FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- FNH USA, LLC, the U.S. subsidiary of global firearms manufacturer FN Herstal, is pleased to announce that it has signed an exclusive partnership with OMB GUNS to provide its full line of law enforcement (LE) products to the U.S. law enforcement market.

“We are pleased with our partnership with OMB GUNS,” said Ken Pfau, FNH USA Senior Vice President for Commercial and Law Enforcement Sales. “They are uniquely positioned to provide FN LE products to local and state law enforcement personnel nationwide. This will help get the most reliable, high-quality firearms in the hands of the men and women who protect our citizens every day..”

OMB GUNS, located in Olathe, KS, is one of the largest distributors for law enforcement firearms in the U.S. The company offers unmatched one-on-one customer service, as well as aggressive pricing on trade and equipment.

“OMB GUNS is partnering with FNH USA to promote the FN brand more aggressively to the law enforcement community,” said John Ralph with OMB GUNS.

“The introduction of the new FN FNS pistol line, manufactured in the U.S., represents a ‘shift change,’ which is exactly what law enforcement has been asking for. With the addition of the FNS, we are now able to offer a complete line of FN machine guns, rifles and shotguns, which makes OMB GUNS and FNH USA the perfect team to work together with law enforcement!”

FNH USA, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for the military, law enforcement and commercial markets. A pioneer in innovative firearm technology since the days of John M. Browning, the company supplies a variety of products to customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. Based in McLean, VA with manufacturing operations in Columbia, SC, FNH USA is responsible for all U.S.-based sales and marketing efforts. To learn more about FNH USA and its products, please visit www.fnhusa.com.

FN FNS Autoloading Duty Pistols

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- FNH USA is pleased to announce the introduction of the new FN FNS-9 and FNS-40 striker-fired autoloading duty pistols to the American law enforcement and commercial market at the 2012 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.

Built in the USA by a company with over 100 years of experience in the design and manufacture of striker-fired pistols, the FNS lineup represents the pinnacle of handgun performance, reliability and accuracy.

“The new FNS series of autoloading pistols was designed to be the most operator-friendly autopistol available intended to give America’s law enforcement officers a decisive edge,” said Ken Pfau, Senior Vice President of Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales for FNH USA. “After five years of design development and nearly a half-million rounds of testing, the FNS stands ready for duty with any agency, large or small.”

The new FNS features a highly-ergonomic frame design that includes an ultra-low bore axis to reduce felt recoil and two interchangeable backstraps to personalize the grip fit to the user. A MIL-STD 1913 underframe rail is standard for light attachment and an aggressive checkering grip pattern improves control under the harshest shooting conditions.

The new FNS is fully ambidextrous, allowing the user to access and activate the manual thumb safety levers, slide stop lever and magazine release button with either hand from either side of the pistol. This ambidextrous design not only helps adapt the pistol to the user it makes the FNS easier to train on, qualify with and use effectively under stress.

Standard features on the FNS include a hammer-forged stainless steel barrel, a forged stainless steel slide with front and rear cocking serrations, a full-length stainless steel recoil spring guide rod and FN’s exclusive low-profile Deep-V™ three-dot night sights. The FNS-9 offers a 17-round magazine capacity and the FNS-40 holds 14 rounds, both come standard with three magazines and a locking hard case.

To kick off the launch of the FN FNS pistol, FNH USA will host a Smoke and Hope Steel Challenge on Wednesday, January 18 from 4:00PM – 6:30PM, before the 3 Gun Nation Championship Finale, at the Clark County Shooting Range in Las Vegas. Each participant will receive the first round of five targets at no charge courtesy of FNH USA to establish a fastest time, and an opportunity to win one of 20 FNS-9 pistols to be given away. Participants can reshoot for $10 each try with all proceeds going to support the NRA’s Life of Duty Program. Along with asking for donations to the NRA Life of Duty Program, FNH USA will be giving away new FNS-9 pistols to participants, details at the event. Tickets for the event will be given out at the FNH USA SHOT Show booth.

FNH USA, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for the military, law enforcement and commercial markets. A pioneer in innovative firearm technology since the days of John M. Browning, the company supplies a variety of products to customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. Based in McLean, VA with manufacturing operations in Columbia, SC, FNH USA is responsible for all U.S.-based sales and marketing efforts. To learn more about FNH USA and its products, please visit www.fnhusa.com.

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- Team FNH USA is pleased to welcome Mark Wills to their 3-Gun shooting team roster.

An Academy of Country Music award winner, Wills is also well known in action and practical shooting circles, both as a determined competitor and as the host of the popular program “3-Gun Nation” on the Versus Network.

“We are very pleased to welcome Mark to Team FNH USA,” said Ken Pfau, Senior Vice President of Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales for FNH USA. “Mark does a great deal to build the shooting sport and supports numerous charities like the USA Cares Wounded Warrior project and Operation Troop Aid. Adding Mark to our shooting team is indicative of what our team is becoming and helps define who we are as an organization.”

“I’m not a pro shooter; I’ve enjoyed shooting as a hobby and have for many years,” Mark Wills reveals. “What sparked my interest in the 3-gun world is that it is a learning sport and there is always room for improvement as a marksman. I don’t aspire to win, necessarily; I hope to help grow the shooting sport, promote the firearm industry to a public who may not yet be familiar and enjoy the sport safely. I’m honored to have been asked to help represent the team next year.”

“Mark is already an avid Bianchi Cup shooter and is truly committed to building the shooting sports as a whole,” noted Tommy Thacker, the captain of Team FNH USA. “Getting Mark on board adds depth to the team, and he’s not going to just be along for the ride. He’ll be right in the thick of competition, pulling his weight with the rest of the team.”

FNH USA, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for the military, law enforcement and commercial markets. A pioneer in innovative firearm technology since the days of John M. Browning, the company supplies a variety of products to customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. Based in McLean, VA with manufacturing operations in Columbia, SC, FNH USA is responsible for all U.S.-based sales and marketing efforts. To learn more about FNH USA and its products, please visit www.fnhusa.com.

FNH USA Launches Brand New E-Store

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- FNH USA, LLC is pleased to announce the launch today if its brand-new e-store located at www.fnhusaestore.com.

As of today, FNH USA apparel, soft goods and firearms accessories are now available for purchase online.

“We are pleased to offer FNH USA merchandise for sale to our loyal customers,” said Jo Tarrant, Director of Marketing and Communications for FNH USA. “We are grateful for the many current and future FN firearms owners who feel so strongly about our brand that they are proud to showcase it on their apparel and accessories. Their enthusiasm exemplifies the life-long relationship they have with FNH USA.”

As part of its e-store launch, FNH USA is also unveiling the opportunity for its customers to support the National Rifle Association’s NRA Life of Duty program. The NRA Life of Duty is a special membership program geared towards active law enforcement, military and first responders. The NRA Life of Duty program includes an online network that serves individuals who to go to work every day protecting, defending and fighting for the safety of American freedoms. This network provides news updates and long-form stories that give a powerful voice to the heroes who live a life of duty, each and every day.

Between now and December 2012, customers of FNH USA’s e-store may choose to help support NRA Life of Duty personally by “rounding up” their total purchase to the nearest dollar. All proceeds collected will be donated by FNH USA to help support the program.

“Involvement in programs like NRA Life of Duty is something that is very close to FNH USA’s heart,” said Tarrant. “FNH USA and its parent company, FN Herstal in Belgium, have more than a 100-year history of supporting men and women in uniform worldwide. We are pleased to sponsor a program such as this that will bring them such relevant and timely information.”

FNH USA, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for the military, law enforcement and commercial markets. A pioneer in innovative firearm technology since the days of John M. Browning, the company supplies a variety of products to customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. Based in McLean, VA with manufacturing operations in Columbia, SC, FNH USA is responsible for all U.S.-based sales and marketing efforts. To learn more about FNH USA and its products, please visit www.fnhusa.com.

First Generation Of New FN SC-1 Over And Under Shotgun Launched

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- FNH USA, LLC is pleased to announce the limited release of its SC-1 over and under sporting competition shotgun, which is the first over and under shotgun sold by FNH USA.

“The FN SC-1 establishes a striking new standard in both performance and appearance that sets it apart from traditional over and under shotguns,” said Ken Pfau, Senior Vice President of Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales for FNH USA. “This is a magnificent 12-gauge shotgun that is ready to go out of the box and will definitely turn some heads at the team’s upcoming matches.”

Today’s limited release is for 200 individual guns that were pre-sold prior to production. “This first generation of the SC-1 was designed for a small number of competitors and diehard FN owners,” said Pfau. “We were pleasantly surprised by the enormous amount of interest we received from our customers and plans for producing a second generation of the shotgun are already in the works for 2012.”

In terms of performance, the FN SC-1 features 28-inch back-bored ported barrels that are fully chrome-lined from chamber to muzzle for long life and added corrosion resistance. The barrels are equipped with Invector-Plus stainless steel extended choke tubes with knurled bands and a blue FN USA Team collar for easy identification. The 10mm wide vented top rib has a brass mid-bead and fiber-optic front sight for quick and easy target acquisition.

In terms of appearance, the all-steel low profile receiver is embellished with a combination of brushed silver satin and bright FN USA Team blue. The blue and gray laminated wood stock is fitted with a premium sporting recoil pad, a fully adjustable comb and is checkered and textured for a sure grip under any shooting conditions.

“We are proud of Team FNH USA and are pleased with their winning track record on the national 3-gun shooting scene,” said Pfau. “With the introduction of the SC-1, the team will now have an edge over its competition. This is the gun they’ll have in their hands when they step to the line on a flying clays layout.”

FNH FN SC-1 Over And Under Shotgun

FNH USA, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for the military, law enforcement and commercial markets. A pioneer in innovative firearm technology since the days of John M. Browning, the company supplies a variety of products to customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. Based in McLean, VA with manufacturing operations in Columbia, SC, FNH USA is responsible for all U.S.-based sales and marketing efforts. To learn more about FNH USA and its products, please visit www.fnhusa.com

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- FNH USA was recently the title sponsor ofthe new NRA National Defense Match August 13 – 14, 2011 at historic Camp Perry, OH, which was held during the high power rifle phase of NRA’s month-long National Matches.

This match was an invitation-only event designed to introduce participants to the sport of practical shooting and mimics real-life military training and tactics.

“We are pleased to support the inaugural NRA National Defense Match,” said Ken Pfau, Senior Vice President of Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales for FNH USA.

“We are excited to work with other long-established competitive event organizers like the NRA to create specific match formats at major competitions in order to let participants discover the enjoyment of ‘fun and gun’ shooting sports.”

Fourteen year-old high school freshman Colton Cerino won first place in the Optics Category and placed fifth overall. FNH USA provided Cerino with a SCAR 16S for use during the match.

The FN SCAR is a lightweight modern sporting rifle designed for use in challenging tactical environments. Developed in 2004, it underwent stringent in-theater testing before it was deployed overseas with U.S. Special Forces units in 2009. FNH USA introduced a commercial, semi-automatic version later that year.

The rifle operates on an innovative, short-stroke gas piston system that routes heat, soot and carbon created during firing away from the bolt and chamber. As a result, critical areas remain cooler and cleaner, increasing reliability and accuracy. The SCAR features a collapsible and side folding stock, as well as a movable cheek rest making it perfect for multi-position shooting events.

“The SCAR was the perfect firearm for Colton to use,” said Pfau. “It’s ideal for young shooters because it is one of the most lightweight, adjustable and easy-to-use carbines on the market today.”

“After shooting the SCAR on the range, I knew I loved it,” said Cerino. “The first thing I noticed was that it recoiled less than a standard semi-automatic sporting rifle. The controls and adjustable stock and cheek piece made it an easy gun for me to shoot. This is a gun that I was very comfortable with after only three days of training.”

“FNH USA is deeply committed to supporting junior participation in shooting sports,” said Pfau. “Congratulations to Colton for a job well done. You have set an amazing example for other talented juniors interested in becoming more involved in competitions like the NRA National Defense Match.”

FNH USA, LLC is a U.S. subsidiary of FN Herstal S.A., a global leader in the development and manufacturing of high-quality, reliable firearms for the military, law enforcement and commercial markets. A pioneer in innovative firearm technology since the days of John M. Browning, the company supplies a variety of products to customers in more than 100 countries worldwide. Based in McLean, VA with manufacturing operations in Columbia, SC, FNH USA is responsible for all U.S.-based sales and marketing efforts. To learn more about FNH USA and its products, please visit www.fnhusa.com.

3-Gun Nation

USA --(Ammoland.com)- Watch as the cameras follow pro shooter Clint Upchurch, who has exploded onto the 3-gun scene and leads 3GN’s Open division.

See Upchurch take on a stacked field at last year’s Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge. Also in this episode, “3-Gun Nation” follows Bruce Piatt at the Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun as he attempts to come back from the longest injury of his shooting career.

See the sport of 3-gun like nowhere else, including Contour HD POV shots from the top pros in the game. Then get ready for the thrilling conclusion in the 3-Gun Nation Shoot-Off, a man-versus-man race against steel targets for $5,000.

Also, country music artist Mark Wills returns for the FN Tip with the top pros from the 3GN Tour.

Multi-gun, or 3-gun, is a unique sport within the discipline known as practical shooting. Considered the fastest growing segment within the shooting sports, 3-gun challenges competitors with rifle, pistol and shotgun, maneuvering through unique stages of fire as fast as their skill will allow.

The National 3-Gun Association, through media properties “3-Gun Nation Television,” and 3GunNation.com, was formed with one mission: to promote practical shooting by shining a light on amateur and professional shooters alike, as well as the guns, gear and lifestyle that define the high-octane sport of 3-gun competition. Bringing never-before-seen cash payouts to the table, 3-Gun Nation is quite simply changing the game.

3 Guns. One Champion.

The All-New “3-Gun Nation” airs Mondays at 9:30 AM; Fridays at 10:30 AM and Sundays at 7:30 AM. All times EST. Only on Versus.

For more information, including bonus footage, shooter profiles, news coverage, products, the 3GN Forum, powered by AR15.com—anything related to the action shooting sports—visit the All-New www.3GunNation.com.

Horner took home $5,000 courtesy of Safariland. Shown is Daniel Horner, middle, along with Safarilands' Mike Voigt, left, and Maggie Reese, right.

3-Gun Nation

RATON, N.M. –-(Ammoland.com)- Daniel Horner outlasted a furious late pistol charge by Rob Romero to win his record third 3-Gun Nation Shoot-Off following the JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-Gun here recently, taking home a $5,000 check from Safariland.

The sixth event on the 2011 FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, provided the third straight 3GN Shoot-Off appearance for the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Horner, who had been knocked out of the last two competitions. Horner, competing in his sixth 3GN Shoot-Off overall, won the event for the third time, his first since last September’s Ozark 3-Gun Championships. The win ran Horner’s career 3GN winnings to $36,500.

Romero, who won Heavy Metal, looked extremely strong throughout the early rounds, first knocking off Horner’s teammate, Tyler Payne, in a rematch of their 2010 3GN Championship first-round bout. The Team Noveske shooter then cruised to a win over Mike Voigt in the semi-finals, setting up the showdown with Horner. Romero and Horner had squared off previously in the finals following Ozark last year.

Horner’s run began with a first round defeat of Eric Miller, followed up by a semi-final match-up with the up-and-coming Greg Jordan (2nd, Tactical Optics), who previously competed well during the 3GN Shoot-Off at Fort Benning.

Jordan again looked dialed in, with a first round upset of Kurt Miller before taking a lead over Horner coming out of the second rifle position, which was a twist in this 3GN Shoot-Off. Competitors first ran to a Barrett MRAD bolt-action rifle chambered in .338 Lapua, firing two shots on MGM steel at 260 yards before moving to the traditional rifle position.

It was here where Jordan took a slight lead, being first out of the prone position, maintaining that lead coming off the Stag Arms AR-15 prototype 3-gun rifle, before transitioning to FNH SLP. During the shotgun run, Jordan caught a tough break as the flippers, while flying high, presented over his head. Horner capitalized, setting up his finals showdown with Romero.

Horner runs the Stag 3-Gun prototype during his run versus Romero. The rifle was provided with a Leupold HAMR scope and American Eagle 55 Grain .223 Ammo.

And in that final match-up, Horner opened up a seemingly comfortable lead by the second rifle position, this time an FNH SCAR for the final run. But during the pistol arrays, Romero accelerated with the FN FNS pistol, closing ground on Horner. Ultimately, the lead was too great, and Horner stayed steady, got his hits, and cashed a $5,000 check from Safariland.

In the final match-up of the first round, Voigt knocked off Heavy Metal Optics winner Adam Popplewell, sending him into the semi-finals, setting up the pairing with Romero. Popplewell, K. Miller, E. Miller and Payne each received $100 for qualifying for the 3GN Shoot-Off. Jordan and Voigt earned $500 each for reaching the semi-finals, while Romero took home $1,000 for his finals run. Safariland also kicked in $200 gift certificates for each Shoot-Off competitor, running the total Shoot-Off payout to more than $10,000.

In the 3-Gun Nation Team Event, presented by Brownells, Team Maggie Reese, with Walt Flynn and Firebird’s Dan Sierpina, defeated Team Cody Leeper, with Vicki Carlton and Darren Leskiw, taking home $500 each. Each member of Team Cody received a Brownells 3-Gun bag. During the run, Sierpina established a nice lead with the rifle, which Flynn maintained, while Reese held on with the pistol and the win.

The next stop on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, is during the AR15.com/Rockcastle Pro-Am 3-Gun Championship, Aug. 26-28, at the Rockcastle Shooting Center in Park City, Kentucky. The match will be the seventh 3GN Points match of the 2011 3GN Tour.

“3-Gun Nation” airs Mondays at 9:30 EST, Fridays at 10:30 AM EST and Sundays at 7:30 AM EST. Only on Versus. Also, be sure to check out the 3GN Forum, powered by AR15.com, and follow threads posted by 3GN, Stag Arms’ Jesse Tischauser, Noveske’s Jansen Jones and more: http://3gn.ar15.com/forums/b/13_.html.

Tasha Hanish Of Team FNH USA Wins Women’s Open Championship Title At The 2011 Shooting Industry Masters

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- Tasha Hanish of Team FNH USA won the Women’s Open Championship title at the 2011 Shooting Industry Masters competition, which was held July 22 – 23, 2011 at the sprawling 2000-acre Park Mammoth Resort and Rockcastle Shooting Center in Park City, KY.

Sponsored by FMG Publications, the Shooting Industry Masters match tests each competitor’s speed and accuracy with a pistol, rifle and shotgun.

Approximately 370 shooters representing 78 teams participated in the event, which raised $37,000 for the First Shots program.

Developed by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) and hosted by independent shooting facilities, the program provides participants with a comprehensive introduction to shooting by qualified range operators and instructors that includes firearm safety, local ownership requirements, shooting fundamentals, hands-on instruction and how and where to continue.

“We are proud to have been part of this year’s Shooting Industry Masters competition,” said Ken Pfau, Vice President of Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales at FNH USA. “Congratulations to Tasha — and the rest of Team FNH USA — for a job well done.”

“The folks at FNH USA are responsible for a sizable chunk of the money raised for First Shots by hosting an exciting 3-gun side match,” said Randy Molde, FMG Publications. “Masters competitors were thrilled with the opportunity to experience the action that 3-gun competition provides. We appreciate all the work FNH USA put into producing such a popular event.”

“More than 200 shooters participated in FNH USA’s side match this weekend in over 100 degree heat,” said Pfau. “Now that’s a dedicated team! They were out there, excited to have the opportunity to show spectators what 3-gun is all about.”

Members of Team FNH USA shooting in the 2011 Shooting Industry Masters match included Pfau, Mark Hanish, Tasha Hanish, Larry Houck, Diana Liedorff, Erik Lund and Tommy Thacker.

FNH USA, LLC is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support.

3 Gun Nation

USA --(Ammoland.com)- Clint Upchurch’s fourth consecutive Open division victory kept the South Carolina native alone in first place atop the 3GN Standings following the recent Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun at the Rockcastle Shooting Center. But staying in first by himself might not last too long.

Daniel Horner picked up his third match at Blue Ridge, with his Tactical Optics win vaulting the defending 3GN Champion up the leader board into second place.

Kurt Miller, who did not compete at Blue Ridge, remained in the top five at third, while SureFire’s Barry Dueck switched to Heavy Metal for a win, moving him to fourth place in front of Bryan Ray, who fell to fifth overall following his second place finish to Dueck in Heavy Metal at Blue Ridge.

Taran Butler, James Darst, Jeff Cramblit, Robby Johnson and Tony Holmes round out a top 10 that features two competitors that didn’t qualify for last year’s 3GN Championship: Remington’s Robby Johnson, who didn’t attend enough matches last season; and Ray, the non-sponsored shooter who seemingly came out of nowhere last year and is now tearing up the Heavy Metal division.

Five ladies currently sit among the 3GN Top 50. At #30 overall, Kay Miculek holds the top Lady spot, followed by Maggie Reese (#36), Katie Harris (#41, who is also 3GN’s top Junior), Dianna Liedorff (#43) and Deb Cheek (#45).

To view the entire Top 50, click the “Standings” tab found within the “3-Gun Events” listing on the top-right of the page.

Clint Upchurch, who competes in the Open division, remains a perfect four-for-four on the 2010-2011 3GN Tour.

The next stop on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, presented by SureFire, is the MGM Ironman, June 5-11, in Parma, Idaho.

SureFire's Barry Dueck stands alone atop the 3GN Heavy Metal Optics division standings headed into MGM Ironman.

3 Gun Nation

USA --(Ammoland.com)- With $25,000 on the line, competitors have been jockeying for position, and a few have even jumped divisions, to make a run at the Inaugural 3-Gun Nation Divisional Championships, presented by Hornady.

Each of the five 3GN divisions has a $5,000 cash prize up for grabs, totaling $25K for the season. But with six points events remaining, there is still a lot of shooting to be done, with arguably the toughest event in the sport looming—the MGM Ironman.

Daniel Horner used his division win at the Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun to rocket himself up the Tactical Optics leader board, overtaking Taran Butler, now in second. Robby Johnson’s second place Blue Ridge finish moved Horner’s former AMU teammate into third place, followed by Rob Romero and Rustin Bernskoetter.

MGM’s Travis Gibson continued his steady improvement, earning a spot in sixth place in Tactical Optics, followed by Ben Fortin, Tyler Payne, Scott McGregor and Jamie Foote.

In Open, everyone is chasing Clint Upchurch, who’s second year of competitive 3-gun has become a complete breakout performance.

James Darst sits in second, followed by FNH USA’s Tommy Thacker, Brian Butcher and Kay Miculek.

Notable Open absences are Jerry Miculek and Mike Voigt, who when they pick up their third matches are expected to shake up the Open standings.

In Heavy Metal Optics, one man stands alone. SureFire’s Barry Dueck is currently the only qualified competitor with a strong score of 292.03. However, Adam Popplewell is expected to challenge Dueck for the title.

In Tactical Irons (Limited), only two competitors currently have enough scores, with Kurt Miller holding a commanding lead over Brian Vaught, a non-sponsored shooter from Kentucky.

Vaught’s training partner, and brother-in-law, Bryan Ray, tops the Heavy Metal race, one that is shaking up to be very interesting coming down the stretch. With Ray not expected to attend every match, JJ Johnson and Trapr Swonson, sitting second and third, respectively, along with Joe Satterfield, should have opportunities to pick up division wins without having to be Ray. That alone could set Heavy Metal up for a photo finish at the FNH USA Championships in November.

The next event on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, is the MGM Ironman, June 5-11, in Parma, Idaho. Along with 3GN points, the Ironman will also host a 3-Gun Nation Shoot-Off, with the winner taking home a $5K prize from Warne Scope Mounts. For more information, go to www.3GunNation.com.

U.S. AMU’s Daniel Horner that emerged for the overall and Tactical Optics victory.

3 Gun Nation

PARK CITY, Kent. --(Ammoland.com)- Like Yogi Berra so famously said, “It’s like déjà vu all over again.” Kentucky’s month-long deluge of severe thunderstorms and torrential rains left its final mark on the 2011 DPMS-Bushnell Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun at the Rockcastle Shooting Center here Sunday, as the final two stages were scrapped due to inclement weather.

While rain had soaked the course in the days and weeks prior to the event, the weather broke for two spectacular shooting days on Friday and Saturday before the final downpour Sunday morning.

Last year’s Blue Ridge Mountain was also shortened due to inclement weather, to the point no winners were declared.

However, the entire field had shot at least eight of ten stages this year, so scores were normalized and it was U.S. AMU’s Daniel Horner that emerged for the overall and Tactical Optics victory. For Horner, the win comes on the heels of a 2nd place finish at Superstition. The Blue Ridge win, a nearly 90-point victory over eight stages, emphatically stated that Horner (770.5103) is the most dominating shooter in the sport on natural terrain courses of fire, and possibly any type of stage design.

Remington’s Robby Johnson (683.9144) took second in Tactical Optics, followed by Noveske’s Rob Romero (673.5116), Rustin Bernskoetter (662.9975) and Caspian’s Bruce Piatt (647.1356).

In Open, Clint Upchurch continued his remarkable run, winning his fourth consecutive division title by holding off a strong performance by SureFire’s Mike Voigt (742.8257). While Voigt won four of the eight stages, a slip on stage two’s long-range rifle steel arguably decided the match, as Upchurch’s lead on stage two mirrored his overall point lead over Voigt.

DPMS’ James Darst (701.1839) narrowly edged out Don Bednorz (694.4393), while Team Rockcastle’s Tony Holmes (675.4203) took fifth.

In Tactical Irons, Kelly Neal (761.7459) picked up his 2nd consecutive division win by a comfortable margin. James Casanova (702.677) placed second, followed by Brian McKibben (693.6945), Hornady’s Jeff Cramblit (690.4002) and Spike Tactical’s Cameron Thompson (596.9331).

Heavy Metal saw an interesting battle as SureFire’s Barry Dueck (782.3063) jumped divisions from Heavy Metal Optics (not recognized at Blue Ridge) and cruised to his first division win since last Fall’s Ozark match. Upstart Bryan Ray (693.0936) placed second, followed by Joe Satterfield (663.663), Maurice Griffin (649.8307) and J.J. Johnson (614.9773).

Horner’s win will vault the Army shooter up the 3GN leader board from 17th place all the way to 2nd behind Upchurch, who remains the only competitor with a perfect score of 300. However, with Horner’s second win, it seems only a matter of time before he joins Upchurch atop the 3GN standings.

The next event on the 2011 FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, is the MGM Ironman, June 5-11 in Parma, Idaho. A 3GN Shoot-Off and 3GN Points event, Ironman will be the 5th of 10 3GN Tour events this season.

Enter to Win a FNH 3-Gun Competition Package Worth $7,000

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- Make sure you stop by the FNH USA booth (#1326) at the upcoming NRA Annual Meetings in Pittsburg and enter to win a 3-gun competition package worth $7,000!

Simply guess the correct number of fired cases in the container on display at the booth and you may be the winner!

There is no charge to enter and no purchase required.

The winner’s prize includes a new FN SCAR 16S carbine, an FN SLP MK I shotgun, and FN FNX-9 pistol, a complete 3-gun belt system and range bag from Safariland, a Leupold Mark 4 tactical scope, a Warne R.A.M.P mount in FNH USA Team blue, Rudy Project eyewear, Vertx clothing, an FNH USA jersey and an Otis cleaning kit. You’ll be fully equipped to shoot with the big dogs!

After you’ve won all this new gear, you’ll need a chance to see how well it performs. The winner will also get his or her match entry fee paid to the 2011 FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Championships in West Virginia, where they will shoot alongside Team FNH USA!

Make sure you make time to visit the FNH USA booth at the NRA Annual Meetings. You’ll be glad you did!

3 Gun Nation

USA --(Ammoland.com)- 3-Gun Nation reached an agreement recently with Hornady Ammunition to establish a series of cash prizes, totaling $25,000, based on the full season of 3GN-affliated matches.

The 3-Gun Nation Divisional Championships will award cash payouts to the top shooters in the most recognized divisions.

Competitors from the following divisions are eligible: Tactical Optics, Limited (Tactical Irons), Open, Heavy Metal and Heavy Metal Optics. The top shooter in each division will win a check from Hornady for $5,000.

“Hornady is committed to all disciplines of the shooting sports, and looks to further interest throughout all shooting disciplines,” said Neil Davies, Marketing Director, Hornady.

“Continually looking to incentivize participation in the shooting sports, Hornady has committed to sponsor the 3GN Divisional Championships in order to continue to foster excellence in competition in the fast-paced, action-packed shooting sport that is 3-gun.”

Affiliated matches for the 2011 season include: 2010 Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship, 2010 Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge, Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun, DPMS-Bushnell Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun, MGM Ironman, JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-Gun, AFCOM-Rockcastle Pro Am, 2011 Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship, USPSA Multi-Gun Championships, and the FNH USA Championships.

To earn 3GN Divisional Championship points, competitors must earn a valid score from a minimum of three, 3GN-affiliated matches. A competitor’s top three scores from within any one division will count toward 3GN Divisional points. In the event of a tie, scores earned in the final qualifying event, the FNH USA Championships, will be used to break any and all ties.

After giving away $65,000 in 2010, the 3GN Divisional Championships, presented by Hornady, raises the prizes for the 2011 season to more than $125,000, including approximately $20,000 exclusively for junior and lady competitors, as well as the $25,000 grand prize to the 2011 3GN Champion, provided by Leupold Tactical Optics.

The FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, is made possible though the contributions of FNH USA, SureFire, Federal, NSSF, Cheaper Than Dirt, Stag Arms, Leupold Tactical Optics, Ruger, Otis Technology and MGM Targets; and in part by Hornday, Blackhawk, Weaver Optics, Barrett Rifles, Pelican Cases, Brownells, Truck Vault, Vortex, Warne, Safariland, Timney Triggers, Adams Arms, Samson Manufacturing and AP Customs.

The next stop on the 2011 3GN Tour is the DPMS-Bushnell Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun, April 29-May 1, at the Rockcastle Shooting Center in Park City, Kent. Blue Ridge, a 3GN-points match, will be the fourth of 10 3GN-affiliated matches on this year’s 3GN Tour.

The 2011 FNH USA Long Range Precision Rifle Team is comprised of members Justin Daley of Brunswick, Ohio; Dave Neth of Emmitt, Idaho; Jason Thompson of Coshocton, Ohio; Ben Voss of Warrenton, Missouri; and Charles “Tate” Moots of Albuquerque, NM.

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- Charles “Tate” Moots of the FNH USA Long Range Precision Rifle Team took second place overall with a score of 1305 of a possible 2300 points at the 2011 Sniper’s Hide Cup in Kingsville, Texas.

The overall match winner was Geordie Richardson of Weatherford, Texas, with a score of 1385/2300.

Moots fired an FN SPR A5M bolt-action rifle with a prototype chambering of 6.5 Creedmore, stoked with Hornady match ammo and topped with a Leupold 6.5×20 ERT scope. Moots also carried an FNX-9 pistol for the handgun stages in the match.

Moots emerged as the top finisher in the exciting Helicopter Stage, which required each competitor to engage a ground target from a flying helicopter with an FN SCAR 17S, and upon landing exit the aircraft and fire a five shot group with their precision rifle. The stage winner was slated to receive an SCAR 17S donated by FNH USA as a prize. Moots, in a great show of sportsmanship immediately donated his SCAR 17S rifle back to the match organizers so it could be awarded to a fellow competitor by random drawing.

Charles "Tate" Moots of the FNH USA Long Range Precision Rifle Team took second place overall with a score of 1305 of a possible 2300 points at the 2011 Sniper’s Hide Cup in Kingsville, Texas.

Moots, an employee of the U.S. Department of Energy in Albuquerque, New Mexico, was among five members of the FNH USA rifle team in the competition. Other team members and their order of finish included Dave Neth of Emmitt, Idaho (31st) Jason Thompson of Coshocton, Ohio (32nd) Ben Voss of Warrenton, Missouri (43rd) and Justin Daley of Brunswick, Ohio (44th). The FNH USA rifle team is unofficially known as “Team Claw” in recognition of the massive external claw extractors on their FN SPR bolt-action rifles.

“The goal of the team was to place an FNH USA shooter in the top five of this competition, the ‘Super Bowl’ of long range shooting,” said FNH USA rifle team captain Ben Voss. “With Tate’s second place finish, we accomplished that goal. Tate shot three very good days and that is what it takes to win an event like this. It is a marathon, not a sprint.”

“The entire team did very well in my opinion, and we look forward to competing again soon,” concluded Voss. “Even if we all did not place in the top five, we all still enjoy shooting in these events and meeting fellow competitors.”

Stage distances at the match ranged out to 1000 yards (yes, that’s more than a half-mile!) and were based on real-life tactical situations. The three-day event ran from April 7 to 9 and was sponsored by Sniper’s Hide, an internet-based rifle marksmanship information site, and was hosted by Rifles Only, a nationally known rifle marksmanship training provider.

The match drew a total of 63 competitors from among the nation’s best long-range rifle marksmen in the civilian, law enforcement and military communities. The 65 available slots at the match are normally filled in a matter of seconds via real-time online registration.

FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support.

The FN SCAR 17S, SPR and FNAR precision rifles are renowned for their exceptional reliability and long-range accuracy right out of the box.

FNH USA

McLean, Virginia --(Ammoland.com)- Five members of the FNH USA Long Range Precision Rifle Team will compete in the 2011 Sniper’s Hide Cup in Kingsville, Texas. The three-day event is scheduled for April 7 – 9 and is sponsored by Sniper’s Hide, an internet-based rifle marksmanship information site, and hosted by Rifles Only, a nationally known rifle marksmanship training provider.

The FNH USA rifle team will consist of Ben Voss of Warrenton, Missouri; Jason Thompson of Coshocton, Ohio; Justin Daley of Brunswick, Ohio; Dave Neth of Emmitt, Idaho and Charles “Tate” Moots of Albuquerque, New Mexico.

FNH USA will also be providing a SCAR 17S rifle and an SPR A5 TBM rifle as prizes for the event. Stage distances will range out to 1000 yards (that’s more than a half-mile!) and are based on real-life tactical situations. The match is limited to just 45 competitors and draws the nation’s best long-range rifle marksmen from the civilian, law enforcement and military communities.

If you’ve ever wanted to see how well you can shoot one of FN’s SCAR 17S, SPR or FNAR long-range precision rifles, you’ll have your chance at the Demonstration Day on April 6 from 1:00 PM to 5:00 PM. The live-fire demonstration activity is open to the public and ammo will be provided so bring your friends and get ready to see who gets bragging rights for being the best shot.

The FN SPR rifle line is based on the classic Model 70-style bolt-action, with a forged receiver, controlled round feeding, massive claw extractor and three-position safety. SPR barrels are cold hammer-forged, chrome-lined and target crowned. The classic two-lever Model 70-style trigger gives you precise control over every shot. Every SPR comes fitted with at McMillan™ synthetic stock and has a one-piece MIL-STD 1913 mounting rail with 20 MOA of additional elevation built-in.

The FNAR combines autoloading speed with bolt-action accuracy. An aircraft-grade alloy receiver is mated to a cold hammer-forged barrel that’s chrome lined for longer life and enhanced accuracy. Chambered in 308 Winchester, the FNAR feeds from a 5-, 10- or 20-round detachable steel magazine and the magazine release levers are ambidextrous. The FNAR’s synthetic stock is highly ergonomic and is fully-adjustable to fit the operator.

The FN SCAR 17S represents the latest in rifle technology. Offering a polymer lower receiver and a monolithic alloy upper receiver, the SCAR 17S features a free floating hammer-forged barrel that’s chrome-lined for extended life. Designed to be adaptable to every marksman, the SCAR 17S is equipped with fully-ambidextrous operating controls and a side-folding telescoping polymer stock with an adjustable cheekpiece. Multiple MIL-STD 1913 rails offer attachment points for optical sights, lasers, tactical lights and bipod. Chambered in 308 Winchester, the SCAR™ 17S uses detachable box magazines that hold up to 20 rounds.

When you want to deliver one precise shot on your target, you’ll want to be behind the rifles that can really deliver – the SCAR 17S, FNAR and SPR from FNH USA. They’re available in your choice of 308 Winchester or 300 WSM (depending on model).

FNH USA Rifle Team to Compete at the 2011 Sniper’s Hide Match

FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit: www.fnhusa.com

Hanging in climbing gear, Dianna Liedorff competes in the first stage of fire where competitors had to throw dummy hand grenades through windows before taking to the trigger.

FNH USA

McLean, Virginia --(Ammoland.com)- Several members of Team FNH USA posted solid finishes at the Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun Match.

This year’s match had more than 300 shooters with several new stages including the technical Stage One where shooters were hung in climbing gear and had to throw dummy hand grenades into windows before shooting targets.

“The quick and dirty stages at SMM3G are challenging and keep you on your toes. One little mistake can cost you the match,” said Tommy “Tommy Gun” Thacker, Director of Product Management and Team Captain for FNH USA. “Overall it was a good start to the year for Team FNH USA.”

Team FNH USA results included finishes by team members Tommy Thacker coming in 7th in the Open Division and 9th overall in the match, Mark Hanish who placed 13th in the Tactical Optics Division, followed by the latest addition to the team, Eric Lund in 35th place. Dianna Liedorff placed 72ndoverall, just over Tasha Hanish in 75th. The women of Team FNH USA also took 2nd and 3rd in the Tactical Optics Women’s Division respectively. Ken Pfau, Vice President of Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales for FNH USA rounded out the team’s overall finish in 20th in the Tactical Limited Division shooting iron sights.

“Shooting iron sights at this match is always fun. The close targets are deceptively difficult with plenty of “no-shoots” and chances for penalties,” said Pfau.

Additional staff members from FNH USA also competed in the match with Ernie Beckwith earning 104th place in the Tactical Optics Division and Walt Hasser following in 164th. Tabor Bright placed 17th in the Heavy Optics Division with his .308 SCAR 17s.

The three-day Superstition Mountain Mystery match is held at the Rio Salado Sportmans Range and is considered the kick-off event for the national 3-gun competition circuit. The event attracts several hundred of the top shooters from around the country, and is also the first stop on the “3-Gun Nation” National Tour.

The final-day shoot-off at each of the 3GN Tour stops is worth thousands of dollars in cash prizes to the top three finishers and is among the richest payouts in the practical and action shooting realm. Each of the events on the 3GN Tour is also recorded for a later broadcast on the Versus Channel. (Check your local cable listings for broadcast date, time and channel in your area.)

Team FNH USA is slated to attend a number of major 3-Gun matches in 2011, including:

• June 5-11 – MGM IronMan, Parma, ID
• July 22-23 – Industry Masters, Park City, KY
• Aug 4-6 – Rocky Mountain 3-Gun, Raton, NM
• Sept 9-11 – Ozark 3-Gun, Lake Ozark, MO
• Oct 21-23 – USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals, Las Vegas, NV
• Nov 10-12 – FNH USA / 3-Gun Nation Championship, Glengary, WV

To follow Team FNH USA in action, visit www.fnhusa.com.

FNH USA Team Captain Tommy Thacker fires his FN SCAR 16S during one of the grueling stages of the Superstition Mystery Mountain 3-Gun Championship. Photo: Courtesy of FNH USA

FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support.

MK17 Special Operations Combat Assault Rifle

ATK

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn --(Ammoland.com)- Alliant Techsystems (NYSE: ATK) announced today that it has received a $49 million contract from the U.S. Navy to produce a new special operations ammunition round with improved accuracy, stronger barrier penetration, and a lower muzzle-flash.

ATK Security and Sporting developed the round in partnership with the Naval Surface Warfare Center – Crane Division under the Special Operations Science and Technology (SOST) ammunition program.

The SOST ammunition will be manufactured in 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm calibers, and is short-barrel optimized. It is designed for use with the MK16 and MK17 Special Operations Combat Assault Rifle Weapon System. Production will be performed at ATK’s Federal Premium Ammunition plant in Anoka, MN. Deliveries are expected to be completed in 2015.

“ATK is the clear leader in developing new ammunition technologies for commercial use,” said Ron Johnson, President of ATK’s Security and Sporting group. “We are now applying our research and development capability to satisfy the needs of our special operation forces.”

The new SOST 5.56mm and 7.62mm ammunition adds to ATK’s portfolio of specialized ammunition, including long-range products for both law enforcement and military applications.

ATK is an aerospace, defense, and commercial products company with operations in 24 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.

SureFire's Maggie Reese, a contestant on History's Top Shot, is one of several women expected to make a run at the money in 3GN's new Lady Shoot-Off at the 3GN Championship.

FNH 3 Gun Nation TV

Fort Worth, TX --(Ammoland.com)- 3-Gun Nation is proud to announce it has reached an agreement with Cheaper Than Dirt! to sponsor Lady and Junior 3GN Shoot-Offs at the 2011 FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Championship, Presented by SureFire.

The winning Lady and Junior competitors will each win a check for $5,000 from Cheaper Than Dirt!

“We’re always happy to be able to support the shooting sports in any way possible, and we’re even more excited to help encourage new shooters by sponsoring the 3-Gun Nation Junior division,” said Michael Tenny, CEO, Cheaper Than Dirt!

“Faced with political pressure to ban the importation of the competition shotguns that have made 3-gun into the sport it is today, I think it’s critical that we as an industry pull together to support all of the shooting sports in any way we can.”

The top Lady and Junior competitors, who have shot in a minimum of three 3GN-affiliated matches, will be invited to compete in the FNH-USA 3GN Championships, Presented by SureFire, Nov. 10-12 in Glengary, W.V. In total, there will be 10 opportunities to earn 3GN Series points during the 2011 3GN Tour.

“Fostering increased participation is vital to the well being of the shooting sports,” said Chad Adams, Vice President, National 3-Gun Association.

“As 3GN continues to grow, we’re going keep adding additional prizes and platforms to entice more shooters to get into the sport of 3-gun. Not only will that make the sport stronger, but it will go a long way towards making shooting, in general, a more accepted part of American society.”

Junior and Lady competitors will earn 3GN points to qualify for the Lady and Junior Shoot-Offs just as they do in the overall 3GN point standings. Complete rules and information will be posted soon on www.3gunnation.com.

• March 25-27: Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun
• April 29 – May 1: DPMS Blue Ridge Mountain
• June 5-11: MGM Ironman
• Aug. 4-6: JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-Gun
• Aug. 26-28: AR15.com/Rockcastle Pro-Am
• Oct. 21-23 :USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals
• Nov. 10-12: FNH USA-3 Gun Nation Championships

3 Gun Nation

USA --(Ammoland.com)- Following up on the ground-breaking inaugural 2010 FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, the remaining dates for the second season have been released.

Competitors will have ten events across the country to earn points toward qualifying for the 2011 3GN Championship.

For 2011, two preliminary events have already been completed, with points tabulated at last September’s Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship and December’s Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge. The sophomore season also welcomes the addition of two brand new events, the AR15.com/Rockcastle Pro-Am and the season-ending FNH USA-3GN Championships in November. In all, ten events will count toward qualifying for the 3GN Championships where Leupold Tactical Optics will once again present $25,000 to the 3GN Champion.

With 10 events in which competitors can earn points, 3GN maintains the qualifying standard that a competitor must compete in at least three matches in order to be eligible for the 3GN Championship. Also, as in 2010, five 3GN Shoot-Offs are scheduled for the 2011 3GN Tour, with the first one completed, a $5,000 check from NSSF won by Team DPMS veteran James Darst in December following the Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge. Four 3GN Shoot-Offs remain, held in conjunction with the following matches: Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun; MGM Ironman; JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-Gun; and Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championships.

In addition to new tour dates come a few rules changes as well. In 2010, competitors qualified by division, meaning their top three scores had to come from within one division, such as Tactical Optics. For 2011, that requirement is gone, meaning competitors can feel free to shoot within any division they wish and still earn points toward the 3GN Championship. For example, a competitor could shoot two matches in Tactical Optics and one in Heavy Metal, and those three scores would tabulate toward the qualifying score.

“These measures are completely reactionary, based on a year of communication with every competitor, match director and range officer we talked to,” said Chad Adams, 3-Gun Nation Vice President. “We only changed rules or procedures that were consensus among the 3-gun community.”

Also gone in 2011 are scores based on four stages within a given match. This year match overall scores will be used to determine who shoots in individual shoot-offs and series points. Replacing last year’s 400-point scoring system is a 300-point value for each match. Scores will be normalized, with 300 points to each individual division winner, 295 points for second place, 290 for third place, with scores descending one point in value per placement thereafter (4th-289, 5th-288, etc.).

“We continuously seek input from the sport itself,” said Pete Brown, 3GN President. “We recognize that this sport is one that has evolved over time, and we want 3-Gun Nation, to the extent possible, to be a reflection of the many people who have strived for so long to make 3-gun great.”

Of note, the Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship occurs twice within the 2011 3GN Tour. However, only one score may be used to tabulate a competitor’s qualification score for the 3GN Championship. For more complete information on 2011 rules, click “View Rules and Information” at www.3GunNation.com.

The entire 2011 FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour will be aired on Versus, with the show moving to Sunday mornings at 7:30 AM EST and Thursdays at 11 AM EST.

Past episodes of 3GN can be viewed at www.3GunNation.com/TV.

September 2010
Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championships
Completed

December 2010
Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge
Completed

March 25-27
Superstition Mountain Mystery 3G
3GN Shoot-Off Event

April 29-May 1
Blue Ridge Mountain 3G
3GN Points Only

June 5-11
MGM Ironman
3GN Shoot-Off Event

Aug 4-6
JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3G
3GN Shoot-Off Event

Aug 26-28
AR15.com/Rockcastle Pro-Am
3GN Points Only

Sept 9-11
Adams Arms Ozark 3G Championship
3GN Shoot-Off Event

Oct 21-23
USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals
3GN Points Only

Nov 10-12
FNH USA 3-Gun Championship – 3-Gun Nation Championship
Final 3GN Points Event
3GN Championship, $25K from Leupold

DPMS Shooter James Darst Wins 3GN Shoot-Off

3 Gun Nation

FORT BENNING, Ga. – He threw his hands up in celebration. He sighed in relief. And all the while, he wore a smile that seemed to warm up an otherwise frigid winter day.

Such was the range of emotions displayed as DPMS’ James Darst won three breathtaking match-ups on his way to the most closely contested Shoot-Off to date on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire. The win netted the veteran 3-gunner a check for $5,000, courtesy of the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).

“NSSF is proud to support 3-Gun Nation,” said Chris Dolnack, Senior Vice President and Chief Marketing Officer, NSSF.

“Three-gun competition is quickly gaining popularity with new and experienced shooters nationwide and 3-Gun Nation is the perfect vehicle to promote this fast-growing sport. We hope our partnership with 3-Gun Nation only will further its success in captivating a broad audience with the fun and excitement of the shooting sports.”

Darst’s remarkable run began with a first-round match-up against Noveske’s Rob Romero, winner of the 3GN Shoot-Off following FNH Midwest 3-Gun in May. At the horn, Romero exploded out of the start box and was first to the gun table, cleaning the rifle rack and building an early lead he maintained through shotgun and into the final pistol plate rack. But Romero stumbled, just slightly, missing on a pistol plate; and that’s when Darst came roaring on by. Darst went one-for-one on the pistol rack, before missing the stop plate once and then knocking it down just a fraction of a second before Romero—an incredible finish.

In the second round, it was more of the same, as Darst faced 3GN newcomer Greg Jordan, who qualified out of Tactical Optics. This time, it was Darst who raced out to the early lead as Jordan struggled on the rifle. However, Darst dropped one shot on the shotgun as Jordan pushed the pace and ran the shotgun portion cleanly. Darst dropped one plate on the pistol rack as Jordan continued to close the gap; but Darst had just enough of a lead, as he knocked over his stop plate a mere half-second before Jordan. The finish left Darst visibly spent as he walked off the firing line before a roaring crowd.

With two narrow escapes under his belt, Darst stepped to the line for the final run against Taran Butler. Racing even to the gun table, Darst opened up an early lead by cleaning the rifle plates first. But then Butler accelerated through an amazing shotgun run, narrowing the lead to an easy closing distance going into the final pistol rack. Butler, known as one of the fastest pistol shooters in the country, with several USPSA and IDPA titles to his credit, was now in contention.

But Darst, known more for his rifle skills than his pistol shooting, as he had in his two earlier match-ups, laid down a phenomenal pistol run of his own, missing only one plate as Butler narrowed the gap. Darst transitioned to the stop plate first, a half-second ahead of Butler, who ripped four successive shots at his own stop plate in an effort to pound it past Darst’s already moving plate. But in the end, it was Darst’s plate that fell first, giving the Texan his first 3GN victory.

Darst’s first win on the 3GN Tour couldn’t have come at a better time: the 3GN Shoot-Off, co-branded with Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge’s already successful shoot-off venue, saw an impressive prize table. Not only did Darst walk away with a Lancer lower for placing second overall in the Open division, but his Shoot-Off performance netted him a DPMS 3G1 rifle fitted with a Leupold 1.1-8X CQBSS, along with a SureFire Muzzle Brake and Micro Fast-Attach Suppressor—all in addition to the $5,000 check from the NSSF.

Butler, who also claimed the rifle package for finishing second, qualified for his record sixth 3GN Shoot-Off by winning the Tactical Optics division in the Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge. His road to the finals included a first-round win over Bryan Ray, winner of the Heavy Metal division, and a second-round win over Robby Johnson, which provided a bit a drama.

On their first run, Johnson jumped out to an early lead on rifle, cruised through shotgun, and was first to the stop plate. But upon inspection of the targets, Johnson failed to break one of the clay birds, thereby voiding his run. But Butler, assuming he was defeated, stopped midway through the pistol rack, not finishing the course of fire. Range Master Daniel Horner and Match Director Aaron Hampton consulted, and a re-shoot was granted. And on the second run, it was all Butler, who used his second chance to advance to the final round of the 3GN Shoot-Off for a record third time.

In another twist, Tactical Irons winner Kurt Miller, who had been battling the flu all weekend, decided he was too ill to perform in the FB3G-3GN Shoot-Off. So he turned over his slot to Katie Harris, an up-and-coming 14-year-old junior shooter from Georgia. Harris, who drew Johnson in the first round, was impressive in her 3GN debut, racing first to the rifle and building a small, early lead over the former U.S. AMU soldier. But Johnson prevailed, setting up his second-round match-up with Butler.

In the consolation rounds, Romero knocked off Open division winner Clint Upchurch, and Bryan Ray defeated Harris, to win a pair of HK P30L 9 mm pistols. For advancing to the semi-finals, Johnson and Jordan took home a pair of 12-gauge FNH USA SLP shotguns.

The eight-person 3GN Shoot-Off is a format like no other, where competitors take on steel rifle, shotgun and pistol targets in a race to the stop plate. To level the playing field, each competitor uses the same firearms. At the Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge, those firearms included: DPMS 3G1 rifles topped with Leupold 1.1-8X CQBSS riflescopes and fitted with SureFire Muzzle Brakes and Micro Suppressors; shotguns were FNH USA SLP’s; and pistols used were HK P30L’s.

The next stop on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, is Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun, March 25-27, 2011, in Mesa, Arizona. Superstition will mark the third qualifying event on the 2011 3GN Tour, before the following points matches: Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun, MGM Ironman, JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-Gun, Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship, and USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals. The Tour will conclude following the FNH USA-3-Gun Nation Championship, which is set for Nov. 10-12, in Glengary, W.V. As in 2010, competitors will be vying for enough points to qualify for the 3GN Championship, where the winner will take home $25,000, courtesy of Leupold Tactical Optics. Multi-gun, or 3-gun, is a unique sport within the discipline known as practical shooting. Considered the fastest growing segment within the shooting sports, 3-gun challenges competitors with rifle, pistol and shotgun, maneuvering through unique stages of fire as fast as their skill will allow.

The National 3-Gun Association, through media properties “3-Gun Nation Television,” and 3GunNation.com, was formed with one mission: to promote practical shooting by shining a light on amateur and professional shooters alike, as well as the guns, gear and lifestyle that define the high-octane sport of 3-gun competition. Bringing never-before-seen cash payouts to the table, 3-Gun Nation is quite simply changing the game. 3 Guns. One Champion.

3-Gun Nation Television airs Mondays at 7:30 AM EST and Thursdays at 3 PM EST on Versus through December. Beginning July 2011, 3GN moves to Sunday mornings at 7:30 EST and Thursdays at 10:30 AM EST. For more information, visit www.3GunNation.com.

Bruce Piatt Gets Ready for the 3GN Finals

3 Gun Nation

Las Vegas, NV --(Ammoland.com)- The entire season has all come down to this—16 of the country’s top 3-gunners in a single-elimination, man-on-man tournament worth $40,000, the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Championship, Presented by SureFire, only on Versus.

Watch top pros Daniel Horner, Tony Holmes, Barry Dueck, Dave Neth, Rob Romero, Jerry Miculek, Kurt Miller, Bruce Piatt, Taran Butler, Patrick Kelley – and more – square off for the title and $25,000, courtesy of Leupold Tactical Optics. Second place takes home $10,000 from US P.A.L.M., while third place pays $5,000, courtesy of Timney Triggers.

The drama builds as one-by-one competitors are eliminated in the 3GN Championship Shoot-Off, an all-steel target course of fire, provided by MGM Targets, where contestants use rifle, shotgun and pistol in a race to stop plate.

Watch 3-gun history as the top shooters in the game gun for the largest guaranteed cash payout in the history of the sport.
The 3-Gun Nation Championship Shoot-Off is event like no other. Each competitor runs the same equipment: FNH SCAR 16s rifles, chambered in .223 and fitted with SureFire Muzzle Brakes and Fast-Attach Suppressors; FNH FNX-9 semi-automatic pistols in 9 mm; and FNH SLP 12-guage semi-automatic shotguns. The rifles are topped with either Weaver or Leupold Tactical Optics scopes, and all ammunition is provided by Federal.

To see a video preview of the championship episode, go to http://www.3gunnation.com/video/3gn_season_finale.

3-Gun Nation airs on Versus, Mondays at 7:30 AM EST and Thursdays at 3 PM EST. The entire three-part championship block of episodes will repeat throughout December. For more information, visit www.3gunnation.com.

National Shooting Sports Foundation Supports 3-Gun Nation

3 Gun Nation

NEWTOWN, Conn --(Ammoland.com)- 3-Gun Nation has reached a sponsorship agreement recently with the National Shooting Sports Foundation, further solidifying the organization’s already strong commitment to the advancement of the shooting sports.

Formed in 1961, the NSSF is the trade association for the shooting, hunting and firearms industry and has more than 5,000 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsman’s organizations and publishers within its membership rolls.

“We are extremely pleased at this new partnership with 3-Gun Nation,” said Chris Dolnack, Senior Vice-President and Chief Marketing Officer, NSSF.

“This is one of the ways we help fulfill our mission of promoting, protecting and preserving hunting and the shooting sports. We know this program will help promote this new popular shooting activity as they use today’s most popular firearm—the modern sporting rifle.”

The NSSF is also a leader in contemporary education programs as well as initiatives geared toward increasing participation in hunting and shooting.

“NSSF has done an outstanding job of late with their newest education program, ‘Modern Sporting Rifle,’ which gives a solid perspective on the validity of the modern, semi-automatic rifle platforms, such as the AR-15, and their place within the shooting sports—both competitive shooting and hunting,” said Chad Adams, VP, 3-Gun Nation.

The NSSF also administers First Shots, NSSF’s acclaimed education and training program that introduces new shooters to the sport; and Task force 20/20, a recruitment program geared toward increasing hunting and competitive shooting participation 20-percent by 2013.

“3-Gun Nation is more than a TV show—it’s a movement,” Adams said. “In that regard, we fully plan on partnering with NSSF on programs such as First Shots and Task Force 20/20 in any and every way possible. We’re going to cover those great programs, educate the shooting public, and do everything we can to help NSSF grow the shooting sports.”

Multi-gun, or 3-gun, is a unique sport within the discipline known as practical shooting. Considered the fastest growing segment within the shooting sports, 3-gun challenges competitors with rifle, pistol and shotgun, maneuvering through unique stages of fire as fast as their skill will allow.

The next stop on the 3-Gun Nation Tour is during the Fort Benning 3-Gun Challenge, Dec. 3-5, at Fort Benning, Ga., home to the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit. Following the FB3G-3GN Shoot-Off, a check for $5,000, presented on behalf of the NSSF, will go to the winner.

The National 3-Gun Association, through media properties “3-Gun Nation Television” and 3GunNation.com, was formed with one mission: to promote practical shooting by shining a light on amateur and professional shooters alike, as well as the guns, gear and lifestyle that define the high-octane sport of 3-gun competition. Bringing never-before-seen cash payouts to the table, 3-Gun Nation is quite simply changing the game.

The entire list of events and dates for the 2011 3-Gun Nation Tour will be released soon. For 2011, 3-Gun Nation is moving to Saturday mornings at 7:30 AM EST, in addition to the current airing on Thursdays at 3 PM EST. To see the 2010 3-Gun Nation Championship, where one winner will take home $25,000 from Leupold Tactical Optics, tune in to Versus Monday, Nov. 29 at 7:30 AM or Thursday, Dec. 2 at 3 PM EST. For more information, visit www.3GunNation.com.

3 Gun Nation

Las Vegas, NV --(Ammoland.com)- The action heats up during the first of our two-part 3-Gun Nation Championship, where a select group of more than 50 of the country’s top 3-gunners battle through four challenging courses of fire.

With rifle, shotgun, and pistol used on each stage, the round counts are high, and the emotion runs even higher as each competitor knows with only four stages there is no room for error.

Watch as the drama builds as we near the cut, when only the top 16 competitors will advance to the season-ending 3-Gun Nation Championship Shoot-Off.

$40,000 is on the line for the top three, including: 3rd place–$5,000, from Timney Triggers; 2nd place–$10,000, from US P.A.L.M.; and the grand prize, $25,000 from Leupold Tactical Optics to the 3-Gun Nation Champion.

3-Gun Nation airs Mondays at 7:30 AM EST and Thursdays and 3 PM EST, only on Versus. For more information on 3-gun, or the 3-Gun Nation Tour, go to www.3gunnation.com.

3GN Graphic Tees Now Available

FNH 3 Gun Nation TV

Las Vegas, NV --(Ammoland.com)- The wait is over: 3-Gun Nation gear is finally here. You asked for it; we delivered.

With aggressive styling and contemporary graphics , the 3GN Rifleman Tee is a perfect piece of gear for 3-gunners everywhere.

Made and printed in the U.S., the tagless shirt is made of 100-percent fine ring-spun combed cotton, features a durable neck, and weighs a scant 4.3 ozs.

Designed by Tap Rack Bang’s Josh Locatis, whose work covers the FNH truck, along with some of the sickest clothes in the firearms industry.

Order your 3GN graphic tee today and step to the firing line wearing the baddest gear in 3-gun.

The 3GN Rifleman Tee is available in sizes small through XXL. Cost is $24.95.

To get your 3GN tee, go to www.taprackbangclothing.com/3gn .

Mandeville, LA -(Ammoland.com)- Tom talks – what else? – firearms this Sunday on Tom Gresham’s Gun Talk (R) Radio, the only nationally-syndicated radio talk show about guns and the shooting sports.

FNH USA makes it all – handguns, shotguns, rifles, ammunition, carbines, etc. Ken Pfau, Vice-President of Law Enforcement and Commercial Sales at FNH, knows what the cool new products are, and is here to tell you all about them!

There are now more than 6,000 members of The National Shooting Sports Foundation, or NSSF – a trade association for the firearms industry. Formed in 1961, NSSF’s mission is to “promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports.” Mark Thomas, Marketing Director at NSSF, drops in to talk with Tom about what NSSF has been doing in 2010, and what they have planned for 2011, including the industry’s top wholesale show – SHOT Show – in Las Vegas, NV.

Davidson’s Inc is one of the largest firearms wholesalers in America. Their website, GalleryofGuns.com, offers buyers a chance to purchase thousands of different firearms for sale, including dozens of exclusive firearms sold only by them. Davidson’s President, Bryan Tucker, stops by Gun Talk to discuss how it works, what the new exclusives are, and more!

In its 15th year of national syndication, Tom Gresham’s Gun Talk Radio airs live on Sundays from 2PM-5PM Eastern, and runs on over 100 stations, plus on SIRIUS (Ch. 108)/XM (Ch. 139) Satellite Radio. All Gun Talk shows can be downloaded as podcasts through Apple iTunes, the Gun Talk iPhone App, the Blackberry Podcast App, or at http://www.guntalk.libsyn.com. More information is available at http://www.guntalk.com.

FNH 3 Gun Nation TV

Las Vegas, NV --(Ammoland.com)- This week marks the first of a three-part, season-ending run of championship episodes, beginning with the 2010 USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals in Las Vegas.

With Nationals titles on the line, the biggest names in the sport turned out, but to add to the drama, this year’s Nationals also featured Wild Card slots for the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Championship, Presented by SureFire.

Tune in as some of the top shooters in the country, including Daniel Horner, Phil Strader, Mike Voigt, and Rob Romero, among others, try to shoot their way into the $40,000 3GN Championship for a shot at the grand prize, $25,000 courtesy of Leupold Tactical Optics.

3-Gun Nation airs Mondays at 7:30 AM and Thursdays at 3 PM, EST, only on Versus. For more information on these shows, or the action-packed sport of 3-gun, go to www.3gunnation.com.

The National 3-Gun Association, through media properties “3-Gun Nation Television” and 3GunNation.com, was formed with one mission: to promote practical shooting by shining a light on amateur and professional shooters alike, as well as the guns, gear and lifestyle that define the high-octane sport of 3-gun competition. Bringing never-before-seen cash payouts to the table, 3-Gun Nation is quite simply changing the game. 3 Guns. One Champion.

For more information, visit www.3gunnation.com.

Cheaper Than Dirt! Joins the 3-Gun Nation

Cheaper Than Dirt

Fort Worth, TX –-(Ammoland.com)- The practical shooting sports have recently become mainstream with a number of reality TV shows and magazine style television shows promoting the various shooting sports.

One of these new shows is 3-Gun Nation, which airs weekly episodes on Versus. 3-Gun Nation follows competitive shooters as they engage courses of fire using pistols, shotguns, and rifles in a timed event. Winners are awarded prize money at the end of each competition.

3-gun is an action shooting competition where competitors run a course of fire that has them engaging targets with pistol, shotgun, and rifle at distances from 5 yards all the way out to 300 yards for the longest rifle shots. Scores are based on time, with missed shots giving an additional time penalty from 5 to 15 seconds. Internet based firearm and ammunition retailer Cheaper Than Dirt! recently became the newest member of the 3-Gun Nation when they picked up commercial sponsorship of the 2010 and 2011 season.

“We love to support the shooting sports and always like to get more people out participating,” said Cheaper Than Dirt’s Chief Operating Officer Roberta Wilson. “Cheaper Than Dirt can help viewers interested in getting started in 3-Gun competitions with our broad selection of discount ammunition, firearms, and accessories, as well as our helpful online community forum. We also have a club and shooting competition search engine located right on our website that helps our customers find a 3-gun organization or event in their area.”

Filming for 3-Gun Nation takes place at major 3-gun matches across the nation, including DPMS sponsored Superstition Mountain match, Blue Ridge 3-gun hosted by Sabre Defense, FNH USA Midwest, the MGM Ironman and the JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-gun match. Competitors earn points at these competitions which are used to calculate the top 50 participants who are allowed the chance to win it all at the season finale 3-Gun Championship held in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Each qualifying match, as well as the championship, culminates in a “heads-up” style one-on-one competition with the top two competitors competing on identical side by side courses in a drag race to see who will take home the grand prize. The winner of the final one-on-one elimination takes home a $5,000 prize at each regular season match while the winner of the 3-Gun Championship walks away with a $25,000 prize. Last year the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Daniel Horner took home top honors, winning the $25,000 grand prize, which brought his season winnings to a cool $30,000.

Executive Producer Pete Brown had this to say about 3-Gun Nation TV:

“Anybody who signs up and shoots any of the matches on our tour can get into our shoot-off. You can walk in off the street, shoot the match, and if you are in the top 8 from that match, you’re in. There is no Hollywood here, it is 100% raw unfiltered competition. You show up, bring your A-Game and you can win. With 3-Gun TV we’re really able to capture the essence of the sport. If you flip on the TV and you see 3-Gun Nation, you won’t want to change the channel.”

Country music star Mark Wills and Chad Adams are your hosts every week as they walk you through the competition and give you insights, tips, and tricks when they interview the competitors and manufacturers. Watch the newest episode of 3-Gun Nation when it airs Monday at 7am Eastern. The 2011 Season will air Saturday mornings at 9am Eastern

About Cheaper Than Dirt!
Cheaper Than Dirt! prides itself on being America’s Ultimate Shooting Sports Discounter since 1993. Cheaper Than Dirt boasts over 27,000 items available for purchase through their website and catalog. For most items, Cheaper Than Dirt offers a generous 90 day return policy. For more information, or to place and order, visit www.CheaperThanDirt.com or call 1-800-421-8047. Most orders ship within 3 hours. Locate a shooting club near you with Cheaper Than Dirt’s club locater at http://www.CheaperThanDirt.com/GunClubs/ or find an event coming up soon near you with the event locator at http://www.CheaperThanDirt.com/ShootingEvents/

Firing Line at 2010 Alleghany Sniper Challenge

FNH USA

SENECA ROCKS, WV --(Ammoland.com)- More than two dozen of America’s best long range shooters gathered for three days of competition at the Fall 2010 Alleghany Sniper Challenge, October 9-11, atop this scenic mountain range, marking the Eastern Continental Divide.

This event is the only one of its kind that offers all steel targets at distances up to 1,200 yards and at varying angles across mountain valleys.

However, it was the support of FNH USA which made the 2010 Fall Challenge a unique and true first of its kind all-equipment-provided event. FNH USA provided each competitor with one of its FN SPR A5 .308 long range precision rifles with standard 20-inch fluted barrels, McMillan stocks, and a MIL-STD optical rail with 20 MOA forward cant. Competitors were also issued identical scopes, rings, slings, and ammunition provided for by other manufacturers. Competitors were not allowed any other equipment including electronics or range finders (bipods were allowed).

“FN’s support was absolutely instrumental in making this match possible,” said Rod Hansen, who shares the title of co-creator and co-Match Director with John Markwell. Together they started this event almost 10 years ago to provide fellow long range shooters with the types of challenges, distances, and real world conditions they themselves enjoy.

“This match places each competitor on a level playing field and represents the most extreme and complete test of each shooter’s skill and knowledge of ballistics,” said Hansen.

“We are proud to put our products into the hands of these competitors,” said Benjamin Voss, Instructor and Master Firearms Specialist with FNH USA. “These types of events allow us to receive direct feedback from the people who use our guns and allows us to improve, develop, and shape future products,” said Voss, who is also the captain of FNH’s long range shooting team.

Voss and his two team members, Justin Daley, a police sniper, and Jason Thompson, are all former Marine Corps snipers who served together. They also shot the match using new rifles from FNH.

“These events also give us an opportunity to test prototypes and new ideas to continually improve our product line,” said Voss.

The Fall 2010 Alleghany Sniper Challenge takes place over two weekends, essentially becoming two matches. The first weekend match took place in September, and FNH USA provided all the rifles for that first weekend as well. More than 50 shooters took part and used FNH rifles over the two weekends.

Since Hansen and Markwell designed the match from the ground up they also made changes they felt would improve the experience for the competitors. Shooters engage almost 50 targets and are allowed to fire up to 125 shots, but they only count misses, not hits. The shooter with the lowest score wins.

The winners from the first weekend were: 1st Kevin Mussack of upstate, NY, 2nd Geoff Martel of Mt. Morris, NY, and 3rd Eric Underiner of Ringoes, NJ.

Winners of the second match: 1st Pete Pi, Jr. from Cor-Bon in Sturgis, SD (who provided all the ammunition used), 2nd Rich Grinn of Clarkston, MI, and 3rd Chris Soyka of Iona, MI.

FN SPR A5 rifle

FNH donated two rifles to be awarded as prizes (all prizes are awarded by random drawing and the winner of the match is only guaranteed a trophy). The winner of the FN SPR A5 rifle the first weekend was Tom Pohuski, Jr. from Baltimore, MD, and in the second weekend was Ernest Stokesberry from Kansas City. MO.

2010 Alleghany Sniper Challenge

FNH USA, LLC is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA, LLC products and services. FNH USA, LLC, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA 22101 USA.

AMU’s Horner Wins 2nd Consecutive 3GN Shoot-Off

FNH 3 Gun Nation TV

OSAGE, Missouri --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Daniel Horner defeated Noveske’s Rob Romero in the finals of the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Shoot-Off, Presented by SureFire, winning $5,000 courtesy of Adams Arms and Samson Manufacturing following the Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship here Sept. 26.

The event capped an incredible two weeks for Horner that began with a victory at USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals, earning him a Wild Card spot in the 3-Gun Nation Championship. From there, Horner earned the top seed in the 3GN Championship Shoot-Off before running the table against Kerry Dematos, Tony Holmes, Dave Neth and Bruce Piatt. Along with claiming the inaugural 3GN Championship, the win netted Horner $25,000 from Leupold. Added to the most recent victory, Horner’s total 3GN winnings now stand at $30,000.

Horner’s path to the Shoot-Off included a win over a loaded field in the Tactical Optics division. Not only that, the course of fire presented its own gauntlet of challenges, with innovative stage design weaved into the rolling topography of the famous Missouri Ozarks.

“The Ozark 3-Gun Championship is a natural terrain match shot in the hills of the Ozarks in southern Missouri,” said Kirk Broyles, match director, O3GC. “It features fun and challenging stages for all levels of competitors. This year also will debut a new location with over one thousand acres at our disposal. There are some great stages.”

During the 3GN Shoot-Off, Horner looked unbeatable early on, successively knocking out past 3GN winner Taran Butler and Bryan Ray, an unsponsored competitor who qualified by winning the Heavy Metal division. However, in the finals, Horner had what was likely his slowest run since a first-round loss to Remington’s Robby Johnson at JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-Gun in August.

But Romero had equal problems on the rifle barricade, unable to capitalize as Horner struggled to settle his sights before finally finding his rhythm. Ultimately, Horner recovered first, left the rifle position with a comfortable lead and held on for the victory.

Romero, who won the 3GN Shoot-Off following the FNH USA Midwest 3-Gun, outlasted up-and-coming Open shooter Clint Upchurch in a thrilling first-round race to the stop plate. In the semi-finals, Romero defeated Chris Sechiatano, setting up the showdown with Horner.

Other first round action included Sechiatano defeating Barry Dueck, who qualified by winning the Heavy Metal Optics division, a division Dueck has dominated throughout 2010. Also in the first round, Ray laid down the most impressive run of the event in a first-round upset of veteran Kurt Miller, with Ray quickly going six-for-six on the rifle plate before cruising to victory.

The 3GN Shoot-Off capped off three days of competition where shooters battled each other, tough terrain and wet conditions. In only its second year, the crew from Ozark held a surprisingly impressive match, setting it up as yet another must-attend major on the 3-gun circuit.

“I’m very excited to be a part of 3-Gun Nation; 3GN’s doing great things to promote the sport,” Broyles said. “As the newest match of this size, I am extremely honored to host the first 3GN Shoot-Off of the 2011 season. And I look forward to a long, successful relationship.”

The Ozark match will be counted for series points for those attempting to qualify for the 2011 3GN Championship. The match can also be used to satisfy the 3-match-minimum requirement. However, this match will not count for the forthcoming 2011 3GN National Championship Points Series, an additional points race with awards recognizing sustained performance over the course of the 2011 3-gun season. Complete information on the breakdown of the new 3GN NCPS will be released soon.

“3-Gun Nation” airs weekly on Versus Mondays at 7:30 AM EST and Thrusdays at 3 PM EST. Additionally, past episodes of “3-Gun Nation” can be viewed anytime online at www.3gunnation.com/tv.

The 3-Gun Nation shoot-off is a format like no other, where competitors take on steel rifle, shotgun and pistol racks in a race to the stop plate. To level the playing field, contestants fire an FNH USA SCAR 16 equipped with a SureFire muzzle brake and Fast Attach suppressor, chambered in .223 Rem., a new competition variant of the 12-gauge SLP semi-automatic shotgun, and the new FNX-9 semi-automatic pistol in 9 mm. Each gun runs ammunition provided by Federal Premium, and the rifles are topped with Weaver or Leupold optics. Add in eight of the world’s fiercest 3-gunners, and the competition heats up.

Multi-gun, or 3-gun, is a unique sport within the discipline known as practical shooting. Considered the fastest growing segment within the shooting sports, 3-gun challenges competitors with rifle, pistol and shotgun, maneuvering through unique stages of fire as fast as their skill will allow.

The National 3-Gun Association, through media properties “3-Gun Nation Television” and 3GunNation.com, was formed with one mission: to promote practical shooting by shining a light on amateur and professional shooters alike, as well as the guns, gear and lifestyle that define the high-octane sport of 3-gun competition. Bringing never-before-seen cash payouts to the table, 3-Gun Nation is quite simply changing the game. 3 Guns. One Champion.

For more information, visit www.3gunnation.com.

AMU’s Horner Wins 3GN Championship, $25,000

FNH 3 Gun Nation TV

LAS VEGAS, NV --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit’s Daniel Horner defeated Bruce Piatt in the finals of the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Championship Shoot-Off, Presented by SureFire, winning an unprecedented $25,000, courtesy of Leupold , here Sept. 13.

The final event of the ground-breaking 2010 3-Gun Nation Tour, the 3GN Championship Shoot-Off pitted 16 of the top 3-gunners in the world in a single-elimination, man-on-man drag race through a course of MGM steel targets. But to get there, competitors had to post one of 16 top scores out of field of more than 50 top practical shooters. And in Horner’s case, he had to do a little more.

Horner’s incredible run actually began three days earlier when he set out to defend his USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals title, and with a top performance there earn a Wild Card berth into the 3GN Championship. Unlike many top pros who had already qualified for the match based on series points, Horner spent much of 2010 deployed with his unit to Afghanistan in support of combat operations.

The Army staff sergeant did that and more, picking up another Nationals victory en route to a Wild Card slot, before posting the top score after four stages of fire during the 3GN Championship match, thereby earning the top seed going into the Shoot-Off. Horner then proceeded to switch gears, and looked solid with comfortable wins over Kerry Dematos and Tony Holmes, setting up a semi-finals match-up with FNH USA’s Dave Neth, who owns a Shoot-Off victory following MGM Ironman.

Meanwhile, Neth was equally impressive in his first two runs, knocking out Ty Gentry and SureFire’s Barry Dueck, seemingly recapturing the same rhythm and pace he set in Parma to win $5,000 in June.

As the two competitors stepped to the line, one could feel a shift in the atmosphere, as the crowd seemed to sense what was coming. Two confident, athletic shooters who were both clearly in the “zone” were about to square off. However, no one could predict they were about to see arguably the most exciting run of the 2010 3GN Tour.

At the horn, each man exploded out of the start box, reaching the rifle barricade in step, and each dropping into a reverse-kneeling position. Horner’s trigger broke first, instantly followed by Neth’s, a literal “pop-pop” cadence that continued throughout the rifle plates as each fired their SCARs to knock down the 100-yard targets in turn.

“I got into the rifle position and shot the best I’ve shot so far and thought I was ahead, and I looked up and he was already finished and I thought I better go faster,” Horner said. “It’s a blast out here competing with people. Guys like Dave, you can’t ask for better … this is a blast.”

Horner’s half-count of a lead evaporated at the shotgun position as they simultaneously grabbed their SLP shotguns and ripped through the five poppers and two clays before grounding the shotgun and sprinting to the pistol rack.

Here again, as each competitor hammered away with an FNX 9, they went shot-for-shot through the pistol rack, as the crowd rose to its feet just as Horner accelerated through the cross-over stop plate, sending it down an instant before Neth’s fell in turn. It was quite simply an amazing run by both competitors.

“My run was good—even perfect—I wouldn’t take it back,” Neth said. “I can’t feel bad losing to Daniel Horner.”

The other semi-final matchup featured two 3-gun veterans and shoot-off specialists in Jerry Miculek and Bruce Piatt. Miculek advanced to the semis with a first-round win over Kalani Laker before knocking out the AMU’s young Tyler Payne, who is poised to be one of the next stars of the sport.

Conversely, Piatt was forced to work his way through a figurative “Murderer’s Row” of heavy hitters. After taking out veteran 3-gunner Kurt Miller in the first round, Piatt next faced Taran Butler, currently one of the best in the world, and coming off a monster season. But Piatt stayed measured during the rifle position, got his hits, and held on as Butler got fast on the trigger and tried to run him down.

“I knew I was leaving the rifle ahead of him; I heard him still shooting,” Piatt said. “I went faster than I wanted to on the shotgun, and I kept missing a plate on the pistol, which put me in panic mode. I had to settle back down and was able to pull through.”

After losing their semi-finals matchups, Miculek and Neth regrouped and toed the line to square off once more in the consolation round, with $5,000 on the line from Timney Triggers. Neth maintained much of the speed he showcased against Horner, cruising to the win and marking Neth as the first repeat winner on the 3GN Tour.

“I got what I earned,” Miculek said, congratulating Neth. “Dave shot a good one.”

“We at Timney Triggers are honored to be a part of such a great shooting competition,” said Timney’s Chris Ellis during the check presentation. “We just want to congratulate Dave on an outstanding performance.”

Piatt’s run through the 3GN Championship Shoot-Off marked one of consistency, as the veteran shoot-off competitor was deliberate on the rifle, fast on the shotgun and smooth on the pistol. With consecutive wins over Miller, Butler and Miculek, Piatt proved to be a giant killer. But on this day, Horner, regarded as America’s best 3-gunner, was too much. For his second place finish, Piatt earned a $10,000 check from US P.A.L.M.

Ultimately, the night belonged to Horner. Upon defeating Piatt, the often reserved, cool competitor thrust his fists skyward, followed by a smile that lit up the Nevada desert.

“Sixteen shooters for $25,000, if that doesn’t get you fired up, I don’t know what will,” said Kevin Trepa, Vice President Tactical Sales & Marketing, Leupold Tactical, during the check presentation. “We are real proud to be a part of this, and we hope that this becomes something that is an annual fixture.”

“I’d like to thank all the sponsors and staff that made this event happen, and to the Army for letting me be here,” said Horner.

While Horner, Piatt and Neth took home the big prizes, every competitor walked away happy with a prize bag that included a SureFire Muzzle Brake for every participant, while stage sponsors Safariland and Warne Scope Mounts each contributed 25 $100 gift certificates. Brownells provided $2,500 worth of gear as well, with every competitor receiving Brownells AR magazines and more. FMG Publications, with sponsored shooter Scott McGregor in the field of 50, also sponsored a stage, and Bushnell provided a catered lunch for everyone onsite during the 3GN Championship.

The next stop on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, is at the 2010 Adams Arms Ozark 3-Gun Championship, Sept. 24-26, at Lake of the Ozarks, Mo. While Ozark is not an official series match, the event will be filmed for Versus and will culminate with the 3GN Shoot-Off and a $5,000 check from Adams Arms and Samson Manufacturing.

Multi-gun, or 3-gun, is a unique sport within the discipline known as practical shooting. Considered the fastest growing segment within the shooting sports, 3-gun challenges competitors with rifle, pistol and shotgun, maneuvering through unique stages of fire as fast as their skill will allow.

FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Championship Shoot-Off Winners

The National 3-Gun Association, through media properties “3-Gun Nation Television” and 3GunNation.com, was formed with one mission: to promote practical shooting by shining a light on amateur and professional shooters alike, as well as the guns, gear and lifestyle that define the high-octane sport of 3-gun competition. Bringing never-before-seen cash payouts to the table, 3-Gun Nation is quite simply changing the game. 3 Guns. One Champion.

For more information, visit www.3GunNation.com.

ATF Wanted Gun Runners: Photographs of the two suspects, Gerson Javier Ruiz-Varela and Manuel Carrasco-Ruiz.

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives

ORLANDO, Fla. - -(Ammoland.com)- The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives’ (ATF) Tampa Field Division is seeking the public’s assistance in locating two fugitives who are wanted for federal firearms trafficking violations. Both subjects are considered armed and dangerous and may have fled the country.

ATF has obtained federal arrest warrants for Antonio Ruiz-Varela, (DOB: 12/01/1987); and Manuel Dejesus Carrasco-Ruiz, (DOB: 07/03/1969), both Hispanic males.

Please call 1-800-283-4897 with any information regarding their whereabouts.

Ruiz-Varela and Carrasco-Ruiz are wanted in connection with an investigation of a violent international firearms trafficking organization in central Florida. The organization trafficked a variety of firearms including semi-automatic handguns and AR-15 style short-barreled rifles. Several of the firearms have been found in the hands of violent criminal elements within Puerto Rico and throughout Central and South America.

Anyone with information about the whereabouts of Ruiz-Varela and Carrasco-Ruiz should contact ATF at 1-800-ATF-GUNS.

For more information, read the USAO press release.

U.S. Department of Justice

Orlando, Florida --(Ammoland.com)- United States Attorney A. Brian Albritton, Virginia O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of central and northern Florida Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) operations, and Susan McCormick, Special Agent in Charge, U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE), Homeland Security Investigations, Tampa Field Office announce the initial results of Operation Castaway, an intensive and wideranging Organized Crime and Drug Enforcement Task Force (“OCDETF”) firearms trafficking investigation conducted by ATF, ICE, the Orange County Sheriff’s Office, the Osceola County Sheriff’s Office, the Brevard County Sheriff’s Office, and the Miami-Dade Police Department. ATF describes Operation Castaway as the most significant firearms trafficking investigation in Central Florida history.

According to court documents, a group of defendants connected to Hugh Crumpler, III, were involved in a major international gun trafficking operation. Crumpler has trafficked, for several years, more than 1000 firearms to various groups and defendants who have exported these weapons all over Central and South America and to Puerto Rico. The defendants trafficked in Glock semi-automatic handguns, Fabrique Nationale Herstal 5.7x28mm semi-automatic handguns (“FN pistols”), and AR-15 styled short-barreled rifles, among other firearms. The FN pistols in particular are weapons of choice for drug trafficking organizations and paramilitary groups. Easily concealed and capable of firing a rifle round of ammunition that can penetrate law enforcement body armor, the pistols are referred to by cartel members in Mexico, South America, Central America, and Puerto Rico as “matapolicias” or “cop killers.” AR-15-styled rifles are popular among the same criminal groups.

Firearms like those involved in this investigation are often smuggled through Honduras and other Central and South American countries before being used in violent crimes in Mexico and other countries in the region. A number of the firearms trafficked by the defendants in Operation Castaway have been linked to violent crimes around the world. Several firearms trafficked by Crumpler and Ramon Lopez, Jr. were used in crimes associated with the Torres Sabana Drug Trafficking Organization, a notorious and violent drug trafficking organization in Puerto Rico. Another firearm, a Glock pistol, was recovered in Medellin, Colombia, South America, after being used to commit a homicide. Yet another firearm was found in the possession of a hitman for Oficina de Envigado, an organization described by the Department of Treasury as “a violent Medellin-based organized crime group that engages in large-scale drug trafficking and money laundering activities in Colombia.”

On Monday and Tuesday of this week, U.S. District Judge Gregory A. Presnell sentenced several of the Operation Castaway defendants. Hugh Crumpler, III (age 63, of Palm Bay) was sentenced to 30 months in federal prison for dealing firearms without a license and unlawfully possessing short barreled rifles; Ramon Lopez, Jr. (age 29, of Kissimmee) was sentenced to 74 months in federal prison for dealing firearms without a license and unlawfully possessing short barreled rifles; Carlos Humberto Guillen-Rivera (age 29, of Honduras) was sentenced to 84 months in federal prison for conspiring to possess and illegally possessing short barreled rifles; Cesar Augusto Guillen-Rivera (age 31, of Honduras) was sentenced to 65 months in federal prison for conspiring to possess and illegally possessing short barreled rifles; Erlin Javier Guillen-Rivera (age 25, of Honduras) was sentenced to 63 months in federal prison for conspiring to possess and illegally possessing short barreled rifles; and Hector Saenz (age 38, of Honduras) was sentenced to 46 months for conspiracy.

Operation Castaway defendant Jesus Puentes pleaded guilty on August 31, 2010 to conspiring to possess and illegally possessing short barreled rifles and will be sentenced on November 18, 2010. Defendant Jorge Acosta has pleaded guilty to conspiring to possess and illegally possessing short barreled rifles. Acosta will be sentenced at a future date.

Two additional defendants, Antonia Ruiz-Varela and Manuel Dejesus Carrasco-Ruiz, are still at large and have yet to be arrested by authorities. Any information about their whereabouts should be forwarded to ATF.

“Eliminating this type of organization and taking its high-level weaponry off the streets will increase safety not only for our citizens but for people abroad. I commend the work of the federal agents in bringing this group down, as well as the contributions of our local partner agencies,” said U.S. Attorney Albritton.

“ATF investigates unlicensed firearm dealers across the country, this one unlicensed individual revealed a firearms trafficking ring so far reaching it funneled hundreds of firearms to criminal markets both domestic and international,” said Virginia O’Brien, Special Agent in Charge of central and northern Florida ATF operations.

ICE Homeland Security Investigations Special Agent in Charge in Tampa Susan McCormick said, “Gun and drug trafficking fuels violence by criminal organizations and threatens the security of the people along our borders and throughout the country. ICE special agents will continue working jointly with our law enforcement partners to utilize our expertise in import and export enforcement in order to keep our citizens safe and secure.”

This case is being prosecuted by Assistant United States Attorneys J. Bishop Ravenel and E. Jackson Boggs. Operation Castaway remains an ongoing investigation.

FNH USA Shooting Teams Tasha Hanish

USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. --(Ammoland.com)- Cave Creek, Arizona’s Tasha Hanish, a member of the FNH USA shooting team, won seven of 12 stages and dominated the field as she won the Women’s Tactical division title for the second year in a row this past weekend at the U.S. Practical Shooting Association’s (USPSA) 2010 DPMS MultiGun National Championships in Las Vegas, Nevada.

Hanish won the first four stages of the match, jumping out to a 62+ point lead over FNH USA teammate Dianna Liedorff of Sperry, Okla.

Hanish gave back a little more than three points as Liedorff won the fifth stage if the match, but then expanded her lead over Liedorff to more than 216 points with wins on stages six and seven.

Liedorff battled back with three consecutive stages wins before finishing second behind Hanish on the final stage of the match.

Hanish won the title with her final score of 1252.3448. Liedorff finished second with 1095.2133.

FNH USA Shooting Teams Tasha Hanish

“Tasha is quickly making a name for herself as one of the strongest women competing in MultiGun competition. Her dominating performance this weekend shows why she’s the one to watch in future matches,” said Michael Voigt, USPSA president.

Rounding out the top five were Denise Johnson of Thornton, Colo. in third with a final score of 972.9713. Fourth place, and a win on the eighth stage, went to Katie Harris of Taylorsville, Ga. who posted a final score of 957.3457 while fifth place went to Heidi Salman of Happy Valley, Ore. with 844.2410.

Daniel Horner of the U.S. Army Marksmanship Unit won the overall Tactical division title for the second year in a row with his final score of 2075.0824

Among the senior shooters, Kerry DeMatos of Oxnard, Calif. finished 16th overall and claimed the Senior Tactical division title with a score of 1557.8230 while Randy Askins of Ione, Calif. won the Super Senior title with a score of 858.3089.

More than 150 top shooters from 26 states, as well as Canada, competed in the 2010 DPMS MultiGun Nationals putting more than 19,000 rounds downrange during the competition. The format of the MutiGun Nationals tests a shooter’s skill with three types of firearms – the rifle, the shotgun and the pistol.

The next major competition on the USPSA calendar is the 2010 USPSA Handgun National Championships scheduled for October 8 through 16 in Las Vegas, Nev. For more information, visit www.USPSA.org or follow @USPSA_Shooting on Twitter.

FNH USA Shooting Teams Tasha Hanish

FNH USA Shooting Teams Tasha Hanish

SCAR MK 13 EGLM Enhanced Grenade Launcher Module

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- The U.S. Special Operations Command notified FN that the Special Operations Forces Combat Assault Rifle (SCAR) family of weapons—the MK 16 (5.56mm) and MK 17 (7.62mm) combat assault rifles and MK 13 grenade launcher—was approved for full-rate production.

The Full-Rate Production Decision Review by the Milestone Decision Authority occurred on July 30, 2010.

FN Herstal, a worldwide recognized firearms supplier to generations of soldiers, sailors, airmen and Marines since 1897, has ramped up production and assembly at its manufacturing facilities to meet the delivery orders placed by USSOCOM.

Following a worldwide solicitation to the firearms industry in 2004, nine vendors submitted a dozen designs for a new modular, multi-caliber weapons system. In November 2004, FNH was awarded the contract by USSOCOM for its SCAR submission after passing the Go/No-Go criteria required by the solicitation and being selected by a source selection board composed of senior operators from every SOF component.

The SCAR weapons system is modular and easily adaptable to future enhancements and calibers. It is built with an eye to careful economic stewardship and the small logistical footprint required of today’s highly mobile military. Overall life cycle costs are reduced by features such as a chrome-lined, hammer forged steel barrel with a service life of far more than 15,000+ rounds. Each component of the SCAR weapons system is built for years of dependable service while minimizing maintenance downtime.

The heart of the FN SCAR system consists of two highly adaptable modular rifle platforms and a grenade launcher. Type-designated as the MK 16 and the MK 17, both rifles are available with three different barrel lengths optimized for conducting operations in close-quarters combat, standard infantry and longer-range precision fire roles. All SCAR barrels are tightly attached to a monolithic receiver and can be easily interchanged by the operator in minutes to instantly meet virtually any mission requirement. The MK 13 40mm Enhanced Grenade Launcher Module (EGLM) easily mounts under the barrel of either SCAR platform, providing another useful tool for the warfighter and is easily configured for use as a stand-alone weapon as well. Because of the SCAR system’s modular design, ergonomic (100%) and parts commonality (greater than 80%), it represents a significant reduction in training costs and life-cycle support. The weapon system’s open architecture supports future enhancements and modifications in operational requirements including ammunition, aiming devices, sighting systems and other mission critical equipment.

The MK 17 (7.62mm) is also the base of the SCAR common receiver currently under final test and evaluation by USSOCOM. The SCAR common receiver can accommodate multi-caliber conversion kits.

The SCAR weapons system is the first new assault rifle procured by the U.S. Military through a full and open competition since the M16 trials held in the mid-1960s. It was tested for reliability, accuracy, safety and ergonomics from August 2005 to September 2008 in a variety of environments including urban, maritime, jungle and winter/mountain operational test scenarios. The SCAR weapons system successfully endured more than two million rounds of ammunition during these trials thereby making it the most heavily tested weapons system in the history of small arms. No other current so-called modular weapons system has endured even a fraction of this degree of strenuous testing, and none are in use by U.S. forces.

SCAR 17S Rifle

FN firearms manufactured in the United States are produced by FN Manufacturing in Columbia, SC. The Herstal Group is represented by FNH USA, FN Manufacturing and Browning within the United States and directly employs more than 1,000 individuals. U.S. operations are located in Virginia, South Carolina, Utah and Missouri. FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN. Its corporate mission is to expand the company’s global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. For more information, or to view the entire line of FN products, visit www.fnhusa.com. FNH USA, LLC, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA 22101 USA

Remington, Johnson, Wins 3GN Shoot-Off, Safariland

FNH 3 Gun Nation TV

RATON, NM --(Ammoland.com)- Remington’s Robby Johnson upset Smith & Wesson’s legendary Jerry Miculek to win the 3-Gun Nation Shoot-Off and $5,000, courtesy of Safariland, following the JP Enterprises Rocky Mountain 3-Gun here Aug. 7.

The last qualifying event on the inaugural FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, with more than 30,000 acres of rugged, scenic backdrop of the NRA Whittington Center, the final shoot-off lived up to the hype, with Johnson completing arguably the toughest route of the season, with wins over Daniel Horner, Eric Miller and Miculek.

The performance provided a bright cap to an otherwise difficult time for Johnson. While competing in the three-day event, the former Army Ranger learned that his dear friend, Army Master Sgt. Jared N. Van Aalst, had been killed in action August 4th while conducting combat operations in Konduz Province, Afghanistan. Johnson received word while in Raton, and admitted that much of the weekend was surreal as calls, texts and e-mails poured in from the Army community.

Johnson and Van Aalst were each snipers, Rangers and members of the accomplished Army Marksmanship Unit.

“I got a call first thing Thursday morning, and got the news about my friend Jared N. Van Aalst, who was killed in action,” Johnson said. “It was very tough to think about the match, but I had a lot of friends and supporters call me. Jared was a competition shooter at heart and an AMU guy, and he taught me a lot about shooting. It was cool to give it my best effort and come out on top and dedicate the win to him.”

In the first round, Johnson drew his longtime friend, and former teammate, the AMU’s Daniel Horner, who was competing in his first 3-gun event of the season following a deployment to Afghanistan. Horner, who many consider the best in the game, won the Tactical Optics division, setting up the showdown with Johnson, who left the AMU to pursue a career with Remington.

“He does a lot for the Army and the AMU,” Johnson said of Horner. “He was almost soldier of the year. We kind of clicked the whole time we were in, we got super close and we still talk on the phone all the time. I try to shoot with him as much as I can to get as many pointers as I can. It’s a friendship I’ll have for life.”

Horner was first to the rifle, but struggled to stay steady from a standing position against the barricade. But Johnson, a former Army Ranger sniper, went one-for-one through five of six rifle plates to establish a comfortable lead through the shotgun portion of the shoot-off. Although Horner accelerated through the shotgun poppers and pistol rack, the lead was to much to overcome, as Johnson stayed smooth to the stop plate.

Miculek cruised to comfortable wins in his first two match-ups, knocking off Burton Thompson and Craig Underdown, respectively. Underdown defeated four-time 3GN shoot-off participant Patrick Kelley in the first round.

Meanwhile, the final first round match provided a moment of high drama, as Kelly Neal pulled ahead of Eric Miller through the pistol rack only to knock down Miller’s stop plate instead of his own, giving the win to Miller. But the highlight of the event was, of course, the final showdown between one of the greatest 3-gunners of all time versus one of the best 3-gunners of the last few years.

“The whole time I thought to myself that there was no shame in getting beat by Jerry, but the competitive spirit in me, I just went out and gave it everything I had, I wasn’t going to give it to him,” Johnson said.

Nor would the elder statesman of 3-gun, who seemed extremely focused after a first-round exit to Taran Butler in his previous 3GN shoot-off. But after shooting the second of the two semi-final match-ups, and with little break before the finals, Miculek was clearly winded, as the 6,500+ feet above sea level seemed to take its toll.

As such, Miculek struggled to settle in at the rifle barricade, while Johnson easily pulled to the early lead. Similar to the Horner match-up, Miculek mowed through the shotgun poppers at an intense rate, but it wasn’t enough, as Johnson kept his composure and cleaned the pistol rack to the stop plate and the victory, along with $5,000 from Safariland.

“With Jerry, there was a lot of pressure because it was the last match, the money was on the line, and I was going against the best shoot-off guy in the world,” Johnson said. “I knew I had to go for it, because I wasn’t going to win going slow.”

The eight-person shoot-off is a format like no other, where competitors take on steel rifle, shotgun and pistol racks in a race to the stop plate. To level the playing field, contestants fire an FNH USA SCAR 16 equipped with a SureFire muzzle brake and suppressor, chambered in .223 Rem., a new competition variant of the 12-gauge SLP semi-automatic shotgun, and the new FNX-9 semi-automatic pistol in 9 mm. Each gun runs ammunition provided by Federal Premium, and the rifles are topped with Weaver or Leupold optics.

Add in eight of the world’s fiercest 3-gunners, and the competition heats up. The next stop on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, Presented by SureFire, is during the USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals, Sept. 9-12, where 10 Wild Card slots will be on the line for the 3GN Championship.

On Sept. 13, 60 competitors will battle for the 3GN Championship and $25,000, courtesy of Luepold; 2nd place will receive $10,000 from US P.A.L.M., and 3rd place will win $5,000 from Timney Triggers. Multi-gun, or 3-gun, is a unique sport within the discipline known as practical shooting. Considered the fastest growing segment within the shooting sports, 3-gun challenges competitors with rifle, pistol and shotgun, maneuvering through unique stages of fire as fast as their skill will allow.

The National 3-Gun Association, through media properties “3-Gun Nation Television” and 3GunNation.com, was formed with one mission: to promote practical shooting by shining a light on amateur and professional shooters alike, as well as the guns, gear and lifestyle that define the high-octane sport of 3-gun competition. Bringing never-before-seen cash payouts to the table, 3-Gun Nation is quite simply changing the game. 3 Guns.

One Champion. For more information, visit www.3GunNation.com.

Lipsey’s Exclusive Supplier of the Black FNP 45 Tactical Pistol

FNH USA

McLean, Va --(Ammoland.com)-  August 2, 2010. Lipsey’s, one of the nation’s leading wholesale firearms distributors selling only to federally licensed dealers, has added the latest FNP-45 Tactical (Item #FN66810) to its exclusive inventory line-up.

The new pistol is the first all-black version of the just-launched and very popular Tactical line and is only available at Lipsey’s from July 1 to September 30.

Developed for the U.S. Joint Combat Pistol Program, the FNP-45 Tactical offers 45-ACP performance, a checkered polymer frame and has a low-bore axis for reduced felt recoil and enhanced operator control. Four interchangeable backstraps come standard with the pistol to allow the user to customize the feel of the grip. All operating controls are fully ambidextrous, and the 5.3” stainless steel barrel has a threaded muzzle to accept sound suppressors, compensators and other accessories. Complete with high-profile combat night sights, this pistol includes two mounting bases to accept multiple styles of optional red-dot electronic sights. Three 15-round magazines, an owner’s manual, a locking device and a fitted Cordura® nylon soft case come standard.

The FNP-45 Tactical in black is available to ship immediately. To order yours today contact a Lipsey’s Sales Professional by calling (800) 666-1333. For more information about this item and other exclusive offers from Lipsey’s, visit www.Lipseys.com. This product is available for same-day shipping.

Formed in 1953, Lipsey’s has grown into one of the largest, independently owned, single location firearms distributors in the country. The company is located in Baton Rouge, LA, and provides products to customers in all 50 states.

FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.

SCAR 17S Rifle

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- FNH USA announces the arrival of a limited first production run of SCAR 17S rifles.

This first release of the commercial SCAR 17S will include a durable, lockable, waterproof Hardigg Storm hard side case that is ideal for storage and transportation along with a certificate of authenticity attesting that it is part of the initial production run marking the introduction of the FN SCAR 17S in the U.S.A.

The semi-automatic FN SCAR 17S is a modular, lightweight, semi-automatic rifle with exceptional reliability and durability.

It features:

• A free floating, cold hammer-forged MIL-SPEC barrel with a hard-chromed bore;
• An innovative gas-operated, short stroke piston system for fouling reduction and improved reliability;
• Fully ambidextrous operating controls that allow adaptability for left and right hand users;
• A receiver-integrated MIL-STD 1913 optical rail plus three accessory rails to allow use of a wide variety of tactical lights and lasers;
• A side-folding, polymer stock that is adjustable for comb height and length of pull;
• 7.62 x 51 mm (308 WIN.) cartridge chambering;
• A choice of 10 or 20-round magazines;
• Authentic USSOCOM flat dark earth finish; and
• A barrel length of 16.25” and weight of 8.0 lbs.

The SCAR 17S makes an ideal platform for the Heavy Metal Divisions in various three-gun shooting venues as well as U.S. Practical Shooting Association (USPSA) sanctioned events.

For more details and photographs or to download wallpapers, visit www.fnhusa.com.

FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.

FNH 3 Gun Nation TV

McLean, VA --(AmmoLand.com)- The new TV show highlighting the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour, presented by SureFire, will debut on Versus, Monday, July 26, 2010.

The show will air Mondays at 7:30 a.m. EST and Thursdays at 3:00 p.m. EST. Watch amateurs and professionals alike compete head to head in some of the most action-packed and difficult stages of fire throughout the shooting sports.

The inaugural season pairs the tour with some of 3-gun’s most prestigious events: DPMS Superstition Mountain Mystery 3-Gun, Sabre Defense Blue Ridge Mountain, FNH USA Midwest 3-Gun Championships, MGM Ironman, and JP Enterprises’ Rocky Mountain 3-Gun.

Each event ends in a dramatic, head-to-head, single elimination shoot-off where one winner will walk away with $5,000. Competitors accumulate points throughout the season, and the top 50 are eligible to compete in the year-end championship following the USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals held September 13 outside Las Vegas, NV.

The winner of the 2010 FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Championship, presented by SureFire, will receive $25,000, courtesy of Leupold, and will make history as the world’s top 3-gun shooter.

In addition, the top finishers in each division at the USPSA Multi-Gun Nationals, who have not already earned a spot in the 3GN championship, will earn a wild card berth, giving 10 additional competitors a shot at $5,000, courtesy of Timney Triggers; $10,000, courtesy of US P.A.L.M.; and the grand prize of $25,000, courtesy of Leupold. There will be four wild card slots given out in Tactical Optics, two in Open, two in Tactical Iron, and one each to Heavy Metal and Heavy Metal Optics.

Don’t miss this exciting season of TV shows on Versus as FNH USA, Surefire, Federal Premium Ammunition, Weaver, Brownells and Leupold take you on an up close and personal encounter with competitors as they run a gauntlet of challenging courses throughout the United States. Watch the pressure mount as your favorite shooters, the best 3-gunners in the world, put it all on the line for the most lucrative purse in the history of practical shooting.

FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Tour. 3 Guns. One Champion. Only on Versus.

FNH USA, LLC is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA, LLC products and services. FNH USA, LLC, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA 22101 USA.

FNH Midwest Three Gun Championship

FNH USA

McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- McLean, Va. --(Ammoland.com)- The 2010 Midwest 3-Gun Championships in Fayette, Mo. began with over 200 shooters facing muddy challenges and ended with the sun shining and Robert Romero’s smiling acceptance of a $5,000 check presented by FNH USA in the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Shoot-Off.

The match is one of the five events (Superstition Mountain, Blue Ridge Mountain 3-Gun, FNH USA Midwest 3-Gun, MGM IronMan, and Rocky Mountain) that determine the final roster of shooters who will compete in the exciting culmination of the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation tour presented by SureFire.

The Championship will be held September 13, 2010 at the USPSA Nationals in Boulder City, Nev. The winner of the Championship will walk away with a $25,000 grand prize (provided by Leupold).

Those placing 2nd and 3rd will also receive cash prizes. Look for the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation tour televised on Versus beginning July 26, 2010.

Individual and team results of this year’s event are as follows:

Second place winner in the Open Class, Tommy Thacker and Dianna Liedorff -– whose team placed 3rd in the Team event – are both members of the FNH USA Shooting Team. Another team member, Larry Houck, scored Match high overall for law enforcement.

Three-gun shooting includes competition with a handgun, shotgun, and rifle across several stages of fire with different and challenging obstacles and moving targets. For complete stats, visit www.midwest3gun.com. For more information on the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Shoot-Off, visit www.3gunnation.com.

Dianna Liedorff, a 17-year veteran of the Tulsa Police Department and FNH USA Shooting Team member, prepares to shoot the SCAR 16S.

Tommy Thacker of the FNH USA Shooting Team shoots an FN SLP with XRAIL magazine extension system from RCI.

Robert Romero, winner of the FNH USA 3-Gun Nation Shoot-off, happily accepts a check for $5,000.

About:
FNH USA is the sales and marketing arm of FN Herstal, S.A., Belgium. Its corporate mission is to expand its global leadership position in defense, law enforcement and commercial markets by delivering superior products and the finest in training and logistical support. Visit www.fnhusa.com to view the entire line of FNH USA products and services. FNH USA, P.O. Box 697, McLean, VA, 22101, U.S.A.