Winchester Ammunition

East Alton, IL – -(Ammoland.com)- Olin Corp. (NYSE:OLN), makers of Winchester ammunition, reported that fourth quarter Winchester division sales were up 8.7 percent compared to the same period last year.

Segment earnings were $500,000, down from $3.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2010.

The company said the decline in segment earnings reflects the impact of a less favorable product mix, higher commodity metal costs, higher manufacturing costs and costs associated with the relocation of the centerfire operations to Oxford, Miss., partially offset by higher selling prices.

Social Media Phenomenon Grips Shooting Sports...

Frank Brownell - Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(Ammoland.com)- Our Gang just returned from the 2012 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. It was a very successful – and a very hectic – event.

Our industry appears to be very strong right now, and the pace at the show almost felt “frantic“.

We picked up on five trends that we think you’ll want to keep in mind to stay ahead this year.

Ammunition — All calibers. Most of the ammunition manufacturers out there wrote business way in excess of last year’s SHOT Show. Remember, ammunition has not seen a down, or even flat, year since before 2008, and 2012 will be another large year in the ammunition market. We suggest you place orders with your suppliers or stay in contact with your just-in-time suppliers and stay ahead of this market. Some calibers that may be of more interest are the popular concealed carry handgun cartridges and the long range rifle rounds.

Check with your customers in those two venues to see what they’re shooting and have plenty on hand for them and their buddies, who quite likely will be buying much the same calibers. Also, as new calibers become “hot” during the year, check them out with your customers. There’s always someone in the gang who has to be first at the range with the “latest and greatest” according to the TV show they’re watching or the magazines they’re reading. And, at this point in this conversation, I just can’t help myself… I’ve just got to plug our own vast selection of ammunition at brownells.com where we are always in stock and ready to serve your immediate needs. Or work with our partner in the industry, “Crow Shooter Supply”, which is a massive wholesaler of ammunition.

Concealed Carry Pistols — No new trend here, but a huge emphasis on smaller frames fitting the smaller hand, with a lot of new models of all kinds of handguns specifically targeted at this market. The question we get from all of our friends, since we’re known as the “gun guys in Iowa” is “What pistol should I be getting for myself or my spouse?” Be prepared to answer this question from your customers or friends, and become the local expert on the subject while you’re at it.

Getting folks involved in shooting through the self-protection or concealed carry channel will only help our industry and solidify in their minds the enormous importance of personal ownership of firearms under the guarantees of the Second Amendment.

It’s important to have these pistols in stock to display, especially for a new purchaser of a firearm. These new buyers are going to want to handle them and test them for look, feel and weight – all very important to the new customer. Also, make sure you have a good selection of holsters and carrying devices and quick-access safes. We fielded questions about all of these things, and you’ll need to be prepared to show and tell and demo. And, if you’re really smart, you’ll offer concealed carry training classes for these new customers – and all the other folks who want to get the permits. We’re really astonished at how many folks want the CCW permit whether they’re ever actually going to carry or not. They just want the option of being completely legal and properly trained if the need ever does arise.

Cleaning Equipment & Range Equipment — A huge field of “stuff” with almost unlimited possibilities was at the SHOT Show. First, of course, are the basics: eye protection and hearing protection. Next, the various and multi-assorted cleaning rods and brushes, jags, patches and solutions. Lots of choices at the show. Some new and interesting ones, too. Then range equipment, with the choices limited only by what you and your customers want, need, or can afford. We saw some wonderful action targets that’ll make shooting lots more fun and can be used to make it more competitive, too. Next, everything from range mats to rests of all sorts and styles to the specialty things used by the long-range shooters and in the various other competitive venues, especially 3-gun. Shotguns galore and all the items that can go with this market. You need to understand your particular market and from the really gigantic selection out there, choose what works for your customers and the local ranges.

Just be prepared to special order what they need and you don’t stock – and be knowledgeable of what is available.

Tactical & Long-Range Rifles — We saw a significant presence of AR-style 308 caliber platform firearms, as well as long-range rifles based on the .30 caliber bolt-face. People want to be shooting accurately at a long distance – and this is where much of the buzz is at this moment. We saw the coordination of rifles and ammo suitable for long ranges, as well as many accessories for the bench and field that can assist in reaching out to 300–500 yards or, listening to the shooters talking, frequently much farther.

Social Media — Various forms of this phenomenon were so frequently mentioned in visits with folks that I think we need to discuss it. Marketing on the web has become almost automatic for lots and lots of companies and businesses. It seems if you want to be serious about your business you need a web site. Almost a given. Now Facebook, [AmmoLand.com] blogs and forums of all kinds are becoming a major source of information. People love the web and magazines as a source of information, but now they are linking up to various info interchanges and getting “the word” at lightning speed on just about any subject.

If you want to stay up to date with what people are looking for, you absolutely must have a web site, and by now you almost need the blogs, Facebook, and forums as a way to get people to find you and for you to get information out to them.

As we said at the opening, 2012 SHOT Show was frantic. We believe a good part of that will flow on into the buying patterns of the year: A record number of NICS checks in the weeks before Christmas than any other time ever. Record gun sales for 2011. Huge ammunition sales. An apparent up-tick in the number of hunting licenses issued in some areas. And, an ever increasing understanding and focus on the right to bear arms under the Second Amendment of the Constitution.

More and more people are “getting it” and exercising that right. You need to be ready for it in your shop in 2012.

About:
At Brownells Everything is Guaranteed period! Forever, 100%, with no restocking fees. Brownells is the world’s largest supplier of firearm parts, gunsmithing tools, ammunition, reloading equipment and accessories. Stocking more than 50,000 items, the company supplies armorers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. All of their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction, unconditional, lifetime guarantee. For more information, or to place an order, call 800-741-0015 or visit Brownells.com

Iowa Firearms Coalition

IOWA – -(Ammoland.com)- Progress at the Capitol!This has been a busy, busy couple of weeks for IFC, your Iowa NRA Affiliate Club!

We have 3 issues to update you on, a new state added recognition of Iowa’s Permit to Carry, steady progress on the Traditional Ammunition Ban front and most importantly Stand Your Ground legislation is moving forward!

Iowa Permit Now Recognized in Georgia
IFC has been working with NRA, and also with Gary Slider at www.hangunlaw.us, to help get Georgia to recognize Iowa’s Permit to Carry.

Thanks to all parties involved for their efforts. Georgia law was written such that it would recognize states that honored Georgia’s permit, but bureaucracy was getting in the way of making it official. That hurdle has now been overcome!

Your Iowa Permit to Carry is now valid in 27 other states.

Traditional Ammunition Progress
Tuesday, Senate Joint Resolution 2001 passed in the state Senate Natural Resources and Environment Committee by a 9 to 3 vote. State Senators Dennis Black (D-21), Dick Dearden (D-34), Joni Ernst (R-48), James Hahn (R-40), Shawn Hamerlinck (R-42), Tom Hancock (D-16), Tim Kapucian (R-20), Brian Schoejahn (D-12) and Kent Sorenson (R-37) voted to pass SJR 2001, while Senators Robert Hogg (D-19), Amanda Ragan (D-7) and Joe Seng (D-43) voted against it.

Today, House Joint Resolution 2001 passed in the state House Natural Resources and Environment Committee by a 17 to 4 vote. State Representatives Henry Rayhons (R-11), Jeff Smith (R-6), Richard Arnold (R-72), Clel Baudler (R-58), Joel Fry (R-95), Mary Gaskill (D-93), Bob Hager (R-16), Chris Hall (D-2), Mark Lofgren (R-80), Steven Lukan (R-32), Jim Lykam (D-85), Helen Miller (D-49), Dan Rasmussen (R-23), Annette Sweeney (R-44), James Van Englehoven (R-71), Guy Vander Linden (R-75), John Wittneben (D-7), while Curtis Hanson (D-90), Dan Kelley (D-41), Sharon Steckman (D-13) and Phyllis Thede (D-81) voted against it.

We will keep you updated and let you know when these bills get scheduled for a floor vote.

Stand Your Ground Progress
Tuesday the House Public Safety Subcommittee passed HF 573 by a 2 to 1 vote. This important piece of “stand your ground” self-defense legislation will now be heard by the full House Public Safety Committee as early as Tuesday of next week.

Representative Matt Windschitl (R-56) has been working on this legislation since 2007. Previously the legislation had struggled largely due to Democratic control in the House. Since the power balance in the House has shifted Rep. Windschitl has worked hard with NRA and IFC on crafting a solid self-defense bill for Iowans.

Please take time to e-mail or call Representative Windschitl and thank him for working with IFC and the NRA. Ensure him that you will be helping get behind his effort to pass this important piece of legislation this year! He has been a strong Second Amendment advocate for the Iowans at the Capitol.IFC will be putting together an action alert on this issue soon, so keep an eye out. It’s your voice from the grassroots that really helps us get things done in Iowa!

About Iowa Firearms Coalition:
The mission of the Iowa Firearms Coalition is to be THE firearms rights organization in Iowa, representing Second Amendment concerns for all firearms owners in the state. We will staunchly defend the rights of hunters and sportsmen as well as the rights of all Iowans to defend themselves and their loved ones. We seek to partner with other like-minded organizations to increase our effectiveness in accomplishing these goals. Visit: www.iowafc.org

HPR .223 Remington Ammo

HPR Ammunition

Payson, AZ --(Ammoland.com)- HPR (High Precision Range) is manufactured in Payson, Arizona and is positioned in the market as a high quality and innovative brand. HPR is introducing their .223 caliber.

From the competitive shooter to the varmint and predator hunter, HPR’s new line of .223 ammunition will leave you confident of your shot.

HPR Ammunition is American Made. Components, including brass, primers, powder, and projectiles are assembled in the USA. Furthermore, personal inspection, and hand packaging is performed by US Citizens in Payson, Arizona.

HPR offers the .223 in 4 varieties: 55 Grain Full Metal Jacket, 60 Grain Soft Point Match Grade, 60 Grain V-MAX Match Grade and 75 Grain Boat Tail Hollow Point Match Grade.

These loads feature extreme accuracy, HPR’s proprietary HyperClean technology, and a powerful punch for the targets and varmints in your sights. While HPR mainly uses new brass, these four particular offerings feature factory processed Mil Spec brass that boasts tremendous accuracy. This accuracy makes them the choice of Match shooters and a favorite of many 3-gun competitors.

HPR .223 Remington Specifications

HPR .223 55 Grain Full Metal Jacket

• Caliber: .223 Remington
• Bullet Weight: 55 Grain
• Bullet Type: Full Metal Jacket
• Muzzle Velocity: 3276 f/s
• Velocity at 100yds: 2939f/s
• Muzzle Energy: 1311 ft/lbs
• Energy at 100yds: 1005 ft/lbs

HPR .223 60 Grain Soft Point Match Grade

• Caliber: .223 Remington
• Bullet Weight: 60 Grain
• Bullet Type: Soft Point Match Grade
• Muzzle Velocity: 3015f/s
• Velocity at 100yds: 2669 f/s
• Muzzle Energy: 1211 ft/lbs
• Energy at 100yds: 949 ft/lbs

HPR .223 60 Grain V-MAX Match Grade

• Caliber: .223 Remington
• Bullet Weight: 60 Grain
• Bullet Type: V-MAX Match Grade
• Muzzle Velocity: 3085f/s
• Velocity at 100yds: 2733f/s
• Muzzle Energy: 1267 ft/lbs
• Energy at 100yds: 949 ft/lbs

HPR .223 75 Grain BTHP Match Grade

• Caliber: .223 Remington
• Bullet Weight: 75 Grain
• Bullet Type: BTHP Match Grade
• Muzzle Velocity: 2780f/s
• Velocity at 100yds: 2451f/s
• Muzzle Energy: 1287 ft/lbs
• Energy at 100yds: 1000 ft/lbs

The energy and velocity charts can be viewed at http://hprammo.com/specifications/.

About HPR:
HPR strives to include all American components to their cartridges. Other countries may be able to produce products cheaper at the expense of quality and the outsourcing of jobs but, HPR believes in American quality and American jobs. HPR is the first manufacturing facility to locate in Payson in more than a decade. They are growing quickly and becoming the pride of their community. For more information, visit www.hprammo.com

Norma-300 Win Ammunition Cases

Norma USA

ANYTOWN, USA --(Ammoland.com)- Norma, the Swedish manufacturer of superior hunting and target ammunition is launching a concerted effort in the US market to grow the brand as Norma USA.

At the annual SHOT Show held in Las Vegas, Nevada on January 17 – 20, 2012, Norma USA will be introducing a complete line of US, European and Weatherby component cases for the consumer market.

The new cases will be packaged in 25-round consumer packs with the new Norma USA branding and graphics. A new Norma USA website is also scheduled to launch mid-January 2012.Norma USA ammo components

Norma USA will warehouse and fulfill all Norma products in all calibers by mid-February of 2012 with distribution through major US retailers.

Norma USA’s commitment to the US hunting and target shooting market will be supported by an extensive advertising campaign in the National Rifle Association publication “American Hunter,” “Safari,” “Bugle,” “Handloader,” and “Rifle” magazines, as well as attendance in the annual National Rifle Association Annual Meeting to be held in St. Louis, Missouri, April 12 – 15, 2012. New loaded ammo initiatives will be announced at this popular consumer show.

For retailers interested in carrying the Norma USA line directly, please contact sales@norma-usa.com or visit Norma USA at the 2012 SHOT Show at booth 12752.

Pierce Munitions

Buffalo, New York – -(Ammoland.com)- Pierce Munitions, LLC has entered an exclusive agreement to manufacture high performance hunting ammunition for the legendary Ted Nugent.

Pierce Munitions is a company whose main focus is producing high quality performance ammunition. The Ted Nugent Brand will be available for retail distribution exclusively through American Tactical , Rochester, NY

Under the Nugent Brand, Pierce will manufacture the most popular calibers of hunting ammunition. They plan to produce hand gun hunting ammunition in .357 magnum, 10mm, 44 magnum and 45 Long Colt as well as various hunting rifle ammunition from the .223, 308, 30-30, 243, 30-06, 270, 300 Win Mag and the 50 cal. BMG. Each caliber will be available with various projectile options.

Ted Nugent, a lifelong outdoorsman and hunter, said “My life, family and friends are one big shooting, hunting, outdoor family. I am excited and proud to now help create state of the art ammo for dedicated sporters everywhere.”

Nugent looks forward to partnering with Pierce. “Ted Nugent is putting his name on our product and insists in Perfection in every shot said Chief Marketing Officer, Andrew Wright. “That is our sole focus right from the beginning” . We use only the finest components available. Each round is hand inspected and hand packaged.”

In the first quarter of 2012, the company will start producing the Nugent branded ammunition and the product is expected to be available at most sporting goods retailers by July 2012.

Pierce Munitions LLC is based in Buffalo, NY, founded in 2009 and is owned by CEO, Aaron J. Pierce. Visit: www.piercemunitions.com

Winchester Razorback XT Ammunition

Winchester Ammunition

East Alton, IL – -(Ammoland.com)- In 2012, Winchester Ammunition continues its leadership in innovation with the launch of several key new products for hunters, and also expanding many of the company’s most trusted lines with exciting new offerings.

Razorback XT, the world’s first line of cartridges designed specifically for wild hog hunting, headlines the 2012 new hunting products from Winchester.

Designed to bring down the biggest and toughest boars from the California coast to the swamps of Florida, Razorback XT will be offered in two popular sporting calibers – .223 Rem and .308 Win.

“Razorback XT is creating a buzz because of rising wild hog populations in North America and the growing popularity of hog hunting,” said Brett Flaugher, Winchester Ammunition vice president of marketing and sales. “But we didn’t stop with Razorback XT – this year we’re excited to expand many of our most innovative and proven product lines for hunters.”

Winchester Blind Side Waterfowl Ammunition

Blind Side waterfowl ammunition hit store shelves in 2011 and immediately became the most innovative steel waterfowl load in Winchester history. HEX Shot pellets and the Diamond Cut™ Wad revolutionized steel waterfowl shotshell technology and in 2012, the Blind Side line expands to include new shot sizes, a 2-3/4-inch shell for 12-gauges and for the first time, a 20-gauge offering.

Big game hunters can be on the lookout for expanded offerings in many popular centerfire rifle product lines from Winchester. Power Core 95/5™, with its protected hollow point and power-core cavity, is available in several new calibers for hunters who need a lead-free bullet at an economical price point. Winchester also adds two new calibers to Power Max Bonded™, a cartridge featuring bonded core technology and designed specifically for white-tailed deer hunters.

Winchester is also adding .204 Ruger in Ballistic Silvertip Lead-Free, offering varmint hunters a super-fast, lead-free cartridge. Finally, in the classic Super-X line, Winchester is adding a cowboy-action cartridge in .45-70 GOVT.

For more on each Winchester Ammunition new hunting product, click here.

With a company heritage dating back to 1866, Winchester Ammunition was there for the taming of the American West, the Allied Forces’ victory in World War II and through the years, millions of fond memories made in the great outdoors. Known as The American Legend, Winchester is a global leader in sporting, law enforcement, military and personal defense ammunition production. Winchester continues to raise the bar with new products like Blind Side® waterfowl and PDX1 Defender personal defense ammunition.

For more, visit Winchester.com, or connect with The American Legend on Facebook at Facebook.com/WinchesterAmmunition.

Free Americans Buy 10,800,000+ Guns in 2011 ~ Message Don't 'F' with USA

AmmoLand Gun News

Manasquan, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- Recent statistics released by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) report that for nineteen straight months, and that includes all of 2011, American men & women bought over 10,800,000 plus firearms.

This number based on the FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System, better know as NICS, and is the adjusted NICS data derived by the NSSF research division subtracting out NICS purpose code permit checks used by several states such as Kentucky, Iowa and Utah for carrying concealed weapon (CCW) permit application checks as well as checks on active CCW permit databases.

The final number, of 10,800,000, is considered conservative by experts because the this number does not account for the multiple purchase of guns at the same time or the guns bought and sold legally, person to person by US residents, which rightly so, do not require a back ground check.

Ten Million new gun owners, in just 2011, should be a wake up call to our current President who continues to play dumb that his hate of bible clinging, gun toting American Values, like hunting & owning guns will not be tolerated. His and Eric Holder’s “under the radar” plan to sell guns to evil Mexican Gun Cartels in an effort to set up the Second Amendment as the fall guy now has ten million people angry at him.

If just one current Presidential candidate (Ron Paul aside..) could prove his sworn support for the Second Amendment, and the constitution for that matter, and rally our forces behind him he would be swept into the white house on a massive wave of support. Can you, lol.. say Ted Nugent?

So what does 10,800,000 look like?
The guns purchased by American men & women in 2011 is more than one gun for every active duty military member in the worlds fourteen largest armies combined.

• Russia     Russian Federation    1,027,000
• North Korea 1,106,000
• South Korea 687,000
• Vietnam 455,000
• India 1,325,000
• China 2,285,000
• Iran 523,000
• United States 1,468,364
• Republic of China 290,000
• Brazil 327,710
• Pakistan 617,000
• Egypt 468,500
• Cuba 49,000
• Ukraine    129,925
• Above Total = 10,758,499
• *Source Wikipedia: http://tiny.cc/tl4d8

If you assume an average length of each gun as two feet that would be 4090 miles of guns.  That is fourteen times the length of the Grand Canyon and all most twice as long as the Mississippi River and 17,280 times higher than the Empire State Building.

I could not find a picture of 10,800,000 guns but here is what 10,800,000 firecrackers look like:

Hello, I am an Ammo Horder?
So let assume each new gun owner buys 2000 rounds of Ammo (a single brick of 22lr is 500 rounds and my kids can burn that up in an afternoon) , times that by our conservative estimate of 10,800,000 firearms your get 21,600,000,000…that is Billion with a “B”.

That is a lot of lead and other raw materials and you wonder why we are paying so much for Ammo these days? And I see no let up in sight because if you are like me you think to yourself that when the liberal news media reports that some guy is stopped at the airport with “1000 Rounds on him”.. that dude was almost out of ammo?

Ammunition retailer Frank Brownell of Brownells.com, predicts “[2012] will most assuredly be another year for the growth of ammunition sales. An astronomical year of ammunition sales” .

This is the one sector of our national economy that I would agree to a Federal Stimulus package, maybe each US family can get a tax credit to purchase 10,000 rounds of ammo as a part of emergency preparedness program.

Speaking of America Industry
American gun manufacturing is one of the first and last great US industries.

It was Eli Whitney, yeah the guy who made the cotton gin, who was one of the first manufacturers in the world to carry out standardization of manufactured parts.

As early as 1798, Eli Whitney had turned his talents to the manufacture of firearms. He had established his machine shops at Whitneyville, near New Haven, CT and it was there that he worked out the principle of standardization or interchangeable parts.

Standardization is the foundation of all large-scale production. Manufacturers produce separately many copies of every part of a complicated machine like firearms on an assembly line. Standardization also allowed current owners of guns to order and replace any broken or lost part, taking it for granted that the new part would fit easily and precisely into the place of the old.

In effect the manufacture of firearms is the spark that brought to life American Manufacturing and it is that same industry today that still makes almost all its products in the USA, using raw materials, machinist and labor to turn out some of the best made products on earth, namely Guns. Guns made by American workers in American factories for American consumers.

Guns and Freedom
Guns and gun ownership represent the core of elements of freedom and of the constitution. Without the Second Amendment there would be no protection for all the other god given rights we are reminded of in our Bill of Rights. Just as we teach our children the value of voting or free speech we should also be teaching them.. get ready, aim and fire, repeat.

I am glad to see so many of my fellow Americans decided to exercise their right to keep and bear arms over the last year and I hope we continue to see record growth in gun ownership in the year to come. America, Hell Yeah!

Ammunition will continue to be a big seller in 2012.

Frank Brownell - Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(Ammoland.com)- What an amazing year 2011 has been!

Since this is our final WebBench for the year, we wanted to take a little time to review just how the year has gone… and what we expect to see happen in the upcoming year, 2012.

Well, we would have to say 2011 was the year for home defense and personal protection firearms with their related accessories and equipment.

With the of expansion of concealed carry through all the states – except for Illinois, which we understand is working on the issue [and New Jersey which will have to be sued into submission] – this interest in self-protection has fueled much of the firearms sales, training, and accessorizing. When you layer over that the really tough economic times that have been thrust upon us, you get a tsunami of new and re-engaged firearm owners in America.

Falling Crime Rates
The amazing impact of all of this is that crime has fallen nationally for the 5th straight year in a row. So, the realization that more and more people are ready to protect themselves – and are equipped and properly trained to do so – has had an amazing effect on those heretofore inclined to crime. Their targets of opportunity are narrowing considerably, as people become more and more intent on not being a victim. Of course, there are no numbers supporting how many potential crimes have been stopped or prevented by trained and armed citizens exercising their right of personal protection and taking control of potentially dangerous situations – and there never will be. Nor does there need to be. All we have to do is watch those crime statistics continue to fall, even in these times of cutbacks in police budgets, and we know that those of us who take personal protection seriously and get ourselves trained properly are part of the cause of these decreasing crime rates.

Of course, we must also realize this was also the year for having fun out at the range – with tactical rifles taking the lead, and all the building/rebuilding, accessorizing and tinkering you can do with these great guns and calibers.

There seems to be no end to what you can do if you’ve a mind to do it with these guns, and we’ve seen some mighty innovative things come out of this particular venue.

Women Shooters
Another continuing trend is the amazing increase in the number of women taking part in the shooting sports. The gals are discovering that not only is it a lot of fun to go out to the range and shoot, but they are competing in more and more events. And they’re getting their friends, kids and partners involved if it wasn’t their guy who got them there in the first place. I love it, and I’m happy to see the woman in my life getting into shooting. It’s one of the things a couple can do together for fun, or even serious competition if they’ve a mind to do so.

Three Gun
Another huge growth factor this year is the increase in the various types of competitions and the huge growth in attendance we’ve seen at some of them. Coming to mind first, of course, is the proliferation of 3-gun matches. Lots of places, some wonderfully creative stages, and more and more of these matches being held. They are lots of fun, and the necessity of becoming proficient with 3 different firearms not only makes them more challenging – but also easier to screw up. This type of competition has practical applications for self protection…the different scenarios of the stages and the stress of competition really start to build a person’s skills. We believe the growth of shooting at the range has actually surpassed the growth of golf. Think I saw these numbers somewhere, but of course in putting this WebBench together I can’t find a source now.

Well, we can do the old political thing about “if you say it loud enough and long enough, everybody’s gonna believe it“, and just make it so!

SO FOR 1212, what do we see coming down the pike? Hate to be stuck in a rut here, but we all agree that it basically is going to be a repeat of 2011 for tactical rifles, the AR’s and clones and calibers. And more people shooting for the sheer pleasure of shooting and tinkering and fiddling with their guns. But, most importantly of all, 2012 is definitely going to be another year for personal protection, self-defense firearms and the training and accessories that make this all work… and, of course, ammunition!

2012 Election
Let’s look at it – we know 2012 will be heavily influenced by the major election coming in November. We know the gun issue may not get top billing because of the huge potential to do damage to one of the major parties. But, it definitely will be a sub-plot that plays out in the polls due to the enormous impact of voters watching out for their firearms ownership, personal protection and Second Amendment rights. We know that tensions in the Middle East are not going to go away – not in our lifetimes anyway. And the potential threat of terrorists’ activities on our shores further fuels serious thinking about the need for personal protection. We know the economy, the massive debt and housing crisis, and unemployment cannot be cured by election time – or for that matter even for some time after.

Ammunition
All of these issues put stress on our cities and citizens and everyone concerned with their own personal safety and their access to ammunition – the one expendable part of the personal protection equation. Ammo’s one thing we all run out of, given enough time, so it will be a big selling item in ’12, and we truly expect for the foreseeable future. The issues hanging over 2012 are not curable in just one year – not a one of them – so our projection goes well through 2012 and likely further.

It will most assuredly be another year for the growth of ammunition sales. An astronomical year of ammunition sales. You want it, and we’ve got it. How could it be any better?

From all of us here at Brownells, our very best wishes to you personally for a most Merry Christmas, Happy Hanukkah and Happy New Year.

This has been an amazing year of joys and growth and family and good times – may 2012 be an even better one for all of you. Be sure to include your family and friends in your prayers and most especially include our Law Enforcement and Military members and their families – these are the professionals who are truly keeping our homeland safe for the rest of us.

Brownells.com

About:
At Brownells Everything is Guaranteed period! Forever, 100%, with no restocking fees. Brownells is the world’s largest supplier of firearm parts, gunsmithing tools, ammunition, reloading equipment and accessories. Stocking more than 50,000 items, the company supplies armorers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. All of their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction, unconditional, lifetime guarantee. For more information, or to place an order, call 800-741-0015 or visit Brownells.com

Radetec Speedshot Ammunition Counting System

Radetec

BETHLEHEM, Pa --(Ammoland.com)- Rade Tecnologías SL of Madrid, Spain, has announced the opening of a subsidiary facility in the U.S. to launch its first entry into the handgun accessory market with two unique SpeedShot ammunition counting training systems designed to improve human reflexive speed-to-magazine replacement.

The newly created U.S. company, called Rade Technology Corp. (radetec.com), located in Bethlehem, Pa., will launch the SpeedShot training grip systems at the SHOT Show in Las Vegas on Jan. 17-20, 2012 (booth no. 15938A).

Drawing on its vast experience in cutting-edge electronics technology for the medical industries, Rade Technology Corp. was established in 2010 to serve professional and amateur firearm users who want to improve shooting speed and accuracy in competitive speed shooting sports, as well as personal protection, home defense, and law enforcement.

There are two SpeedShot electronic training systems for pistols and long guns, both using a sensor in the dedicated magazine and then a choice of numerical digital or LED light display on the firearm depending on the training system chosen by the student and instructor. SpeedShot patent-pending ergonomic electronic grips replace existing pistol grips during training in order to show the number of rounds remaining in the weapon’s magazine. It does not sense the presence of a round in the chamber.

Radetec is currently rolling out pistol grips for virtually all popular pistols in the most popular caliber ammunition. Currently, Radetec systems are available for Beretta, Glock, Smith & Wesson M & P, and M1911 platform pistols.

SpeedShot electronic training systems come in two models to indicate rounds left in the magazine: an LED colored light system (left) and a digital display system.

Displays come in two models that indicate rounds left in the magazine: an LED colored light system and a digital display system. In the LED light version, the light changes from unlit for four or more rounds, to blue for three rounds, to green for two rounds, to red for one round, and flashing red to indicate an empty magazine.

The digital numeric read-out indicates the actual number of rounds left in the magazine. The total number of rounds fired by the pistol since the installation of the grips can also be accessed in this configuration.

The SpeedShot counting system is powered by a five-year lithium battery. SpeedShot for pistols comes with a specially designed set of ergonomic grips with embedded electronics for each make and model of firearm, one magazine, and a user’s manual. It has a suggested retail price of $160 for both the digital model and for the LED light display version.

Miguel Labodia, CEO of Rade Technology Corp’s U.S. operation stated, “Radetec’s ammunition counting system can improve speed, confidence, and reaction time in sport or defensive situations. It’s for those who never want their gun to run dry – we anticipate this will be greatly beneficial for training home defense and recreational/sports shooters who will make up most of our customer base.”

Labodia continues, “While we are based in Spain, we are building our organization with American sales and marketing professionals who understand the needs, wants, and culture of the American consumer and law enforcement professionals. One of our first orders of business was to join both the NSSF and NRA, and we are proud of our affiliation and association with both these groups dedicated to preserving the rights of individuals while promoting safe and proper use of firearms.”

For more information: www.radetec.com. Tel. 888 930 3212. The U.S. company is located at 1510 Valley Center Parkway No. 160, Bethlehem, Pa. 18017.

My Gun Culture

USA --(Ammoland.com)- Hornady Critical Defense. Expands every time. We had to test that claim.

So here is Episode 1 of our series that will test Hornady’s Critical Defense ammo against the toughest targets our readers can suggest.

In this case it is cans of natural and artartificial SPAM, as opposed to farm raised or free range spam.

Our results? Hornady Critical Defense Ammo left some pretty big exit wounds in our SPAM test subjects.

About: Tom McHale describes himself as a conservative gun-totin’ bible-clingin’ literary assault dude who enjoys finding humor in just about anything. His web blog My Gun Culture is an irreverent, twisted look at gun news bordering on the ridiculous. It covers shootin’ stuff, loud noises, defending your own, the occasional mall ninja, and about 200 years of the American way. These are the (partially) true stories of My Gun Culture says Tom. Visit: www.mygunculture.com

HPR 9mm Ammunition

HPR Ammunition

Payson, AZ --(Ammoland.com)- HPR (High Precision Range) is manufactured in Payson, Arizona and has been distributing ammunition regionally for the last 18 months. HPR is opening their doors to national distribution to the firearms and hunting industry.

HPR’s factory uses the latest equipment and technology to meet SAAMI Specs.

All production is carefully and directly handled by highly trained ammunition technicians and quality control inspectors led by their engineering staff. With design engineers, HPR built a manufacturing plant that includes a state of the art test lab per SAAMI specifications utilizing the finest testing equipment from Oehler Research, and PCB Piezontronics.

With the latest equipment, hand inspection, hand packaging and attention to detail, HPR is aiming to give shooters the confidence of safety and consistent accuracy between shots.

HPR is poised to be one of the finest commercial production ammunition brands on the market. HPR is currently producing ammo in the following calibers: .223 Remington, .223 V-Max, 10mm Auto, 10mm Auto XTP, .380 Auto, .380 Auto XTP, .38 Special, .38 Special XTP .40 S&W, .40 S&W XTP, .45 Auto, .45 Auto XTP, 9mm Luger and 9mm XTP.

About HPR:
HPR strives to include all American components in their cartridges. Other countries may be able to produce products cheaper at the expense of quality and the outsourcing of jobs but, HPR believes in American quality and American jobs. HPR is the first manufacturing facility to locate in Payson in more than a decade. They are quickly growing and becoming the pride of their community. For more information, visit www.hprammo.com

Cabela’s Recon Hunt app for iPhones

Weatherby.com

Paso Robles, California – -(Ammoland.com)- Weatherby, Incorporated, long known for it’s magnum velocity cartridges and heightened ballistics, can now be found on the Cabela’s Recon Hunt app for iPhones and Android smartphones.

Along with many other features the app will display drop charts and energy charts for any load that Weatherby offers.

Download the app at your smartphone app store or go to http://cabelas.trimbleoutdoors.com/ for more details.

Founded in 1945, Weatherby, Inc.’s line features the popular Vanguard and legendary Mark V rifles (production and custom), Threat Response shotguns and rifles, semi-auto and pump shotguns, premium ammunition and security/shooting accessories. The company is based in Paso Robles, Calif., and invites all hunters and shooters to visit and join its free online community at www.weatherbynation.com .

Winchester Introduces Power Max Bonded Ammunition just for Whitetails

Winchester Ammunition

East Alton, IL – -(Ammoland.com)- When it comes to whitetail deer hunting, Winchester has your back.

Introducing Power Max Bonded. Designed specifically for the whitetail deer hunter, Power Max Bonded delivers maximum performance at an affordable price.

The proprietary bonding process welds the lead core to a contoured copper allow jacket.

The aerodynamic profile of the protected hollow point (PHP) bullet design promotes long range accuracy and initiates maximum expansion to provide dramatic knock down power.

With long range accuracy, maximum bullet expansion and dramatic knock down power, you won’t be disappointed.

Hodgdon’s 2012 Annual Reloading Manual

Hodgdon Powder

Shawnee Mission Kansas --(Ammoland.com)- Hodgdon The Gunpowder People proudly announces its 9th Annual Manual.

The 2012 Hodgdon Annual Manual features so much more than any typical manual: 100+ pages of rifle and pistol data with well over 5,000 shown loads, information on 30 Hodgdon, 19 IMR and 10 Winchester brand powders, new 300 AAC Blackout data, lead free bullet recipes for 21 rifle cartridges, and seven highly anticipated articles on such topics as economical handloading with lead free “green” bullets by some of the top industry outdoor writers.

The 2012 Hodgdon Annual Manual is the complete resource for the hot new Hodgdon propellant called CFE 223 or “Copper Fouling Eraser” that greatly deters copper fouling, shown in 27 different cartridges and 147 loads.

Look for Hodgdon’s most inclusive Annual Manual yet at favorite newsstands and gun stores in early 2012. Cost is only $8.99 retail or $11.99 by ordering direct from Hodgdon at 913-362-9455 or Hodgdon.com

Sierra Ammunition

Sedalia, MO --(Ammoland.com)-  Sierra Bullets LLC would like to announce the retirement of Robert D. Hayden, President and General Manager, on January 3rd 2012.

Robert Hayden has led the company through many changes in his 42 years of service and has been instrumental in building Sierra Bullets into a leader in the match shooting industry.

Robert is an avid hunter and outdoorsman who plans on spending much of his free time field trialing his beloved retrievers at his home on Wooddale Farms and around the nation.

Sierra Bullets Robert Haydens Retires

The employees of Sierra Bullets would like to thank Mr. Hayden for his leadership and for always keeping us “on target”.

Robert will be succeeded by Patrick Daly who holds the position of Executive Vice President.

About:
For over 60 years Sierra Bullets has been dedicated to the manufacture of the most accurate bullets in the world. This commitment to performance has established a “Tradition of Precision” for which Sierra is known throughout the world. Visit: www.sierrabullets.com

Got Ammo - National Ammo Day

AmmoLand Gun News

Manasquan, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- The next National Ammo Day is Saturday November 19 2011.

National Ammo Day has been an unofficial grassroots holiday since 2002 and is growing in celebration each year.

The goals of Ammo Day:

• Goal One: Shoot 1000 rounds of ammunition. Dust off that old ammo and get your friends and family to the range.
• Goal Two: The goal of National Ammo Day is to empty the ammunition from the shelves of your local gun store, sporting goods, or hardware store and put that ammunition in the hands of law-abiding citizens. Should be easier to do now that we have come through the worst of the great ammunition shortage of 2009-2010.

Lets make your support of the Second Amendment known–by voting with your dollars!

There are an estimated 75 MILLION gun owners in the United States of America. If each gun owner or Second Amendment supporter buys 100 rounds of ammunition, that’s 7.5 BILLION rounds in the hands of law-abiding citizens!

The purpose of National Ammo Day is to make it known that ammunition is in the hands of LAW ABIDING CITIZENS, not to frighten anyone or put ammunition in the hands of criminals.

It is CRITICAL that you comply with all the laws of your state and locale if you participate in National Ammo Day.

Before purchasing guns or ammunition, review the laws and safety issues for proper handling and storage. Don’t give the gun-grabbers any “ammo” to use against us!

Contact your local representative or law enforcement agency/office/station for specific information for your state or locale.

Need a place to shoot visit? Want to know where to practice target shooting, find a safety course or learn how to get started in shooting? Find what you’re looking for at a range near you. Visit: WheretoShoot.org

Thank you: Kim DuToit.

Setpoint Ammunition

OGDEN, Utah --(Ammoland.com)- Setpoint Ammunition, a custom precision ammunition provider, today announced the release of its new video, “Setpoint Ammo – Optimized Ammunition Load for Ruger Scout.”

The video shows how Setpoint Ammunition has changed the way ammunition is made through their automated ordering and production process. Every round of the custom ammo is tailored to an individual’s specific rifle by Setpoint Ammunition’s ballistic experts or built to one’s own recipe.

In this video, Setpoint tests loads targeted to optimize both long range and subsonic performance and accuracy for the Ruger Gunsite Scout rifle. To ensure their custom loaded ammunition would out- perform other factory ammo options, Setpoint tested their ammo in a wide range of shooting conditions. Tests included a 50 yard accuracy analysis, a 30 degrees F cold test, a rapid fire and extreme heat test, as well as 100 yard ladder testing to find the accuracy node of the loads developed specifically for the Ruger Gunsite Scout rifle.

Many people don’t realize the impact ammunition has on accuracy and overall rifle performance. The video clearly demonstrates the difference between shooting Setpoint Ammunition from factory ammunition.

For watching the video, viewers are extended an offer of 25% off their next order of ammo from November 7, 2011 through November 27, 2011. This discount is good for a one time order of up to three boxes. Shipping is not included. Watch the video today and look for the unique promo code in the Video Info to redeem your prize!

About Setpoint Ammunition:
Setpoint Ammunition provides custom-tailored, high-precision rifle ammunition cartridge solutions for sporting and tactical shooting applications. Ammunition configuration and ordering can be completed at www.setpointammo.com. Sales packages are available for military, law enforcement and tactical security groups.

For more information: www.setpointammo.com

Remington Arms Company

Madison, NC --(Ammoland.com)- Remington’s Premier Nitro line of target loads were the shotshells of choice for both the National Champion and the Lady National Champion at the recent 2011 National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA) Championship in San Antonio, Texas.

With a record-breaking attendance of shooters on hand and more than one million targets thrown at the event, Team Remington members Bill McGuire and Ashleigh Hafley took top honors as National Champion and Lady National Champion.

McGuire chose Remington Premier Nitro Gold Sporting Clays shotshells to score 287 out of 300 targets for his championship round. Hafley chose Remington Premier Nitro 27 Handicap shotshells for her winning performance of breaking 261 out of 300 clays.

Other notable Team Remington victories at the NSCA Championship matches include Gebben Miles and Diane Sorantino taking top spots in the Federation Internationale de Tir Aux Sportives de Chasse (FITASC) Championship as National Champion and Lady Champion, respectively. Both team members elected to use Remington Premier Nitro 27 Handicap shotshells for their victories.

Continuing their winning ways, Team Remington members Travis Mears and David Radulovich also relied on Remington Premier Nitro 27 Handicap shotshells for wins in their respective matches. Mears was awarded 5-Stand Champion after breaking 98 out of 100 clays; Radulovich earned two titles as Kreighoff Kup Champion and High All-Around Junior Champion.

“We are extremely proud of Team Remington’s performance at the sporting clays championships,” said John Bauer, Shooting Sports Manager at Remington. “Our athletes and products continue to prove their superiority by bringing home titles at the toughest of competitions.”

The 2011 NSCA National Sporting Clays Championships were held in San Antonio, Texas on October 25-30, 2011.

About Remington Arms Company, LLC.
Remington Arms Company, LLC., headquartered in Madison, N.C., designs, produces and sells sporting goods products for the hunting and shooting sports markets, as well as solutions to the military, government and law enforcement markets. Founded in 1816 in upstate New York, the Company is one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating manufacturers. Remington is the only U.S. manufacturer of both firearms and ammunition products and one of the largest domestic producers of shotguns and rifles. The Company distributes its products throughout the U.S. and in over 55 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.remington.com.

Sierra Bullet 30 Caliber 125 grain HP MatchKing

Sierra Ammunition

Sedalia, MO --(Ammoland.com)- Sierra is pleased to introduce the newest member of our MatchKing line; the 30 caliber 125 grain HP MatchKing.

This uniquely designed flat based bullet was designed in conjunction with AAC (Advanced Armament Corporation) and Remington Arms for the new .300 AAC Blackout cartridge designed for the AR platform. This bullet has also proven to be exceptionally accurate in bolt action rifles and other .30 caliber AR chamberings.

The jacket was specifically designed to handle velocities ranging up through common .30 caliber midlevel cartridges. The #2121 will be available for sale in Jan 2012.

About:
For over 60 years Sierra Bullets has been dedicated to the manufacture of the most accurate bullets in the world. This commitment to performance has established a “Tradition of Precision” for which Sierra is known throughout the world. Visit: www.sierrabullets.com

Setpoint Ammunition Announces Berger Bullets Agreement

Setpoint Ammunition

OGDEN, Utah - -(Ammoland.com)- Setpoint Ammunition continues to grow rifle projectile offerings in the only web-based ammunition configuration and ordering system in the shooting sports market.

Customers using the Setpoint Ammunition online ordering system now have three new Berger Bullet rifle projectile choices.

Setpoint Ammunition, a subsidiary of Setpoint Systems Inc., today announced the completion of an OEM distribution agreement with Berger Bullets of Fullerton, CA. Berger Bullets is a well-known world-leader in the design and manufacture of high-performance ballistic projectiles for hunting, sporting and tactical shooting applications.

The agreement allows Setpoint Ammunition to offer a selection of Berger’s precision bullets for use in their custom cartridges sold on their setpointammo.com website.

Setpoint Ammunition will initially offer three Berger Bullets projectiles for use in their 7.62MM/308 WIN cartridges:

• 155 grain Match Hybrid
• 185 grain Long Range BT
• 168 grain Match Hunting VLD

Combined with the projectiles already offered by Setpoint, this brings their selection total to nine for their 7.62MM/308 WIN cartridges.

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, Neb. --(Ammoland.com)- ZOMBIE MAX Ammunition and PROVEN Z-MAX Bullets.

Be PREPARED – supply yourself for the Zombie Apocalypse with Zombie Max ammunition from Hornady!

Loaded with PROVEN Z-Max bullets… yes, PROVEN Z-Max bullets (have you seen a Zombie?).

Make sure your “bug out bag” is ready with nothing but the best!

Available Cartridges:

Warning: This is Live Ammunition. This is not a toy.

Warning: This is Live Ammunition. This is not a toy.

Disclaimer: Hornady® Zombie Max™ ammunition is NOT a toy (IT IS LIVE AMMUNITION), but is intended only to be used on…ZOMBIES, also known as the living dead, undead, etc. No human being, plant, animal, vegetable or mineral should ever be shot with Hornady® Zombie Max™ ammunition. Again, we repeat, Hornady® Zombie Max™ ammunition is for use on ZOMBIES ONLY, and that’s not a nickname, phrase or cute way of referring to anybody, place or thing. When we say Zombies, we mean…ZOMBIES!

Barnes Bullets Get Caught In The VOR-TX Contest

Barnes Bullets

Mona, UT --(Ammoland.com)- Have you been caught in the VOR-TX If so, send us your best Barnes VOR-TX Ammunition story and picture for a chance to win some truly great prizes.

Simply go to www.barnesbullets.com to post your favorite VOR-TX story for a chance to win.

All posts must be 500 words or less and include a picture. Contest participants will have until December 31, 2011 to submit their stories on the forum.

A panel of judges will review and select the top 10 stories based on level of passion and enthusiasm for VOR-TX ammo, uniqueness of the experience, photo composition and quality. Once the top 10 finalists are selected, a poll on the forum will be created allowing all registered forum members to vote on their favorite story. Registered members will have until January 31, 2012 to vote.

The top three winners will be announced on February 15, 2012.

The prizes to be awarded are:

• 1st Prize – An all-expenses paid mountain lion hunt in Utah with Randy Brooks, President of Barnes and professionally guided by Wade Lemon www.wadelemonhunting.com )
• 2nd Prize – A Dakota Model 10 rifle
• 3rd Prize – A DPMS Prairie Panther rifle

For a complete listing of official terms, conditions and contest rules please visit www.barnesbullets.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/07/Contest-Rules.pdf .

Employees and directors of the Freedom Group Family of Companies, Inc., its affiliated companies, participating sponsors, sales agencies, suppliers, subsidiaries, advertisers, advertising agencies, public relations agencies and their immediate families and household members are ineligible.

About Barnes Bullets, LLC
Barnes has led the industry in bullet technology and innovation since the 1930’s. With the introduction of Barnes VOR-TX Ammunition in 2010, the company continues to move forward and expand its vast lineup of top quality, performance-based products that give shooters a decided advantage in the field and on the range. Visit www.barnesbullets.com for more information.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-ATK (NYSE: ATK) has received an order valued at more than $58.7 million from the U.S. Army Contracting Command, Direct Fire Munitions Branch, Rock Island Contracting Center (RICC), Rock Island, Ill., to produce multiple variants of 20mm PGU-series ammunition.

This is the third order under a contract originally signed in September 2008. If all options are exercised, ATK’s contract is expected to exceed $170 million by 2013.

ATK will produce PGU-27A/B Target Practice (TP), PGU-30A/B Target Practice-Tracer (TP-T), PGU-28A/B Semi-Armor Piercing High Explosive Incendiary (SAPHEI) ammunition, a PGU-28A/B SAPHEI and PGU-30A/B TP-T linked configuration, and a PGU-27A/B TP and PGU-30A/B TP-T linked configuration. These cartridges are used on the U.S. Air Force’s F-15 and F-16, the U.S. Navy and Marine Corps F-18, and the U.S. Marine Corps Cobra AH-1 helicopter.

ATK’s suite of 20mm ammunition provides cost-effective, ballistically-matched training rounds for improved warfighter performance, as well as tactical rounds that offer the accuracy, lethality and penetration capabilities necessary to effectively defeat today’s threats.

“We are proud of the role our medium-caliber munitions play in maintaining military readiness,” said Dan Olson, Vice President and General Manager, ATK Integrated Weapon Systems. “ATK is a preferred provider of medium-caliber ammunition solutions and we are committed to providing the broadest offering of highest quality ammunition to U.S. and allied forces worldwide.”

ATK’s Mesa, Arizona-based Integrated Weapon Systems Division was awarded the contract and will produce the ammunition at the Lake City Army Ammunition Plant in Independence, Mo. Delivery of the options rounds will begin in 2012.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

Hornady Ammunition

Grand Island, Neb. --(Ammoland.com)- Team Hornady along with Hornady President, Steve Hornady competed at the inaugural AR-15/Rockcastle Pro/Am 3-Gun match recently.

As one of the title sponsors, Hornady contributed to the largest 3-Gun prize table, where the sea of “Hornady Red” was highly visible.

Hornady pro shooters provided an opportunity for amateurs and beginners to witness the accuracy and dependability that is the benchmark of Hornady bullets and ammunition.

Steve Hornady shot the eight-stage match and said, “Our professional shooting team demonstrated to the Amateurs the capability and performance level our products are known for; shooting Hornady will get you in the winners circle.”

Team Hornady, Finishes Strong, AR15.com/Rockcastle Pro Am 3-Gun Championship

Fellow teammate and Match Director, Jeff Cramblit set a challenging course of fire that while it looked easy, was deceivingly difficult to execute.

Kelly Neal finished third, Keith Garcia fifth, Bennie Cooley sixth and Rob Romero finished seventh in the Tactical Optics Division. In the Open Division, Clint Upchurch finished second and Michael Voigt took fourth over the two and a half day match.

Team Hornady members, Patrick Kelley and Bennie Cooley donated their time as instructors at the Pro Clinics held on Friday after the last stage was shot.

Cooley stated, “The match was very well organized and being able to explain the shortcuts and help these new shooters was very beneficial and rewarding. It’s always great to give back and to grow the sport of 3-Gun Competition; I’ll be back next year.”

Founded in 1949, Hornady Manufacturing Company is a family owned business headquartered in Grand Island, Nebraska. Proudly manufacturing products that are “Made in the USA”, by over 300 employees, Hornady Manufacturing is a world leader in bullet, ammunition, reloading tool and accessory design and manufacture.

For further information regarding Hornady products visit the Hornady website.

ATK Continues to Drive International Growth Through Medium-Caliber Ammunition Sales
Lightweight (LW) 30mm Ammunition Offers World-Class Tactical and Training Solutions for Effective Threat Defeat versus Light Armor and Materiel Targets.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)- ATK (NYSE: ATK) has been awarded a $37 million contract to provide lightweight (LW) 30mm ammunition – including the M788 TP (target practice) training round and the M789 High Explosive Dual Purpose (HEDP) tactical round – to the United Kingdom’s (UK) Ministry of Defence (MoD).

The contract reinforces ATK’s position as a preferred provider of medium-caliber ammunition to allied forces worldwide. Both rounds will support the UK’s fleet of AH-64 Apache Helicopters.

These two rounds make up ATK’s family of LW30mm ammunition and were originally developed and fielded for the M230 automatic cannon and the AH-64 Attack helicopter. The M789 HEDP round provides the accuracy and armor penetration capabilities necessary to effectively defeat today’s threats, and the cost-effective, ballistically-matched M788 training rounds enable improved warfighter performance in active theaters around the globe. ATK has produced more than 14 million LW30mm cartridges rounds since 1977.

“Lightweight 30mm ammunition provides superior multi-role, multi-target defeat capabilities,” said Dan Olson, Vice President and General Manager, ATK Integrated Weapons Systems. “Our M789 rounds are currently in use supporting operations in Iraq and Afghanistan, and we are proud to provide U.S. and allied forces worldwide with the medium-caliber munitions necessary to prevail in mission-critical scenarios.”

ATK’s Mesa, Arizona-based Integrated Weapon Systems Division was awarded the contract. Production of the LW30mm rounds will take place at the company’s facilities in Rocket Center, W. Va. and Radford, Va., with delivery to the UK Ministry of Defence scheduled to begin in early 2012.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

USITC Firearm And Ammunition Import Data For July 2011

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- NSSF reports that overall U.S. imports (in units) for July in six sporting arms and ammunition categories declined 6 percent compared to July 2010.

July 2011 imported units in tracked categories totaled 150,667,459, down from 160,283,689 reported in July 2010.

Individually, the rifle category was up 80.2 percent, from 31,938 to 57,549 units, followed by the shotgun category with an 18.4 percent increase (44,748 to 52,986 units). See a complete breakdown of each category’s July import data.

About NSSF
The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearms industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of more than 6,000 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

Gunlaws.com

PHOENIX, AZ --(Ammoland.com)- The lamestream media told you: Nothing. After all, it’s only hundreds of millions of dollars in business this quarter.

The Uninvited Ombudsman notes however that: The National Shooting Sports Foundation reports that “overall U.S. quarterly imports (in U.S. dollars) of all sporting arms and ammunition declined 19 percent in the second quarter compared to the same period in 2010.”

That’s a reduction to $273 million, from April to June, down from $337.1 million last year. Rifles however were up 26.3 percent, from $27.1 million to $34.2 million. Shotgun imports also increased 23.4 percent, from $38.3 million to $47.2 million, and even muzzleloaders scored a 7 percent increase, from $6 million to $6.5 million.

Ammunition dropped 42.2 percent, from $151.2 million to $87.4 million, and shotgun-shells fell 48.7 percent, from $5 million to $2.5 million. Handgun imports were down 13.1 percent, from $109.5 million to $95.1 million.

The shooting sports are the number two participant sport in the nation, ahead of golf, yet for reasons that were unexplained at press time, golf-industry figures are frequently in the “news” but gun-industry numbers never are.

One observer suggests that ammo imports are down because people bought so much inventory during the Obama Ammo Rush of late 2008 and 2009, they have no place to stash any more.

About GunLaws.com:
Scottsdale, Ariz.-based Bloomfield Press, founded in 1988, is the largest publisher and distributor of gun-law books in the country. Our website, gunlaws.com, features a free national directory to gun laws and relevant contacts in all states and federally, along with our unique line of related books and DVDs. “After Your Shoot” for media review is available on request, call 800-707-4020. Our authors are available for interview, call to schedule. Call for cogent positions on gun issues, informed analysis on proposed laws, talk radio that lights up the switchboard, fact sheets and position papers. As we always say, “It doesn’t make sense to own a gun and not know the rules.” Visit: www.gunlaws.com

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-ATK (NYSE: ATK) has received a $30 million order to supply non-standard (non-NATO) ammunition to the security forces of Afghanistan via the U.S. Army’s Product Director, Non-Standard Ammunition, Picatinny Arsenal, N.J.

To date, ATK has supplied more than 200 million non-standard ammunition items under an existing multi-year contract; and has consistently performed ahead of delivery schedule. ATK performs technical oversight, quality assurance, and supply chain management for a variety of non-standard small, medium, and large caliber ammunition, aviation rockets, rocket propelled grenades and mortars.

“ATK is focused on international expansion and continuing our outstanding performance on supply chain management. We are a leader in the non-standard ammunition marketplace and this latest award supports our core strategic priorities” said ATK Small Caliber Systems Vice President and General Manager Mark Hissong.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

Federal Premium Gold Medal Target Loads

FederalPremium.com

ANOKA, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- Federal Premium’s rebate offer for up to $100 back with the purchase of Gold Medal Target loads is still open.

Consumers who purchase at least 10 boxes by Oct. 31, 2011 are eligible to receive $2.00 cash-back per box. Rebates are now available for redemption.

Premium Practice
Gold Medal Target loads provide shooters with a superior competition and practice option. These shotshells are known for their terrific performance and consistency and remain unmatched in the industry. Gold Medal Target loads are available from 12-gauge to .410-caliber. Shooters can find their ideal option using Federal’s load recommendation tool at www.FederalPremium.com/Recommendation.

Rebate Options
All Gold Medal Target loads are eligible for money-back. One case or 10 boxes is eligible for $20.00 cash back. A maximum of five cases or 50 boxes are eligible for $100.00 cash back.

Purchase must be made before October 31, 2011 and completed rebate coupon must be received by November 15, 2011. Coupon with box UPC’s and original cash register receipts must be submitted together. Limit one rebate request per name, address and household. For a printable rebate coupon, please visit www.federalpremium.com/pdf/FP592_FederalPremiumGoldMedalRebateCoupon.pdf.

To view Federal’s line of Gold Medal Target loads, check out what’s new or browse through the entire Federal Premium lineup, please visit www.FederalPremium.com.

About Federal Cartridge Company
Headquartered in Anoka, Minnesota, Federal Cartridge Company has been providing hunters and shooters with high-quality rimfire, centerfire and shotshell ammunition since 1922. It pioneered the Premium category of ammunition and is part of the world’s leading ammunition manufacturer, ATK Security and Sporting. For more information on Federal, visit www.FederalPremium.com.

Federal Premium Ammunition Prairie Storm Steel for Pheasant Hunters

FederalPremium.com

ANOKA, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- Federal Premium Ammunition brings pheasant hunters a new non-tox option with Prairie Storm FS Steel.

These new loads feature the patented FLITECONTROL Wad and a unique mix of FLITESTOPPER and Premium Steel for unprecedented patterns on birds. Prairie Storm FS Steel loads can be found on store shelves now.

Patterning Makes Perfect
Federal Premium continues to use the unique and proven FLITECONTROL wad to help performance in the field. The new Prairie Storm 12 and 20-gauge steel options feature a mix of 50% Premium Steel and 50% FS Steel to give pheasant hunters perfect patterns. This mix was decided on after extensive testing with brand new, industry leading patterning software.

“Prairie Storm steel loads offer a unique advantage,” said Ammunition Director Rick Stoeckel.

“We did a lot of development to ensure these loads were designed for pheasant hunters. This fall, pheasant hunters will see the advantages of these loads with increased steel performance and less lost or crippled birds.”

Federal Premium has also added 20-gauge 2-3/4” Prairie Storm FS Lead loads.

To learn more about the entire Federal line, go to www.federalpremium.com.

Part No. Description

• PFS143FS 3 12-ga, 3″, 1-1/8 oz, #3 1600 fps
• PFS143FS 4 12-ga, 3″, 1-1/8 oz, #4 1600 fps
• PFS207FS 3 20-ga, 3″, 7/8 oz, #3 1500 fps
• PFS207FS 4 20-ga, 3″, 7/8 oz, #4 1500 fps

About Federal Cartridge Company
Headquartered in Anoka, Minnesota, Federal Cartridge Company has been providing hunters and shooters with high-quality rimfire, centerfire and shotshell ammunition since 1922. It pioneered the Premium category of ammunition and is part of the world’s leading ammunition manufacturer, ATK Security and Sporting. For more information on Federal, visit www.federalpremium.com.

SISK Select Ammunition

SISK Rifles

Dayton, Texas --(Ammoland.com)- Factory ammo is fine for hunters and shooters who are satisfied with good enough, but for those who demand only the very best from their rifles, there is another option.

Sisk Select Ammunition offers custom reloading and load development, giving serious shooters pinpoint accuracy and consistent shot-to-shot performance.

For years, renowned custom rifle maker Charlie Sisk has provided load development and handloads to clients of his custom-rifle business. Now, hunters and shooters interested in achieving maximum accuracy and performance from their custom or factory-grade rifles can tap into Sisk’s knowledge and experience with Sisk Select Ammunition.

“Rifles are lot like people,” said Sisk. “Every one is unique. The first step in developing the right load for any gun is getting to know the person pulling the trigger and just like in my rifle business, I expect to build lasting relationships with Sisk Select Ammunition customers.”

Charlie Sisk’s fully equipped, professional-grade reloading bench and years of experience in the rifle-making business ensure customers get the highest level of service and best possible accuracy from their rifles. By personally overseeing the entire process, Sisk can guarantee consistent, precise performance customers can count on.

Sisk Select Ammunition offers two levels of service:

• Custom Reloading – Precision, professional-grade handloading. Great for hunters and shooters who already know what load their rifles like, but can’t find the time to sit down at the bench. Sisk Select Ammunition features the highest quality brass and a choice of bullets from top-name manufacturers including Sierra, Hornady, Berger, Nosler and Barnes.
• Custom Load Development – After a personal consultation, Charlie Sisk will inspect and shoot the customer’s rifle to determine what bullet and load delivers the best accuracy and performance. The service also includes trigger adjustment, scope ring service and bedding inspection to ensure customers get the maximum level of performance from their rifle. Includes a 20-round box of custom-loaded ammunition and sample target.

For more information about Sisk Select Ammunition, visit www.siskguns.com or call 936-258-4984.

Winchester Ammunition’s iPhone Ballistics Calculator

Winchester Ammunition

East Alton, IL – -(Ammoland.com)- Two years ago, Winchester Ammunition introduced the world to the Ballistics Calculator at Winchester.com.

Now the program that made a breeze out of calculating shot placement
is improved for iPhone and iPod Touch users.

The original version of the Winchester Ammunition Ballistics Calculator for the iPhone and iPod Touch allowed users to choose centerfire rifle ammunition and compare up to three different Winchester cartridges with easy-to-read, high-tech ballistic charts and graphs.

You could customize shooting conditions by entering wind speed and outside temperature and adjusting zero marks for sighting in.

Winchester Ammunition Expands Capability Of Ballistics Calculator

Now the ballistics calculator has been improved to also help users to discover aiming points, impact points and trajectories for rimfire, shotgun slug and handgun hunting ammunition – just in time for fall hunting season.

“Our customers were impressed with the original ballistics calculator for centerfire rifles, but they wanted more,” said Brett Flaugher, Winchester Ammunition vice president of marketing and sales. “We listened to the great feedback we received and now the Ballistics Calculator is improved for millions of iPhone and iPod Touch users.”

To download the Winchester Ammunition Ballistics Calculator for the iPhone and iPod Touch, visit www.winchester.com/ballistics.

With a heritage dating back to 1866, the Winchester brand was there for the taming of the American West, the Allied Forces’ victory in World War II and through the years, millions of fond memories made in the great outdoors. Known as The American Legend™, Winchester Ammunition is a global leader in sporting, law enforcement, military and personal defense ammunition production. Winchester continues to raise the bar with new products like Blind Side® waterfowl and PDX1™ Defender™ personal defense ammunition.

For more information about Winchester Ammunition, visit www.winchester.com, or connect with The American Legend on Facebook at Facebook.com/WinchesterAmmunition.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)-ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced that it will participate as an exhibitor at the 2011 Defense & Security Equipment International (DSEi) in London.

ATK will highlight a variety of capabilities and programs at the show, which will be held at ExCeL international exhibition and convention centre in London from September 13-16, 2011. ATK is located in stand S7-305.

DSEi provides ATK an opportunity to highlight its growing capabilities in several business areas, including its affordable precision approach that combines GPS guidance and fuzing into one package, transforming conventional 155mm artillery projectiles and 120mm mortar cartridges into precision munitions. ATK will also feature its recently-upgraded AAR-47 missile warning system which now provides enhanced protection through the detection of smaller-caliber weapon fire and rocket propelled grenades.

ATK’s stand will include its Eagle Industries and BLACKHAWK! brand tactical gear and apparel for security, law enforcement and military personnel. In addition, ATK’s Federal Premium and Speer lines of ammunition will be featured, including long range precision rifle; barrier defeating; non-toxic; short barrel carbine; and law enforcement high performance handgun service ammunition.

DSEi will allow visitors to learn about ATK’s Advanced Anti Radiation Guided Missile (AARGM), fast becoming the air-to-surface weapon of choice for Destruction of Enemy Air Defense and strike missions. Also on display will be ATK’s Guided Advanced Tactical Rocket (GATR) for fixed, rotary-wing, and unmanned aircraft platforms. GATR is a laser-guided 70mm precision system delivering extreme accuracy against both stationary and moving targets.

Visitors will see ATK’s family of legacy and next-generation medium caliber Bushmaster® and automatic chain guns, ammunition, and integrated weapon systems. In addition, ATK will highlight its role as the leading supplier of U.S. and NATO small caliber ammunition, as well as Non-NATO munitions to U.S. and international security forces.

ATK will also feature fuzing solutions for air-dropped bombs and artillery projectiles in use around the world, tactical propulsion that includes technology to offer insensitive munitions (IM) capabilities to currently fielded systems, and lightweight composites for soldier systems.

Potential customers will have the opportunity to obtain information on ATK’s light gunship platform, which integrates intelligence, surveillance and reconnaissance (ISR) sensors, fire control equipment, air-to-ground missiles and rockets, as well as the ATK M230LF, a link-fed LW30mm gun system. The light gunship capability package is the latest addition to ATK’s Special Mission Aircraft product portfolio, which provides affordable, responsive and advanced capabilities to customer-preferred platforms. ATK’s expertise includes outfitting various aircraft — including Cessna Caravans, Lockheed Martin C-130s, Bombardier Dash-8s, Hawker Beechcraft King Airs and others — with integrated ISR capabilities, fire control equipment and air-to-ground capability for conducting responsive defense, counterinsurgency, and border surveillance and security missions.

Media interested in more information about ATK can visit the ATK stand or contact ATK’s on-site media representative: Amanda Covington (+1-801-678-9859). An online media kit is available at http://www.atk.com/DESi2011/ .

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 22 states, Puerto Rico, and internationally, and revenues of approximately $4.8 billion. News and information can be found on the Internet at www.atk.com.

300 Winchester Short Magnum vs 300 Heavy Express

Z-Hat Custom Inc

Kalispell, MT --(Ammoland.com)-  When cartridge choice comes up in most any group of shooters there is always at least one guy who says with a certain amount of disdain, “With all the choices of cartridges I have from the factories, why would I shoot a wildcat?”

This question has been asked almost as long as wildcatting has been going on.

In all fairness, even an avid wildcatter like myself has to agree with the logic of that question.

Today we have a wider variety of cartridges and calibers than at any time in the past. The various ammunition makers and firearms manufacturers have brought numerous new cartridges to the market in an effort to entice new purchases from the shooting public. There are countless reasons or as I like to say excuses for releasing a new cartridge, but for the factories it boils down to the simple fact that they are in business and need their products to sell.

Velocity, Accuracy & Clever Combinations
Over the decades wildcatters have continually pushed the envelope, looking for better designs, more velocity, accuracy, and clever combinations of caliber and firearm. It’s not always a desire for more horse power that drives design, when P.O. Ackley started making 17 caliber barrels it was certainly not dangerous game that he had in mind. In about 1943 Charlie O’Neil asked P.O. Ackley to make a 17-caliber barrel for him. With the war effort in full swing, Ackley had trouble acquiring the tooling and did not get the barrel made up until 1945. By then O’Neil had lost interest in the project. The first cartridge that Ackley made up in 17 caliber was the 17 Pee Wee, a necked down 30 Carbine case.

This was true wildcatting, how many reloaders today make their own bullets, especially out of necessity? The first 17 caliber bullets were made from copper wire swaged in a die in Ackley’s shop.

P.O. Ackley's early Advertisement for the "Handbook for Shooters and Reloaders"

It quickly became obvious that there were no actions that would readily handle the 17 Pee Wee and surplus .30 Carbines were still years away from the market. Consequently Ackley quickly realized the need for more useful cartridges in 17 caliber. So, he moved on to the 17 Ackley Hornet, 17 Ackley Bee, and eventually the 17/222. In his “Handbook for Shooters and Reloader”

Ackley stated that, “Experience has shown that the 222 Remington simply necked down without any other change is about the best, and most easily made since it requires no trimming or fire forming. This cartridge is about maximum capacity for the 17 bore and only a slight increase in velocity has been possible by necking down larger cases.”

The lineage of the 17 Remington is clear, it goes back directly to Ackley’s work with the 17 caliber.

22 caliber cartridges are far more popular and common when compared to 17’s. Perhaps you think the 22-250 is a factory offering of a 250 Savage case necked down to 22.

Well, yes and no. The history of this cartridge is far more complex and interesting than that. It is hotly contended that Grosvenor “Grove” Wotkyns promoted the work of gunsmith J.B. Sweany as the originator of the 22-250 in the early 1930’s. Harvey Donaldson submitted a version of the 22-250 to Savage Arms in 1935, although it was designed for a .227” bullet like the 22 Savage Hi-Power. By 1938 Jerry Gebby and J.B. Smith advertised chambering rifles in 22-250.

Charles Newton Catalog

So who was first with the 22-250?
None of the above. Charles Newton gave a sample of an experimental cartridge he had abandoned for pressure problems to Jerry Gebby. It was a 250 Savage case neck for a .226” bullet. It was 1919 when Gebby paid his visit to Newton and received the sample. Charles Landis, gun writer, mentions having corresponded with Newton about just such a cartridge way back in 1905.

When Gebby reworked the idea he standardized on the .224” bullet. Changes in brass quality and available powders made Gebby’s new version of the case viable, he called it the 22 Varminter. Yes, more than one gunsmith was working with the idea of a 22-250, it was 1965 when Remington caught up with wildcatters and adopted the 22-250.

Remington stumbled when they first brought out the 244 Remington. Somebody at the company decided that this would be a varmint class cartridge so it was only available with bullets under 90 grains from the factory. Remington chose a 1 in 12 twist for the barrels in the 244 which would not stabilize bullets 100 grains or heavier.

Generally, the shooting public likes flexibility in their rifles; being able to use the same rifle for varmints and deer/antelope class game is popular. Remington solved this problem several years later when they renamed the cartridge to 6mm Remington. The only change was the twist rate offered in the barrels, the name change was designed to get away from the negative limitations of the 244 Remington. With all that said this cartridge is clearly the brainchild of Fred Huntington of RCBS fame. His wildcat was called the 243 Rockchucker; while the two cases are not mechanically interchangeable they are ballistically identical.

Shortly after the introduction of the 338 Winchester in 1958, P.O. Ackley was approached by his long time friend Les Bowman to make a 7mm Magnum on the 338 Winchester case. Ackley had a similar cartridge in his own line of magnum calibers known as the 7mm Ackley Magnum so he had a good idea what the cartridge would do.

The final design for the 7mm Remington was hardly changed from the wildcat that Ackley chambered for Bowman.

There were a number of other wildcats that preceded the 7mm Remington Magnum. The 7×61 Shape & Hart was a quasi factory offering but has spent most of its existence as a wildcat. Bill Williams and Art Mashburn two well-known wildcatters also had 7mm Magnum designs in the same general size and shape. Bowman was friendly with Mike Walker and Wayne Leek at Remington and had their ears concerning the development of a 7mm Magnum for the company. Walker was an avid shooter in his own right and likely knew of most of the 7mm Magnums popular with wildcatters at the time.

New & Unique Wildcats
Wildcatters like to believe that whatever they come up with is new and nobody has done it quite that way. Sometimes this is true, but more often than not its no more than wishful thinking. A great example of this is the current rash of short magnums (like the 300 WSM see image above) by all the various factories; one former gun writer even has a patent on the concept and thinks he can defend it. Truthfully it is not a new idea and has been around for many years. A well-known early cousin of this idea is the 35 Greevy Express, which appeared in the mid 1970’s. This was a 45-70 case necked down to 35 caliber with an overall length of 2.100”.

Before his 1962 publication of “Handbook for Shooter and Reloaders”, Ackley introduced a 35/348 Ackley Improved that has the same basic case capacity and it just a little longer. Then Remington had the 6.5mm and 350 Remington Magnums, which originated in the mid 1960’s, and had dropped off the map in recent years. The 350 Remington Magnum was reintroduced in 2002 with all the excitement about short magnums sweeping the shooting world.

Another group of cartridges that are clearly in the family tree of the short magnum were popular just before the introduction of the WSM and RSAUM families, these were the Heavy Express cartridges made from 348 Winchester cases shortened and neck to various calibers. The rim of the 348 case was turned down and a rebated case was created to suit the magnum bolt face. It seems highly likely that the Heavy Express cartridges drew the attention of the factories as they were creating buzz and had found a niche that no commercial cartridge then available could.

The next time you hear someone make that familiar statement, “With all the choices of cartridges I have from the factories, why would I shoot a wildcat?” Now you have fodder for an interesting conversation.

Check out the cartridges available from the various firearms and ammunition makers, you will find that nearly all were once wildcats.

So maybe your buddy at the range is just shooting a wildcat that has become passé with it’s adoption by the firearms establishment, some guys are just behind the curve, tell him, “Yea, my Grand Pappy liked that cartridge.” Should make for a good conversation.

About Z-Hat Custom Inc.
Z-Hat is a custom gunsmithing company started by Fred Zeglin. (www.z-hat.com) Hunting rifles are a specialty for Z-Hat. They build rifles for clients on bolt, lever, and single shot actions. The development of Hawk cartridges led to specialty offering to clients like reloading dies, cartridge design/development services, and numerous wildcat cartridges outside the Hawk line-up.

Fred Zeglin has taught classes for the NRA Short Term Gunsmithing Schools in Colorado and Oklahoma. He was the production and general manager for McGowen Precision Barrels for a time. Fred is the technical advisor for 4D Reamer Rentals Ltd. as well.

For more information about the “Hawk Cartridge Manual” or other offerings at Z-Hat Custom Inc. Contact:

Fisher Space Pen Co. 338 Ammunition Cartridge Pens

Fisher Space Pen Co.

BOULDER CITY, Nev. --(Ammoland.com)- Why sweat bullets when you could write with one?

Fisher Space Pen Co. today unveiled its line of “Space Pen” made from original ammunition cartridges.

From the maker of the pen that went to the Moon, the .375 Cartridge Space Pen and the .338 Cartridge Space Pen join the full line of writing instruments known worldwide for their ability to work in any environment.

The .375 Cartridge Space Pen uses a genuine .375 H&H Mag shell case as a major component of the pen’s body. The .338 Cartridge Space Pen consists of an actual .338 LAPUA Mag shell case. This particular cartridge was used in a sniper rifle originally created for the U.S. Marine Corps in 1982 to hit targets 1,500 meters away.

“Both pens were especially designed with hunting and outdoor enthusiasts in mind,” said Fisher Space Pen Co. President, Cary Fisher. “The pen caps on each consist of raw brass without any finish, just like a bullet. This allows each to have its own unique look. Over time, oxidation will cause a nice patina to develop.”

All Fisher Space Pens, including the .375 Cartridge Space Pen and .338 Cartridge Space Pen, feature pressurized cartridges containing Fisher’ thixotropic, visco-elastic black ink that allows users to write underwater, upside down (at any angle), in extreme temperatures and over grease. Lasting three times longer than average ballpoint pens, all are precision assembled, hand-tested and carry a lifetime guarantee.

There are three versions of the .375 Cartridge Space Pen, ranging in price from $25 to $31, depending on optional adornments such as a gold clip or an American flag. The .338 Cartridge Space Pen is also available with an American flag and costs between $34 and $40. All pens are available for purchase on the Fisher Space Pen Co. website: www.spacepen.com

About Fisher Space Pen
In 1965, Paul Fisher developed a ballpoint pen that could be used in the harshest of environments – microgravity, upside down, underwater, extreme temperatures and at high speed. Now, 40 years later, the Fisher Space Pen continues its proud history as one of the behind-the-scenes partners in the U.S. space program.

Fusion Ammunition

ANOKA, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)-Federal Premium’s Fusion® spokesperson and MMA superstar Brock Lesnar declares “he’s back.” After a second stint with diverticulitis causing surgery in May, the former UFC Heavyweight Champion is ready to return to the octagon. Before he begins training again, Lesnar stormed the prairies of North Dakota for a prairie dog hunt south of Bismarck, ND.

Don’t Count Him Out
Lesnar went under the knife and had a foot of his colon removed on May 26, 2011 at the Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn. After a short hospital stay, he went home to Alexandria, Minn. and then onto his farm in Saskatchewan where he has been since recovering. Lesnar feels like a new man and believes becoming the UFC Heavyweight Champion again is in his future.

Prairie Dog Devastation
The bluebird skies and moderate temperatures made for ideal conditions as the former champ tag teamed with his brother Chad for a day of varmint hunting. The two shot several calibers from the 17HMR to .223, .22-250 and a .50 caliber Barrett BMG at prairie dogs ranging from 50-400 yards. “Prairie dog hunting is not only fun, but it’s a cure for the summertime blues,” said Lesnar. “I get great practice with my firearms, ammunition and optics… I can’t wait for the fall whitetail season to begin.”

Asked when MMA fans will see the heavyweight contender in the octagon again, the former champ replied, “sooner than later.” For an update straight from the source, visit http://www.fusionammo.com/brock_lesnar/default.aspx.

About:
Fusion® Headquartered in Anoka, Minnesota, Fusion is an endorsed brand of Federal Cartridge Company, which has been providing hunters and shooters with high-quality rimfire, centerfire and shotshell ammunition since 1922. It is part of ATK’s Security and Sporting. For more information, visit www.fusionammo.com.

ATK Security and Sporting ATK Security and Sporting, headquartered in Anoka, MN, is a leading technology developer and supplier of ammunition for law enforcement, military and sporting applications; a manufacturer of optics, reloading gear and sport shooting accessories and a leading producer of tactical accessories. The company serves sport shooting enthusiasts, law enforcement professionals, military and tactical markets worldwide. The group’s products include some of the most widely known and respected brands in the industry, including Federal Premium, CCI, Speer, RCBS, Alliant Powder, Champion, Weaver, Eagle Industries, and BLACKHAWK!.

Congressional Sportsmen

Des Moines, Iowa –-(Ammoland.com)- Sportsmen won the first round yesterday in a fight to stop the Iowa Natural Resource Commission (NRC) from imposing a traditional ammunition ban during the state’s recently created dove hunting season.

The Iowa General Assembly Administrative Rules Review Committee met yesterday to review the NRC attempt to include a traditional ammunition ban in the final dove rule for Iowa’s dove hunting season.

The Iowa Legislative Sportsmen’s Caucus, led by Caucus Chairs, Sen. Dick Dearden and Rep. Rich Arnold, recently passed and Governors Sportsmen’s Caucus Governor Terry Brandstad signed into law, legislation allowing dove hunting in Iowa.

In a bipartisan vote of 9-1, legislators rejected the NRC attempt to impose a lead ammunition ban and allow the legislature to act during the next legislative session to remove the ban from the final dove rule, and now Iowa’s first dove season in nearly a century will proceed and will not include a traditional ammunition ban.

“The Administrative Rules Review Committee clearly demonstrated that an appointed commission cannot circumvent the intent of the legislature, especially when the commission fails to provide the biological justification to do so,” said Chris Horton, Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation Midwestern States Director. “An undue burden on Iowa’s sportsmen and women was lifted and we applaud the committee’s decision.”

During a NRC meeting last month intended to set bag limits and the length of Iowa’s first dove season, commissioners passed a ban on the use of traditional ammunition while hunting doves. The same ban was overwhelmingly defeated in the Iowa legislature earlier in the year during deliberations on the new dove season and the commission attempted to usurp the Iowa legislature by imposing the rule.

A coalition of sportsmen’s groups, including the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF), Dallas Safari Club, Iowa B.A.S.S. Federation Nation, Iowa Firearms Coalition, Iowa Sportsmen’s Federation, Mule Deer Foundation, Nation Rifle Association (NRA), National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Safari Club International (SCI), and U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance, urged the Administrative Rules Review Committee to defeat the attempt by the NRC to institute a lead based ammunition ban that would created an unjustifiable hurdle for Iowans to participate in the dove hunt.

In a letter (HERE) dated August 3, 2011, the coalition stated that, “In the absence of scientific justification, the question of whether to allow traditional shot to be used during the dove season becomes purely a social and economic decision better suited for elected officials and not an appointed commission.”

According to a state natural resources staff study, the economic impact of this law allowing dove hunting will attract approximately 20,000 dove hunters and provide $6.9 million to state and local economies.

Federal’s Top Gun Target Pink Hulls

FederalPremium.com

ANOKA, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- The Minnesota Game Fair brings hunters, archers, shooters and sportsmen and women together for demonstrations, exhibits and a popular shooting contest.

Game Fair sponsors include Federal Premium Ammunition, Cabela’s, and Outdoor News. Visitors can shoot Federal Top Gun Pink Hull shotshell loads while supporting the fight against breast cancer.

Shooters who hit a clay target will be entered into a sweepstakes to win a two-day South Dakota pheasant hunt with legendary Minnesota outdoorsman and TV personality Ron Schara. Shooters can also win some Black Cloud and Prairie Storm™ ammunition and Champion pink shooting gear. Tom Knapp and local politicians and professional athletes are expected to be on hand. All proceeds from the shooting contest will go towards the fight against breast cancer.

Federal Premium Ammunition will sponsor the Minnesota Game Fair and a unique shotgun shooting contest to support breast cancer research and awareness. The Game Fair runs August 12-14 and 19-21 in Anoka, MN—minutes from the Federal Premium headquarters. Visitors can shoot clay targets using Federal’s Top Gun Target Pink Hulls for a chance to win a South Dakota pheasant hunt with legendary TV host and Minnesota outdoorsman Ron Schara. Additional prizes include cases of Federal Premium Black Cloud® and Prairie Storm™ ammunition, pink shooting gear and more. All contest proceeds go to breast cancer research and awareness.

Great Shooting, Great Prizes, Great Cause
Visitors can participate in the shooting contest by simply paying admission into the Game Fair. A donation of any amount to support breast cancer gives attendees an additional chance to shoot Federal’s pink shotshells at the range. Shooters who hit their target will be automatically entered to win a South Dakota pheasant hunt with “Minnesota Bound” host Ron Schara. Many other prizes will be given away daily. All contest proceeds go to the search for a cure and breast cancer research.

Tough Enough to Shoot Pink
Federal’s new Top Gun Target Pink Hulls have been a hit in the outdoor community. These striking shells support breast cancer awareness with an on-box royalty program and make an impression at the range. Federal Premium is proudly sponsoring Game Fair and the shooting contest to help support those affected by breast cancer. Learn more about Federal’s Pink Hulls online, at http://www.federalpremium.com/products/details/shotshell.aspx?id=446&p=1.

“The Game Fair is a great event for all outdoor enthusiasts,” said Public Relations and Promotions Manager Tim Brandt. “We’ve been proud supporters of this great event right in our backyard for years. The breast cancer shooting promotion we’ve put together this year is especially unique—and a great opportunity to increase awareness and support throughout the outdoor community. Look for our branded pink gear all over Game Fair.”

To learn more about the new Top Gun Target Pink Hulls or search through the entire lineup of Federal Premium Ammunition, please visit www.FederalPremium.com.

About Federal Cartridge Company
Headquartered in Anoka, Minnesota, Federal Cartridge Company has been providing hunters and shooters with high-quality rimfire, centerfire and shotshell ammunition since 1922. It pioneered the Premium category of ammunition and is part of the world’s leading ammunition manufacturer, ATK Security and Sporting. For more information on Federal, visit www.FederalPremium.com.

Winchester New Law Enforcement Website

Winchester Ammunition

East Alton, IL – -(Ammoland.com)- Winchester Ammunition unveiled its new Law Enforcement website, www.WinchesterLE.com featuring a new map of Winchester distributors and sales representatives and improved information on all law enforcement ammunition products.

The new site was designed with the latest technology, allowing users to navigate through the site quickly and find detailed product information through enhanced video content, interactive ammunition guides and more.

“It’s important that we keep officers and law enforcement agencies updated on the new ammunition and technology Winchester is providing for those in the line of duty, which is why we’ve developed and launched a world-class website,” said Brett Flaugher, Winchester Ammunition vice president of marketing and sales.

“Winchester has a proud tradition of providing dependable ammunition to our military and law enforcement agencies and we want to make sure they’re well informed and have the latest information when they visit the new www.WinchesterLE.com.”

Visitors to the site will find updated content, new product information, interactive content and more. Users will also be able to research detailed product information (basic info, spec sheets, ballistics and terminal ballistics) when they are viewing a particular symbol without having to go to multiple locations within the site to access this information.

For more information about Winchester Ammunition Law Enforcement, visit www.WinchesterLE.com.

Winchester is Proud to be a Leader in Law Enforcement
For decades, Winchester® Ammunition has provided law enforcement officers with reliable ammunition to help protect and serve against real-world threats. Winchester works closely with many federal and state law enforcement agencies to develop and manufacture both training and service ammunition.

For more information about Winchester and its complete line of Law Enforcement products, visit www.WinchesterLE.com.