Santa Deliverers 1.5 Million Firearms For Christmas

AmmoLand Gun News

Washington DC - -(Ammoland.com)- Making a Christmas list is always fun.

And I remember as a kid listing things in order, putting the gift I would most like Santa to bring at the top of list.

One year that was a bicycle, another year a certain type of BB gun, and another year a video game system.

Throughout other years the number one gift request varied but was always the one thing on my list I went to bed dreaming about on Christmas Eve. And although such is to be expected of a child, it seems that a lot of adults now go to bed on Christmas Eve dreaming of what Santa might bring them as well: especially when the number one thing on their list is a Walther .380 or a Glock model 27 or a Springfield XD subcompact 9mm, all of which are splendid guns for concealed carry permit holders.

As a matter of fact, judging from sales receipts and FBI reports regarding sales for December 2011, it seems that Santa delivered at least 1.5 million firearms for Christmas.

Not only is this news in light of the fact that it required the FBI to do a record setting number of background checks in a month – 1.5 million in December alone – but also because it continues to highlight what has been a growing trend among people of all walks of life: namely, folks are less and less trustful of government’s ability to keep them safe.

In early December I had a post on Big Government in which I pointed out gun sales on black Friday had already shattered records. On that day alone, the FBI had done 126,166 background checks for firearms sales. Moreover, an obvious trend on that day was the growing number of women interested in firearms for personal protection. My observation then, which has not changed now, was that the freaks who have been paraded out in Obama’s #OccupyWallStreet movement, the blatant civil unrest that has been fed by Obama’s ongoing class warfare rhetoric, and the violence (sexual and otherwise) that has marked both has reminded us that our safety rests in our own hands. As a result, a growing number of women who want to be safe scratched clothing off the number spot on their Christmas lists and instead wrote “a Smith & Wesson BODYGUARD .38 Special” or “a Sig Sauer P238 .380.”

Of course men bought and received the lion’s share of guns for Christmas, and outside of hunters, the majority of these sales were driven by the same concern – personal safety. After all, what better way to keep yourself and your family safe than to have a firearm that can be used to repel and if need to be, to kill, a household intruder, carjacker, or other criminal who is intent on doing harm to you?

Therefore, when all was said and done Dec. 23 became the second largest single day for gun sales (second only to black Friday) with 102,222 background checks performed.

A timely example of how this return to taking responsibility for our own lives played out right before my eyes over the Christmas break. I was fortunate to go shooting with a couple of friends, a husband and a wife, and the wife had never shot a gun before in her life. The husband had purchased a Ruger .380 LCP, a Glock model 27, and a Smith & Wesson Governor revolver. We shot each weapon repeatedly until Mary settled on the one she was most comfortable operating.

As we were packing up her husband said: “Okay, this gun will be in your nightstand, ready to go if anyone breaks in when I’m not home.”

America is the land of the free, and that freedom was exemplified on Christmas as Santa did his part in bringing us guns we can keep and bear for self-defense.

AWR Hawkins

About:
AWR Hawkins writes for all the BIG sites, for Pajamas Media, for RedCounty.com, for Townhall.com and now AmmoLand Shooting Sports News.

His southern drawl is frequently heard discussing his take on current events on radio shows like America’s Morning News, the G. Gordon Liddy Show, the Ken Pittman Show, and the NRA’s Cam & Company, among others. He was a Visiting Fellow at the Russell Kirk Center for Cultural Renewal (summer 2010), and he holds a PhD in military history from Texas Tech University.

If you have questions or comments, email him at awr@awrhawkins.com. You can find him on facebook at www.facebook.com/awr.hawkins.

Happy New Year From Knife Rights - Looking forward to a new year.

KnifeRights.org

Gilbert, AZ --(Ammoland.com)- All of us at Knife Rights hope this post finds you in good spirits to start the new year.

This year promises to be crucial in the fight to retain our freedoms and we are excited at the prospect of continuing our successful campaign to defend and expand our right to own and carry the tools we find so useful.

There is no getting around the fact that our rights are under attack in many places by those for whom personal freedom is something to be feared, something to be restricted as a scapegoat for those unwilling to address fundamental causes of criminal behavior. On the other hand, election years also present unique opportunities to advance our cause and Knife Rights has positioned itself to take advantage of the opportunities that will arise.

From the perspective of making progress on knife issues, 2011 was improved over 2010 and we expect 2012 to be much better yet. We definitely advanced the cause in the vast majority of issues we engaged last year and with your continued support we can count on making even bigger progress this year.

Last year saw us pass Knife Law Preemption in two more states and blocking anti-knife laws from being passed in two others. We filed a Federal Civil Rights lawsuit against New York City and DA Cyrus Vance, Jr., to stop their persecution of knife owners and retailers and we supported legal battles in three other states.

As the new year just dawns we have a Knife Law Preemption bill running in Pennsylvania that will also eliminate bans on switchblades and other banned knives and in Indiana we have a bill filed to repeal the ban on switchblades. We are close to filing bills in three other states and we are working with legislators in four more states on pro-knife legislation.

All this and the new year is not even a day old.

This is just the hint, really, of what’s in store for this year. We have big news coming in the next few weeks and months as plans we have been working on for many months come to fruition. Knife Rights is poised to take a big slice out of our opponents this year, and it is your support that makes this possible.

We wish you and yours the very best for this new year; may you enjoy health and prosperity. May your edges never dull and may you and your tools enjoy the respect and freedom they are both due.

About:
Knife Rights (www.KnifeRights.org) is America’s Grassroots Knife Owners Organization, working towards a Sharper Future for all knife owners. Knife Rights is dedicated to providing knife owners an effective voice in public policy. Become a Knife Rights member and make a contribution to support the fight for your knife rights. Visit www.kniferights.org

Jews For The Preservation Of Firearms Ownership

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- As we entered December, I faced a dilemma. Many of our JPFO members are not Jewish (we don’t ask, but members often write to me and include such information), but it is inappropriate for an Orthodox rabbi to send Christmas greetings.

I approached my dear friend and brother Reverend Kenn Blanchard to write to our membership, and he kindly agreed — and asked that I do the same for the listeners of his Urban Shooter Podcast. Reverend Kenn is a true friend, a man who actualizes in me potential that I didn’t know I had. May we all be blessed with such friends, and with love and peace.

Rabbi Bendory

Holy Day Wishes
Religious holidays like Hanukkah and Christmas aren’t celebrated as holy days very much. I’d like to give you something to consider this season.

We have much to celebrate in spite of the economy, world politics and you-fill-in-the blank issues that plague us. If you are reading this, for example you are doing better than a lot of people.

The celebrations of both Christmas and Hanukkah involve family, lights, and freedom. As it was in ancient times, people are still trying to get others to bow down, or go along, with ideologies that would compromise your freedom. Don’t compromise on your faith or on your principles.

Once that light goes out, there is no hope and no help for you. Mattathais took up a sword and battled his way out of a compromise. A young woman submitted to become “the handmaiden of the Lord.” Both holidays are about dedication, commitment and fulfillment of promises.

How are you going to stand when the winds of change come?

“It takes more courage to reveal insecurities than to hide them, more strength to relate to people than to dominate them, more ‘manhood’ to abide by thought-out principles rather than blind reflex. Toughness is in the soul and spirit, not in muscles and an immature mind.”- Alex Karras

As members of the pro-gun community it is easy to grow weary in well doing. It is easy to get tired of fighting Aunt Laudy and everybody, but stick to what you know is right. Don’t bow down to idols. Keep your lights burning brightly so you can inspire others. Exercise your faith.

This is a season of joy and happiness if you realize that the most important things in life aren’t things. This is a time of family and friends. This is a time to rededicate yourself to what really matters in your life. Celebrate the Light of the World. Celebrate the lights of the menorah. Celebrate life!

Kenn Blanchard - Host of the Black Man With A Gun Podcast.

Merry Christmas and Happy Hanukkah

Rev. Kenn Blanchard
Host of the Black Man With A Gun Podcast, speaker and blogger on kennblanchard.com

PS. I am extremely honored and blessed to call as my friend Rabbi Dovid Bendory. I am humbled for the opportunity to contribute this message. It is my prayer that the Lord bless you and your family this holy day season. Shalom Baby, kb

About:
Jews For The Preservation Of Firearms Ownership Mission is to destroy “gun control” and to encourage Americans to understand and defend all of the Bill of Rights for everyone. Those are the twin goals of Wisconsin-based Jews for the Preservation of Firearms Ownership (JPFO). Founded by Jews and initially aimed at educating the Jewish community about the historical evils that Jews have suffered when they have been disarmed, JPFO has always welcomed persons of all religious beliefs who share a common goal of opposing and reversing victim disarmament policies while advancing liberty for all.

JPFO is a non-profit tax-exempt educational civil rights organization, not a lobby. JPFO’s products and programs reach out to as many segments of the American people as possible, using bold tactics without compromise on fundamental principles. Visit www.JPFO.org – Copyright JPFO 2011

Merry Christmas from California Rifle & Pistol Association

California Rifle and Pistol Association

Sacramento, CA --(Ammoland.com)- Dear AmmoLand Readers:

On behalf of your CRPA Board of Directors and Staff, we sincerely thank you for your continued support of our association over the past year.

It is only through the ongoing dedication and generosity of our CRPA members that we are able to protect our sacred Second Amendment and hunting rights here in California.

We wish you and your family a very Merry Christmas and a Happy and Prosperous New Year.

May God bless you!

About:
The California Rifle and Pistol Association “CRPA,” founded in 1875, is dedicated to defending the rights of law-abiding citizens to responsibly use firearms for self-defense and the defense of their loved ones, for sport, and for all other legal activities. CRPA is the official state association of the National Rifle Association. A California non-profit association, CRPA is independently directed by its own Board of Directors. CRPA’s members include law enforcement officers, prosecutors, professionals, firearm experts, the general public, and loving parents. CRPA has always worked to reduce the criminal misuse of firearms and firearms accidents, while actively promoting and organizing the competitive shooting sports and Olympic training programs in California. We are proud to say that many CRPA competitors are among the best in the world. Visit: www.crpa.org

Getting Your Picture Taken With Santa...And Guns

NRA News

Fairfax, VA --(Ammoland.com)- NRA-News is a valued partner that continues to cover breaking gun rights news with a new and improved short video format in the “NRA News Minute” videos.

To view the current firearms or gun rights news video, please click above:

Cam Edwards talks to Ron Kennedy from the Scottsdale Gun Club in Arizona on their viral Santa and Guns Photo opportunity.

Read More on these topics:

• In Spite Of The Economy Santa Still Draws A Crowd at Bass Pro Shops
• The Magic Returns At Basspro’s Santa Wonderland Event

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

AmmoLand Shooting Sports News Wishes You a Happy Thanksgiving

AmmoLand Gun News

Manasquan, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- Here is wishing each and everyone of our loyal readers and their families a Happy and Safe Thanksgiving.

Happy Thanksgiving! A special thanks for our men & women in the military spending today away from their families in order to keep us safe.

We appreciate all the support we received throughout the year and want to give thanks to everyone that helps to make our news-wire the success it is today.

Molon labe ~ Fredy & Brian

Got Ammo - National Ammo Day

AmmoLand Gun News

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

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

The goals of Ammo Day:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Thank you: Kim DuToit.

Bass Pro Shops

Springfield, Missouri --(Ammoland.com)- Now you can relive all your favorite Easter memories plus pass important family traditions on to your own children without it costing you a dime at Bass Pro Shops.

There’s no better time to get great outdoor memories started than during this first official rite of spring.

Come out to the Bass Pro Shops in your area April 16th – 24th** and bring the kids to take part in the free, fun Easter activities they have planned for the whole family. Kids will have fun doing the crafts and Mom and Dad will really enjoy the free photo opportunity for the kids as they visit the Easter Bunny. And, of course, there’s the time-honored tradition of an old-fashion Easter Egg Hunt.

Saturdays and Sundays, April 16th-17th and 23rd – 24th, from 11am to 3pm bring the kids to have their free 4×6 photo taken with the Easter Bunny. Pictures may also be taken Monday through Friday, April 18th – 22nd from 6-8pm. An old-fashioned Easter Egg hunt for kids ages 2-10 will be held Saturdays and Sundays, April 16th-17th and 23rd – 24th from 1-2pm.

Kids can enjoy fun crafts like decorating their own foam Easter egg** Saturday and Sunday, April 16th and 17th from noon to 3pm. Then, they can make a foam magnet Easter Egg decoration** Friday, April 22nd from 6pm-8pm and Saturday and Sunday, April 23rd and 24th from noon to 3pm. **(Quantities limited, while supplies last).

Bring the family to Bass Pro Shops and enjoy Easter to the max this year without maxing out your budget. Visit www.bassproshops.com for more information and click on your local store for more details.

**Easter event not available at Bass Pro Shops Toronto store Friday April 22nd or Sunday, April 24th.

Texas Deer Association Wishes You a Happy New Year

About:
Headquartered in San Antonio, the TDA is the only non-profit organization solely committed to improving the quality of Texas deer herds through improved habitat practices, modern harvest strategies and use of superior deer to enhance the deer herds. As a part of its public education efforts, the TDA publishes Tracks, a full-color bi-monthly magazine that updates members on legislative news, deer genetics and game management issues.

More information about the Texas Deer Association or events you can attend visit www.texasdeerassociation.com.

TedNugent.com

Jackson MI - -(Ammoland.com)- With a new year on the horizon, Uncle Ted has some parting words for his BloodBrothers and BloodSisters to ensure the spirit of the wild carries on in 2011 and beyond.

As I wrap up the greatest year of my rockin, huntin, ultraLivin life with family, new family, friends, loved ones and BloodBrothers around the world, it is my desire to convey a hearty, full on Double Live ultra GONZO Merry Christmas and yet another effervescent throbbing slap Happy Nuge YEAR to all of you at AmmoLand.com & beyond.

That in an otherwise sheeping of mankind, your defiant boldness, brashness and exuberant passionate engagement in this glorious American Dream culture war inspires me deeply, and you all know what that means; it means I will live life fuller, more defiant, more alive, more on fire in 2011 than ever before and am so very pleased that I am not alone in this spectacular wild assed ride.

You people deserve me and I SALUTE your spiritFire. WildThing, you move me.

American BloodBrothers forever, Ted Nugent & family

And if there was ever any doubt of Ted’s ability to spread the Christmas cheer, click the video above for a blast from the past.

Rock legend Ted Nugent is noted for his conservative political views and his vocal pro-hunting and Second Amendment activism. His smash bestseller Ted, White & Blue: The Nugent Manifesto, is now available at www.amazon.com. Nugent also maintains the Official Ted Nugent Site at www.TedNugent.com.

A Christmas Message from Ronnie Barrett

About:
Barrett is a family-owned and operated company specializing in high performance rifle systems and accessories. Barrett manufactures rifles, ammunition, optics, and other related accessories for civilian sport shooters, law enforcement agencies, the United States military, and over 63 foreign allied militaries worldwide. For more information, go to www.barrett.net.

Season's Greetings From Arizona Game And Fish

About:
AzCDL believes that the emphasis of gun laws should be on criminal misuse and that law-abiding citizens should be able to own and carry firearms unaffected by unnecessary laws or regulations. AzCDL was founded by a group of local activists who recognized that a sustained, coordinated, statewide effort was critical to protecting and expanding the rights of law-abiding gun owners. As a like-minded coalition of activists, the AzCDL founders were instrumental in the successful passage of the first major improvement to Arizona’s CCW (concealed carry) laws since they were instituted in 1994. Visit: www.azcdl.org

Women of USPSA

SEDRO-WOOLLEY, Wash. --(Ammoland.com)- Ladies, let’s face facts, with just a few shopping days left before Christmas your significant other probably needs help finding you the ideal shooting gift. So here’s a list of gift ideas from the Women of USPSA to help that chronic procrastinator make sure he gets you the right gift.

Guys, listen up! Your wife, mother, niece, daughter, aunt, girlfriend or whatever deserves a great gift. Face it, she’s had to put up with you all year long and Christmas is when that bill comes due. So to help you find the right gift that keeps her happy and you out of the dog house the Women of USPSA have come up with a list of suggestions.

USPSA Membership: The U.S. Practical Shooting Association is a family of over 350 clubs and nearly 20,000 members from across the country that love to shoot and compete. Instead of going your separate ways on that sunny summer Sunday afternoon, get her a membership, grab your range bag and join in on the fun. There are lots of couples that shoot so you won’t be alone on the range. Go to www.USPSA.org to sign up today.

Custom Shooting Shirt: Gemini Custom Apparel (www.g2gemini.com) and TechWear USA (www.TechWearUSA.com) both make completely customizable shooting shirts that are comfortable, breathable and offer women the opportunity to hit the range in something other than the ubiquitous tactical black, tan or OD green shirts. Get her one, she’ll look like a rock star on the range.

iKam Video Glasses: Seeing is believing and with the iKam video glasses (www.i-kamstore.com) the lady shooter in your life will be able to see exactly what she’s doing right (because guys, she’s never wrong) on the range. Used by many of the top shooters – both male and female – these glasses give her the opportunity to not just learn from her shooting but to share her best range highlights with friends and family through sites like YouTube.

Photo Shoot with Yamil Sued: Give your favorite lady a photo shoot with Yamil Sued.

Photo Shoot with Yamil Sued: Instead of going to that local mall photographer why not give your favorite lady a photo shoot with Yamil Sued. Yamil has shot all the top shooters and is recognized as one of the best in the firearms industry. Whether you’re looking for action shots, match candids or portraits, Yamil is the go-to photog to make her look her best. Visit www.hotgunshots.com or contact Yamil at Yamil@hotgunshots.com for more info.

Babes with Bullets Firearms Camp: We hate to break it to you guys but sometimes she’s going to want go shooting without you. That’s where the Babes with Bullets™ camps come in (www.BabesWithBullets.com). They are a series of shooting camps for women held across the U.S. which offer practical pistol training for novice, intermediate and advanced shooters. Whether she’s never held a handgun before, or an experienced competition shooter, there is a camp for her. Send her to camp…. so you can go spend the weekend shooting with the guys.

Tactical Solutions .22LR Barrels: We know it’s hard for you to believe but sometimes we women want something that comes in a color other than black or stainless. Shocking isn’t it? Well Tactical Solutions (www.TacticalSol.com) has just what you need – lots of .22LR products and accessories in lots of…. wait for it…. pretty colors. If she’s smart she’ll pick pink so you won’t try and take her gun to the range.

Shot Timers: You think baby needs a new pair of shoes? Well she also needs a shot timer. How else will she know when she’s shooting faster – and better – than you? Competitive Edge Dynamics (www.CEDhk.com) and PACT (www.PACT.com) are just two companies with a number of different models and color options to choose from.

Hearing Protection: Good hearing protection is one of the most important items a shooter can have in their range bag and the electronic models are among the most popular with competition shooters. Pro Ears (www.ProEars.com), EHP (www.EHPHearing.com) and Peltor (www.Peltor.com) each offer a wide selection with a variety of styles and, most importantly for her, lots of colors to choose from.

Gift Certificates: If all these suggestions are just too difficult for you to handle then take the easy way out with a GENEROUS gift certificate from Brownells (www.Brownells.com), Dillon Precision (www.DillonPrecision.com) or MidwayUSA (www.MidwayUSA.com). While a gift certificate tells her you couldn’t think of anything to get her, a big dollar amount on it lets her know that you love her just the same. Did we mention generous?

IPSC World Shoot in Greece: 2011 marks the return of the IPSC World Shoot and this time the international practical shooting championships will be held in Greece. While slots are limited and the allocation for the U.S. has not yet been announced, a trip to Greece to compete against the world’s best is the ideal present for the woman who has everything – especially since the estimated cost can be in excess of $3,000 to $5,000. Of course she’s worth every penny and more, so contact the U.S. Practical Shooting Association for more information and slot availability.

Women of USPSA Gear: Finally, the woman shooter in your life needs to know she’s not alone. There are plenty of great, and talented, women in the practical shooting sports and www.WomenofUSPSA.com is where you’ll find them. Get on your computer and go to the Women of USPSA online store to order hats, shirts, hoodies and more featuring the stylish Women of USPSA logo. We’ve given you a great list of ideas so the least you can do to thank us – and show her you care – is to buy some of our gear.

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from all the Women of USPSA.

About:
USPSA is a non-profit membership association. Most of the more than 15,000 individual members belong to and regularly compete at one of the nearly 400 affiliated clubs and sections (groups of clubs banded together for mutual benefit) located across the United States. USPSA is affiliated with the International Practical Shooting Confederation (I.P.S.C.), which is comprised of approximately 67 nations. USPSA is the American region of IPSC. Visit: www.uspsa.org

NRA - ILA

Charlotte, NC --(Ammoland.com)- NRA-ILA grass roots news recently debuted a new and improved format for the “Grassroots News Minute” video!

To view the current video in its new format, please click above:

Thank you from the NRA, for all you do to help defend and protect our 2nd Amendment rights and a very Merry Christmas, Happy? New Year, and safe holiday season to all.

Read More on these topics:

• Happy Holidays from iKnifeCollector

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

West Virginia DNR

SOUTH CHARLESTON, W.Va. – -(Ammoland.com)- Whether you’re a little bit country or a little bit rock ‘n’ roll, nine of West Virginia’s state parks with lodges can help you celebrate the turn of a New Year on Friday, Dec. 31. State parks offer a variety of planned dinners and dances and packaged options.

Lodge parks offering New Year’s Eve opportunities include Blackwater Falls, Cacapon Resort, Canaan Valley Resort, Chief Logan Lodge, North Bend, Pipestem Resort, Stonewall Resort, Twin Falls and Tygart Lake.

West Virginia State Parks and Forests organize and schedule a variety of events and activities throughout the year including New Year’s Eve Celebrations, dinner theaters, winter outdoor programs, Valentine’s Day options and more. For event and activities or packaged event and deals, visit www.wvstateparks.com.

Blackwater Falls State Park
End 2010 at beautiful Blackwater Falls State Park with a dinner followed by DJ entertainment in the conference center. New Year’s Package includes two nights lodging for two people, dinner and DJ New Year’s Eve, toast at midnight, refreshments and New Year’s Day breakfast. Cost for the package is $327.20 per couple.

Blackwater Water Falls is located in Davis in Tucker County. The park features a 54-unit lodge, vacation cabins, camping, full-service restaurant, and one the state’s most photographed scenes, Blackwater Falls.

For park and event information call 304-259-5216 or www.blackwaterfalls.com.

Cacapon Resort State Park
Bring in the New Year at Cacapon with a bang! Celebrate with music, dancing, and a formal toast. Celebrate New Year’s Eve with dancing to the live band “Saturday” playing Rock-‘n’-Roll and R&B Dance Music. Overnight Package cost is $209.63/couple and the overnight package includes lodging, dinner and breakfast, entertainment, midnight toast, and taxes, for two. New Year’s Eve Celebration Tickets (dance only) are available and the cost is $25 per person.

Cacapon State Park, near Berkeley Springs in Morgan County, is a year-round vacation and travel destination. Situated less than two hours from Washington, D.C. and Baltimore Md., the rural and restful surroundings make Cacapon and nearby Berkeley Springs State Park a nice retreat for a day or weekend.

For event, accommodation and restaurant information call 304-258-1022 or www.cacaponresort.com

Canaan Valley Resort
A New Year’s weekend at Canaan Valley includes skiing and outdoor fun and the warmth of Canaan Valley lodge for two “end of year party” options: a family oriented event or an adult party. Each package includes dinner, entertainment, party favors, and more and reservations are required.

A family party will be offered featuring entertainment, games, contest, party favors, punch, toast at midnight and dinner buffet. The evening also includes DJ entertainment, games, prizes, party favors and cider toast at midnight. The buffet menu includes family favorites chicken tenders, mac and cheese, spaghetti, popcorn shrimp, beef pot roast and desserts. The adult price is $21 and children ages 6-12 is $12.50, kids ages 5 – under free with parents. Rates are inclusive.

An adult party features a special dinner menu in the Hickory Room, live entertainment featuring Brother Short Band in the Laurel Lounge, party favors, champagne toast at midnight, and more. “The dinner menu is a three course dinner with choice of tureen of beef stuffed with cream of cabbage and wild mushrooms, apple walnut chicken, veal Oscar with lump crab, asparagus and Hollandaise sauce or pan seared Chilean sea bass. The price of $50 per person is inclusive and makes a very nice New Year’s Eve package,” said Lisa Ratliffe, director of sales. Overnight packages that include skiing also are available.

Reservations are required. Call 304-866-4121 x2651.

Chief Logan Lodge
“The Jaguars” sing and play favorite songs from the ‘50s to the present and bring the dance floor to life the last day of 2010 at Chief Logan Lodge. Located on US 119 between Chapmanville and Logan, the “lodge and conference center offers 75-upscale rooms and ample room for a great party,” said Danny Taylor, general manager. The New Year’s Eve package is $179 and includes king or queen hotel accommodations, dinner for two, two drink tickets and a champagne toast at midnight. The dance is from 9 p.m. until midnight and dinner is from 8 – 10 p.m. Dinner and party only is $112 per couple. Both packages include taxes and gratuity.

For event and Chief Logan Lodge information, call 304-855-6100 or visit www.chiefloganlodge.com.

North Bend State Park
Enjoy great food, live music and dancing, refreshments, and a champagne toast at midnight for a traditional New Year’s Eve party. Activities Coordinator Ken Zebo says dinner Friday evening is from 6:30 – 8 p.m. and the dance is from 9 p.m. until 1 a.m. “The Russel Ahner Band, a local group of talented musicians, will be playing all the favorites,” Zebo said. Jim Ingel’s New Year’s Eve Buffet includes carving stations, four entrees and assorted salads, sides and desserts. The North Bend package includes refreshments and mixers throughout the evening. There is a champagne toast at midnights. The dress is comfortable and the atmosphere is casual. The package includes overnight at the lodge, dinner, dance refreshments and mixers and Saturday buffet breakfast for $215 per couple. Individual packages and dinner/dance only, and reduced room rates are available for Saturday night for individuals spending the weekend enjoying the park and scenery.

North Bend State Park is located in Ritchie County near Cairo and Harrisville. The family-style lodge rooms, vacation cabins, campground and nearby North Bend Rail Trail are popular year-round. For reservations, call 304-643-2931 or visit www.northbendsp.com.

Pipestem Resort State Park
Celebrate on New Year’s Eve and stay for the weekend to take advantage of Pipestem State Park’s amenities. “Several options are planned for New Year’s Eve, including overnight packages or dinner and dance only,” according to Shirley Martin, activities coordinator. Stay overnight at McKeever lodge, enjoy the seafood buffet, New Year’s Eve dance and midnight toast for a total cost of $165.72 per couple. “If seafood isn’t your dinner choice, stay overnight at McKeever lodge, enjoy a three-course dinner, New Year’s Eve dance and midnight toast, for $190.64 per couple” said Martin. Taxes and gratuities are included in the overnight package price. Reservations are required.

For those opting for the dinner and dance only at Pipestem, the seafood buffet and dance is $98.63 per couple; the three-course dinner and dance is $124.56 per couple. The dance music is provided by Tim Singleton, a DJ from Vansant, Va. There is a cash bar. For reservations, call Pipestem State Park, 304-466-1800 or www.pipestemresort.com

Stonewall Resort
Stonewall Resort near Weston makes New Year’s Eve a sweetheart evening. Room rates are reduced to $139 and include accommodation and breakfast at Stillwaters for two per reservation. Additional consecutive nights at still lower rates of $79 per night plus tax and resort fee are extended to resort guests for a weekend retreat. The music of Dustin McGray and Grayson Samples will be featured Friday evening in the Lodge Lobby from 6 p.m. – midnight. Music by the Stalnakers will be playing at T.J. Muskies lounge from 9 p.m. until midnight. A New Years Eve Buffet is available in Stillwaters Restaurant, including a Seafood Ice Bar to Sugar and Spice. The price is $32 per person plus tax and gratuity (price not included in the room).

Stonewall features a 198-room lodge that is open year-round and features a Palmer Golf Course (seasonal), Stonewall Jackson Lake, villas, indoor swimming, spa services, fine dining and services. The property is operated by Benchmark Management Company and the Executive Chef is Paco Aceves. Reservations are required by calling 304-269-8830 in advance.

Twin Falls State Park
Known for good dance weekends, Twin Falls continues the tradition of New Year’s Eve dinner and dance. Music by DJ Superman will keep the dancers on the floor until the champagne toast at midnight. Hors d’oeuvers are part of the package as well as souvenir champagne glasses and party favors. Prior to the dance, a New Year’s Eve dinner at Twin Falls Restaurant is part of the Friday night package. “There are packages for one night or two night stays, as well as cabin packages,” according to Ken Vance, event planner. A Friday night only package in the lodge is $190 per couple.

For package details, call Twin Falls, 304-294-4000.

Tygart Lake
Tygart Lake State Park opens mid-April through January 1 of each year. “And on the last day of each year we plan a great party,” said Stephanie Bailey, activities program coordinator. The Tygart Lake Lodge package includes overnight accommodations, dinner for two at the park’s restaurant, dance, evening snacks, door prizes and a champagne toast at midnight. The dance is from 8 p.m. until midnight and the band is Stepping Stone. A per person price based on double occupancy is $123 per person. Discounted room rates for additional nights are offered as well as cabin rate packages and rates for room suites.

Tygart Lake is near Grafton and features a 20-room lodge, cabins, full service restaurant, lake and outdoor activities. A full schedule of 2011 special events is posted online at www.tygartlake.com. Call 304-265-6144 for New Year’s Eve reservations.

Iknifecollector.com

Iknifecollector.com --(Ammoland.com)- I want to wish you Happy Holidays.

Times aren’t the greatest for many folks right now with the challenges we are facing with our economy and all, but I hope you will find your holiday time very rewarding and memorable.

I hope too you can help those less fortunate during this holiday season. The unemployed and homeless need our help this year in a big way.

If you haven’t dropped by in a while, please do. New members are joining everyday- some you may know and others are new collectors looking for our guidance, and we’d love your 2 cents.

iKC continues to grow at a good steady pace and we’re bumping 2400 members. We’re getting to know collectors worldwide- collectors of the old and the new, in addition to having a blast playing knives

I do want to apologize though for our recent flurry of spammers. Our community watch program is on high alert and notifies me, if one slips by. Unfortunately several send messages and posted comments before I could get them banned recently, but please understand we are working diligently to keep our community free of these pests.

Thanks for your commitment and support for our iKnifeCollector.

Visit AmmoLand’s page  on Iknifecollector and add us as a friend!

South Carolina “Second Amendment” Sales Tax Holiday is Nov. 28 – 29

Congressional Sportsmen

Washington, DC --(Ammoland.com)- South Carolina will waive the state’s sales and use tax on purchases of handguns, rifles and shotguns during the first annual Second Amendment Sales Tax Holiday Nov. 28 – 29.

The 48-hour tax break on firearm purchases begins at 12:01 a.m. Nov. 28 and continues through midnight Nov. 29.

The tax exemption also applies to any local sales and use tax.

State implemented sales tax holidays are not a new concept. However, recently, such holidays have been implemented to benefit distributors and purchasers of firearms, ammunition, and other outdoor sporting goods.

The South Carolina legislature passed legislation that created the “Second Amendment” holiday and it occurred for the first time in December of 2008 and gun sales soared (650% increase in one day), resulting in a huge stimulus to the local firearms businesses of South Carolina.

About:
The Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation celebrated its 20th anniversary in 2009. Throughout this time, CSF has maintained a singleness of purpose that has guided the organization to become the most respected and trusted hunting and fishing organization in the political arena. Visit: www.sportsmenslink.org

Got Ammo - National Ammo Day

AmmoLand Gun News

Manasquan, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- The next National Ammo Day is November 19 2010, National Ammo Day has been an unofficial grassroots holiday since 2002 and is growing in celebration each year.

The goals of Ammo Day:

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Bass Pro Shops

Springfield, Missouri --(Ammoland.com)- Popular outdoor retailer, Bass Pro Shops presents their third annual “Santa’s Wonderland – A Classic Christmas” - an event that has already become a family Christmas tradition.

This year, the magic returns with Santa’s arrival, Saturday, November 6th at 5pm. Families can enjoy the wonder of Christmas inside every Bass Pro Shops store with “Santa’s Wonderland” – an over 3,500-square foot Christmas village chocked full of fun games, activities and crafts for the whole family – from November 6th through December 24th.

“It reminds you of the old times, like in the movies; everyone is interacting and having a good time…it gets you in the spirit!” says Barry Martin of Springfield, Missouri after visiting the Santa’s Wonderland event last year at the Bass Pro Shops in Springfield.

Angela Ferguson, a customer at the store in Broken Arrow, Oklahoma said regarding her visit “Definitely tell people to come see Santa’s Wonderland ‘cause there’s a lot of stuff for the kids to do, and they love it a lot and it’s free!”

Comprised of both animated and live elves, nutcrackers, reindeer and more, the village offers a Lionel old-time model train area, remote control trucks, a Red Ryder laser arcade, a Nerf soft gun range and slot car racing. Kids can also play the hottest new video games of the season with The Strike and The Hunt. They’ll love the activity tables where they can write a letter to Santa, color and do fun crafts every weekend–all absolutely free. New this year, a fun, different Santa Bandz bracelet will be offered every week to the first 150 kids who visit Santa’s Wonderland on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays only from 5-7pm. Of course, Santa will be in residence there throughout the season.

Always a family tradition, customers can get a free 4×6 photo with Santa and his reindeer from 5pm to 8pm Monday through Friday, Saturdays 10am to 8pm and Sundays noon to 5 pm with extended hours beginning December 13th. Photo and gift packages will also be available. If the line is long, they can just grab a Bass Pass and their appointment with Santa is set.

Every weekend from 12 to 5 pm beginning November 7th through December 19th, and Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays, November 9th through December 23rd from 5-7pm, kids can take part in the time-honored traditions of making crafts and holiday ornaments. They can do a fun elf mask, construct a snowman suncatcher, and make great ornaments out of fishing bobbers, popsicle sticks and more—even decorate Christmas cookies December 21st-23rd.

Again, it’s all free! A complete schedule of activities and times will be available at Santa’s Wonderland or visit www.basspro.com/santa and click on your local store beginning November 2nd.

Bass Pro Shops stores will kick off the Christmas season with a special Preview Night Saturday, November 6th from 5 pm to 8 pm. Local children’s groups and others will be singing Christmas carols in front of the store and customers will be treated to hot chocolate and cookies. Santa arrives at 5pm in a Tracker boat pulled by a Toyota Tundra truck or Cub Cadet ATV.

Kids will be invited to help Santa, through a little magic, light up the outside of the store, a big Christmas tree in the main entrance and then on into the store for the unveiling of Santa’s Wonderland. Santa will also be giving away $25 Bass Pro Shops gift cards to one lucky winner every half hour. Kids can kick off the season by coloring stockings and the first 150 kids to visit Santa’s Wonderland will receive a Santa Bandz bracelet!

Bass Pro Shops also has big plans for Black Friday. The 4th Annual Great Turkey Campout begins at 5pm Thanksgiving Day. Customers are invited to bring their tents and camp out all night on the parking lot so they can be one of the first in line to enter the store the next morning. They can enjoy hot chocolate, coffee and smores from 5 pm – 8 pm around the fire pits and there will be special drawings for prizes.

Return to the Christmas feeling you remember as a kid, return to “Santa’s Wonderland” at Bass Pro Shops and begin your own family tradition you are sure to remember for a lifetime.

About Bass Pro Shops Group:
Bass Pro Shops -56 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 109 million people annually, international catalog and internet retailing, American Rod & Gun wholesale division selling to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide, Outdoor World Incentives also selling Bass Pro Shops gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America and a restaurant division with 26 locations.  For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit www.basspro.com.  To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO

National Hunting and Fishing Day

SPRINGFIELD, Mo. --(AmmoLand.com)- The official “holiday” for hunters and anglers, National Hunting and Fishing Day, is working to promote America’s first best conservationists with help from perennial sponsor Realtree.

NHF Day is set for Saturday, Sept. 25, 2010.

Congress formalized the annual commemoration in 1972 as a public reminder that conservation depends on funding and leadership from hunters, shooters and anglers. Through licenses and special taxes, traditional sportsmen and women provide most of the funding for state conservation agencies today. In turn, results benefit all citizens who appreciate healthy fish, wildlife and habitat.

“Off the top of my head, I cannot tell you how long we have been supporting NHF Day, but I can tell you how long we will support it—as long as all of us are here!” said Realtree President and CEO Bill Jordan.

“Preserving our hunting heritage is vital to our land, our wildlife and our way of life. I offer everyone who supports, works and volunteers for NHF Day my sincerest thanks.”

RealTree

Realtree’s sponsorship supports Wonders of Wildlife museum in Springfield, Mo., the official home of NHF Day. The museum directs programs to build public understanding and appreciation for hunting, angling and conservation. Event planning tools, PSAs, promotional items, communications initiatives and more are part of its annual campaigns. Learn more at www.nhfday.org.

Denise Wagner of Wonders of Wildlife said, “Our goal is telling the NHF Day story all year long. Americans tend to forget who pays to conserve the wildlife resources that we all cherish. We’re better positioned for this important work because of dedicated sponsors such as Realtree.”

The entire USA Shooting Team is serving as honorary chair for NHF Day 2010. With 103 Olympic medals for rifle, pistol and shotgun marksmanship, the U.S. excels in few sports more than shooting. Only track and field, swimming, diving, wrestling and boxing have been more prolific medal producers for Americans. In fact, shooting ranks ahead of gymnastics, figure skating, volleyball and more than 30 other Olympic sports. Most members of the current USA Shooting Team are active hunters and anglers, blending a passion for the outdoors with winning on the world stage.

The growing list of sponsors for NHF Day 2010 includes Wonders of Wildlife, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Bass Pro Shops, Smith & Wesson, Sportsman Channel, Realtree, Cabela’s, GunBroker.com, Yamaha, Pope and Young Club and Izaak Walton League of America.

For more information about NHF Day, visit www.nhfday.org.

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC --(AmmoLand.com)- This year marks the 40th Anniversary of Earth Day on April 22 and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is offering ways to make a better planet for fish, wildlife and their habitat.

Take action on Earth Day and check out a special Web portal the Service has established at www.fws.gov/home/feature/2010/EarthDay10/index.html. It features eco tips, podcasts and numerous ways to get involved. In addition, you’ll also find a host of fun and meaningful activities taking place around the country at wildlife refuges, fish hatcheries, ecological field stations, as well as partner events in local towns, parks and surrounding areas.

Since 1970, Earth Day has been observed around the globe each spring as a day to raise environmental awareness and involve citizens and communities in creating a cleaner, healthier world.

“Throughout the years, Earth Day’s core messages — the need to respect the natural world, responsibly use natural resources and ensure a healthy planet for future generations — have been reflected in Service programs and initiatives. But Earth Day is about more than just what the government agencies are doing. It is based on the simple philosophy that ordinary people, acting together, can achieve extraordinary things,” said Acting Service Director, Rowan Gould.

While climate change is perhaps the greatest ecological challenge of our time, Earth Day reminds us that we all can take steps to help protect the environment, which touches the human spirit, contributes to human health and well-being and promotes a healthy economy.

The first Earth Day in 1970 helped galvanize support that led to eventual enactment of the Clean Air Act, Clean Water Act, Endangered Species Act and Marine Mammal Protection Act — all landmark pieces of environmental legislation.

“Service is a core component to Earth Day and an opportunity for people to take action on behalf of the planet each year,” Denis Hayes, Earth Day Network, 2010 Global Chair.

The organization’s Web site at http://www.earthday.org/ has an interactive tool to locate or upload a global event or register an act of green, just a few of the many ways to get involved.

Can’t find an event near you? There’s plenty you can do at home, in your neighborhood and with your families and friends. On the Service’s Earth Day pages, you will find a range of easy to do action items. Plant a tree, pick up litter, remove invasive plants, clean-up a beach…the opportunities are endless!

After 40 years — Earth Day remains a day to honor our planet and build a healthy environment for future generations.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

Montana Shooting Sports Association

MISSOULA, MT --(AmmoLand.com)- In 1991 MSSA got a bill passed setting aside the first week of March as the official week in Montana to celebrate our cherished Right to Keep and Bear Arms.

Here’s what the Montana law actually says:

1-1-224. Observance of right to keep and bear arms. The week beginning the first Monday in March is an official week of observance to commemorate Montana’s valued heritage of the right of each person to keep and bear arms in the defense of his home, person, or property or in aid of civil power.

During this week, all Montanans are urged to reflect on their right to keep and bear arms and to celebrate this right in lawful ways.

So, if you wanted reason to plan a celebration, here it is. If you have interesting ideas about what you will do in your community, let me know and I’ll recirculate them to the MSSA e-list.

Also, if you’re interested and as a bonus, I’ll paste below the story about how this happened (one of the several “Legislative Tales” from my book Gun Laws of Montana – commercial teaser).

Best wishes,

About Montana Shooting Sports Association:
MSSA is the primary political advocate for Montana gun owners. SAF is a national organization headquartered in Bellevue, WA that works nationally to advance the interests of gun owners. Visit: www.mtssa.org

U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service

Washington, DC - -(AmmoLand.com)-Valentine’s Day is a perfect time to fall in love with nature. Go outside to experience the excitement of a majestic bald eagle or the thrill of a bright red cardinal, whether in your own backyard or at one of America’s national wildlife refuges.

There is a national wildlife refuge or fish hatchery just an hour’s drive from most major metropolitan areas, and all are inviting portals to the natural world.

The Service’s “Let’s go Outside” Web site (www.fws.gov/letsgooutside) contains a wealth of information to help families connect with nature, including: · Electronic Valentines, in both English and Spanish, featuring bald eagles, red foxes and even turtles, that are great to send to friends and family.

• Fact sheets about numerous wildlife species, including bald eagles, moose, sea turtles and cardinals.
• Tips on how youngsters and their families can start observing wildlife.
• Links to maps and a special events calendar that can help families find places to go and see nature up close.

The following are just a few highlights:

Among the dozen or so national wildlife refuges where bald eagles are common is Klamath Basin Refuges (Tulelake, California, 530-667-2231, http://klamathbasinrefuges.fws.gov), which hosts the largest wintering concentration in the lower 48 states. In February, the refuge plays host to the nation’s oldest birding festival: the Bald Eagle Conference.

• Blackwater National Wildlife Refuge (Cambridge, Maryland, 410-228-2692, http://blackwater.fws.gov/), winters more than 200 bald eagles and supports the Atlantic Coast’s largest nesting population north of Florida.
• Quivera National Wildlife Refuge (Stafford, Kansas, 620-486-2393, http://quivira.fws.gov) has two large salt marshes, and both are excellent places to look for wildlife. A photo blind, accessible to people with disabilities, sits at the trail head of the Migrant’s Mile walking trail near Park Smith Lake, while a second photo blind is available near the Little Salt Marsh. A 14-mile auto route goes through the heart of the refuge, giving visitors many chances to spot white-faced ibis, great blue herons, American avocets, wild turkey and even coyotes lurking about during the heat of the afternoon.
• Ankeny National Wildlife Refuge (Jefferson, Oregon, 503-588-2701, http://www.fws.gov/willamettevalley/ankeny). Many types of crops are grown on the refuge to provide winter browse for wintering waterfowl, but other species benefit from the bushy edges and hedgerows left around the farm fields. Red foxes feed in the fields but seek protection from predators among the thick growth on the edges.
• Ten Thousand Islands National Wildlife Refuge (Naples, Florida, 239-353-8442, http://www.fws.gov/southeast/TenThousandIsland/). The 35,000-acre refuge is part of one of the largest expanses of mangrove estuary in North America and protects a rich diversity of native wildlife, including loggerhead, green and Kemp’s Ridley sea turtles. Manatees use refuge waters year-round. Boating and fishing are allowed on the refuge. The fishing in the tidal mangrove estuary is outstanding. The refuge, home to nearly 200 species of birds, including egrets, wood storks, tri-colored herons, swallow-tailed kites and peregrine falcons, is a mecca for bird watchers. Throughout the year, visitors can see river otters and bottle-nosed dolphins, among other wildlife.

The mission of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service is working with others to conserve, protect and enhance fish, wildlife, plants and their habitats for the continuing benefit of the American people. We are both a leader and trusted partner in fish and wildlife conservation, known for our scientific excellence, stewardship of lands and natural resources, dedicated professionals and commitment to public service. For more information on our work and the people who make it happen, visit www.fws.gov.

Arizona Game and Fish Department

Arizona --(AmmoLand.com)-The following resolutions come from Rory Aikens, editor of the Arizona Game and Fish Department’s weekly Fishing Report, who describes himself as an unrepentant hunting and fishing addict.

Be it resolved that in the Year 2010, I will not:

• Pull a thrashing smallmouth bass out of the water and have my expensive new polarized sun glasses ungraciously fall to the bottom of the 150-foot-deep lake despite my cold crash dive to retrieve them while my wallet and cell phone still reside in my unprotected pockets.
• Forget to put the plug in the bass boat, especially when taking TV media out fishing;
• Take another cold swim because I decided to unhook the boat from the trailer’s hand winch to save time while launching the bass boat (makes for terrific viewer-laughing video though);
• Set the hook so hard that I flip backward over the bass seat and land on a big topwater lure with painfully sharp triple-treble hooks (the cameraman was too busy catching fish to catch the craziness on video);
• Fall asleep and melting the bottom of my expensive hunting boots while warming my icy, exhausted feet at the campfire on a cold snowy night after chasing elusive elk all day at 9,000-feet-plus elevation.
• On no account will I let another lunker bass impale my hand with a hook, especially when the other treble hook is stuck on the boat’s aging carpet while the big bass flops around while I hear the laughter float across the water from anglers in nearby bass boats (who had once been friends).
• Never again hike arduous miles to my favorite whitetail hunting spot way up the steep mountain and leave all my ammunition back in camp during the only day of the hunt when inattentive randy bucks are chasing does on the hillside during the rut.
• Take those once-in-a-lifetime wildlife photographs of an obstreperous mule deer buck facing down a bobcat with no memory card in my fancy digital camera;
• Fish with brittle older line and lose a trophy-sized bass – again.
• Never tell the public the exact spot where I found the fish biting before I at least offer to take my wife there first (sleeping on the bass boat isn’t as fun when it’s in the garage).
• Never, ever leave my best spotting scope on top of the Chiricahua Mountains and remember it after I tiredly pack my deer all the way back into camp as darkness falls on the last day of the hunt, which is also the last day of my vacation.
• Always remember to carry plenty of band-aids for cuts along with a pocket comb to remove sharp jumping cholla when tiredly hiking by flashlight at night up and down a rugged, unforgiving mountainside to recover my forgotten optics.
• Don’t eat a cheese sandwich while fishing during a dark confusing night using cheese-bait for catfish;
• Plan an out-of-town fishing trip with the buddies on my forgotten wedding anniversary day;
• Painfully bang my shin on the protruding trailer hitch – twice in the same camping trip.
• Forget to stow away the stink bait and night crawlers while camping in skunk country.
• Forget to bring matches to start a campfire on a cold night camping;
• Leave the sleeping bags at home when going camping and having no matches to start the fire or even a coffee pot for the morning (or not have ear plugs for enduring my wife’s description of my mental capacities while she goes through caffeine withdrawal);
• Hand my wife a donut after helping my little boy put a juicy night crawler on the hook (especially when my child told her after the digestion was already underway).
• Neglect to immediately buy a spare tire for the camp trailer after one tire shreds itself during a long vacation trip in a remote mountainous area.
• Pronounce the prime topwater season as being over and then have an angler hit a topwater bonanza, including a new state record striper.
• Forget to sign my name to our four-person elk permit application and getting us all rejected.
• Sit lazily reading my favorite Louis L’Amour Western by the campfire with my camera locked away in the truck while a bachelor band of trophy-sized elk wanders through camp and a 360-plus bull uses my tree-bound hammock as a velvet rub.
• Foolishly attempt to carry my favorite two-piece ultra-light fishing rod strapped to my mountain bike while negotiating a steep winding brush-lined trail to fish the Upper Verde
• River and ending up with a four-piece rod and broken wheel spokes.
• Try to photograph a running antelope from the moving truck on a bumpy two-track with my wife holding the steering wheel so I can work the camera as a swirling dust plume clouds the expensive telephoto lens.
• Never forget the extra gas can when running the bass boat at high speed the 70-plus miles to fish the San Juan Arm of Lake Powell.
• Take a much-needed bath in a stream at sunset while backpacking a wilderness area just to discover a group of giggling campers on a nearby overlook.
• Never let my wife read my annual New Years Resolutions when I am within ear shot (or pistol shot for that matter).
• Rory notes that although he can’t claim all of these as being his, he confesses to ownership of way too many of them

Merry Christmas from BowTech Archery

BowTech Archery

Eugene, OR --(AmmoLand.com)- May Your Hearts be Warmed this Christmas as you reflect on Blessings Received and the Birth of our Savior.

Merry Christmas from Your Friends & Family at Bowtech Archery.

“And this is the testimony: God has given us eternal life, and this life is in his Son.”: John 5:11

About:
BowTech manufactures and distributes the world’s finest compound bows and archery equipment. Founded in 1999, BowTech’s corporate offices and manufacturing facilities are located in Eugene, Oregon. With a worldwide distribution network, BowTech’s family of brands include: BowTech, Diamond, Octane, Stryker and WaterDog Surface Technologies. BowTech is a subsidiary of Savage Sports Corporation, located in Westfield. MA. Brand names include Savage Arms, Stevens, Fox, Savage (Canada), Savage Range Systems and PortaTarget. Visit: www.BowTechArchery.com

Merry Christmas and Happy New Year from Whitetails Unlimited

Whitetails Unlimited

Wisconsin --(AmmoLand.com)- The WTU field directors across the country, along with the staff at national headquarters in Wisconsin, would like to take this moment to wish you and your family a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

This is the time of year when you can take stock of the blessings you have, and plan for new success in the new year. One of the blessings we have here at WTU are our members, partners, and volunteers, because it simply would not happen without all of you.

The New Year provides exciting opportunities, but our success depends on all of us working together toward our goals of conservation, education, and the preservation of an American tradition.

Thank you for being a friend, member, partner and supporter, and best wishes from our family to yours!

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays from Whitetails Unlimited!

About:
Founded in 1982, Whitetails Unlimited is a national nonprofit conservation organization. Our mission is to raise funds in support of education, habitat enhancement and acquisition, and the preservation of the hunting tradition for the benefit of the white-tailed deer and other wildlife. When it comes to the whitetail and its environment, WTU’s degree of professionalism and dedication has earned us the reputation of being the nation’s premier whitetail organization. Visit: www.whitetailsunlimited.com

Seasons Greetings Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore

Maryland --(AmmoLand.com)-  Season’s Greetings!!

Wishing you…every happiness this Holiday Season and prosperity in the New Year.

All the best to you and your family

About:
Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc. (AGC), located in Marriottsville, Maryland. The Associated Gun Clubs of Baltimore, Inc. was formed on July 1, 1944 when a number of World War II veterans in the Baltimore, Maryland area began looking for a place for recreational and competitive shooting. They organized with several other Baltimore area shooting clubs to form the “AGC” Visit: www.associatedgunclubs.org

American Knife & Tool Institute

Cody, WY --(AmmoLand.com)- We do not want this exciting year of 2009 to end without thanking you for your support of AKTI’s legislative successes.

In Texas we introduced and were instrumental in the passage of a bill which clearly states that folding knives with a bias toward closure are not switchblades.

In June, we challenged U.S. Customs’ attempt to define assisted opening knives, one-hand opening knives and just about any other folding knife, as switchblades. Our success resulted in a change to the 1958 Federal Switchblade Act, keeping most folding knives, particularly assisted-opening and one-hand opening knives from being illegal in interstate commerce.

This tremendous effort could not have happened without the support of many who wrote letters, made calls, met with their legislators, collected signatures and sent in money to help with the substantial legal and legislative expenses. Whatever part you played, Thank You!

The New Year will present new challenges and battles. AKTI will continue to monitor legislation and fight for your knife rights as we have done since 1998. Would you do one more thing to help? Think of five friends, relatives, customers, or suppliers who enjoy their knives and encourage them to become a grassroots member of AKTI free on our website www.akti.org . Email me their contact information and I’ll send them a sample newsletter and information to join as an AKTI member.

FHFH.org

COLUMBUS, OH –-(AmmoLand.com)- I hope you are doing well as we draw near to the end of 2009. God has done some amazing things this year with FHFH.

We have seen growth in the number of Coordinators nationwide. Along with new Coordinators we have many new participating meat processors.

New Coordinators and meat processors has translated into growth in the amount of nutritious meat that we’ve been able to distribute to hungry men, women and children. Since July our meat donation totals are up by about 30% over the same period in 2008. This is a wonderful blessing from the Lord!

I’m excited to share this good news of how God is growing and blessing the ministry of FHFH with you. Over two thousand years ago the Herald Angels were excited to share the good news about the birth of the Savior Jesus with lowly shepherds on a hillside halfway around the world. God is still at work in this world bringing spiritual healing and meeting physical needs through the love of Jesus. Don’t let anyone convince you otherwise!

You are an important part of our work. Whether you have supported FHFH with prayer, volunteer time, financial gifts, or through the donation of deer, THANK YOU AND MAY GOD BLESS YOU!

About:
Farmers and Hunters Feeding the Hungry (FHFH) is an outreach ministry of the people of God called upon to feed venison to the hungry among us nationwide. Visit FHFH.org

Bass Pro Shop's Christmas Tradition Continues

Bass Pro Shops

Springfield, Missouri --(AmmoLand.com)- For generations, to help pass the time between Thanksgiving and Christmas, kids and their parents have made holiday ornaments and done other fun crafts. Now you can introduce your child to these time-honored traditions every weekend at Bass Pro Shops Santa’s Wonderland.

Each Saturday and Sunday from 12 noon to 5pm (while supplies last) November 28th and continuing through December 20th, bring the kids to the Santa’s Wonderland at your local Bass Pro Shops and enjoy a different craft activity.

Saturday and Sunday, November 28th and 29th, create a unique Santa ornament out of a fishing bobber, December 5th and 6th construct a fun reindeer hat fit for Rudolph himself, December 12th and 13th change a candy cane into a reindeer and December 19th and 20th decorate cookies for Santa.

These are just some of the fun events going on at the Santa’s Wonderland at Bass Pro Shops this season. You can also enjoy old-time model trains, slot car racing, remote control cars, a Red Ryder® laser arcade, a Nerf-type soft gun range, The Strike bass fishing game and activity tables where you can color and write a letter to Santa. It’s all absolutely free.

Santa will be in residence there throughout the season so you can get a free 4 x 6 photo with him and his reindeer from 5pm to 8pm Monday through Friday, Saturday’s 10am to 9pm and Sunday’s noon to 5pm. Don’t forget to grab your Bass Pass if the line is long, and your appointment with Santa is set.

Remember Christmas as it used to be when you were a child and enjoy the season again with your children at Bass Pro Shops Outdoor World. For more information visit www.basspro.com/santa and click on the store site.

About Bass Pro Shops Group:
Bass Pro Shops -56 retail stores in 26 states and Canada visited by over 100 million people annually, international catalog and internet retailing, American Rod & Gun wholesale division selling to over 7,000 independently owned retail stores worldwide, Outdoor World Incentives also selling Bass Pro Shops gift cards through over 132,000 retail outlets across America and a restaurant division with 26 locations. For more information regarding Bass Pro Shops store locations, products or special events, please visit www.basspro.com. To request a free catalog call 1-800-BASS PRO. Follow us on Twitter @ bass_pro_shops.