and the world. “The work of 28 years with Pioneer Research in the United States was outstanding and productive,” says Steiner’s managing director Robert Eckert. “Together we established the brand in the United States, and during the transition we will strive to ensure that our dealers and customers have a smooth and seamless transition. We are also pleased to note that most of Pioneer’s key staff members will continue to work with us and our Steiner customers. The sales, technical staff and customer service teams at Burris are also fully trained and operational.” Steiner has been a dedicated manufacturer of binoculars for more than 60 years. The company’s lines of binoculars includes the Predator series, the Nighthunter XP series, the Safari Pro series, Peregrine XP series, Commander and Marine series and others. The binoculars are constructed of rubber armoring, with nitrogen filling; they are water-pressure-proofed to five meters. Booth #12755. steiner-binoculars.com) 5 ((970-356-1670; st
Steiner’s Safari Pro 10x26 binocular is one of the optics maker’s many products now available in the U.S. through Burris.
fnhusa.com)
72 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p72_News.indd 72
12/17/10 4:28:19 PM
THOSE WHO HUNT IN ANYTHING WON’T HUNT IN JUST ANYTHING.
You’re a hunter. The question isn’t if you’re going to hunt in unpredictable weather, it’s how.
Experience more
Whether it’s sitting in your tree stand or stalking in the rain or snow, GORE-TEX ® products keep you protected and comfortable. That’s why the best brands in the world choose GORE-TEX ® fabric.
DURABLY WATERPROOF, WINDPROOF, BREATHABLE—GUARANTEED.
gore-tex.com twitter.com/GORETEX_brand gore-tex.com/facebook
© 2011 W. L. Gore & Associates, Inc. GORE-TEX®, GORE®, GUARANTEED TO KEEP YOU DRY® and designs are trademarks of W. L. Gore & Associates. All other trademarks and designs are property of their respective owners.
BN_027253_SHBD111.indd 1
12/16/10 3:54 PM
NEWS
ATI’s recoil system on its Talon Tactical stock uses no moving parts. The stock and can be installed quickly using only a few simple tools.
ild v u rta B n e h t n ic , t a s e b u d s n o s u a c r”b e f t in . v c re fits n s n o r il e ta e it 2a l p X 0 4 A e g u r r to e le d n a h th o . ls e h T is tg o h w e n n g rin p e fth X 0 4 y n m s re tu a e h fth e y ,”a s ie lg o n h c rk a m ic n u a m s n tio r e . u th m a “T e 0 4 4 A 0 s s a g k lin B e th r e p -o ic h rp o c n l o e lo p -u k c p u t y s g in d e m t o h y c to n u l r te s n a h y n s a g w n e y r s u io n a a l s r tic r e p c n u a s n io r e th a u e r c il-d a p s g tin ic h ,w m n e h e ig h tw h t h ig c il a re u c t, n rc e p r e inch turkey loads as well.” e c n a rm a tim p And since the pistol grip r isib e v l alsos a constructed e of this material, your handu r won’t w feel asln n a e p t if you’ve u been breaking rocks with r am h t sledgehammer. la -p e d The stock, which fits Mossberg g u o h t h r a 500/535/590/835, Remington e 4 h X 870 and 0 r Winchester lo 1200/1300/SXP models, is4 0 also ap l snap r to install. The key here is the ingenious s aTriton u ito v easy-mount system, which greatly simplifies t u o b mounting c n u the replacement stock to the receiver. a b re All you do is remove the factory stock, install 0 the Triton mount 4 A component and then slide tl onn p eand secure m a , the Talon stock. It’s literally a five-minutetB ejob. e So far, so good. But does it really rk a a m e h rk work? In a word, yes. I spent a day with t Chvala m u at a tactical training center shootingo g00 shot and slugs u with my modified Mossberg 590. h pMost e shooters (me included) would wilt if they had t u to fire that many rounds with a factory stock.mI’d rather attempt one round with UFC Hallcofi Famer Chuck “The Iceman” Liddell. t n u But the stock performed just as Chvala o said it would. The Talon Tactical stock is available f m o in five versions, including one with a replacement th o alumi-
ATI’s Better Mousetrap
J
ohn Chvala, owner of Advanced Technologies International, a Wisconsin-based manufacturer of firearms accessories, prides himself on marching to the beat of a different drummer. Indeed, his many years spent in the automotive business allow him to look at the shooting-sports business from a different angle, and when he turns his gimlet eye on how to improve the performance of a product, his customers benefit. Take recoil. Lots of companies make recoilreduction replacement stocks, but none do it in quite the manner of ATI. “I’m always looking for a better mousetrap,” Chvala says. “The new Scorpion recoil system found on our Talon Tactical stock uses no internal moving parts to reduce recoil. It has no springs or pistons.” Instead, the molded buttplate borrows technology from the auto industry. The proprietary material, originally designed to absorb sound waves in cars, absorbs the energy created by firing the gun. “It’s not load-specific,” he says, “so no matter what is shot, it can absorb the wave. Basically, a shooter feels a push rather than a punch. In a tactical situation, the benefit is that the stock greatly reduces the time needed to reacquire the target by minimizing muzzle lift. It will also tame those 3.5-
Beretta’s New Semi-Auto
W When Beretta unveiled the A400 Xplor Unico, was d dubbed the “Green U o iit w Monster” because o of the light-green M t of its receiver. IIn 2011, the Green ttint o Monster will g get a llittle brother, the M t w A400 Xplor 112-gauge o Light, chambered both 2 ¾- and 3-inch b e to handle b shells. s ““This h new shotgun u truly is the offspring o of the A A400 Xplor Unico, and it s features many o of tthe same innovative fe technologies,” says te s marketing communications manager m a g Lea L. Ramthum. “The A400 Xplor Light R h A uses system, u e the Blink gas-operating s which iincorporates a rotating w a boltt h head and a new b ad lock-up feeding system fe e that allows the shotgun s g to cycle c 36 percent faster than any fa t a other shotgun. The also feaTh new gas system s tures piston with t e an innovative v elastic scraper band that also ea a functions as a gasket.” f t Other features include the O f t recoil-dissipating Kick-Off sysre o a tem, paired with te which, when w the Micro-Core t lightweight l e recoil felt recoil by re o pad, p d, reduces d 60 percent, Beretta’s high-perB formance Optima Bore barrel, a fo O reversible button, a re s e safety f European walnut stock and a E o a chrome-plated c o e trigger. Though it DNA with T i shares s the Xplor Unico, the t A400 A p A400 Xplor A X o Light weighs just 6 ¼ pounds, j t a bit b over o about 3 ounces less than its a o forebear.. fo “The A400 0 Xplor Light is aptly a y named, d as it’s the lightest Beretta semi-auto on es r market today,” says tthe m Ramthum. “It’s light Ra h enough en h to carry all day in fields of tthe e pheasant h South So h Dakota, but at the same sa e time, its low recoil re o allows a dove hunter in Argentina h to to shoot all day in comfort.” c Booth #13956. B
num forend that allows for customized rail placement for lights, sights and lasers. Booth #621. (800-925-2522; atigunstocks.com) —Slaton L. White
(800-237-3882; berettausa.com)
Koenig, Gamo Join Forces
Doug Koenig, widely regarded as one of the world’s premier all-around shooters, recently entered into a sponsorship agreement with Gamo Adult Precision Airguns. Koenig signed the agreement on the heels of one of his most successful professional shooting seasons; he won four major championships in four attempts. Koenig said that his association with Gamo was brought on because of per-
sonal experiences with the Gamo product line. “Over the years, I have used a number of air guns for training and for fun, and I have purchased air guns for use by my sons,” he said. “There is no other air gun in the world that has been as accurate and reliable as the guns in the Gamo line.” Gamo Adult Precision Airguns, the world’s largest manufacturer of airgun pellets, has been an international
presence in the air-gun industry for more than 120 years, and its products are in use in more than 210 countries. Koenig’s association with Gamo allows him to be a part of an international company that has global appeal. Gamo’s initial marketing plans with him will focus on the U.S. market and then expand throughout the European market. Booth #11053. (954-581-5822; gamousa.com)
74 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p74 news.indd 74
12/17/10 11:19:51 AM
BN_026953_SHBD211.indd 1
12/13/10 4:11 PM
NEWS
Wea Weatherby y rb e th y ilN U e n ilve e w s New N Unveils gg n a nV aa rd u 2 S2 S Vanguard ifle R Rifle
a e hWe rb t’s ig y e s big w b news n r2 1 0 fo s2011 is i the Weatherby’s for springtime introduction s f c u d tro n e im t e of tthe h Vanguard Series 2 (S2) rifle.. rd a u g n ()fl 2 is e S Va Featuring a new two-stage e u gF rin at n g a -s to w e e match-quality target trigger, the a c -q h , m e rg lity a u t e h t Vanguard S2 is guaranteed shoot rd a u g n o Va te is 2 S t to s o h sub-MOA of O -M b u s a h p u tg o -s re A (a ( tthree-shot group f o .99 inch or less) with factory prey tfa )w s rle o h c in 9 .9 r or p mium ammunition. The trigger has m iu m rg e h .T ito n u m a a h sear for n ryan ila x a auxiliary au e r a sra e c fo p -fra creep-free e consistent let-off, and pre-set r p d f,a l-o ite s n co e sear 8 t.0 m g n re a se engagement at .008-.012. . 12 0 of t s a It Iju s is i adjustable ld tarw e for b fo f weight to h ig e too l u .5pull t2 n w o p down d . 2.5 pounds. s d n u p t The o p s 2 S rd u g n a V e Th Vanguard S2 sports a e G s new e n to rip n w Griptonite k stock c so ru n o cconstructc t with tils ed of modern materials a rn e d fm o ith w Weatherby proe ra h y the b h e lW n ito d t traditional t r p swell il , n dfile, f e and aig e a right-side d t-s h r lm palm pa sw n for a g d e v o p rim fo improved gripa -and hann h dling. Also new is thel metal. g lin dA m ith w e n o ls a work’s ’ rk o w te a m s matte e -b l bead-blast b ad t lu s e a blued b finish. There will also be a . h s in fT b o s ila rw e h version of2 fth stainless ro v s le in a st . the S2. S Other include a rk e th Oy a skey re tu e features fe n e d lu c i safety r e h lv three-position fy a itn s o -p t e r lever e a 24-inch barrel.iflThe rifle d n l.Tand re a b h c -in 4 2 a r weighs approximately s h ig e wp t a im x ro a l 7 2 5e y 7.25 . pounds. . s d n u o p The il w 2 S rd u g n a V e Th Vanguard S2ewill be b b available ila avain c 15 e inlib r 15 calibers, e a,r n g s ranga .22-250 Remington g ro n t ing g in e R 0 -5 .2 m i from f n o Short tr.3 s e h c in W to .300 Winchester 0 rt o h S .257 a ., Mag., M ig g including d lu c n i 5 2 . 7 d Weatherby n y rb e th a We 0and .300 3 . (The stainless l Weatherby. in s .(T y rb e th a We s s will n version io rs ve ilb f o e w be re offered in e d in fewer calibers.) Retail prict .)R s lib a rc e w fe ric p o es are expected td c p x re a e to be b r u d around n a o4 0 $450. $ 5 . “Our new S2 r u O “e c in 2 S w n - incorpoo rp o rates the most signifio m h s te ra fn ig s cant t n g n a h ca changes cs t e to o rifles since s Vanguard ifle rd a u g n Va c in s e w h t they rfis e t y weren trfirst introi duced the c u d n ed e in h i rly t early ea 1970s,” says re p s y ,”a 0 7 19 t president n e id s d e n Ed .“A y rb th a E Weatherby. W t “An outu o new ig standing d n sta e trig w n rtrigger, e a look r o tl more n re u c m e current k o o guaranteed d n tand rn a u a g e sub-MOA O -M b u s a A accuc racy the e k a m y c ra make e h t value, 2 g tv S2 a re S a great l a with all the flatf le a ith w shooting, , g tin o h s r - harda h d perfor-it in rfo hitting e p g h t mance c n a m p x e e expectc ed of a f o rb Weatherby.” e th a We y Booth th o B #12729. 12 2 9# 7 . g rin p
0 8 -2 7
(800( 227-2016; 22 0 a h - weathwe t erby. y rb e com) ) m o c
The Off-Duty .38 Special (top) and Undercover Lite (above) will now distributed by directly by Charter Arms.
Charter Charts New Course
F
or nearly 50 years, Charter Arms, located in Shelton, Connecticut, has quietly turned out revolvers designed for personal defense, including the new Off-Duty .38 Special and Undercover Lite, each of which is constructed of 7075 aircraft-quality aluminum for improved strength and reduced weight. But you may not have heard of the company because for many years, its products were marketed and distributed through MKS Supply. No longer. Charter has decided to chart a new course and has, according to president Nick Ecker, “developed in-house capabilities to manage our marketing efforts.” One of the key steps in this new direction is the appointment of two manufacturer rep groups. M.L. Ray & Associates, Inc., will provide coverage for the Midwest, while and Tom Colli Associates will cover the New England and MidAtlantic states. Founded in 1989, M.L. Ray & Associates is experienced in the shooting sports and related sporting goods industry. Working with shooting sports dealers and distributors, covering 13 states, they’re widely known for their quality business principles and professional representation. Tom Colli Associates has been servicing the sporting goods industry for more than 35 years and specializes in shooting sports and accessories. Their emphasis is creating a strong relationship with their customers and providing outstanding customer service. In addition, Lissa McCarthy has recently joined Charter Arms in the newly created position as national sales manager. McCarthy has been involved with the shooting sports for the past 20 years. “By appointing two new manufacturer reps and hiring a national sales manager, we’ll be able to work more closely with our distributors and retailers, and listen to what products they are most
interested in,” Ecker says. “And to bolster the brand, dealers can expect to enjoy the outstanding customer service we’ve always provided. We’re going to be traveling more, visiting shops and putting a face to the name Charter Arms.” In making this move, Ecker emphasizes that the company will stick to its core competency of niche personal-defense revolvers. “We’ve enhanced our quality-control guidelines, created in-house cross training on the production line, and we are continuing to invest in research and development to ensure Charter Arms continues to produces a revolver that is synonymous with personal defense,” he says. But he does new see opportunities, especially as more women shop for a concealed-carry firearm for personal protection. To meet the demands of that market, Charter has developed two revolvers specially designed for women shooters. The Chic Lady and the Chic Lady Off Duty are finished in a high-polish stainless-steel pink anodized-aluminum frame, and come in a faux alligator pink attaché case with high-polish stainless-steel trim. Each weighs only 13 ounces. At the same time, the company won’t forget old favorites, such as the Bulldog. “Fans of the Bulldog, our flagship, will be happy to know we’re bringing it back in a three-inch barrel high-polish carbon-steel version with the original-design walnut-wood grips,“ Ecker says. Ecker notes that in the company’s 46-year history, it has “experienced many challenges, changes and growth. But what remains the same is the loyalty of our skilled employees and our customers, who expect a quality constructed and reliable product. All of the parts used to manufacture our full line of revolvers are made within a fifty-mile radius of our Connecticut facility, and we’re proud to be able to say we’re ‘Made in America.’” Booth #13905. (203-922-1652; charterarms.com) —Slaton L. White
76 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p76 news.indd 76
12/17/10 9:19:47 AM
FLI /Ic ,hladingovrfEO ystem S R erationsop fam .Fruvc apnghtdym ilesofw acq qlby m uistonadfrcep,w cri agery, spim bat terylif.Toshauxdnv,gc
l ia c e sp rcesaoth fo
pec trum hTeS ofisnw
ghtt™ an ilS M d
ghtt™ t ,
hduvful w tra-longecpbis,m www S /G m o c .FLIR
. c ,n m yste S 201FLIR ©
BN_026711_SHBD111.indd 1
12/7/10 2:57 PM
NEWS
Mossy Oak’s Local Pro Staff Concept Continues to Grow…and Grow
The new LE901 is a multicaliber modular weapon system that is making its debut at the SHOT Show.
Welcome Back, Colt
M
y customers have stopped asking for Colts,” said Mike, the manager of a gun store in Biloxi, Mississippi. Those that have been paying attention to the gun industry for the past decade know exactly what Mike is talking about. Sometime before the turn of this new century, Colt Firearms essentially shifted its primary focus to government and military sales, and left the commercial side to wither on the vine.
While Colt was once the go-to source for the M1911 pistol and AR-15 rifle, the individual buyer found that these guns were actually available—at a good price—from a number of other manufacturers. It wasn’t so much that the American gun buyer left Colt—it was more the other way around. But I believe that change is in the wind. At the 2010 NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits, I had the chance to speak to Wiley Clapp in the Colt booth. Clapp was there to promote the new 21st Century Commander .45 ACP pistol, a handgun built to his specifications. “It has everything you need and nothing you don’t in a personal defense pistol,” he said. This was my first indication that Colt seemed to be returning to its roots. That feeling was confirmed when I attended a Colt new-product demonstration/seminar hosted at the Gunsite Academy last fall, during which the manufacturer introduced the M1911A1 Rail Gun, the M4 Match Target carbines and a brand-new SP901 Modular Carbine chambering the .308 Winchester round. Both the Rail Gun and the M4 proved to have the hallmark Colt quality. I don’t believe there’s ever really been a question of quality
from Colt. It’s been more about availability. That is the area requiring the most attention, and from what I see now, Colt is addressing the situation. I think it’s important that Colt reconnect with the American shooter. After all, Colt firearms are a part of the American experience. Retailers will see a number of new—and very welcome—products at the Colt booth this year, including the three models mentioned above. Of special note: The Modular Carbine, though designed to accept AR-10 size magazines, has been built to accept all standard AR upper receivers. With the use of an adapter, it will accept AR-15-size magazines. Colt is also introducing the LE901 (the Law Enforcement version of the Military CM901), a multi-caliber, modular weapon system at the SHOT Show. This Colt-designed firearm provides law enforcement professionals with a new 7.62x51mm capability, and its universal lower receiver can also be configured to the proven Colt 5.56mm family of firearms. With no special tools, the individual user can convert a single lower receiver into multiple operatingsystem configurations. Booth #12529. (800962-2658; coltsmgf.com) —Paul Markel
In an age when having a pro staff has become so prevalent that it’s almost a prerequisite for promoting hunting and outdoor products, Mossy Oak has found a way to transform the concept of a pro staff into something unique. Like most companies, Mossy Oak has several of the most recognized and accomplished hunters in the industry representing its brand. But the vast majority of the people on Mossy Oak’s pro staff have names that only their relatives would recognize. “There are sportsmen all across the country who represent the ideals that Mossy Oak stands for,” says Tim Anderson, director of public relations and pro staff at Mossy Oak. “We wanted to build a grassroots group of sportsmen that would allow us to have people like that in every town across the country—people who could be the local hunting advocates as well as champion the Mossy Oak brand.” Like any successful grassroots movement, Mossy Oak’s local pro staff concept spread like wildfire. From a relatively small number of regional staffers when the program began in 2007, the Mossy Oak pro staff has grown to more than 1,000 representatives in communities across North America. And it’s not just Mossy Oak that’s recognizing the benefits of this widespread pro staff concept. “The idea is starting to snowball with our partners, because our pro staffers are out there representing their brands as well,” Anderson says. “For some of the smaller companies that don’t have a pro staff, this gives them an opportunity to have someone out there championing their products. For the bigger company, it instantly adds an extra thousand members to their pro staff.” Anderson says that he expects the Mossy Oak pro staff to continue to grow and expand into new communities, but there’s one aspect of the program that he said will remain consistent no matter how large it becomes. “This program goes beyond the Mossy Oak brand,” he says. “We want our local pro staffers to be the go-to guys for that person out there who’s just getting into hunting, and has questions about how to get started, or that kid who wants to learn but doesn’t have someone to teach him. We want the pro staffers to help foster a passion for the outdoors. In the end, that’s what it’s all about.” Booth #11029. (662-494-8859; mossyoak.com) —Christopher Cogley
The author test fires Colt’s M1911A1 Rail Gun at a manufacturer new product seminar. The semi-auto is available in .45 ACP. The magazine capacity is eight rounds.
78 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p78_News.indd 78
12/17/10 4:27:15 PM
NEW Reduced Bolt Force
Through improved trigger technology we are able to reduce the overall bolt force release for easier ejection and faster chambering.
NEW Youth Stock
Designed specifically for young shooters to improve shooting form and sight picture.
MODEL XT-22YR
NEW Thumb and Trigger Safety NEW XT Pro-Fire
™
Adjustable Trigger
Our user-adjustable trigger system allows the shooter to customize the trigger pull weight between 3 and 6 lbs., while providing the ultimate crispness and virtually zero creep.
In addition to the standard thumb safety, the XT Series features a trigger safety incorporated into the Pro-Fire™ Adjustable Trigger, which prevents the trigger from being pulled until the trigger safety is fully depressed for an added level of safety and confidence.
The Marlin XT Series is available in several configurations. For more information, visit us at Marlinfirearms.com/XT.
BN_026475_SHBD211.indd 1
12/1/10 1:35 PM
NEWS
The Name of the Game Is Vision
The ability to see is half the hunt, and Zeiss does the job with brilliance By Slaton L. White
T
wo years ago, on a pronghorn hunt in Wyoming, I received an inadvertent, but very important, lesson in the value of using quality optics. The guide and I were on our stomachs, glassing sage flats, looking for a shootable buck. We found one, about 300 yards out, but when I raised the rifle and looked through the scope, instead of a razor-sharp image all I saw was a cloudy, ill-defined blur. Thinking I had snow on the objective lens, I put down the rifle to check the scope. Nope, it was clean. By the time I was ready to peer through the scope again, my buck had moved on. Opportunity lost.
Back at the truck I figured out what had happened. My binoculars were a top-of-the-line model; the scope was a value-priced import. The experience reaffirmed an old adage: You can’t hit what you can’t see. Trying to save a buck had cost me a buck. Put simply, it pays to use good glass, a fact any retailer should emphasize when discussing hunting optics with customers. The optical quality of a scope or binocular depends on several factors, and trying to describe all the features can get complicated. Obviously, the design and construction of This Zeiss Victory Diavari 4-16X50 T* FL scope uses multicoated anti-reflective lenses that enhance lightgathering ability and deliver a clear, sharp image.
the various lenses in a scope are critical elements. So, too, is the absence of aberrations such as blurring, color changes and distortion when the user peers through the scope. Coatings are also important, though in many cases their role is completely misunderstood. “The main reason to coat a lens is to reduce reflections and to improve light transmission,” says Robert J. Kaleta, hunting product specialist for Carl Zeiss Sports Optics. “Uncoated lenses reflect light back in many directions [rather than letting it travel through to the eye], and this loss can impair performance.”
Another reason to coat lenses is to reduce glare. “Zeiss pioneered anti-reflective (AR) coatings beginning in 1935, and the company was granted the first AR patent in 1940,” he says. “The first generation of AR coatings were a single layer that provided 96 percent light transmission and a 50 percent reduction in reflections. The second generation consisted of two layers that delivered 97 percent light transmission and a 63 percent reduction in reflections. In the late 1980s, the third generation of Zeiss AR coatings featured multiple layers that achieved a light-transmission rate of nearly 99 percent while reducing reflections by more than 95 percent. And we’re not through. We’re still working on improvements.” Light transmission, commonly called “brightness,” is a big selling point, but retailers need to understand just what a manufacturer is selling. “Here at Zeiss, we speak of total light transmission; in other words, we factor in every lens in the product that the light must pass through,” Kaleta says. “Some manufacturers claim ‘98 percent’ light transmission, but they’re actually only referencing the coating performance of one lens, not the entire optical system.” Optics manufacturers can design coatings to fit a wide variety of uses, but hunters have special needs, such as light-gathering ability at dusk or dawn. “We engineer our coatings so they are beneficial in the most critical parts of the visible spectrum, and we also make sure they perform well in low light,” Kaleta says. “In this case, our coatings must allow in more amounts of the visible blue spectrum, because that is what the eye needs help with most during low light. It’s not an easy process by any means, because at the same time you don’t want to sacrifice performance benefits elsewhere in the spectrum.” Finally, the coatings must be durable, especially given where and how hunting optics are used. “The process we use at Zeiss ensures a strong adhesive bond between the lens and the coating layers,” he says. “Our new water-repelling LotuTec coating is a big step in protecting a lens from debris and body oils as well.” Basically, Zeiss AR coatings increase light transmission, improve contrast, eliminate ghost images and minimize reflections—all of which help a hunter see a target clearly. And isn’t that the name of the game? Booth #13913. (800-441-3005; zeiss.com/
In the Blink of an Eye
Tactical operators and military personnel know that in the field, loss of vision can come, literally, within the blink of an eye, whether it’s shrapnel from an IED or bullet impact. The interchangeable polycarbonate lenses found in Revision’s redesigned Sawfly Military Eyewear System have been engineered to provide superior impact protection, as the lenses meet or exceed military ballistic impact requirements. Some models are also on the U.S. Army’s Authorized Protective Eyewear List (APEL) as well. But that’s not all. Revision’s lenses have also been built to provide distortion-free images (for more accurate target acquisition) and the lightweight frames and adjustable arms improve the comfort of the wearer (meaning that the eyewear will actually be worn). The new design also boasts an improved quick-change lens system, and the thinner frame arms make it far easier to wear with hearing protection. The Sawfly’s new extended lens also provides greater lateral lens coverage for full side-impact protection without compromising airflow and anti-fog performance. In addition, the eyewear’s new nosepiece has been re-engineered for enhanced comfort, retention and durability, and a softer nose pad provides added grip and cushioning. Finally, the system’s new Secure-Snap retention band clips firmly into the frame, keeping eyewear in place, even during highactivity missions. The Sawfly is also available in a shooter’s kit that provides the same high-impact protection for upland bird hunters and sporting clays shooters. The kit’s vermilion lenses are designed to enhance color recognition and depth perception in cloudy or hazy conditions as well as under artificial lights. There are three standard lenses (clear, smoke and neutral gray), four high-contrast lenses (yellow, vermilion, gold and brown) and three specialty lenses (laser, polarized and thermal). SRP: $89, for the two-lens system; $119, for the three-lens deluxe kit. Booth #26001. (802-879-7002; revisioneyewear.com)
sports)
80 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p80_News.indd 80
12/17/10 9:24:45 AM
. S B M ’A U IY L O T C F R P E H
THE PERFECT TOOL IF YOU’RE ALL THUMBS. T COME SEE US AT SHOT SHOW 2011 BOOTH
THE DUAL PRO X SWISS ARMY KNIFE
SWISSARMY.COM | FACEBOOK.COM/VICTORINOXSWISSARMY | TWITTER.COM/SWISSARMY MAKERS OF THE ORIGINAL SWISS ARMY KNIFE
BN_027425_SHBD111.indd 1
12/20/10 2:01 PM
NEWS
Troy Industries Tames the Porcupine
A
merican shooters love the Modern Sporting Rifle (MSR) platform. It is, according to sales figures, the most popular rifle type in the U.S.
Dealers love the platform, too, and not just for the initial gun and ammo sales that result. They love the firearm because many MSRs come equipped with a Picatinny rail system that just
el.
Battle Rail Covers from Troy Industries come in two sizes. The covers protect a shooter’s hand from abrasions and heat buildup.
sd02_p82,83 news.indd 82
screams for added accessories, such as laser designators, fore grips, lights, optical sights, backup iron sights and anything else you can slide on. And these accessories can make the cash register ring— music to any retailer’s ears. There is, however, a problem with Picatinny rails. You can only put on so many accessories, leaving a portion of sharply cut rail to grate against the shooter’s hand. Some equate the experience with petting a porcupine. Heat buildup is also a problem, and those metal rails can make a proper grip quite uncomfortable after a number of rounds have gone downrange. The result? Up till now, your best bet was to make sure the range bag has a first-aid kit. But now a slip-on rail accessory can solve all these problems. Battle Rail Covers from Troy Industries, constructed of a durable polymer resin, are designed to slip onto any 1913 Picatinny Rail and replace that porcupine with something far more friendly to the hand. The lightly textured, smooth-gripping surface not only protects the shooter’s hand from heat buildup, but abrasions as well. A locking tab secures each rail in place, but w allows quick removal if needed. Available in 3-inch and 6-inch lengths, the rails can be had in black, flat Dark Earth, OD Green, Foliage Green or tan, allowing shooters either to match the finish on their rifle or choose a contrasting color to add some “racing stripes.” The rails weigh about 1 ounce apiece, so they won’t unbalance the feel of the rifle, and they certainly make a positive difference in handling, control and comfort. The upper unit of my MSR has a 7-inch quad rail forearm, but the only portion of it I use is the 3 inches on the forward left rail, where a laser/ light sometimes rides. The rest of the quad rail served no purpose other than to beat up my hand. I really didn’t enjoy shooting that upper very much, and it got little use. The Troy covers fixed that problem, though. I added a 6-inch cover to the bottom and right rails, and a 3-inch cover on the left rail. That made the upper very comfortable to shoot while still leaving enough rail for the laser. This upper now sees a lot more use at action rifle matches. That’s a lot of problem solving at a very affordable cost. SRP: $7.50 per unit; $20 for three. If I were a dealer, I’d keep these handy items right next to the register. Booth #20505. (866-788-6412; troyind.com) —Chris Christian
12/21/10 3:27:41 PM
NEWS
Outdoor Life Tracks McKean’s Record Quest
Is there a hunter worth his salt who doesn’t dream about taking a huge elk? Every season many try, but since record-class elk don’t grow on trees, few come close. One who did is Denny Austad, who in 2008 shot “The Spider Bull,” a specimen that may become the current record. So, just what does it take to get a record-class elk? And where are the best places to look for one? Outdoor Life Hunting Editor Andrew McKean, along with a team of Outdoor Life editors, proposes to answer these questions as they set out to hunt trophy elk—and maybe even take a record-class bull. Through print features, a blog and a webisode series, Outdoor Life magazine and OutdoorLife.com will chronicle McKean’s Record Quest. This high-profile full-season program will run from July to December 2011, and will be featured in the Hunting section of multiple issues of Outdoor Life, and have a wrap-up feature in 2012. Outdoor Life will allow sponsors to be part of this exciting Record Quest franchise through a multi-platform media package that includes product integration throughout the season within video posts, interactive maps, print promotion, pack lists and photo galleries. Andrew McKean will hit the backcountry in search of jaw-dropping, record-setting animals in Record Quest. The franchise will have print, online and video components. But McKean will also explore larger questions about what, exactly, makes a great hunt, and why some of the most enjoyable and memorable outdoor adventures aren’t about record trophies at all.
Innovation Fuels Utility Knife Market
F
or nearly 120 years, Wenger has defined and led the sport-utility knife market. Longevity as a market leader requires the right mix of innovation and quality, especially in the modern world of multi-tools that come in every imaginable shape and size. Staying ahead of the pack requires staying abreast of an ever-changing consumer market, something Wenger has plenty of experience with.
“We realize we have a powerful brand, but that’s not enough to keep us relevant,” says Dennis Piretra, Wenger’s vice president of marketing. “Innovation is what helps define Wenger and keeps us top of mind with consumers and retailers. It forces us to think about specific solutions to an athlete’s challenge and come up with solutions in the form of a multifunctional tool.” Creating innovative products that work means relying on the input of experts, which Wenger has done in the creation of their newest knife— the Ueli Steck Climbers Knife, a one-handed utility tool designed specifically to meet climbers’ needs. Cut-outs in the extra-thick locking blade incorporate hex keys in the three most common sizes found on climbing equipment—7mm, 10mm, 13mm. A flathead screwdriver designed into the back of the blade can be used while the knife is closed. Steck, a legendary mountaineer and Wenger ambassador, not only lent his knowledge to the Wenger design team in creating this innovative tool, he put it to hard use during record-breaking speed ascents of the Matterhorn, Eiger and Grand Jorasses.
The Ueli Steck Climbers Knife was named for the legendary mountaineer, who helped the Wenger design team create the tool.
“Each of our Brand Ambassadors has co-developed a product with us for their specific sport or end-use,” said Piretra. “Instead of providing personal opinion, they give us reallife solutions. There’s a clear distinction between the two. When we speak in those terms, we engineer product that is purpose-built with multi-functional innovation. That is the essence of who we are.” Booth #10726. (800-431-2996; wengerna.com)
—David Draper
Browning® Trademarks Licensed by Browning. © 2010 Umarex USA www.UmarexUSA.com
sd02_p82,83 news.indd 83
12/21/10 3:27:55 PM
NEWS
Woolrich Goes Tactical The clothing manufacturer moves far beyond the Pennsylvania Tuxedo By Slaton L. White
B
uilding upon a successful 2010, which saw Woolrich Elite Series Tactical open four new regions and name two new two sales managers, the manufacturer of tactical clothing is poised for continued growth in 2011. Woolrich is now selling its complete tactical apparel line in Australia, Canada, the Caribbean, Japan, Latin America, the Middle East, South Korea and Taiwan. In addition, sales veterans Keith Myers and Nick Richino recently joined Woolrich Elite Series Tactical as sales managers (East and West, respectively). Lastly, the company will continue its sponsorship of the U.S. Corrections Special Operations Extreme (US C-SOG CorSpecOps) and Mobile Tour (corSpecOps.com), which this year hosted 34 stops and trained more than 10,000 officers throughout the country.
“Woolrich is known around the globe for its first-class quality, product design and durability,” says vice president of sales and marketing Jerry Rinder. “These attributes have strongly resonated with the international tactical community, who demand apparel and outerwear that excels in the toughest conditions.” To support steady sales in the U.S., Myers and Richino will focus on growing the existing national sales channels while initiating new opportunities domestically for the tactical product line. Both Myers and Richino will also oversee national sales of the Woolrich consumer product line. So, it looks as if Woolrich Tactical is on a roll. SHOT Daily sat down with Jerry Rinder to see just where the company is headed.
SHOT DAILY: To the average
world in every climate and has performed admirably. Finally, we formed an advisory board made up of LE, military and corrections individuals, which consults with us as to what each of these areas needs. In addition, we meet on a regular basis with many users during trade shows, meetings and so forth to constantly discuss what this market needs.
SD: Does the increase in concealed carry permits for consumers open any new doors for Woolrich Tactical? How do you set Woolrich apart from the competition? JR: The CCW market is growing in both civilian and military. In fact, it is one of the areas Woolrich is concentrating on along with lightweight tactical. I met with 35 special-ops folks and asked them what they needed. Their collective answer was, “We need your outdoor clothing line, but with tactical features, so no one knows we are ‘on the job’ or carrying.” Elite is fortunate in that every six months the main line (Outdoors) is developed, and we get 150 styles to pick from, then add tactical features. This way we use the same fabric and look, but with tactical/concealed features.
guy, Woolrich is wool and tradition. The Pennsylvania Tuxedo wool hunting garb comes to mind. Did the brand’s heritage help or hinder establishing Woolrich Tactical? Jerry Rinder: The fact that Woolrich was established in 1830 and has been producing product for the military since 1863, when the company began supplying fabric and blankets Jerry Rinder, a vice president at during the Civil War, is and has SD: Do you intend to expand Woolrich Elite Series Tactical, been a positive benefit for the line to other SKUs, such as sees continued growth in CCW. launching the Elite Tactical line. boots and gloves? The fact is, we should be touting our heritage JR: As of now, there are no plans to extend out of even more than we are. Elite Series Tactical is a apparel. Woolrich is a manufacturer of apparel, key element of the long-term growth plans for the and this is what we bring to the market—180 years Woolrich brand, and we see this market as an of apparel know-how. That is why I can say that important brand extension. there may be a competitor that is close to our quality, fit and durability, but no one—and I mean SD: What’s the process behind developing the no one—is better. clothing line? Do you have designers with tactical or law enforcement experience? Do you conduct SD: How will you support the brand? focus groups with LE operators? JR: Woolrich will continue to support the JR: The process is simple yet thorough. We asked Elite Series Tactical by attending national trade users of tactical wear what they liked—and didn’t shows (SHOT, Outdoor Retailer) and regional like—about current products. Then, Brian Miller, shows (Tactical Officer, SWAT); through Webour product-development person, created the based initiatives and social media (Facebook, product with the features and benefits most Twitter), public relations initiatives, including requested, which were fit and durability with com- working with writers and editors of related publifort. Brian has a vast knowledge of fabrics and cations; through the Wounded Warrior Program manufacturing, plus an interest in tactical. He is a with our Freedom Throw Blanket; and, of course, hunter and shooter, so it comes naturally. We then advertising. had the product tested and evaluated by “on the Booth #13162. (800-996-2299; woolrich ground” users. Elite product has been all over the eliteseriestactical.com)
Wolverine Dials In Comfort
The wolverine—the mammal, not the comic-book character—is the largest member of the weasel family. A stocky and muscular carnivore, it’s known for its ferocity and willingness to take on adversaries several times it size. In other words, a tough dude. The Michigan-based boot manufacturer that bears its name has, for 125 years, taken design cues from the animal by making rugged, durable footwear that doesn’t back down when challenged by tough terrain. This year, however, hunters will see a bit more than just brute strength, as Wolverine rolls out a new line of boots, including the Hawken, M-10 and Mayhem, that utilize smart technology. These boots feature Woverine’s proprietary iCS (Individual Comfort System) assembly, which consists of a removable full-cushion insole that allows the wearer to customize, via a rotating gel disc that sits in the heel, an individual setting by selecting one of four comfort options—firm or cushion fit as well as inner or outer support. Wolverine developed iCS after undertaking an extensive customer-research program that included focus groups, online surveys and field tests. After analyzing the results, the company’s designers concluded that in addition to durability and aggressive performance in the field, attributes that Wolverine boots have displayed for years, consumers also wanted a higher level of “personalized” comfort. “We found that comfort and fit are imperative to hunters,” says marketing director Kelly Redinger. “Reducing fatigue is also high on their list. The result is the Wolverine iCS hunting line, designed to provide personalized comfort in durable, aggressive boots.” The boots also have a streamlined design and athletic fit, in keeping with an ongoing trend in hunting footwear. “The new boots have a contemporary look and feel, but still excel at providing warmth, traction and protection from the elements—all of which are essential for hunters,” says vice president of product development Roger Huard. “These boots are also extremely lightweight, which helps reduce fatigue. . tig fa c u d e r When s th n e n e Wh these beneb fits it a c re d e in b m f s are combined o with Wolverine ith lv o e rin w W e iCS, C ,y e v a h u o i S you have a boot thatt allows a th o l w b a o s you fr lk a w to u yo to walk far-ther and hunt r e h d n t n u t a h longer.” Booth r.” e g n th o lo B #10540. (800. 4 5 10 0 8 # ( 4 18 -2 3 lv in r e o c
253-2184;; 25 wolverine wo e ..com) m)
84 ■ SHOT BUSINESS DAILY ■ DAY 2, JANUARY 19, 2011
sd02_p84_News_wolv/wool.indd 84
12/17/10 9:22:35 AM
news
Pete Gerber at Gerber Booth
Pete “The Legend” Gerber will be in the Gerber booth today for one day only. He will sign autographs from 10 a.m. until noon, and then again from 2 p.m. to 4 p.m. He will also sign a pair of knives that have been released from the Gerber Archives: the Folding Sportsman I (in production from 1972 to 1997), which will be sold for $30, and the Bolt Action (in production from 1984 to 1996), which will be sold for $20. These are amazing prices; a recent search on eBay showed both knives going for $50 to $100 each. Both knives will come with a certificate of authenticity, and the money raised will be donated in full to the Catch a Dream foundation. Come early, as supplies are limited. In addition, the new Bear Grylls Compact Scout will also be sold throughout the show (while supplies last) for $10 each. Money collected will be donated to the Boy Scouts of America. Booth #13614. (800443-4871; gerbergear.com)
Free Beer! L
eatherman wants to thank our troops—and provide a welcome break for attendees after a hectic two days at the SHOT Show. The manufacturer will host a free beer party today between 3 p.m. and 5 p.m. As part of the festivities, Leatherman will offer commemorative steins for a donation of $5. All proceeds will be donated to the Troops First Foundation. The mission of the Troops First Foundation is to develop and operate a synergistic group of wellness, quality of life and sports-based initia-
tives in support of today’s military personnel. In addition, the foundation seeks greater recognition and an enhanced understanding of the quality and character of the men and women who volunteer to serve. Both non-injured and injured military personnel and their families will be given help at no cost to them. The steins will be free to those who can show a military ID, and plastic cups will be offered for those who do not wish to buy a stein. Booth #14512.
BN_026908_SHBD211.indd 1
12/20/10 3:14 PM
news
Lifetime Loyalty A
lthough women are still a small percentage of overall hunting participants, surveys reveal that the numbers are steadily rising. Between 2008 and 2009, the total number of hunters decreased slightly (.05 percent); during the same period, the number of female hunters rose by 5.4 percent, a net increase of 163,000 new participants. Nice numbers, but when you take a closer look, you can see a lot more going on. Women who hunt with muzzleloaders: up 134.6 percent; women who hunt with a bow: up 30.7 percent; women who hunt with a firearm: up 3.5 percent. Data also shows that women outpaced men as newcomers to rifle target shooting by 4.1 percent. Clearly, there’s an opportunity here for retailers and manufacturers alike. Traditionally, smaller manufacturers have led the race to offer specialty women’s products. Given the smaller number of customers, that made eminent sense, mainly because sizing issues for women’s clothing are more complex than for men’s clothing. For their trouble, these companies earned the loyalty of women hunters and shooters. But when larger companies dipped their toes into this arena, they often came away badly stubbed, mostly because they didn’t take the time to truly understand the dynamics of the market. Browning is the exception. What does it know that the others don’t? “While others enter into the market as a way to garner attention, they rarely stay. In contrast, Browning has offered women’s clothing for more than 30 years,” says Mark Francis, Browning’s product manager for technical outerwear. Its success is based on a simple concept: Offer
women products that actually work for them. But, as Francis admits, it hasn’t all been gravy. “Keeping ladies’ apparel in the black is far easier today than it was two decades ago. One of the ways we financed our research and development and manufacturing was to private-label clothes for several specialty retailers and catalog companies,” he says. “These custom-orders helped finance the category, and it has kept the lines profitable.” Doing so also allowed the manufacturer to gather valuable experience that it applied when it launched the “Browning for Her” line eight years ago. The most important lesson was that women’s garments need to be specifically designed and sized to fit a woman; they cannot be cut-down and resized men’s garb, a common error made by many manufacturers. And Browning has applied that lesson across the board, whether it’s camo shirts and pants or shooting vest and gloves. During the 2011 SHOT Show, Browning will add four new knife SKUs for women to the line. “This is not about putting pink on the handle and calling it a woman’s product,” says Diane Carver, Browning’s knife and light product manager. “Our knives are designed to fit a woman’s hand.” This logic applies to firearms as well. One of the big issues in marketing firearms to women is that women often require a shorter length of pull for proper fit. Here, Browning has made the investment—and the commitment—to women through the Micro shotgun and X-Bolt Micro line. “These are fantastic guns for the lady shooter,” says Denny Wilcox, Browning’s firearms manager. “Every individual part of these guns has the small-
Browning offers female hunters clothing that is tailored specifically to fit their bodies, rather than cut-down and resized men’s clothing.
er shooter in mind. And when a gun fits, the shooter hits what she’s targeting.” For 2011, Browning will expand the Micro series with the new Micro Midas line of shotguns, including the Citori Satin Hunter Micro Midas over/under and the Silver Hunter Micro Midas semi-auto models. The Citori Satin Hunter Micro Midas will be offered in 12-gauge and 20-gauge versions with 24-inch or 26-inch barrels. The compact walnut stock has a 13-inch length of pull. The Silver Hunter Micro Midas semi-auto will also be offered in 12- and 20-gauge models with 24- and 26-inch barrel lengths and a 13-inch length of pull. The new Micro Midas X-Bolt boltaction rifles will have a 12 ½-inch length of pull. For Browning, marketing to women has been a synergistic approach that has encompassed a wide variety of products, from gloves to guns. But most important, the company understands that the products must be tailored specifically to women. The lesson for retailers is that sending a woman to the kids’ department for, say a shooting vest, is simply a recipe for disaster. You either commit to the market, and all that it entails, or don’t bother. And if you’re thinking it truly is too much trouble, take another look at the numbers. Browning has. As important as those number are, Browning has also learned something far more important. “We know that if we get someone at the start of her outdoor experience and put her in gear that truly fits, and performs at a high level, she will bond to the brand for life,” says Francis. That’s not a bad thing by any means. Booth #13940. (801-876-2711; browning.com)—Peter B. Mathiesen 86 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
news
ATK Goes for the Long Ball
T
he ATK umbrella continues to house a diversified line-up of powerful brands—and the company is turning to the digital platform to help turn up the volume on these brands. At the same time, don’t expect the company to run away from the traditional media and the techniques that got the brands where they are. “Digital space is exciting, but it’s not everything,” says public-relations and promotions manager Tim Brandt. “Hunters and shooters still make buying decisions based on what they read in magazines as well as the recommendations from friends and fellow hunters. They are also influenced at the retail level.” But digital media is the hot new thing, and companies need to embrace it if they want their brands to continue to grow. “Think of our approach this way,” he says. “In football, no team wins without mastering such fundamentals as blocking and tackling. And, certainly, a strong ground game helps. But in trying to get a leg up on the competition, smart teams will also
throw the long ball. To us, social media is the long ball.” Over the last couple of years, ATK has built a presence online with a few highly visible efforts, such as new websites and a YouTube channel that generates hundreds of thousands of views. Last summer, the Stormchasers social media site—dedicated to waterfowlers and centered on the Black Cloud line—was rejuvenated with a relaunch. In just a few short months, Stormchasers 2.0 has doubled its members and now boasts more than 4,000 duck and goose die-hards. “We’re thrilled with the enthusiastic participation we’ve seen on the site,” says Brandt. “But what is just as important to us is the feedback we get.” Brandt says that the company hears everything from ideas for new ammunition to conditions and results in the field. “We’ve got some real enthusiasts for this site, and our brand in general. People take this very seriously, and they are always trying to amass more points on our site. It’s great for them, and it’s great for us.” Federal Premium recently joined
Willie Robertson, aka “Buck Commander,” is one of several personalities who have helped put Federal Premium’s social media efforts on the map.
the Facebook community with an official page. “We’ve gone in with a calculated plan and not tried to do too much—a controlled blitz, if you will,” says Brandt. “We really use Facebook as another way to touch our customers—because at the end of the day, they are the ones who drive our business. If they’re not in stores buying our product, our independent retailers—whom we rely on and have built past success with—can’t succeed.” Brandt says the plan isn’t to reinvent the wheel for Facebook, but to
repurpose information and assets, and cater it to this unique platform. This includes promoting key products, mentioning upcoming seasons and events, and, of course, posting the all-important pictures and testimonials from the field. “It’s all about building a community where our customers can connect with the brands,” he says. “That kind of connection is increasingly important to our customers—and to us.” Booth #14540. (800-256-8685; federalpremium.com)
Attention to Detail. Thats, What Makes a Boot a LOWA. Going the extra mile with patented design details like our Climate Control cuff to keep feet cool and comfortable. Using extra-rugged 2.2mm split leather on our Desert boots to ensure durability and protection. These are the design details that have earned LOWA’s reputation for building the world’s most comfortable performance boots since 1923. LOWA is the only outdoor footwear manufacturer to hold ISO 9001 status for highest quality construction & process standards.
Hand - crafted in Europe
Hunter Extreme GTX®
NEW Zephyr GTX® Hi TF NEW Ranger Hi GTX®
Elite Desert now available for both men & women
Visit us at SHOT Show Booth #10232 to learn more about LOWA Field, Service & Work Boots.
w w w . l owa b oots . com © 2011 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.
news
At No Extra Cost WHEN SURVIVAL IS THE ONLY OPTION NEW TOPS®/BUCK KNIVES!
690 TOPS®/BUCK CSAR-T® FIXED-
The no-nonsense TOPS®/Buck CSAR-T® (Combat Search & Rescue Tool) Fixed knife is designed for optimal performance in the field. It features a stout, modified Tanto blade, and a nearly indestructible grooved G-10 handle with Rocky Mountain Tread for a secure grip. Intended for extreme use such as cutting, chopping, penetrating or prying, the 690 is as hard-core as it gets for professionals.
TOPS®/BUCK NIGHTHAWK®-
a durable, fixed-blade knife designed for heavyduty use. With thick, stout blade and non-reflective finish, it was made for tactical use under demanding conditions. The Nighthawk® was also designed for a sure grip in varying elements including water.When survival is the only option, this knife will ensure just that.
091 TOPS®/BUCK CSAR-T® RESPONDER-
When an emergency situation arises, the CSAR-T® Responder has the features necessary to help save lives. It comes equipped with the superior TOPS®/Buck blade, a glass breaker and a seat belt cutter. The destruction proof G-10 handle is textured for a sure grip and the compact size and belt clip makes it easy to carry.
®
UCK CSAR-T B / S P O T 5 9 0 EST! B E H T F O T S E B ®
CSAR-T was Last year’s 095 est of the named 2010 “B e Utility/ th in r e n in w t” s Be category by Survival Knives Magazine Field & Stream VANTAGE® FORCE The Vantage® Force utilizes a blade flipper for an ultra-fast and smooth opening When faced with a critical situation, the Vantage® Force is prepared to protect in a moments notice. With a variety of nonreflective handle materials and blade steels, there is an option for every professional.
A
rmaLite has always prided itself on its ability to design and build innovative firearms. As proof, it points to the Special Purpose Rifle (SPR), which long ago earned its spurs. In 2011, ArmaLite raises the bar once more with the introduction of the mid-length version of its SPR Mod 1, which boasts a number of innovative features. “In true ArmaLite fashion, the SPR Mod 1 is like no other modern sporting rifle on the market,” says communications director Arthur Steadman. “With other systems, you’re stuck with the rails you get at purchase, and stuck with their limits. Not so with the SPR Mod 1. It features four detachable 1913 rails, which allows the user the freedom to mount a variety of sights, lasers, grips or swivels. But we didn’t stop there. Each SPR Mod 1 comes with four extra rails, at no extra cost. We give you a 1913 rail with a quick detachable sling swivel hole. Each rifle also comes with a low insert for when you need a bare rail with a low profile. There’s also a plain insert with a quick-detach sling swivel hole. Changing rails and accessories is as easy and simple as turning a torque wrench. “Ingenious versatility isn’t the only reason to purchase an SPR Mod 1,” Steadman acknowledges. He says the one-piece construction offers a shooter a continuous optic platform. “By that I mean there’s no gap to bridge between the receiver and upper rail when you’re installing the scope or sights,” he says. “This onepiece construction also gives the sighting platform extra rigidity. It’s a good, strong backbone, which means sights will stay zeroed even in the most trying conditions.” Finally, the mid-length SPR Mod 1 uses an innovative 8-inch-long gas system that helps maintain uniform gas pressure at the port from shot to shot. In addition, Steadman says, the gas pressure is lower when the gun starts to unlock, so extraction is easier. Lower gas pressure also means less wear and tear on the parts, and there is less residual unburned propellant, so the gas system stays cleaner. “All in all, the SPR Mod 1 typifies the ArmaLite standard of excellence,” he says. “With us, quality
GunBroker .com Honored
KNIVES SHOWN ARE MADE IN THE USA
Visit the Buck Knives Booth to See What Else is New! BOOTH #14504 660 S. Lochsa St. | Post Falls, ID 83854 | 800-326-2825 | www.buckknives.com
NSSF president Steve Sanetti presents GunBroker .com CEO Steve Urvan with a plaque for supporting the NSSF’s “Pull the Trigger” newsletter.
ArmaLite’s new SPR Mod 1 has four detachable rails, but also comes with four extra rails. In addition, the rifle benefits from a new gas system that helps maintain uniform pressure.
comes standard. We’re not charging extra for the SPR Mod 1’s chromelined, chrome-moly, vanadium-steel barrel, the two-stage tactical trigger, the patented extra-strength steel-bolt assembly or the hard-coated finish.” The SPR Mod 1 is chambered for .223/5.56 NATO and features a freefloated, 16-inch double-lapped barrel with a 1-in-9 twist. One 30-round magazine is included, and ArmaLite guarantees 1.5 to 2.5 MOA accuracy. SRP: $1,554. Booth #12564. (309944-6939; armalite.com)
news
A Keen Sense of Timing
M
oultrie Feeders started out in classic entrepreneurial style when Dan Moultrie came up with a simple concept designed to put a more affordable game feeder in the hands of more consumers. In the case of this Alabama-based manufacturer, a 30-gallon drum and a basic photocell timer changed the way a generation of hunters managed whitetails, especially in the South. But that photocell also led the company to think about other electronic applications for hunters. The first step was a string timer that recorded when an animal crossed a path, enabling a hunter to log the exact time of the incident. Not long after this, the technology took a further step and morphed into filmoperated trail cameras and, eventually, digital cameras. By the time the Pradco Division of Ebsco Industries purchased the company from Moultrie in 2006, it was the largest feeder company in America. But since it already had experience in marketing trail cameras, Pradco authorized the introduction of the Game Spy series in 2007. “We expected to sell three to five thousand units, and we sold more than 20,000,” says Mark Gregory, vice president and general manager of Moultrie Products. “That clearly
The new Moultrie M-80 and M-100 trail cameras have been designed to maximize battery life.
gave us a direction and a technology to refine.” Gregory also said that the Game Spy camera succeeded in putting cutting-edge hunting-research technology in the hands of the consumer for about $200, when the nearest competitor was priced at more than $400. This success spawned more research and development efforts that upped the ante in product performance. Two notable examples
were night-vision and infraredtrigger technology. But as trail camera usage expanded, consumers demanded longer battery life. Again, Moultrie went to work and was shortly able to offer cameras that were more energy-efficient. “Once we solved the long-term power problems, consumer demand was enough that we were able to set the bar even higher,” says Gregory. When markets grow, competition increases and more opportunity is created. “Although we weren’t the first company to offer remote cameras via cell phone service, we were the company that brought the resources to solve the technical challenges with cell phone providers while significantly lowering the retail cost.” These recent developments have led to the demand for faster performance, smaller size and even better battery life. In response, Moultrie is bringing out a new line of infrared cameras small enough to fit in the hand. Both the Game Spy M-80 and Game Spy M-100 operate in widescreen pictures and videos, and each has a new Illumi-Night sensor and time-lapse-mode battery-life calculator that lasts up to one year. The external power port allows for the addition of a solar accessory to
The Bidding Starts Now.® Don’t limit your business to customers in your local selling area. GunBroker.com® has more than 3 million customers nationwide. Getting started is fast and easy – we can help you get firearms appraised, manage your photos and monitor your auctions. Come see what the World’s Largest Online Auction of Firearms and Accessories™ can do for your business, only at www.GunBroker.com.
extend battery life indefinitely. SRP: $149.99, M-80; $199.99, M-100. Both cameras will be available in early summer. Even with strong sales in the hunting and land-management categories, the largest future growth segment may just be the security industry. “We have already impacted the lives of homeowners, constructionsite managers and even law enforcement personnel with our products,” says Gregory. “We predict that these segments will grow exponentially as new, affordable technology becomes available. By enabling an individual to monitor an area with an instant feed directly to his smartphone and/or email, we are creating value at often a fraction of the cost of even a part-time security person.” With a keen sense of timing, Moultrie’s parent company, Ebsco, enabled the organization to take advantage of opportunities to provide landmark products to a host of hungry consumers. At the same time, Gregory cites the hard work and insight of Dan Moultrie, as well as the expertise of technical development supervisor John Traywick as two strong reasons Moultrie Products has enjoyed triple-digit growth during the past five years. “It’s all about building a better mousetrap, and we definitely have,” he says. Booth #16125. (800-6533334; moultriefeeders.com)
—Peter B. Mathiesen
news
Glock Booth Events
Team Glock captains Dave Sevigny and Randi Rogers will be conducting pistol demonstrations at 10 a.m. and 2 p.m. today, tomorrow and Friday. In addition, they also will be available to sign autographs from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. today and tomorrow, and from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Friday. R. Lee Ermey, better known as “Gunny,” will also be signing autographs today (11 a.m. to 5 p.m.), tomorrow (8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m.) and Friday (8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.) Booth #12251.
Umarex USA Opens New Facility Investment in a new facility was made possible by Umarex USA’s incredible growth over the past six years.
A
fter a year and a half of construction, Umarex USA moved into new quarters in Fort Smith, Arkansas, last fall. In lieu of a traditional ribbon-cutting ceremony, master gunsmith Danny Williams used an airsoft rifle to shoot a balloon attached to a ribbon that was stretched across the new facility’s main entrance. Then service technicians Ryan Hunt and Sean Shipman fired five blank rounds apiece to further mark the official start of operations at the new facility. Located at Chaffee Crossing in Fort Smith, Arkansas, Umarex’s new North American head-
VISIT FOR THE LATEST INNOVATIONS IN GUN PARTS, TOOLS AND ACCESSORIES. • Demonstrations on customizing the AR-15 plus 1911 and Glock pistols. Several 30-minute demos each day of the show. • See our newest and most popular gun part and accessory offerings. • Learn more about AR-15 backup sights and how to install a free-float handguard.
• Meet the folks you talk to on the phone. GunTechs will be on-hand to answer all your questions. • Stop by to see our new booth and receive our SHOT Show Special • See how we can help you make your business more profitable.
VISIT BOOTH
#805 800-741-0015 • brownells.com
Source Code: CQX
90 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011 BN_025818_SHBD111.indd 1
11/15/10 11:22 AM
quarters is just six miles from the previous site. The investment in the new facility was a result of the growth that Umarex USA has experienced since leasing a 30,000-square-foot building five years ago. The new building has nearly 117,000 square feet of floor space, 30,000 of which is dedicated to future assembly and manufacturing. “The support we have received from all of our partners and our caring group of employees has provided us with the means to be successful in the economic situation that our country is now experiencing,” says president and CEO Adam Blalock. Umarex USA estimates that it will employ 60 to 120 people over the next three years. This is in addition to the more than 80 sales representatives located throughout the U.S., Canada and Mexico. “We originally chose Fort Smith for the people and their work ethic,” he says. The state’s business ethic was also a major reason to stay and expand. “The City of Fort Smith, the Regional Chamber of Commerce, the Fort Chaffee Redevelopment Authority and the State of Arkansas have all been great to work with, and we are most grateful. Our whole team is excited about our new Chaffee Crossing address.” The state-of-the-art facility boasts such features as a 50-meter private indoor gun range, a qualitycontrol lab, a gunsmith department and a sophisticated shipping and receiving distribution center. The building is also equipped with high-tech video conferencing and audio-visual capabilities. Umarex USA has also incorporated several “green” concepts into its building and operations, including motion-activated lighting, recycling, environmentally friendly building materials, skylights and low-energy-consuming heating and cooling standards. Umarex has been building air guns for more than 35 years, and its expertise stems from the close association with Walther firearms. The company manufactures and markets air guns, paintball products, airsoft guns, blank-firing guns, selfdefense weapons and firearms, as well as laserbased measurement and leveling instruments. Umarex USA’s shooting sports products are marketed under the brand names RWS, Walther, Hämmerli, Beretta, Smith & Wesson, Browning, Heckler & Koch, Ruger, Desert Eagle, RAM, Colt and Regent. Umarex USA products can be found at national and local sporting goods retailers throughout North America as well as at Umarex’s booth at SHOT Show. Booth #14856. (479-6464210; umarexusa.com)
news
Pro Staffer at Leupold Booth
Leupold’s newest competitive shooting pro, Jessie Abbate, is scheduled to appear at the Leupold booth tomorrow from 2 p.m. to 3:30 p.m. In just seven years, Abbate has advanced from being a newcomer on the shooting circuit to a top-ranked professional. In the process, she has won numerous world and national championships, including the NRA Bianchi Cup, along with many regional titles in several shooting disciplines. “We welcome Jessie to Team Leupold,” says Leupold’s marketing communications manager, Mike Slack. “She joins a select group of shooters who have set records, won countless championships and dominated the competitive shooting scene. We are very excited and pleased that another of the world’s best has chosen Leupold optics.” Booth #13123.
ATK Hits the Road O
ver the past few years, ATK has dedicated resources to support trailers that travel throughout the U.S. and show up at dealer events, promotions and other gatherings. These appearances have had a profound effect and shown real results. Dealer services manager Bart Biedinger says, “Dealers are seeing the power of having support from a manufacturer at their events. They see that it translates to actual sales.” To support his argument, Biedinger cites one event last year at which an East Coast–based dealer moved 50 cases of CCI .22LR in four days. “In several other instances, dealers reported selling higher numbers of Federal Premium rifle ammunition as well as nearly all their in-stock Weaver scopes,” he says. The other benefit was that these trailer events attracted swarms of customers, and dealer always appreciate increased foot traffic.
Recipe for Success
In 2010, ATK had two trailers dedicated to consumer events, and during a five-month span each trailer stopped at just under 40 locations in more than 15 states. “The impact this has is just huge,” says Biedinger. “We’re able to help a lot of our independent dealers sell a lot of product. But, just as important, having a company rep there to answer questions and talk shop is a big deal.” To get a trailer to come to their store, dealers work with territory reps during the winter and the spring. They request dates, and once they have the event booked, they can go to work promoting it. Another great value for dealers is ATK’s co-op
Last year, ATK dedicated two trailers to nearly 40 independent dealer events. The support helped dealers attract customers and sell products.
program. Many independent retailers use co-op funds to advertise ATK Dealer Trailer appearances to help get people out to their store.
In the Future
ATK plans to continue to use these trailers as a way to support its independent retailers. Biedinger says that they are always using feedback from the field to improve the customers’ experience of the event. “We get valuable information from our reps and dealers as to what works well in the trailers, and what doesn’t,” he says. “In the off-season, we make changes based on this input. We are always looking for ways to improve.” To inquire about getting a trailer to your store in 2011, go to premiumpartners.atk.com. Booth #14540. (800-256-8685; federalpremium.com)
We HaVe an announcement. cuRIouS?
WWW.CRIMSONTRACE.COM
JOIN US FOR HAPPY HOUR AND HELP US CELEBRATE
WHEN: WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 19, 2011 TIME: 4:30 PM — 5:30 PM BOOTH: #16733
news
shot show 2011
NEW TRANSITIONS SERIES CLOTHING: MORE COMFORT WITH LESS WEIGHT. AND NOW WITH MORE PROFIT FOR YOU.
New Products
Under Armour The company that cut its teeth on base layers is now venturing into outdoor footwear. Its new Siberia is an aggressively outsoled, laceable boot designed for tough mountain terrain.
Learn more at Browning Booth #13940 Under Armour
The Siberia uses 800 grams of Primaloft, a supple leather exterior and 360 degrees of high-abrasion rubber rand that wraps around the lower section of the boot. This is a stout mountain hunting boot and part of Under Armour’s first venture into footwear. Heavy-duty features include double-needle stitching, an aggressive traction outsole made from highabrasion rubber and a speed-lacing system that’s adjustable while the laces stay locked in place. Inside, the bottom of the boot uses molded Otheolite memory foam with a thermoplastic shank for excellent shock absorption and rebound. SRP: $269.99. Booth #11044. (410-468251; underarmour.com)
McMillan
The M1 platform has seen renewed interest as a close-range to mediumrange firearm, where the performance of a .308 Winchester cartridge is preferred, but with the firepower of a semi-automatic action. The new McMillan M3A fills the bill. It has an
Daily Day 1 Correction The following guns were misidentified in yesterday’s edition of SHOT Daily. They appear here with the correct identification. CZ-USA: The CZ 75 9mm Checkmate LTD (top) is for use in Limited Class competition. The CZ 75 Checkmate Open (bottom) is configured for Open Class competition.
SHOT SHOW BOOTH #13940
18-inch barrel and utilizes a sixgroove rifling with 1-in-10 righthand twist. The action is Springfield M1A chambered in 7.62 NATO (.308 Win.). The adjustable cheekpiece positions the head for an optimum cheek weld. The stock is designed to shoot with a scope as well as iron sights. An optional Picatinny rail system is available for mounting night-vision optics, forward-mounted scopes and other accessories. The M3A uses a twostage military trigger set at 5 to 6 pounds. One 10-round magazine is included. Accessories and upgrades are available, including scope, bipod, cleaning equipment, cases and other options. Booth #13772. (623-5829635; mcmillanusa.com)
Bianchi
Bianchi is adding three new leather holster models for the concealed carry and law enforcement markets. The new offerings are constructed of full-grain leather and feature sleek contour molding for a traditional friction fit. The Model 56 Serpent thumb snap holster is designed for semi-autos
news
and small-frame revolvers; it has a two-slot design and rides high on the hip and close to the body. Other features include a fully molded holster front and a large rectangular thumb snap designed to help to reduce the chance of the snap being caught in the trigger guard. The Model 57 Remedy and Model 58 P.I. are open-top designs also for semi-autos and small-frame revolvers. They fill a niche in the Bianchi line previously not offered. Both models feature a fully molded holster front for improved comfort, and the open-top design provides quick and convenient access. The Model 57 Remedy is designed for hip carry; the Model 58 P.I. is ideal for the small of the back or rear hip. SRP: $62, Model 56; $56, Model 57; $58, Model 58. Booth #12762. (800-3471200; safarailand.com)
ISSC-Austria
The exclusive importer and distributor of the M22 range pistol announces the introduction of the ISSC modern sporting rifle—the MK22 in .22 LR. This exciting addition to the ISSC-Austria .22 caliber line-up is built in Austria to incorporate the look and feel of a military-style rifle with the modern elements of a modern sporting rifle platform. This durable all-metal rifle gives the
shooter a centerfire feel even though it is chambered in the economical .22LR cartridge. The MK22’s features include a variable and folding open sight, a Picatinny-style quadrail for mounting of sights, lights or gripping accessories and a folding/ collapsible stock with an adjustable cheekpiece. The MK22 will also come in a fixed-stock version that will be available in states that do not allow the sale of folding stocks on modern sporting rifles. Weighing just a little over 7 pounds, the MK22 has an overall length of 35.16 inches when the stock is fully extended, 33.7 inches when collapsed. Magazine capacity ranges from 10 to 22, depending upon local laws. SRP: $569.95. Booth #2040. (issc-austria.com)
Peak Beam
The Maxa searchlight Rapid Deployment Package powers up to 7.5 million candlepower in a fully sealed, hand-held searchlight capable of illuminating targets at ranges that exceed 2 miles. Features such as zoom, adjustable beam width, a 1-31Hz programmable strobe and a rechargeable battery make this spotlight an effective tool in the field. The beam is ideal for use in crowd control and search and rescue. In addition, it will blind and stun an
Peak Beam The Maxa searchlight Rapid Deployment Package will be useful in a number of situations, including law enforcement crowd control as well as search and rescue scenarios. individual at tremendous distances. The system can quickly be adapted to large-caliber tactical rifles, including the Barrett. The beam comes in a kit that includes a Li-ion battery, AC/DC
adapters, a shoulder strap and a waterproof storage case. Deploy with caution, because sunlight in a can should be used gingerly. SRP: $2,999.95. Booth #25009. (610-3538505; peakbeam.com)
A TRUE PAIR The most advanced training aid for Trap, Skeet and Sporting Clay Shooters alike “see where you are missing.” The Fiocchi Chemical Tracer powered by Cyalume, provides a daytime visible trace that travels with the cloud of shot as it hits or misses the clay bird. The Chemical Tracer is non-incendiary, non-toxic and meets EPA and Consumer Safety compliance. It leaves no residue in the barrel and is non-corrosive. The 12 Gauge 3/4 oz #8 shot + Cyalume Tracer Load is light sensitive and is therefore packaged as part of the New and Innovative Fiocchi ‘Canned Heat’ Line. SEE US AT
The Fiocchi Chemical Tracer “see where you are missing” SINCE 1876
For the Fiocchi dealer near you, Call 417.449.1043 / visit www.fiocchiusa.com
BOOTH 15942
news
booth throughout the show. Booth #3655. (501-821-0138; foodsaver.com)
Winchester Repeating Arms
Sitka The Fanatic jacket is equipped with features that outdoorsmen will appreciate, including articulated sleeves and 130 grams of Primaloft.
FoodSaver
New from FoodSaver this year is the GameSaver Silver, a unit designed to accompany hunters and anglers to camp or streamside. With a convenient carrying handle, it’s easy to take along, and it comes with a 12V adapter so you can seal game or fish in the field using your vehicle as a power source. The GameSaver Silver is easy to use. It has only two buttons, a latch and a built-in blade for cutting bags to length. Many outdoorsmen are already aware of the superiority of vacuum sealing as a way to store frozen foods. For those that aren’t, explain
that a cut of venison can last up to three years without freezer burn in a vacuum bag. After the initial $199 outlay, the GameSaver pays for itself by preserving fish and game. Plan to display the GameSaver prominently during deer season, and always have the bags out where customers can find them. One of the great things about vacuum sealers from a retailer’s standpoint is, once you make the sale, customers will keep coming back to the store for bags, especially if you price them accordingly. Hunting and fishing TV personalities Dan Hernandez, Keith Warren and Wade Middleton will be appearing at the FoodSaver
At first glance, the words “Winchester” and “archery” may seem to go together like oil and water, but an in-depth look at this new division of the legendary American arms maker shows this is more than just dressing. Not content with just putting its name on someone else’s bow, Winchester Archery takes advantage of next-generation technology and design to create its own modern bows and crossbows. The Stallion crossbow proves this point with innovative, exclusive features such as Accu-Speed Technology (AST-X) cams with two-track eccentrics that blend speed and accuracy. An Ultra Match stainless-steel trigger is touted as the finest crossbow trigger available, which is welcome news in a category in which trigger quality can be suspect. Compact and comfortable, with just a 17-inch axle-toaxle uncocked width, ergonomic stock design and hidden cocking aid, the Stallion is Winchester’s statement that its archery division is here to stay. Booth #15147. (801-876-3737;
The Fanatic Jacket includes 130 grams of Primaloft insulation, Windstopper fabric, a removable hood, internal wrist gaskets and numerous cargo pockets for gear. It is finished in Gore’s Optifade Forest camo pattern. SRP: $369. Booth #10328. (877-748-5264; sitkagear.com)
Wellco
From the company that developed the first jungle boots, which every grunt wore during the Vietnam conflict, the Gen IIs are a completely new generation of hot-weather footwear. The all-new boot weighs just 21 ounces and uses a finger-sized vent hole just above the instep that allows the boot to drain and release air after being submersed. There is a tennis-shoe-like feel to the boot, but it receives impressive support from the polyurethane insole, the Vibram outsole and the ankle tight-laced fit, all of which work to keep military and LE operators moving securely over brutal terrain. The boots are made in the U.S. SRP: $144.95, Booth #26003. (828456-3545; wellco.com)
winchesterguns.com)
Sitka
One of the key design features on the Fanatic Jacket is its diagonal zipper placement, which moves the main zipper over to the hunter’s shoulder, away from the front of the chin. The relocation of the zipper also creates a kangaroo hand-warming pocket. The jacket’s fully articulated arms make it easier for the hunter to climb while shouldering a gun. A grunt-tube slot and rangefinder pocket keeps accessories at hand and organized.
Bushmaster
Wellco At just 21 ounces, the Gen II is a lightweight boot for sportsmen who also want durability and breathability in the field.
The upper and lower receivers on the Pit Viper Pistol are forged from 7075 T6 aluminum and also feature an ambidextrous flashlight-laser rail. There is a flat-top Picatinny rail integrated into the upper receiver for easy accessory mounting. The compact pistol uses an A2-type birdcage flash hider and the receivers will accept all standard MSR parts. The barrel is chrome-lined, measures 7.5 inches and shoots .223 Remington. The gun’s total length is 23 inches and weighs a scant 4.5 pounds. Each pistol is shipped with a 30-round magazine, safety block and black web sling. SRP: $874. Booth #14229. (207-8923594; bushmaster.com)
94 ■ Shot Business Daily ■ day 2, January 19, 2011
BN_027479_SHBD211.indd 1
12/21/10 1:20 PM
MASTER THE LONG SHOT. NEW VICTORY FL RIFLESCOPES.
See the New Victory FL Riflescopes at Booth #13913
Designed for the most discriminating hunters and target shooters, the new Victory FL riescopes feature premium FL optics for highest resolution, sharpness and contrast, even from extended distances. Combined with either a RAPID-Z ballistic reticle or bullet drop compensation turret options, Victory FL riescopes turn hunters into long range hunters and masters of the long shot. Begin your adventure at zeiss.com/sports.
Follow us on
BN_026814_SHBD111.indd 1
and
12/28/10 1:38 PM