Franchi Launches New Innovative Website

Franchi

ACCOKEEK, MD --(Ammoland.com)- Benelli USA is pleased to announce the launch of the new Franchi USA website ( www.franchiusa.com), featuring the new line of Franchi shotguns and carrying the brand’s message, “Franchi Feels Right.”

The new Franchi USA website visually displays all the ways Franchi feels right. Sporting images on the home page depict the firearms at work in the field.

The scroll function allows customers to see all of that firearm’s information on one page.

On individual product pages, a video and close-up images provides site visitors the opportunity to examine the details of each gun almost as closely as if they were holding the firearm in their own hands.

Also featured on its own dedicated web page is a presentation of Franchi On Safari when Franchi hosted four outdoor writers on a bird shooting safari in Kenya.

More than 50 photographs and a short video preview of the trip are available for viewing.

The easy-to-use site is organized to make it simple for visitors to find all the information they need about Franchi firearms.

For the latest news and product information visit www.franchiusa.com

Ruger SR1911 Pistol

AmmoLand Gun News

USA --(Ammoland.com)- Dear Mr. Berko: What do you think of gun company Smith & Wesson? I’d like to invest about $8,000 in a gun manufacturer, and this seems like the best candidate.

In fact, it seems that the only other candidate is Ruger.

I own a Smith & Wesson pistol that belonged to my great-grandfather, and it still looks brand new. I’ve also got a shiny Ruger. Both shoot the same bullet, but the Smith gun is always worth much more than a Ruger.

Do you approve of the Smith & Wesson stock? — OM, Oklahoma City

Dear OM: Smith & Wesson (SWHC-$2.95) makes what is considered to be one of the finest factory-production revolvers in the universe, and some of the company’s semi-automatics (especially its Model 52) are elegant masterpieces.

Smith & Wesson has been making firearms since Franklin Pierce was elected president in 1852. As a gun enthusiast, I bought 10,000 shares of SWHC in Dec. 2000 at 16 cents a share, intending to give 100 share certificates as birthday presents to members of the gun club where I shoot and as unusual gifts to others who appreciate the Smith name. But the cost to register and ship a 100-share certificate was $87, which was $86.84 more than the price of the stock. I sold 9,000 shares of SWHC, kept 1,000 shares and barely broke even.

Smith makes an undeniably fine handgun and has undeniably lousy management; unfortunately, Messrs. Debney, Buchanan, Willingham and McPherson would be unable to sell an American dollar for 75 cents. Smith’s 1,600 employees produced $400 million in revenues last year and in the process lost $89 million. SWHC’s earnings for 2012 are expected to fall to 8 cents a share from last year’s 30 cents on a 12 percent increase in revenues.

How sad!

This doesn’t look good for SWHC, and its past record of poor earnings is an affront to every gun enthusiast who respects quality. And though I admire the SWHC firearm, I’m not enthusiastic about its other products, such as guard booths; tire drops; canopies; security and detection systems; fencing; gates; mobile barriers; facility analysis; design; and engineering.

As my Dad used to say, “If you’ve been planting the best cotton crop in the country for 150 years, it ain’t smart to start growing watermelons in the same garden.”

Ruger Firearms

However, you should take a peek at Sturm, Ruger & Company (RGR-$26.10). RGR is SWHC’s closest public competitor at $280 million in revenues, 1,000 employees and earnings of $31 million, or $1.60 a share, last year. Ruger is also a fine firearm, but it does lack the cache, history and balance of a Smith & Wesson. Ruger has been making guns in the U.S. since 1948, and while a Ruger firearm doesn’t hold its value as well as a Smith, it’s still considered a darn good piece.

So yes, RGR would be an overall better investment. RGR stock was trading at $10 a share when SWHC was trading at 20 cents, and it pays a 2 percent dividend. Earnings this year ($1.76 a share) are up from last year’s $1.46, and in 2012, RGR believes it can earn $1.96 on a 15 percent increase in revenues.

RGR’s income statement and balance sheet are textbook-clean, the company has zero debt, over $80 million in cash and net profit margins of 11 percent. RGR’s management sticks to its knitting, and the company makes good, affordable pistols, shotguns, revolvers and rifles.

While it doesn’t necessarily make a superior gun, RGR is certainly a superior company. So consider owning 300 shares and reinvest the dividend.

Please address your financial questions to Malcolm Berko, P.O. Box 8303, Largo, FL 33775, or email him at mjberko@yahoo.com. To find out more about Malcolm Berko and read features by other Creators Syndicate writers and cartoonists, visit the Creators Syndicate website at www.creators.com.

Malcolm Berko

COPYRIGHT 2011 CREATORS.COM

About Malcolm Berko;
Berko is a published poet and nature photographer. He was a ranking handball and racquetball player, has climbed Mount Everest twice (unsuccessfully) and occasionally backpacks the Himalayas. Berko collects old stock and bond certificates, first edition signed books and is a firearms enthusiast. He admires Winston Churchill, Robert Frost, Carl Sandburg, Albert Einstein and William F. Buckley. He hosted a two-hour, call-in radio talk show for a dozen years and enjoys playing a poor game of golf. He has a son who is a physician, a daughter who practices law and four grandchildren.

ATF Offers $5,000 Reward in Tulsa Firearms Gun Store Theft

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

TULSA, Okla. --(Ammoland.com)- Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), is offering a $5,000 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the person(s) responsible for a burglary and theft at Tulsa Firearms located at 5949 S. Garnett Road, Tulsa said Robert R. Champion, Special Agent in Charge for the Dallas Field Division.

On Sept. 4, suspect(s) entered the business through the roof ventilation system and exited a back door.

Twenty–six firearms were stolen from the gun store during the burglary.

Tulsa Firearms Training Academy opened its’ doors in 1976. Owner, Riley Gilmore’s interest in firearms began at an early age, dating back to his Boy Scout days. He later began teaching firearms instruction as a volunteer for the YMCA in the late 70′s. Riley believed there was a need within the region for a safe location where homeowners, sportsmen, security officers and policemen could have a place to shoot indoors and enjoy the benefits of target shooting. With the help and support of the Gilmore family, Tulsa Firearms opened its doors as the fourth indoor shooting range in the United States and has become the premier indoor shooting facility in this part of the country. www.tulsafirearms.com

Anyone with information about this crime should contact ATF at 1–800–ATF–Guns (800–283–4867, ATF Tulsa Field Office at (918) 594–1801, or Tulsa Police Department at (918) 596–COPS. All calls will be kept confidential.

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)- ATK (NYSE: ATK) announced today that it will relocate its corporate headquarters as of October 1, 2011 to Arlington, Virginia, where the company will expand its existing office space. The company will continue to maintain a strong presence in Minnesota, including approximately 210 Minnesota-based corporate employees.

In total, ATK employs approximately 2700 people in Minnesota. ATK currently employs approximately 3500 people in the Mid-Atlantic region, where it operates facilities in Maryland, Virginia and West Virginia.

Virginia Governor Bob McDonnell welcomed ATK to northern Virginia, and said, “We are pleased that ATK is joining the vibrant aerospace and defense community that contributes so much to the commercial base of our state, and look forward to the company’s continued growth and progress here.”

“The relocation of ATK’s headquarters to the Washington D.C. area will provide our company with opportunities for increased engagement with our customers and Congress, as well as with our aerospace and defense industry peers that already are located in the region. Expanding our presence and visibility in the Washington area will support our strategy of creating a more global, diversified company,” said Mark W. DeYoung, President and CEO.

ATK is a Fortune 500 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.

NSSF Facebook Photo Contest

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- September’s theme in the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Facebook Photo Contest is youth participating in either target shooting or hunting. To post a photo, look for the Contests tab on NSSF’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/NSSFcomm.

The September theme reads: Post a photo with a target shooting or hunting theme showing at least one young person participating. Examples of entries are a group photo of a target-shooting team from a state or national competition in the Scholastic Clay Target Program, or a photo taken at a Boy Scout or 4-H summer target shooting session.

NSSF launched the contest in celebration of its 50th Anniversary this year. Cool monthly prizes, including a $50 gift card and NSSF’s official anniversary history publication and commemorative coin, are part of this fun, interactive contest. The contest runs through the end of the year with a new theme introduced each month.

Entrants may post photos during the first three weeks of each month, with the last week devoted to voting for the winners. To post a photo, an individual must first “Like” the NSSF Facebook page, which has more than 8,000 fans.

Individuals may post as many photos as they like each month and during the course of the contest. People who post photographs can vote for their own photos and may want to encourage others to vote for their photos by using social media tools, whether it’s contacting their friends on Facebook or through postings on Twitter, LinkedIn and other social networking sites.

Click on the Contests tab at www.facebook.com/NSSFcomm to read the full contest rules, which include eligibility and how to enter and vote.

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.

NSSF is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2011. Learn about the Foundation’s history at www.nssf.org/50.

Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax Collection Chart

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- The latest Firearms and Ammunition Excise Tax Collection report released by the Department of the Treasury indicates that firearm and ammunition manufacturers reported tax liabilities of $110.1 million in the first calendar quarter of 2011, up 8.2 percent over the same period last year.

The report, which covers the time period of Jan. 1 through March 31, shows that $37.12 million was due in taxes for pistols and revolvers, $33.71 million for firearms (other)/ long guns and $39.27 million for ammunition (shells and cartridges).

Compared to the same time period in 2010, tax obligations were up 18.5 percent for pistols and revolvers, up 7.19 percent for firearms (other)/ long guns and up 0.74 percent for ammunition (shells and cartridges).

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.

Jerry Fisher with the students from Trinidad at Brownells 5th Annual Gunsmith Career Fair

Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(Ammoland.com)- Brownells has announced that the 6th Annual Gunsmith Career Fair will be held April 27 and 28, 2012 at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown in Des Moines, Iowa.

The industry-exclusive event is expected to draw more than 175 attendees and 35 employers.

“The Gunsmith Career Fair is the place to network for gunsmiths and the companies who employ them. It really is a must-attend event. Many pros from the Guilds are there and they’re not afraid to share their secrets,” said Pete Brownell, President of Brownells.

Seminars designed to assist new and experienced gunsmiths with their career and business development are once again an integral part of the event with many chances for hands-on discussions with guild members and other industry professionals. Top companies in the firearm industry and government agencies will once again be on hand to interview attendees for positions at their businesses.

The schedule is set up to make it possible for attendees to network with potential employers, fellow gunsmiths and exhibitors. Recent graduates, working gunsmiths, soon-to-graduate gunsmithing students, gun shop owners and other firearm-related businesses are all invited to attend, as well as anyone interested in beginning a career in the gunsmithing profession.

“We are absolutely delighted at the response we get from everyone that attends the Career Fair,” commented Frank Brownell, CEO of Brownells. “The seminars have fantastic information and it’s great to see so many employers with jobs to fill. 2012’s Career Fair is going to be even better than the past events and we’re looking forward to hosting it,” continued Brownell.

Those interested can sign up at www.gunsmithcareerfair.com ! Attendees and exhibitors are urged to register and book rooms early. Those arriving early will have a chance to tour the Brownells facility in Montezuma, Iowa on Thursday, April 26, 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, 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

Smith & Wesson BODYGUARD 380 Pistols

Smith and Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass.--(Ammoland.com)- Smith & Wesson Holding Corp. (NASDAQ:SWHC) reported that fourth-quarter sales in its firearms division were a record $101.7 million, up 12.7 percent compared to the same period last year.

The company said higher sales “were evident across nearly all product lines, with BODYGUARD products, price repositioned polymer framed pistols and modern sporting rifles as primary drivers.”

Pistol sales grew 29.9 percent. Firearm backlog grew to $186.7 million at year end, up $112.9 million from the end of the third quarter and $78.7 million higher than at the end of the previous fiscal year.

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ: SWHC) is a U.S.-based, global provider of products and services for safety, security, protection and sport. The company designs and constructs facility perimeter security solutions for military and commercial applications, and delivers a broad portfolio of firearms and related training to the military, law enforcement and sports markets. SWHC companies include Smith & Wesson Corp., the globally recognized manufacturer of quality firearms; Universal Safety Response, a full-service perimeter security integrator, barrier manufacturer and installer; and Thompson/Center Arms Company, Inc., a premier designer and manufacturer of premium hunting firearms. SWHC facilities are located in Massachusetts, Maine, New Hampshire, and Tennessee. For more information on Smith & Wesson and its companies, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com; www.usrgrab.com; or www.tcarms.com.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry, applauded the introduction of the Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Act by Sen. Mark Udall (D-CO).

This bi-partisan legislation will give states greater flexibility to use more of their designated federal wildlife resources (i.e. Pittman-Robertson funds) to establish safe recreational shooting areas. More specifically, the legislation will help facilitate the construction and expansion of public target ranges, including ranges on federal land managed by the U.S. Forest Service and the Bureau of Land Management.

“We appreciate Sen. Udall’s leadership in fighting for safe, accessible shooting facilities,” said Lawrence G. Keane, senior vice president and general counsel of the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

“This legislation clears the way for new shooting ranges and allows for the proper management of existing ones. Access to these facilities is paramount to continuing to pass on our hunting and shooting sports heritage to younger generations.”

A recent survey by the Responsive Management Company has show that the biggest obstacle to participation in hunting and the shooting sports is access. In addressing this concern, the Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Act will not only help sportsmen and target shooters, but wildlife and conservation efforts as well. Active participation in hunting and the shooting sports means increased production of firearms and ammunition.

Manufacturers of firearms and ammunition pay a federal excise tax — 11 percent on long guns and ammunition and 10 percent on handguns — which is used to fund wildlife and conservation efforts. By giving gun owners better access to ranges, the Target Practice and Marksmanship Training Act will help to encourage participation in these pro-conservation pastimes.

By allowing the states more latitude in determining how excise tax dollars are used to enhance and develop public shooting facilities, wildlife conservation funding will increase. This benefits all sportsmen and is a strong return on investment.

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.

Pictured left to right: GLOCK Vice President, Josh Dorsey; Ron Schmeits, President of the NRA; R. Lee Ermey; GLOCK Vice President Chad Mathis; Kayne Robinson, Executive Director of Operations

Glock Pistols

SMYRNA, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- GLOCK, Inc. donated a total of $115,000 to four separate organizations within the National Rifle Association (NRA) during the 2011 NRA Annual Meeting & Exhibits held in Pittsburg, PA, Apr. 29 – May 1.

GLOCK, Inc. Vice Presidents Chad Mathis and Josh Dorsey, alongside spokesman R. Lee Ermey presented a check to each group inside the GLOCK, Inc. exhibition booth (#2029) on Friday, April 29, 2011 at 10:00am.

“It’s important for us at GLOCK, Inc. to recognize the commitment of the millions of NRA members and thousands of certified NRA firearms instructors who are continually protecting our Second Amendment rights and freedoms,” stated GLOCK Vice President, Josh Dorsey.

The four organizations that received the donations at NRA include:

• National Rifle Association – This was the second consecutive year that GLOCK made the $50,000 donation to the NRA. The NRA is recognized as America’s leading advocate for the protection of the Second Amendment of the U.S. Bill of Rights and the promotion of firearm ownership rights as well as marksmanship, firearm safety, and the protection of hunting and self-defense in the United States. Ron Schmeits, President of the NRA and Kayne Robinson, Executive Director of Operations and past President of the NRA accepted the donation on behalf of the organization.
• NRA Whittington Center – The $50,000 donation marked the third consecutive year that GLOCK has donated to the NRA Whittington Center. The Center is the most comprehensive shooting facility in America today, complete with 15 shooting ranges, classrooms and a dining facility. It hosts recreational shooting and guided hunts as well as camping, hiking, mountain biking and horseback riding activities. Wayne Armacost, Executive Director at NRA Whittington Center was on hand to accept the donation along with Schmeits, and Robinson.
• NRA Whittington Center’s Adventure Camp – GLOCK made a $15,000 donation to this group; marking the ninth consecutive year that GLOCK has donated to the NRA Whittington Center Adventure Camp. The Camp is a unique place where young men and women have the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of pistol, rifle and shotgun shooting in a positive environment. Accepting the donation on behalf of the NRA Whittington Center’s Adventure Camp was Armacost, Schmeits, and Robinson.
• NRA Law Enforcement Division (LED) – GLOCK donated 30 pistols to the LED; marking the fourth consecutive year that GLOCK has donated to the program. This event held in Albuquerque, NM, is the NRA’s premiere annual shooting competition where Law Enforcement officers from around the globe compete to test their shooting skill. On hand to accept the donation on behalf of the LED/NPSC was Glen Hoyer (Director-Law Enforcement Activities Division at the NRA), as well as Schmeits, and Robinson.

Pictured left to right: GLOCK Vice President, Josh Dorsey; Ron Schmeits, President of the NRA; R. Lee Ermey; Wayne Armacost, Executive Director at NRA Whittington Center; GLOCK Vice President Chad Mathis; Kayne Robinson, Executive Director of Operations

About GLOCK, Inc.
GLOCK, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of pistols and accessories. GLOCK’s superior engineering has produced a pistol with only 34 parts and a rugged polymer-frame, providing industry-leading reliability shot after shot. GLOCK is renowned for its pistols which are safe, featuring three safeties; simple, offering a low number of components to provide reliability; and fast, with no encumbering parts to slow the speed to fire. This combination makes GLOCK pistols the first choice among consumers and law enforcement, with 65% of agencies nationwide choosing to carry GLOCK. Austrian-engineered, the company has manufacturing facilities in the United States and Austria. Based in Smyrna, Ga., GLOCK, Inc. is an advocate for our nation’s law enforcement and military personnel, as well as all citizens’ Second Amendment right to bear arms. For more information, please visit www.teamglock.com.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- In celebration of its 50th Anniversary, the National Shooting Sports Foundation is inviting all gun owners, hunters and target shooters to participate in its Golden Anniversary Photo Contest.

Cool monthly prizes, including a $50 gift card and NSSF’s official anniversary history publication, are part of this fun, interactive contest.

Each month beginning in May NSSF will announce a theme connected with its 50-year history and invite people to post photographs related to that theme. To post a photo, look for the Contests tab on NSSF’s Facebook page at www.facebook.com/nssfcomm.

Photos may be posted during the first three weeks of each month, with the last week devoted to voting for the winners. At the end of the month, the ten photos with the most votes will be declared winners, and individuals who posted the photos will receive NSSF’s 50th Anniversary history publication and 50th Anniversary commemorative coin. The top voter-getter each month will receive a $50 gift card from a major outdoor retailer. To post a photo, an individual must first “Like” the NSSF Facebook page, which currently has more than 6,000 fans.

Individuals may post as many photos as they like each month and during the course of the year. People who post photographs can vote for their own photos and may want to encourage others to vote for their photos by using social media tools, whether it’s contacting their friends on Facebook or through postings on Twitter, LinkedIn and other social networking sites.

“We can think of no better way for the National Shooting Sports Foundation to celebrate its golden anniversary than to provide this opportunity for hunters, target shooters and gun owners to tell their stories by sharing their favorite photos. The photos will demonstrate the many ways people enjoy and safely participate in the shooting sports, creating memories worth more than gold. Thanks to social media, each individual’s photo joins others to become a powerful testament to our outdoor heritage,” said Bill Brassard, NSSF’s director of communications.

The contest kicks off with this May theme: “Formed in 1961, NSSF soon began promoting hunter ethics, firearm safety and good sportsmanship. Each spring season millions of hunters conduct themselves responsibly and safely during their hunts. Post a photo of your spring hunt, whether turkey, game birds or small game.”

Other monthly themes, all associated with NSSF’s 50-year history, will focus on target shooting, youth participation, family and friends, hunter orange, wildlife conservation, AR-style modern sporting rifles and handguns.

Look for the Contests tab at www.facebook.com/NSSFcomm, where entry guidelines can be found. During the approximately week-long voting period each month, individuals may vote a maximum of once per day.

NSSF hopes participants post and vote often!

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.

NSSF is celebrating its 50th anniversary in 2011. Learn about the Foundation’s history at www.nssf.org/50.

Kahr Arms Crimson Trace Laserguard Equipped P380 Pistols

Kahr Arms

Worcester, Mass --(Ammoland.com)- Kahr Arms, the award-winning manufacturer of compact pistols based in Worcester, Mass, is currently engaged in a patent infringement lawsuit against Diamondback Firearms, LLC, the maker of compact .380 ACP and 9mm pistols based in Cocoa, Florida.

Seven U.S. patents cover Kahr’s unique locking, firing and extraction systems. The incomparable cocking cam trigger system employs a patented cam to both unlock the passive safety and complete cocking and releasing of the firing pin. The system provides a “safe cam action” and unbelievably smooth double action only trigger stroke, fast to fire in critical defensive situations.

These innovations found only in the Kahr pistol give the Kahr shooter an advantage in self-defense, home protection and duty or off duty use. The Kahr design is original, creating the smallest package possible in four defensive calibers – 9mm, .40S&W, .45 ACP and the .380 ACP.

Kahr has been producing compact pistols in Worcester since the early 1990s, and in the process has carved out a market segment for concealed pistol carry by properly licensed civilians and law enforcement personnel. In recent years, this market segment has attracted the attention of a number of large and small companies vying to gain market share as the larger pistol market has slowed down.

Kahr has been a leader and innovator in this market segment with over 40 different pistol configurations consisting of steel and polymer frames, four calibers and five barrel lengths. Kahr will continue to take necessary steps to protect their patented innovations.

Visit www.kahr.com to learn more about Kahr Arms, or contact Monica Arnold -Blue August at monica@bluaugust.com.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Following the earthquakes and tsunamis in Southeast Asia, the earthquake in Haiti, and the attacks on 9/11, the members of Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) responded with an amazing demonstration of support and provided critical supplies for emergency disaster relief.

OIA, working with AmeriCares, is once again calling on members to dig deep to support those areas devastated by earthquake and tsunami in Japan.

At this time, the Japanese government is not requesting external product and medical support. However, if you have local manufacturing facilities or affiliates in Japan and are interested in donating products in-country, AmeriCares can explore possibilities for matching what you have available with the current product needs, which include:

• Blankets
• Hygiene products
• Heating pads

To donate these urgently needed products from locations within Japan or to make a financial donation to the relief effort, contact Henna Viinikka at AmeriCares at 203.658.9526 or hviinikka@americares.org.

Due to the amazing response from the nation, AmeriCares is having trouble replying to everyone in a timely manner, but they will respond. OIA will continue to publish updated needs throughout the relief effort.

Outdoor Industry Association Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA provides industry-defining resources and support in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Ongoing education opportunities and strategic business workshops provided by OIA include the annual Rendezvous, Outdoor University sessions, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information about OIA go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Weatherby.com

Paso Robles, CA --(Ammoland.com)- In his new position, Weatherby plays a key role in various communication initiatives including the annual catalog, website and Weatherby Nation™ online community, as well as advertising and e-mail campaigns.

He is also involved in the company’s public relations program, working with outdoor writers and other industry professionals.

In addition, Weatherby organizes exhibits for trade and consumer shows, and represents the company at numerous events.

Weatherby Firearms Promotes Daniel Weatherby To Marketing Coordinator

“We welcome Daniel to our marketing team,” said Brad Ruddell, Weatherby’s vice president of sales and marketing.“He grew up with the company and has valuable experience in several other departments that will be very beneficial in his new position. As a member of the Weatherby family, Daniel has a heritage in the hunting and shooting sports that is second to none.”

Prior to his promotion, Weatherby served as a custom shop and technical support representative at the company’s headquarters in Paso Robles, Calif., and previously worked in customer service and warehouse operations.

He was also employed as a certified history teacher in California, and taught in Ecuador as well. Weatherby holds a Bachelor of Arts degree from Westmont College in Santa Barbara, Calif., and a master’s degree from the Denver Seminary in Colorado.

Founded in 1945, Weatherby, Inc.’s line features the popular Vanguard® and legendary Mark V® rifles (production and custom), over/under and side-by-side shotguns in the classic Athena® and Orion® lines, 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.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- John Mead, president of Adventure 16, is a business problem solver who combined his business objectives with a host of key vendors to make a stronger marketing stand branded together than they ever could have acting independently.

Join John on Wednesday, November 10, from 2:00 p.m. through 3:00 p.m. (MDT) to find out how he did it, how he got the vendors to come on board, and how they all work together to build a collective business model in the next Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Outdoor University online workshop: How to Form a Key Vendor Marketing Alliance.

The Key Vendor Alliance program John and the A16 team created in 1997 set a new industry standard for the way retailers and their most meaningful vendors work together to build their brands in the eyes and minds customers. During the Outdoor University workshop, John will share systems and practices A16 has used to develop a synergistic marketing program with 11 of its key vendors. Attendees will learn how to create sustainable methodologies to effectively and efficiently leverage retail marketing messages alongside important vendor brands.

How to Form a Key Vendor Marketing Alliance is offered free to OIA members, EORA members and SNEWS® subscribers and for $99 for non-members. Pre-registration by Tuesday, November 9 is required. To find out more about John Mead and to sign up for the November 10 webinar, check out the full line-up of Outdoor University® sessions and presenters at www.outdoorindustry.org/ ou2010.

The Outdoor University education and training platform is made possible through the generous support of its sponsors: Outdoor Retailer, Adventure 16, Alpine Shop, BACKWOODS, Darby Communications, Midwest Mountaineering, Mountain Gear, outdoor DIVAS, Outdoor Retailer, Pemba Serves, Rock Creek Outfitters, Rutabaga, SNEWS®, What’s UP Public RR and Woolrich. OIA Outdoor University® is an affiliate of SNEWS® Retail College.

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association® (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous®, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

Ruger Firearms

Southport, CT --(Ammoland.com)- Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE:RGR), announced today that for the third quarter of 2010, the Company reported net sales of $58.4 million and earnings per share of 32¢, compared with sales of $71.2 million and earnings per share of 37¢ in the third quarter of 2009.

For the nine months ended October 2, 2010, net sales were $191.1 million and earnings were $1.18 per share. For the corresponding period in 2009, net sales were $207.1 million and earnings were $1.13 per share.

Chief Executive Officer Michael O. Fifer made the following comments related to the Company’s results:

• The Company launched the new SR-40 striker-fired pistol late in the third quarter of 2010. New product introductions, including the new SR-40 pistol, remain a strong driver of demand and represented $50.0 million or 27% of sales in the first nine months of 2010.
• Estimated unit sell-through of the Company’s products from distributors to retailers in the third quarter of 2010 decreased by approximately 7% from both the third quarter of 2009 and the second quarter of 2010. NICS checks increased 6% from the third quarter of 2009 and 2% from the second quarter of 2010, indicating that the Company’s share of total firearms retail transactions (new and used firearms) may have declined during the quarter.
• The incoming order rate in the third quarter of 2010 increased significantly from the second quarter of 2010 and the third quarter of 2009.
• Cash generated from operations during the first nine months of 2010 was $23.5 million. At the end of the third quarter of 2010, our cash and equivalents and short-term investments totaled $53.0 million. Our current ratio is 3.7 to 1 and we have no debt.
• During the first nine months of 2010, capital expenditures totaled $16.4 million, much of it related to tooling and equipment for new products. We expect to invest approximately $20 million for capital expenditures during 2010.
• During the third quarter of 2010, the Company repurchased 412,000 shares of its common stock for $5.7 million in the open market. The average price per share repurchased was $13.83. These repurchased shares represented 2.1% of the outstanding shares as of the beginning of the third quarter of 2010 and were funded with cash on hand. As of the end of the third quarter of 2010, $4.3 million remains available for future stock repurchases.
• At the end of the third quarter of 2010, stockholders’ equity was $109 million, which equates to a book value of $5.77 per share, of which $2.82 per share was cash and equivalents and short-term investments.

Today, the Company filed its Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q for the third quarter of 2010. The financial statements included in this Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q are attached to this press release.

The Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q is available on the SEC website at www.sec.gov and the Ruger website at www.ruger.com/corporate/. Investors are urged to read the complete Quarterly Report on Form 10-Q to ensure that they have adequate information to make informed investment judgments.

About Sturm, Ruger
Sturm, Ruger was founded in 1949 and is one of the nation’s leading manufacturers of high-quality firearms for the commercial sporting market. Sturm, Ruger is headquartered in Southport, CT, with manufacturing facilities located in Newport, NH and Prescott, AZ.

L to R: Craig Dutton, GLOCK, Inc.; Richard Crock, Supervisory Special Agent of the DEA; and R. Lee Ermey

Glock Pistols

SMYRNA, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- GLOCK, Inc. made two donations totaling $70,000 on Monday, Oct. 25, during the International Association of Chiefs of Police (IACP) Conference held in Orlando, Fla.

Craig Dutton, Assistant National Sales Manager for GLOCK, Inc. personally presented a donation of $50,000 to the Concerns of Police Survivors (C.O.P.S.) Charity and $20,000 to Drug Enforcement Administration Survivors Benefit Fund (DEA SBF) during the ceremony at IACP.

In 2010, GLOCK, Inc. will have donated more than $550,000 to a variety of non-profit causes across the country.

On hand to represent C.O.P.S. will be Suzie Sawyer, Executive Director; Jennifer Thacker, Director of National Outreach; and Linda Gregory, National President. Representing the DEA SBF was Richard Crock, Supervisory Special Agent of the DEA.

This is the fourth consecutive year that GLOCK, Inc. has donated to the C.O.P.S. organization for a total of $200,000. C.O.P.S. is dedicated to supporting friends and families of Law Enforcement officers dealing with the grief caused after the loss of an officer. The nonprofit organization supports families with scholarships, child and teen camps, counseling and programs designed for spouses and parents, as well as support for the department in which the fallen officer served.

This will mark the first significant donation to the DEA SBF by GLOCK, Inc. The DEA SBF is a non-profit charitable organization that supports the surviving family members of United States Department of Justice, Drug Enforcement Administration Employees and deputized Task Force Officers killed in the line of duty.

“GLOCK, Inc. has a long history of supporting the individuals and families of those that go in harm’s way,” stated Dutton. “We are proud to contribute to these two great organizations which make such a vital impact in the communities in which we all live.”

About GLOCK, Inc.
GLOCK, Inc. is a leading global manufacturer of pistols and accessories. GLOCK’s superior engineering has produced a pistol with only 34 parts and a rugged polymer-frame, providing industry-leading reliability shot after shot. GLOCK is renowned for its pistols which are safe, featuring three safeties; simple, offering a low number of components to provide reliability; and fast, with no encumbering parts to slow the speed to fire. This combination makes GLOCK pistols the first choice among consumers and law enforcement, with 65% of agencies nationwide choosing to carry GLOCK. Austrian-engineered, the company has manufacturing facilities in the United States and Austria. Based in Smyrna, Ga., GLOCK, Inc. is an advocate for our nation’s law enforcement and military personnel, as well as all citizens’ Second Amendment right to bear arms. For more information, please visit www.teamglock.com.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) – the trade association for the firearms industry – announced a $2,500 reward for information leading to the arrest and conviction of the persons(s) responsible for the theft of firearms from Atlantic Gun and Tackle, 5425 Northfield Road, Bedford Heights, Ohio.

This reward offer matches a $2,500 reward offer by the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF).

The burglary occurred between the late evening hours of Wednesday, Aug. 18, and the early morning hours of Thursday, Aug.19, 2010.

Steve Sanetti, president of the NSSF, said, “Our matching reward offer will hopefully help assist ATF and local law enforcement in solving this crime against a federally licensed firearms dealer and lead to the swift recovery of stolen firearms before they can enter the illegal underground black market where they can be misused to commit violent crimes.”

The matching reward payment by NSSF will be granted only following payment of the initial ATF reward.

Anyone with information is asked to call the ATF hotline at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (1-800-283-4867) or the Bedford Heights Police Department. The ATF hotline is toll free and callers may remain anonymous.

For any questions about the theft of these firearms, please contact ATF at the number listed above.

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 5,500 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

National Rifle Association

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- NRA-ILA would like to spotlight the passage of H.R. 5552 – the Firearms Excise Tax Improvement Act, and specially applaud the efforts and leadership shown by the bill’s sponsors — Representatives Ron Kind (D-WI) and Paul Ryan (R-WI), and Senators Max Baucus (D-MT) and Mike Crapo (R-ID) for sponsoring companion bill S. 632 in the U.S. Senate.

NRA-backed H.R. 5552 passed the U.S. Senate by unanimous consent on August 5, after passing the U.S. House by a 412-6 vote on June 29.

“I would like to thank Congressmen Kind and Paul Ryan and Senators Baucus and Crapo for their leadership in helping secure passage of this measure,” said NRA-ILA Executive Director Chris W. Cox.

“Firearm and ammunition manufacturers were unfairly mandated to pay their excise taxes biweekly while all other manufacturers paid their taxes quarterly. This was an undue burden on the industry. In addition to being equitable, the change to a quarterly excise tax payment schedule will allow manufacturers to reinvest funds into researching and developing new products, purchasing new manufacturing machinery and creating jobs without establishing a new tax, adding to the burgeoning federal deficit, or using any bailout money.”

The Joint Committee on Taxation has estimated that this legislation will create a net revenue increase of $4 million over 10 years. Accordingly, the bill will increase funding for wildlife conservation through the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund.

Established by enactment of federal legislation in 1937, The Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund authorizes the development of wildlife restoration projects across the country. This legislation will neither raise taxes nor exempt firearm and ammunition manufacturers from paying federal excise taxes into the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund.

H.R. 5552 was signed into law on August 16, becoming Public Law 111-237.

About:
Established in 1871, the National Rifle Association is America’s oldest civil rights and sportsmen’s group. Four million members strong, NRA continues its mission to uphold Second Amendment rights and to advocate enforcement of existing laws against violent offenders to reduce crime. The Association remains the nation’s leader in firearm education and training for law-abiding gun owners, law enforcement and the military. Visit: www.nra.org

Outdoor Industry Association

Boulder, CO –-(Ammoland.com)- After several months of solid growth, outdoor product retail sales growth slowed considerably in August, causing growing concern among outdoor retailers and manufacturers.

According to retail point-of-sale data compiled by SportScanInfo for OIA VantagePoint™, the Official Research of the Outdoor Industry, total outdoor product sales were up 0.9% in August to $816.8 million compared to $809.5 million for the comparable four-week period last year. Sales were driven primarily by growth in Outdoor Hardgoods in the Outdoor Chain Specialty, Internet and Discount/Mass channels, offset in part by declines in Outdoor Footwear and Outdoor Apparel.

“It’s a hopeful sign to see the Consumer Confidence Index up in August, but people are purchasing mostly items they consider necessities, with very little add-on shopping to bolster retail numbers,” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of the Outdoor Industry Association.

“As an industry we’ve weathered the ups and downs of the economy fairly well, growing just under five percent thus far in 2010. Consumers recognize more and more that the outdoors is an easy, accessible and affordable draw where your activities and enjoyment don’t have to be tempered by your budget.”

Retailers described August as “unpredictable” and “schizophrenic” due to the vast disparity of sales trends from week to week.

Outdoor Footwear sales declined only slightly during the month, as increases in “barefoot” products, “minimalist” product and Approach Footwear were offset by declines in traditional outdoor categories like Technical Hiking. Outdoor Chain Specialty Retailers, Sporting Goods Retailers, and Department Stores all reported growth in footwear sales in August, with Independent Outdoor Specialty Retailers seeing Outdoor Footwear sales dip 0.2% for the month. One noteworthy item found that while Independent Outdoor Specialty Retailers posted the dip in Outdoor Footwear sales in August – a trend many see as a result of tighter inventories on hot limited-distribution product – sales of non-outdoor product through the channel actually increased in high-single-digits for the period.

Outdoor Apparel sales declined in the low-single-digits in August as back-to-school sales failed to materialize for many retailers. Outdoor Outerwear was a major driving force for retail sales during back-to-school in 2009, but this year sales in this category were down. Offsetting the declines in Outerwear, Women’s Activewear was up for the month, particularly Active Lifestyle Dresses, Skirts and Skorts.

The primary growth vehicle for outdoor industry sales in August was Outdoor Hardgoods. These categories were impacted by increasing participation trends in key outdoor activities like camping and hiking. In addition, more Americans are looking to National Parks and National Wilderness Areas for vacation opportunities and this shift is translating into gear sales. In particular, the Adventure Travel categories are beginning to spring back to life again following a prolonged down-turn following 9/11. Consumers are now more willing to invest in experiences and they are buying the equipment to support their travel adventures.

For a more in-depth discussion around August 2010 retail sales affecting outdoor industry businesses, Outdoor Industry Association will be hosting a webinar on Thursday, September 16 at 2pm (mountain). For more information and to register, visit http://www.outdoorindustry.org/vpwebinars.

OIA VantagePoint is the first and only full market point-of-sale data view built specifically for Outdoor Industry Association members. OIA VantagePoint provides comprehensive visibility into the outdoor marketplace by tracking weekly point-of-sale data from over 10,000 retail doors and websites carrying outdoor products, including over 350 outdoor specialty locations. In-depth sales information is available online within five days of the prior week close – a competitive advantage for businesses who can shift critical resources and react quickly to ever-changing consumer preferences.

About Outdoor Industry Association:
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA provides industry defining resources and support in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Ongoing education opportunities and strategic business workshops provided by OIA include the annual Rendezvous, Outdoor University sessions, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information about OIA go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

About The SportsOneSource Group:
The SportsOneSource Group is a full service market research company delivering solutions through consumer insight research, retail insight research and retail point-of-sale trending and analysis. The company provides the most reliable, timely and comprehensive sports and outdoor industry information available in the market today. SportScanInfo is a SportsOneSource technology platform developed to compile, aggregate and disseminate aggregated retail point-of-sale information. SportsOneSource also publishes the Sports Executive Weekly and The B.O.S.S. Report executive newsletters, along with the SGB, SGD TEAM Business and Performance Sports Retailer print publications and their related online, e-mail and digital products. For more information about the SportsOneSource Group call 704.987.3450 or go to www.SportsOneSource.com .

Ron Power discussing pistolsmithing with a 2010 Career Fair attendee.

Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(AmmoLand.com)- Brownells 5th Annual Gunsmith Career Fair will be held April 15 and 16, 2011 at the Des Moines Marriott Downtown in Des Moines, Iowa.

The industry-exclusive event is expected to draw more than 200 attendees and 40 employers.

Career and business development seminars are again a huge feature of the event with even more opportunities this year for hands-on learning from guild members and industry professionals.

Attendees will be able to interview, on-the-spot, with top companies in the firearm industry and government agencies that are ready to hire! There will be plenty of time to network with potential employers, fellow gunsmiths and exhibitors. Soon-to-graduate gunsmithing students, recent graduates, working gunsmiths, and gun shop owners are all invited to attend, as well as anyone looking to start a career in the gunsmithing profession.

Company CEO Frank Brownell told us, “We’re thrilled the event keeps growing the way it is and the seminars just keep getting better. I’m absolutely certain 2011 will be even better still.”

Pete Brownell, company president said, “The Gunsmith Career Fair is growing into a must-attend for individuals interested in gunsmithing and improving their career. Many Guild professional gunsmiths are there and it’s great to see them sharing their secrets. Learning from them can shorten your learning curve tremendously.”

Reserve your spot today at gunsmithcareerfair.com!

Tours of Brownells will be available on Thursday, April 14, 2011 in Montezuma, Iowa. Attendees and exhibitors are urged to register and book rooms early to make sure space is available.

Brownells is the world’s largest supplier of firearm parts, gunsmithing tools, equipment and accessories. Stocking more than 30,000 items, the company supplies armorers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. All of their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction, unconditional, lifetime guarantee. To order, or for more information, call 800-741-0015 or visit brownells.com and mention code PGA

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, reloading equipment and accessories. Stocking more than 30,000 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

National Shooting Sports Foundation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(AmmoLand.com)- The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry, hailed yesterday’s passage of the Firearms Excise Tax Improvement Act of 2010 (H.R. 5552) by unanimous consent in the Senate.

The bill passed the House of Representatives at the end of June by a vote of 412-6. The House bill was sponsored by Rep. Ron Kind (D-Wisc.) and Rep. Paul Ryan (R-Wisc.). The Senate bill (S. 632) was sponsored by Sen. Max Baucus (D-Mont.) and had 30 cosponsors, including lead co-sponsor Sen. Mike Crapo (R-Idaho) who co-chairs the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus.

This legislation corrects a longstanding inequity in the Internal Revenue Code by permitting firearm and ammunition manufacturers to pay the federal excise tax payment on a quarterly basis, just as other industries that support conservation through a federal excise tax do. Currently, firearms and ammunition manufacturers pay this tax on a bi-weekly schedule, forcing many manufacturers to borrow money to ensure on-time payment. Industry members spend thousands of staff-hours administering the necessary paperwork to successfully complete the bi-weekly tax payments—monies that are due to the federal government long before manufacturers are paid by their customers.

Importantly, HR 5552 pays for itself and does not add to the budget deficit. Nor does the bill lower the amount of conservation dollars collected by lowering the tax rate. It simply adjusts the payment schedule to a quarterly period.

“This bill strengthens wildlife conservation funding in America,” said NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane.

“By enabling manufacturers to grow their businesses, excise tax receipts will actually grow. We are thankful for the tremendous support and leadership of Senators Max Baucus and Mike Crapo. Clearly, their vision in championing this bipartisan, pro-conservation, pro-business legislation allowed for smooth passage of the bill.”

Keane added, “We also want to thank Majority Leader Harry Reid for expediting the legislative process by allowing the Senate to vote on the House-passed version of the bill. Senator Reid has long supported and fought for issues important to our industry and for hunters and gun owners both in Nevada and across the United States.”

The firearm and ammunition excise tax is the major revenue source for funding the Wildlife Restoration Trust Fund (also known as the Pittman-Robertson Trust Fund). Last year, firearm and ammunition manufacturers contributed approximately $450 million dollars to wildlife conservation through excise tax payments.

Passage of HR 5552 would not have been possible without the hard work of many organizations, including a broad coalition of more than 35 conservation groups that are members of the American Wildlife Conservation Partners. This coalition includes the National Rifle Association, Ducks Unlimited, Safari Club International and the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation, which made passage of this bill a priority.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies also supported this legislation as did the Internal Revenue Service-Tax and Trade Bureau, which collects the excise tax. There is no organized opposition to this legislation.

“With passage of excise tax improvement in the House and Senate, it is our hope that President Obama will act fast to sign this legislation into law,” said Keane.

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 5,500 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

Steyr Arms Names New Rep Group To Handle All Firearms Lines

Steyr Arms

TRUSSVILLE, Alabama --(Ammoland.com)- Steyr Arms announced today that the Evans Group, an independent manufacturer’s representative agency, will handle the sales for all three of the European manufacturers for which it is an exclusive importer, Steyr, Merkel and Anschutz Sporting Rifles. The agency has handled the Steyr line since August 2008.

“We have been very pleased with the performance of the Evans Group with the Steyr product lines,” said Scott O’Brien, CEO of Steyr Arms. “They have been very successful in growing the Steyr brand over the past two years. The real benefit of working with the Evans Group will be to our network of dealers and, ultimately, the consumers who want easier access to the finest firearms in the world from three legendary manufacturers.”

The Evans Group is a well-respected and highly sought-after sales group that was founded in 1990 and has expanded to cover a 50-state territory. It will now handle all of Steyr Arms’ brands. In addition to Steyr’s sporting and hunting rifles, Merkel shotguns, rifles, drillings, combination guns, K1 single-shot stalking rifles, the innovative KR1 bolt-action rifle, and the exceptionally reliable SR1 semiautomatic rifle as well as the Anschutz precision rimfire sporting rifles will be handled by The Evans Group.

“With the overwhelming experience of the Evans Group and the new opportunities this move presents, we look forward to continued growth for the new Steyr Arms and for the Steyr, Merkel and Anschutz brands,” said O’Brien. “We look forward to a long, mutually beneficial relationship with them.”

Established in 1864 in Steyr, Austria, Steyr Arms is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious firearms manufacturers. Steyr’s comprehensive lines of premium hunting rifles and precision sporting and tactical firearms are technically mature, and their subtle elegance also communicates the harmony between appearance and substance. Steyr’s legendary SBS actions and cold-hammer-forged barrels are distinctive and unparalleled. Steyr Arms is also the U.S. importer for Merkel firearms and Anschutz precision rimfire sporting rifles. For more information, contact Steyr Arms at 7661 Commerce Lane, Trussville, AL 35173; call (205) 655-8299; or visit www.steyrarms.com.

The Outdoor Foundation

Washington, D.C. --(Ammoland.com)- In 2009, American participation in outdoor recreation was marked by encouraging growth in important segments of core outdoor activities, according to a new report, Outdoor Recreation Participation Top Line Report for 2010, released today by Outdoor Foundation.

The 2010 Topline Report details recent participation trends in outdoor recreation for Americans ages six and older and illustrates ongoing adjustments in American lifestyles brought about by the challenging economy and changing demographics.

Initial data from the study shows that general participation in “core” outdoor sports and activities increased three (3.3%) percent to nearly one hundred (100.7%) million participants. Cost-effective categories continued with strong increases. Those activities that can be “done in a day” and fit in with busy schedules continued to post increases in activity: camping, hiking, running and bicycling.

The economy in 2009 had a major impact on spending in sports, fitness and recreation. Only more than four (4.5%) percent of active participants said they had spent more than in 2008, with the biggest decreases coming from equipment and travel. However, looking forward to 2010, there are positive signs with significant numbers of respondents set to increase spending in those categories.

“We see the economy driving people back to nature. This has tremendous implications for health and wellness issues surrounding the sharp increases in childhood obesity,” said Christine Fanning, Executive Director of Outdoor Foundation. “Outdoor recreation is finally being recognized as part of the solution. Our position is that nature should be the first prescription.”

Overall activity levels illustrates that while seventy-seven (77%) percent of Americans age six and over took part in at least one activity that left sixty-four million people who are inactive. Over fifty (50%) percent of Americans take part in no activities at all or are infrequent participants.

The study also shows that activities at school age have shown to be a major factor in determining future outdoor recreation participant levels. While three quarters of respondents took part in physical education (PE) at school, just over a third took part in outdoor activities. PE at school continues to be a pathway to an active adulthood.

With the vital outdoor recreational information detailed within the study, Outdoor Foundation provides youth organizations, public agencies, businesses and non-profits with insights needed to increase outdoor participation. Effective outreach programs and creative campaigns must be top priorities for every sector of society if we are to inspire and grow the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.

“While it is certainly encouraging to see an increase in participation in some important recreation categories, more must be done to help youth reclaim, redefine and rediscover the outdoors,” continued Fanning, noting that it’s been four years since the Richard Louv’s seminal book “Last Child in the Woods” was published. “Our new program, Outdoor Nation, and our first Youth Summit in New York in June is a way for CEOs to start thinking about investing in the next generation of outdoor industry executives and launching programs to support youth in the outdoors.”

Outdoor Foundation’s 2010 Outdoor Recreation Participation Topline Report details Americans’ participation in outdoor activities from 2008 to 2009. The Report is a high level overview of The Foundation’s full Participation Report, which will be released later this year with expanded data and full analysis.

Outdoor Foundation’s Outdoor Recreation Participation Report is the only detailed study of its kind tracking American participation trends in outdoor recreation. The study is based on an on-line survey capturing responses from over forty thousand (40,000) Americans ages six and older and covers a variety of outdoor activities.

A copy of the 2010 Outdoor Recreation Participation Topline Report along with the 2009 Outdoor Recreation Participation Report can be downloaded from Outdoor Foundation website.

About Outdoor Foundation
Outdoor Foundation is a not-for-profit organization dedicated to inspiring and growing future generations of outdoor enthusiasts. Through ground-breaking research, action-oriented convening and outreach and education programs, The Foundation is working with partners to mobilize a major cultural shift that leads all American back to the great outdoors. For more information, visit www.outdoorfoundation.org

Remington Arms Company, Inc.

ILION, NY --(AmmoLand.com)- Freedom Group’s COO, Joseph B. Gross, today announced that the Remington Arms facility in Ilion, New York, will add 100 manufacturing jobs as it relocates certain production from its Marlin factory in North Haven Connecticut.  The 194-year-old Ilion Firearms Plant, which is the Mohawk Valley’s largest employer and the nation’s longest continuous manufacturer, will receive $5.9 million in building improvements, equipment and machinery investment over the next two years.  The project will be supported with $1.5 million in grants from the Empire State Development Corporation, $200,000 in 2010 electricity cost subsidies, and the New York State Office of Community Renewal has earmarked a $750,000 New York State Community Development Block Grant for the project.

Mr. Gross said, “in order to continue to be competitive globally, FGI has made the decision to move its Marlin lever-action production from North Haven Connecticut to Ilion.  Ilion became the clear choice due to the experience of the workforce combined with the incentives offered by the State and Herkimer County.  We wish to thank Governor Paterson, Senator Seward, Assemblyman Butler, Chairman Dennis Mullen (ESD), NYS Office of Community Renewal and Regional Director Ken Tompkins (ESD) and Executive Director Mark Feane (Herkimer County IDA), for their continued support for the Ilion facility.”

“We are pleased Remington has chosen to grow its manufacturing base in the Mohawk Valley,” said Empire State Development Chairman & CEO Dennis Mullen.

“The addition of 100 new jobs to this facility will bring Remington’s Ilion plant employment numbers to the highest they’ve been in years.  As we work with our state and local partners towards rebuilding New York, this is exactly the type of investment that will help sustain our local economy and get us on the road to fiscal recovery.”

Senator James L. Seward (R/C/I-Oneonta) commented the following “Remington Arms has been an exceptional community leader and economic development partner in the Mohawk Valley for generations.  Today’s announcement follows a long-standing commitment to create jobs and make the area a better place to live and raise a family.  At a time when our economy is starting to rebound, I am hopeful that others will follow Remington’s lead and look to upstate New York for their expansion.”

Herkimer County Industrial Development Agency Executive Director Mark Feane said: “We are extremely happy to hear that Remington Arms, working closely with Senator Seward, Empire State Development, the Office of Community Renewal and Herkimer County, will be bringing additional jobs to upstate New York.  It is very encouraging that during difficult economic times, Remington Arms once again decides to add manufacturing positions at their Ilion facility.  I believe that this adds credence to the fact that upstate New York has an exceptional workforce and continues to offer growth opportunities to national icons like Remington Arms. This truly is a successful public/private partnership.”

Founded in 1816, Remington is one of the nation’s oldest continuously operating manufacturers of shotguns and rifles.  The company operates multiple manufacturing facilities within the United States.  Remington last transferred production into the Ilion facility in 2008, at which time it committed to maintaining 600 of the 715 positions then located there and adding 100 jobs to it.  Both these commitments were far exceeded within six months.

About Remington Arms Company, Inc.
Remington Arms Company, Inc., 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 80 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.remington.com.

About Freedom Group, Inc.
The Freedom Group of Family Companies is comprised of the world’s leading innovators, designers, manufacturers, and marketers of firearms, ammunition, and related products for the hunting, shooting sports, law enforcement, and military markets. As one of the largest manufacturers in the world of firearms and ammunition, The Freedom Family Group of Companies has some of the most globally recognized brands including Remington®, Bushmaster®, DPMS/Panther Arms™, Marlin®, H&R®, NEF®, LC Smith®, Parker®, EOTAC™, AAC™, Dakota®, INTC™ and Barnes Bullets™. The Company distributes its products throughout the U.S. and in over 80 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.freedom-group.com.

Remington Arms, Announces Expansion of Manufacturing Facilities

Remington Arms Company, Inc.

Madison, NC –-(AmmoLand.com)- Remington Arms Company Inc., a Freedom Group Company, proudly announces the expansion of the Ilion, NY and Mayfield, KY Firearms Plant.

The expansion includes the addition of 30,000 square feet to the facility, the creation of 100 new jobs and an estimated investment of 5 million dollars over the next three years.

The facility currently occupies 44,000 square feet and employs 91 people. The expansion of the Mayfield, Kentucky facility will accommodate the future relocation of certain Marlin rifle production lines. (Read More about Marlin Factory Closures)

About Remington Arms Company, Inc.
Remington Arms Company, Inc., 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 80 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.remington.com.

About Freedom Group, Inc.
The Freedom Group of Family Companies is comprised of the world’s leading innovators, designers, manufacturers, and marketers of firearms, ammunition, and related products for the hunting, shooting sports, law enforcement, and military markets. As one of the largest manufacturers in the world of firearms and ammunition, The Freedom Family Group of Companies has some of the most globally recognized brands including Remington®, Bushmaster®, DPMS/Panther Arms™, Marlin®, H&R®, NEF®, LC Smith®, Parker®, EOTAC™, AAC™, Dakota®, INTC™ and Barnes Bullets™. The Company distributes its products throughout the U.S. and in over 80 foreign countries. More information about the Company can be found at www.freedom-group.com.

Crosman

ROCHESTER, New York - -(AmmoLand.com)- CNBC takes a look at Crosman Corporation and the problems they had keeping their employees employed.

Look at how the company worked with local government to keep jobs here in the U.S.

When Crosman needed to upgrade their manufacturing capability to stay competitive they partnered with local government to get low cost loans and keep jobs from going over seas.

About:
For additional information on Crosman’s Nitro Piston technology, or on the rifles whose design will include it, or on any Crosman, Benjamin, Centerpoint Precision Optics, Crosman Archery, or Game Face Airsoft products, visit the company’s Web sites at www.crosman.com , www.centerpointoptics.com, www.gamefaceairsoft.com, or write to Laura Evans, Crosman Corporation, 7629 Routes 5 & 20, East Bloomfield, NY 14443, email her at levans@crosman.com, or call her at (800) 7 – AIRGUN (724-7486).

The report details the significant economic impact the firearms and ammunition industry has on the nation's and each state’s economy.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

WASHINGTON, D.C. --(AmmoLand.com)- At a Capitol Hill breakfast briefing, the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association for the firearms and ammunition industry, released a newly commissioned report.

The report details the significant economic impact the firearms and ammunition industry has on the nation’s and each state’s economy.

Key Points: Firearms and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact

2008

• Jobs 166,200
• Wages $6,361,205,400
• Econ Impact $19,199,634,700

2009

• Jobs 183,424
• Wages  $8,210,881,000
• Econ Impact $27,846,304,300

“During difficult economic times and high unemployment rates nationally, our industry actually grew and created 16,800 new, well-paying jobs,” said NSSF President Steve Sanetti.

“Our industry is proud to be one of the bright spots in this economy.”

Key Points: Taxes

2008

• Federal Taxes $1,503,740,471
• State Taxes $1,299,088,678
• Excise Taxes $327,070,867

2009

• Federal Taxes $2,035,154,440
• State Taxes $1,909,417,793
• Excise Taxes $450,177,780

The economic growth America’s firearms and ammunition industry experienced last year was driven by an unprecedented number of Americans choosing to exercise their fundamental right to keep and bear arms and purchase a firearm and ammunition. This coincided with the continued decline in accidental firearm-related deaths (more than a 60 percent decrease in the last 20 years) and a continued drop in crime rates nationally.

Also cited in the economic impact report were the significant taxes paid by industry member companies to federal and state governments and the Pittman-Robertson excise tax the industry pays on the products it sells – this tax is the major source of wildlife conservation funding in America.

“In 2009 our industry increased its contribution to wildlife conservation by over 37.6 percent, which translates into sportsmen contributing more than $7.5 million dollars daily to conservation efforts,” said NSSF Senior Vice President and General Counsel Lawrence G. Keane.

“Ours is an industry with a storied past, steeped in tradition and a rich heritage,” continued Keane.

“We were there at the beginning of America’s economic expansion and remain a vital and important American industry. We look forward to speaking with members of Congress today about important legislative and regulatory issues that will allow our industry members to continue to grow their businesses and create new jobs in their communities.”

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 5,500 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

Armalite AR10 Super S.A.S.S. Rifles In Tan

ArmaLite Inc

Geneseo, IL - (AmmoLand.com)- We DID it. We sold a truckload of rifles in our ArmaLite Firearms Truckload Sale.

And, the guy who bought them gets to keep the big “deuce and a half” military truck for free.

The BEST part is that most of this truck will be filled with AR10 SuperS.A.S.S. rifles. These SASS’s aren’t green or black. The furniture is tan. We’re boxing them up now. The truck will be at the loading dock this afternoon.

That’s when I’ll find out more about the dealer who bought the guns. Once I do, I’ll tell you where folks can go if they want one. We haven’t had tan SASS’s out in this quantity in forever.

About:
ArmaLite has one of the broadest product lines in the firearms industry. We manufacture and sell semiautomatic rifles in a variety of calibers including 5.56mm and 7.62mm, long range super-accurate bolt action rifles in calibers including .308 Winchester, 300 Winchester, 338 Lapua, and 50 BMG, and classic 9mm pistols. Visit: www.armalite.com

Armalite AR-10 A4 Rifle 7.62 With Forward Assist Green

ArmaLite Inc

Geneseo, IL --(Ammoland.com)- -(AmmoLand.com)- Armalite, Inc. is excited to announce that it is accepting new dealers.

If you are interested in joining the manufacturer of the finest firearms available, please reply to dealers@armalite.com.

Here is a little about our company: Armalite Vision

“To design, build, and produce innovative, high quality firearms and accessories which our customer can stake his or her life on, and to back this product line by providing customer service unmatched in the firearm industry.”

ArmaLite Profile
ArmaLite is a privately owned firearms manufacturing firm located in Geneseo, Illinois. ArmaLite has been at this location for 14 years.

ArmaLite has one of the broadest product lines in the firearms industry. We manufacture and sell semiautomatic rifles in a variety of calibers including 5.56mm and 7.62mm; long range super-accurate bolt action rifles in calibers including .308 Winchester, 300 Winchester, 338 Lapua, and 50 BMG; and classic 9mm pistols.

ArmaLite’s broad customer base includes private gun owners, police agencies including the Illinois State Police, federal agencies in support of the Anti-Terror Assistance Program, and international customers.

ArmaLite’s history is one of innovation. ArmaLite currently holds patents on several unique firearms and ammunition designs.

ArmaLite isn’t simply a reseller of products manufactured elsewhere. ArmaLite doesn’t rely on assembly of “generic” components. Rather, ArmaLite is a complete firearms company with our own Engineering, Quality Assurance, Machine Shop, Assembly, Warehouse, Marketing, Sales, and Finance divisions. Our facility boasts a 50 yard indoor range and high speed cameras that support both development of our new weapons and production acceptance testing of our current weapons.

The President, Mark Westrom, has led ArmaLite for the past fifteen years. He understands small arms from both the commercial and military point of view, both as a designer and as a user.

For more information about Armalite, visit our on-line library at http://www.armalite.com/Categories.aspx?Id=Library

About:
ArmaLite has one of the broadest product lines in the firearms industry. We manufacture and sell semiautomatic rifles in a variety of calibers including 5.56mm and 7.62mm, long range super-accurate bolt action rifles in calibers including .308 Winchester, 300 Winchester, 338 Lapua, and 50 BMG, and classic 9mm pistols. Visit: www.armalite.com

Steyr Arms

Trussville, AL --(Ammoland.com)- For starters, we apologize to anyone who had difficulty reaching us over the last 60 days or so. However, the chaos is now over.

Steyr Arms has successfully completed our acquisition of Merkel USA and finished our move into our new home in Trussville, AL. Yes, we were already located in Trussville, but now we are located in the old GSI building which consists of a 25,000 square foot warehouse and office space plus comes complete with an underground shooting range!

We are very excited about this transition and feel it will help tremendously as we continue to grow the Steyr Family of products in the US. In addition to Steyr-Mannlicher products, we are now the distributor for all Merkel products and the Anschuetz Sporting Rifle series as well.

Feel free to contact us at our new phone number (205) 655-8299 if you have any questions or need assistance with any of these products.

About:
Steyr Arms is one of the world’s oldest and most prestigious firearms manufacturers. Steyr’s comprehensive lines of premium hunting rifles and precision sporting and tactical firearms are technically mature, and their subtle elegance also communicates the harmony between appearance and substance. For more information, contact Steyr Arms North American Headquarters at P.O. Box 840, Trussville, AL 35173; call 205-467-6544; or visit www.steyrarms.com.

AcuSport

BELLEFONTAINE, OHIO –-(Ammoland.com)- AcuSport Corporation, a leading distributor of shooting and hunting products announces that they will add an exclusive All-Black FNH Five-seveN pistol to their inventory line-up.

The AcuSport exclusive Five-seveN is based on the successful police pistol recognized by the NRA for its tactical competition abilities.

All-Black FNH Five-Seven Personal Defense Pistol

The Five-seveN features a single-action, auto-loading pistol with a low-recoil 5.7x28mm cartridge which makes it a good choice for customers who are looking for a personal protection or target shooting pistol.

The specially made FNH Five-seveN produced for AcuSport (Item # 3868929922) features an aesthetically pleasing all-black design and comes with the standard offering of three magazines, locking device and lockable hard case for safe keeping.

This firearm will be available to ship from AcuSport 4/06/10. AcuSport customers should contact their Sales Professional to reserve these pistols by calling 1-800-543-3150.

AcuSport Retailers can also find more information about this item by accessing item # 3868929922 in the AcuSport ordering site, www.AcuSport.com.

Based in Bellefontaine, Ohio, AcuSport Corporation is a nationwide distributor of shooting and hunting products with regional sales offices in Pennsylvania, Georgia, Minnesota, Texas, Montana and California.

Marlin Firearms

Madison, NC --(Ammoland.com)- The Freedom Group, Inc., announced the closure of its Marlin manufacturing facility, located in North Haven, Connecticut.

The transition of Marlin firearms production in North Haven to a future site will not affect customers’ shipments or the range of Marlin product offerings.

At the time of last Thursday’s announcement, the Freedom Group was still evaluating several relocation options and will announce the future production site of Marlin firearms when the final decision is made.

“As competition in today’s global marketplace remains intense, consolidation of our manufacturing processes and operating systems allow us to provide Marlin customers with the highest quality products at competitive prices,” said Ted Torbeck, Freedom Group’s Chief Executive Officer.

“We are committed to the Marlin brand, its core product offerings and bringing innovative new Marlin firearms to our customers.”

Freedom Group, Inc. (FGI)

About Freedom Group, Inc.
Freedom Group is the world’s leading innovator, designer, manufacturer, and marketer of firearms, ammunition, and related products for the hunting, shooting sports, law enforcement, and military markets. As one of the largest manufacturers in the world of firearms and ammunition, we have some of the most globally recognized brands including Remington, Marlin, Harrington & Richardson, New England Firearms, L.C. Smith, Parker, Bushmaster, DPMS/Panther Arms, Dakota Arms, Advanced Armament Corp (AAC), Barnes Bullets, EOTAC, and INTC.

The Company assumes no obligation to update publicly such forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

Custom Gunsmith Jerry Fisher critiquing a student’s stock at Brownells 2009 Gunsmith Career Fair

Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(AmmoLand.com)- Brownells 4th Annual Gunsmith Career Fair will bring together leaders in the gunsmithing and business industry to share their knowledge and help gunsmiths grow their career and business.

The event takes place on April 23 and 24, 2010, at Des Moines Marriott Downtown in Des Moines, Iowa, and is free to gunsmiths and exhibitors.

Seminars range from advancing your career in the gunsmithing profession to starting or expanding a gunsmithing business.

Some topics include:

• Time = Money, the Cold, Hard Facts
• Financing your Business
• Increasing your Revenue through Engraving
• Gunsmithing for a Large Format Retailer
• Strength Development for Gunsmiths

Tom Shay, from Profit Plus, will share three dozen tips of merchandising and the essential components of a business plan. Representatives of Firearms Technology Branch of the BATF will be presenting two different seminars and be on hand to answer questions. View the full seminar schedule at gunsmithcareerfair.com

Frank Brownell told us, “I’m delighted to see the seminars growing. Our goal is to make the Career Fair much more than just a place to find a job, we want to help all gunsmiths grow and improve their professionalism.”

There’s still time to register to attend or exhibit, just go to gunsmithcareerfair.com or call 641-623-5401 and ask for Stacy or Jill. Attendees and exhibitors are urged to book hotel rooms and flights early as other major events are scheduled in Des Moines that same weekend.

Visit: www.gunsmithcareerfair.com

About:
At Brownells Everything is Guaranteed period! …Forever, 100%, with no restocking fees. Founded in 1939, Brownells supplies more than 30,000 firearms parts, accessories and gunsmithing tools to armorers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. Brownells provides free tech help and there’s no minimum order size or small order fees. To order, or for more information, or to place an order, call 800-741-0015 or visit Brownells.com

Barrett Model 82A1 .416 Rifle With Non-Detachable Magazine

AcuSport

BELLEFONTAINE, OHIO –-(AmmoLand.com)- AcuSport Corporation, a leading distributor of shooting and hunting products announces that they have been appointed distributor for the Barrett Model 82A1 chambered in a .416 caliber (Item #12353).

Demand for a product of this nature in restricted markets has been around for many years and AcuSport is very excited to offer the Barrett 82A1 with the non-detachable magazine to these retailers.

Barrett designed this new firearm for residents who have always wanted to own a Barrett 82A1 but haven’t been able to because of detachable magazine regulations. The non-detachable function is welded to the receiver and is not removable from the firearm. The rifle is loaded by disassembling the magazine from the lower receiver, which is accomplished with a small pointed tool or bullet point.

First shipments of the Barrett 82A1 .416 (Item #12353) are available to ship from AcuSport starting Monday, March 22, 2010. Independent retailers, who would like to place an order, please call 1-800-543-3150 or visit AcuSport’s e-OnLine ordering system at www.AcuSport.com for additional product information.

Based in Bellefontaine, Ohio, AcuSport Corporation is a nationwide distributor of shooting and hunting products with regional sales offices in Pennsylvania, Georgia, Minnesota, Texas, Montana and California.

I'll take a deuce and a half of Armalite Rifles..Please

ArmaLite Inc

Geneseo, IL - (AmmoLand.com)- Here’s a new one. Mark Westrom just came into the office and said we’re having a truckload sale.

He says if anyone buys a truckload of ArmaLite firearms and products, you get to keep the truck.

The trucks… and we have a parking lot full of them here in Geneseo… are military 35A2′s, commonly known as a “deuce and a half.”

We’re still working out the details on this… but Mark says any order of in-stock or “rapid response” product that will fill a truck means the truck is yours.

Mark sprung this on us at closing time this evening. We’ll have more tomorrow.

Call to place your order: 1-800-336-0184 Toll Free

Buy two and save on shipping.., You can never have to many Armalite Rifles

About:
ArmaLite has one of the broadest product lines in the firearms industry. We manufacture and sell semiautomatic rifles in a variety of calibers including 5.56mm and 7.62mm, long range super-accurate bolt action rifles in calibers including .308 Winchester, 300 Winchester, 338 Lapua, and 50 BMG, and classic 9mm pistols. Visit: www.armalite.com

February Background Checks On Firearm Sales Second Highest On Record...

National Shooting Sports Foundation

Washington, DC --(AmmoLand.com)- Data released by the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) reported 1,243,211 checks in February 2010, ranking the month the second highest February (eighth highest month overall) for most NICS checks.

This figure, while being a 1.3 percent decrease from the 1,259,078 checks conducted in February 2009 – the early stage of an ongoing surge in firearms and ammunition sales – is an increase of 21.7 percent over checks in February 2008.

The total number of background checks reported since the beginning of NICS is 112,380,272.

69% of people surveyed say Cities Don’t Have Right To Ban Handguns
As the Supreme Court considers the McDonald v. Chicago case, a new poll from Rasmussen Reports shows that 69 percent of Americans say city governments do not have the right to prevent citizens from owning handguns.

These findings are unchanged from June 2008 just before the Supreme Court overturned Washington, D.C.’s law banning handguns in that city. Read the full story from Rasmussen Reports.

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 4,000 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

Beretta USA

ACCOKEEK, MD --(AmmoLand.com)- The first 2010 issue of Beretta USA’s mail order catalog is now in-home and marks the sixth year the spring catalog has been published.

Ryan Muety, Beretta USA’s Director of Marketing and Consumer Direct, explained that Beretta launched its mail order catalog to provide a new way to promote Beretta-branded apparel and accessories – items related to the hunting and shooting sports. Even though the products offered in the catalog are not firearms, the products offered, like Beretta firearms, reflect the brand’s core characteristics of performance, quality, and innovation.

Beretta Spring 2010 Catalog

This is especially evident in Beretta’s new TEQ (pronounced “tech”) Performance Collection. The collection includes a jacket, vest, pant and short and is made of specially engineered polyester. Beretta developed this technical fabric to keep hunters cool, comfortable and protected during warm weather hunting. Lightweight and breathable, this quick-drying fabric is treated also to repel insects and UV rays. The TEQ Performance Collection is featured in Beretta’s Spring catalog.

The jacket from the TEQ Performance Collection is expected to be a particularly popular item this Spring. It packs easily and wears as comfortably as a softly constructed shirt.

“It’s a great jacket whether you’re hunting, fishing or hiking,” said Rebecca Etchen, Apparel Manager for Beretta USA, “and with its safari-style it also looks great on the street.”

Beretta plans a total of eight catalog issues this year. Each catalog features apparel for men and women, as well as various accessories such as shooting glasses, belts, hats and gloves. The apparel items include classic hunting apparel, apparel for clay shooting sports, as well as a selection of branded merchandise such as polo shirts, mock-turtlenecks, t-shirts and caps. Discounts are also offered on clearance items.

Beretta’s catalogs have been designed to reflect a selection of apparel and accessories most appropriate for the season, so the Spring catalog includes an extensive collection of items geared towards clay shooting sports. Men will also find seasonal casual wear like sweaters, shirts and jeans.

Each issue of the catalog includes a selection of gun accessories such as holsters, optics and choke tubes, as well as various luggage pieces, range bags, and gun and ammunition cases.

All the merchandise in the catalog is also available on line at Beretta’s website (www.berettausa.com). Customers can view a copy of the catalog on line or by calling 1-800-BERETTA.

About:
Beretta, established in 1526, is the oldest industrial dynasty in the world tracing its roots through 16 generations of continuous family ownership. Firearms bearing the Beretta name have been sold for almost 500 years. Beretta USA Corp. was founded in 1977 and supplies the standard sidearm to the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, Beretta manufactures, distributes and markets a complete line of firearms, accessories and apparel. Beretta also owns and operates six retail Beretta Gallery stores worldwide. For additional information, visit www.berettausa.com.

EDITORS NOTE: We have had multiple reports that CO Arms is out of business, not delivering goods, not calling back customers and not refunding customer deposits. Until we hear otherwise we want to warn all our readers of this before you do business with C.O Arms.

C.O. Arms Launches New Website

C.O. Arms 1911's Website

C.O. Arms

Millington, TN –-(AmmoLand.com)- C.O. Arms, a West Tennessee manufacturer of high quality 1911 pistols, has launched its new website at www.coarmsusa.com.

Along with the introduction of its new 1911 line, C.O. Arms is also introducing a new website. This website was created to showcase the unique high quality products created at C.O. Arms and to provide information to consumers and the general public. It also will serve to build a recognizable brand to attach to the C.O. Arms name and product line

The new website features photos, links to articles, information about the company, contact information, parts list and prices, product descriptions and live RSS news feeds.

With a close attention to detail and an evidence of raw talent, the men and women at C.O. Arms work to create a timeless, American-made product that will please any gun owner or enthusiast who shares in the legacy of the 1911.

C.O. Arms Scorpion 1911

For more information about C.O. Arms and their high quality 1911s, visit www.coarmsusa.com or call 206.888.2899 and leave your name and contact information.

EDITORS NOTE: We have had multiple reports that CO Arms is out of business, not delivering goods, not calling back customers and not refunding customer deposits. Until we hear otherwise we want to warn all our readers of this before you do business with C.O Arms.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

PHOENIX, AZ –-(AmmoLand.com)- Cavalry Arms Corporation and its owner Shawn Michael Nealon, 38, of Mesa Arizona., pleaded guilty to the felony offense of Illegal Sale by a Federally Licensed Firearms Dealer to an Out-of-State Resident, in federal district court in Phoenix.

Cavalry Arms Corporation and Nealon have also agreed to surrender their federal licenses to sell firearms.

“Selling to out-of-state residents has been illegal since 1968, we are enforcing federal firearms laws that have been on the books for over 40 years,” said John A. Torres, Special Agent in Charge of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives, Los Angeles Field Division.

“Selling firearms illegally to out of state residents, is something ATF and our state and local partners will aggressively pursue, and although there are very few dealers that engage in criminal transactions, their impact on individuals and communities can be devastating.”

Nealon maintained a federal firearms license (FFL) in his name as well as one under Cavalry Arms Corporation and both operated in the state of Arizona. The investigation conducted by ATF agents and inspectors spanned from Arizona to California and began in January 2008.

The investigation uncovered that on March 2, 2007, Nealon used his personal FFL to sell four firearms to an out-of-state resident. Nealon knew that at the time of the sale, the buyer resided in California. Over a 24 month period beginning in September 2005, Cavalry Arms’ FFL was used to sell 36 firearms to that same individual including AR-15 and AK-47 rifles and a variety of shotguns and handguns.

“Mr. Nealon has finally taken responsibility for his crime of illegally selling firearms to someone he knew was an out-of-state resident,” said Dennis Burke, U.S. Attorney for the District of Arizona. “When firearms are sold illegally, they often end up being used in crimes of violence in the United States and other countries. This criminal activity will not be tolerated in the District of Arizona.”

Nealon is scheduled to be sentenced on April 26,2010. A conviction for Illegal Sale by a Federally Licensed Dealer to an Out-of-State Resident carries a maximum penalty of five years in prison, a $250,000 fine or both.

Anyone with information about firearms trafficking or the illegal possession of firearms is encouraged to call ATF at 1-800-ATF-GUNS (800-283-4867). Callers can remain anonymous.

More information about ATF and its programs is available at www.atf.gov