Georgia Department of Natural Resources

ATLANTA, Ga. --(Ammoland.com)- It is going to get a little wild at the Georgia Capitol this Wednesday as sportsmen’s groups and coastal conservation groups from the around the state gather to meet with state leaders for “Sportsmen’s and Coastal Day at the Capitol.”

“This is our 11th annual sportsmen’s event at the Capitol and we are excited to have this opportunity to talk about the impact that our sportsmen and women have on our state including directly supporting more than 31,000 jobs and generating more than $3 billion annually,” said Scott Tanner, the event organizer.

“We also are pleased to add the recognition of ‘Coastal Day’ to this event to highlight the more than $2 billion annually that this area generates in tourism dollars as well as the state’s saltwater fishing industry.”

A broad spectrum of sportsmen’s and conservation groups will participate with displays, educational materials, interactive activities and live animals. Georgia Department of Natural Resources’ Wildlife Resources and Coastal Resources Divisions will participate in the event.

2012 Sportsmen’s Day Participants

• Trout Unlimited
• Georgia Canine Coalition
• Georgia Hunting and Fishing Federation
• National Wild Turkey Federation
• Georgia Wildlife Federation
• Camo Coalition
• Quality Deer Mgt Association
• Heritage and Wildlife Conservation Council
• National Rifle Association
• Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation
• Georgia Trappers Association
• Coastal Conservation Association
• Izaak Walton League
• GeorgiaCarry.Org
• National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucus’s
• Let’s Get Wild, Inc
• Georgia Outdoor News
• DNR Wildlife Resources Division
• DNR Coastal Resources Division

Governor Nathan Deal, Lt. Governor Casey Cagle and House Speaker David Ralston are scheduled to speak at the event at 9:00 a.m.

“This event is an opportunity for the sportsmen of Georgia to say thank you to the legislators for their leadership and support in defending and advancing hunting, fishing, and conservation issues,” said Jennifer Lundy, State Caucus Manager for the National Assembly of Sportsmen’s Caucuses. “Because of our legislative leadership, Georgia has abundant animal populations that provide our citizens with unrivaled opportunities for recreation and commerce.”

“I’m proud to participate in Sportsmen’s and Coastal Day at the Capitol,” said Mark Williams, Georgia DNR Commissioner. “Hunting, fishing and our coast are not only economic engines in our state, but they also improve our quality of life. I want to thank all of our sportsmen and partners on the coast for all they do for conservation in Georgia.”

For more information about hunting and fishing opportunities in Georgia, visit www.georgiawildlife.com . For more information about coastal fishing and recreational opportunities, visit www.coastalgadnr.org .

Midway USA

Columbia, MO --(Ammoland.com)- “Without organizations like SCI to play an important role in effective conservation efforts, our children and grandchildren won’t be able to enjoy hunting and shooting sports,” says Larry Potterfield, founder and CEO of MidwayUSA.

“As hunters and conservationists, [my wife] Brenda and I believe it’s our duty to support these organizations that help support our future way of life.”

Larry Potterfield will be busy during the show meeting customers on Friday, February 3rd at 2:00pm at the SCI Membership Booth #3621, along with Bill Moritz, Executive Director of SCI. Larry will also be speaking at the show’s evening events on Friday, February 3rd.

“MidwayUSA has an amazing conservation ethic and a dedication to bringing more young hunters to our sport,” said SCI President Kevin Anderson. “By joining together at the SCI Annual Hunters’ Convention this year, we will be bringing the highest quality hunting event to both American and international sportsmen and women. I am very proud to have MidwayUSA join SCI to be First for Hunters!”

With over one million square feet of booths and exhibits, six continents will be representing some of the guides and outfitters in the industry. Not only will show-goers get to see some of the best outdoor products in the industry, they will also have the chance to see special performances from country music artists Trace Adkins, Martina McBride and many more! Show sponsors expect over 20,000 people to come to the Mandalay Bay Resort “in the name of conservation”. Will you be one of them?

About MidwayUSA
MidwayUSA (http://www.midwayusa.com) is a family-owned catalog and internet retailer specializing in Just About Everything^(SM) for Shooting, Reloading, Gunsmithing and Hunting. Now celebrating our 35th Anniversary, Larry and Brenda Potterfield turned their passion for shooting sports into a career in 1977 by opening a small retail firearms store that would eventually become MidwayUSA. MidwayUSA is still owned by the Potterfield Family and Customer Satisfaction is still our Number One Goal.

• For more information about MidwayUSA, please visit our website or call 800-243-3220.
• For more information about SCI, please visit their website or call 520-620-1220.

2012 Safari Club International Hunters Convention

Outdoorchannel TV

Las Vegas, NV. --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Channel, America’s Leader In Outdoor TV, invites attendees of the Safari Club International’s (SCI) 40th Annual Hunters’ Convention to stop by the network’s booth to meet and greet some of the Outdoor Channel’s top celebrities and learn more about America’s leading outdoor sports network.

The premier hunting event, which takes place in Las Vegas, Nevada from February 1^st through 4^th, features a lineup of the network’s most popular talent who will meet and greet fans.

In addition, Outdoor Channel is exclusively presenting “SCI TV” for the fourth consecutive year.

With nearly one million square feet of exhibit space, with representatives from six continents, the SCI Hunters’ Convention, also referred to as “The Ultimate Hunters’ Market,” attracts over 20,000 attendees a year to see the latest and greatest in guns and hunting equipment. The convention offers dozens of informative and educational seminars throughout the event, all while honoring SCI’s mission is to protect the freedom to hunt and to promote wildlife conservation.

As America’s Leader In Outdoor TV, Outdoor Channel provides action-packed, family-friendly adventures featuring the biggest on-air celebrities in outdoor entertainment.

SCI TV – All SCI, All the Time!
Wednesday, February 1 – Saturday, February 4 | Mandalay Bay Convention Center & Area Hotels

Once again, Outdoor Channel is set to produce SCI TV, an informative and entertaining television production that will air at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center and area hotels during SCI’s Hunters’ Convention. SCI TV will be hosted by Mike Rogers of “SCI Expedition Safari Presented by MidwayUSA,” and will feature daily updates from the convention floor, in-depth interviews with the hottest hunting personalities, and segments from Outdoor Channel’s best-in-class hunting shows and many of SCI’s philanthropic and conservation efforts.

Sportsmen Against Hunger Reno, NV Event
Wednesday, January 31 | Reno Events Center

This year, Outdoor Channel is the network partner for the “Sportsmen Against Hunger” event at the Reno Events Center, being hosted by SCI’s non-profit arm, Safari Club International Foundation. The volunteer event, which is held the day before the kick-off of the annual Hunters’ Convention, brings together SCIF’s local Reno chapter as they extend their time and resources to serve hot meals comprised of meat donated by area hunters and anglers.

Safari Club International’s 40^th Annual Hunters’ Convention Nuts & Bolts

The SCI Hunters’ Convention runs from February 1-4 at the Mandalay Bay Convention Center in Las Vegas, Nevada. For complete information, visit http://www.showsci.com/.

Texas Deer Association

SAN ANTONIO, TEXAS --(Ammoland.com)- More than 1,500 deer enthusiasts, land owners, exhibitors, and hunters from across the state will gather February 10, 2012 for the Texas Deer Association’s (TDA) Superior Genetics Whitetail Deer Auction and Wildlife Workshop held at the Texas Wildlife Expo Center at The San Antonio Stock Show & Rodeo grounds.

“Our deer auction and seminar is one of the association’s many family-oriented educational and social events scheduled each year, in an industry that pumps at least $650 million a year into the state’s economy,” said Karl Kinsel, TDA Executive Director.

“In addition to making lasting business contacts, participants are updated on the latest regulations, hear about research on deer genetics, share information on health, nutrition and gain information on how to enhance native habitat for deer.”

There will be a pre-auction dinner on Thursday night, Feb.9th, from 2:00 to 9:00 pm where visitors will have the chance to enjoy exhibitor booths, food, music, fellowship and catch up with fellow deer enthusiasts.

Friday morning, Feb. 10th, exhibits will open at 8:30 in the new Texas Wildlife Expo Center. The Wildlife Workshop starts at 9:00 a.m. and continues until noon. The TDA along with co-host Purina Mills, will host the Wildlife Workshop featuring Mr. Judon Fambrough, Senior Lecturer and Attorney at Law with the Texas Real Estate Center at Texas A&M University, speaking on Hunting/Landowner Liability including Water & Mineral Rights Considerations. The second speaker is Darryl Lyons, PAX Financial Group, topic is on Financial and Tax Considerations for Texas Wildlife Managers and Land Owners. After the speaker seminar there will be panelist discussion comprised of wildlife and nutrition experts taking questions from the audience.

“Door prizes will be given out. Don’t miss your chance at a free Savage 22-250 Predator Hunting Camo Rifle with Scope, as well as winning some AntlerMax Feed, Feeders and other great prizes,” Marta L. Dennis, Operation Director of TDA, said. “Please RSVP it will be standing room only.”

At 1:00 pm the Superior Genetics Deer Auction will begin. The auction features 125 lots of bred doe, 2011 bucks and doe, 2012 fawns and semen from breeders across the country. This auction has drawn a standing room only crowd since it’s first year at the San Antonio Livestock Show and Rodeo in 2005. Expecting a crowd numbering close to a thousand, it will be another standing room only event.

“Our San Antonio Stock Show and Rodeo auction and workshop has consistently been one of the most popular events of the year. The environment, the attitude and, of course, sale offering make this one of the ‘must-attend’ events in the deer industry annually,” Vance Runnels, TDA Auction Manager, said.

As one of the top grossing auctions at the San Antonio Stock and Rodeo, TDA has been a proud supporter of youth scholarships and educational opportunities for the public for the past several years. Last year TDA donated approximately $10,000 to the scholarship fund of S.A.L.E, this figure is in addition to near $70,000 the association has donated since 2005 in which the deer auction became the first in the nation to be held at a stock show.

The next two events on the TDA calendar will be the TDA Spring Gala and Superior Genetics Deer Auction March 2-3 at Embassy Suites Outdoor World in Grapevine, Texas. And the 1st Annual Greater Houston Banquet and Superior Genetics Deer Auction April 13-14 at the Crowne Plaza Reliant in Houston, Texas.

For more information on this event visit www.TexasDeerAssociation.com or call (210) 767-8300.

About the Texas Deer Association
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. TDA office is (210) 767-8300.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH --(Ammoland.com)- Overlooked wildlife will be the focus of the 2012 Ohio Wildlife Diversity Conference, which is scheduled for Wednesday, March 7, at the Aladdin Shrine Center in Columbus.

The conference, titled “The Good, the Bad and the Ugly,” is sponsored by the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR), Division of Wildlife and is open to the public.

“We hope many people are able to attend this conference to learn more about the interesting wildlife we have in Ohio,” said Director Jim Zehringer, director of ODNR.

The Wildlife Diversity Conference has steadily grown in popularity. The first conference, held in 1985, drew 40 people. Last year, 975 people attended the day-long gathering.

The keynote speaker this year, Cindy Hale of the University of Minnesota, will discuss earthworms and their impact to the environment in her presentation, “Dances with Worms: The Great Lakes Worm Watch.”

Other conference topics include discussions of freshwater mussel restoration, aquatic invasive species, a Lake Erie pelagic bird survey, terrestrial crayfish, wildlife orphans, wetland restoration, as well as beavers, porcupines and fishers in Ohio.

The third Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp, which features the spotted salamander, will be available to conference attendees.

Proceeds from the sale of the stamp will be used to support:

• endangered and threatened native species;
• habitat restoration, land purchases and conservation easements; and
• educational products for students and wildlife enthusiasts.

Anyone who pre-registers online for the conference may purchase this collectable stamp at a discounted price of $12, which is a 20 percent savings. Details about the Ohio Wildlife Legacy Stamp are available at wildohiostamp.com.

Representatives from a range of conservation and natural resource organizations, such as the Black Swamp Bird Observatory, Columbus Audubon and Ohio Biological Survey, will present displays and be available to answer questions.

Doors open at 8 a.m. for registration on March 7. The conference begins at 9 a.m. and lasts until 3:30 p.m.

For more information or to register for the conference online, go to http://bit.ly/WildlifeDiversityConference or call 800-WILDLIFE. The registration cost prior to Feb. 26 is $25. After that date, the admission cost is $35.

ODNR ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. For more information, visit the ODNR website at www.ohiodnr.com.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

LAS VEGAS --(Ammoland.com)- Energized by unprecedented gun sales nationwide, firearms industry professionals turned out in record numbers to the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT Show), and many made a point of saying “the best is yet to come.”

“It’s a wonderful time to be in our industry,” said Sandy Chisholm of North American Arms, a handgun manufacturer. “We’ve seen tremendous enthusiasm on the part of sellers and buyers, and we see the prospect of a very good year ahead.” Many agreed with that assessment of the market and of the SHOT Show.

The largest trade show of its kind in the world and the fifth largest trade show in Las Vegas, a city of trade shows, the SHOT Show set an overall attendance record of more than 61,000, including new highs for buyers at 36,383 and media at 2,466. Though show organizers deliberately reduced the size of the show to better accommodate attendees at the Sands Expo and Convention Center, still some 1,600 exhibitors filled booth space covering 630,000 net square feet. The show attracted industry professionals from all 50 states and 100 countries.

The SHOT Show is owned by the National Shooting Sports Foundation, the trade association for the firearms, ammunition, hunting and shooting sports industry. Revenues from the show support NSSF’s many programs that carry out its mission of promoting, protecting and preserving hunting and the shooting sports. “The SHOT Show allows NSSF to do many good things for industry, shooting and hunting,” said NSSF President and Steve Sanetti. Added Chris Dolnack, NSSF senior vice president and chief marketing officer, “We have worked hard to make sure SHOT is a great selling and buying experience, and it has resulted in our best show ever.”

Thanks to Americans’ passion for firearms, the $4 billion firearms and ammunition industry has been a bright spot in the down economy. The industry supports many small businesses and helps preserve the 180,000 jobs associated with the shooting sports. In 2011, company executives saw records set for background checks, a reliable indicator of sales, including the most ever in a single month (December) and single day (Black Friday). Many in the industry believe, however, that Americans’ interest in owning firearms will continue to grow in 2012, fueling their unabashed optimism about the year ahead. Many also said they would not be surprised to see supporters of the Second Amendment react as they did before the last presidential election when their fears over candidates who were unfriendly toward firearms ignited a sales surge.

From the opening bell, buyers filled the aisles to review products, many of them new offerings that will make their way to retail stores during the year. “Traffic is like we’ve never seen it before,” said Mark Malkowski, president of Stag Arms, maker of modern sporting rifles (AR-style rifles), a big seller over the past several years. “Retailers we’ve talked to are expecting a record year.”

One firearms retailer, Todd Vance of Vance Outdoors in Columbus, Ohio, agreed. “We had our best-ever year in 2011, and we’ve started off this year great and expect to be up.” In his store, Vance said buyers are interested in concealable handguns, home-defense firearms, ammunition and tactical rifles, particularly new .22 caliber models.

Another handgun manufacturer, Sig Sauer, reported having its best first day at SHOT since the company began keeping sales records. “The market is stimulated,” said Bud Fini, vice president of marketing, who added that the company’s shooting academy is seeing many new gun owners. “First-time buyers, that’s where the expansion is coming from,” Fini said.

Accessories, from holsters to rifle slings to optics, are an important part of the SHOT Show. “We are selling sights like you can’t believe,” said Aimpoint’s Roger Bell of the company’s pro staff. “We signed up a lot of new dealers, and that says to me the market is expanding.”

In the Mossberg booth, Tom Taylor, vice president of marketing, said, “This is about as much excitement as I’ve seen at a SHOT Show. People are buying optimistically, and we’re going to build optimistically.”

For first-time exhibitors, the SHOT Show can provide a big lift. “When you are a start-up company without a big marketing budget, the SHOT Show helps put you in front of the right audience,” said Jeane Stewart of U.S. RAC, maker of firearm safety products for law enforcement. Stewart said her company great valued the show’s New Products Center.

Any SHOT attendee will tell you the show is more than about selling and buying; it’s a powerful display of industry unity and its resolve to meet any challenge affecting the right to make, sell and own firearms. At the NSSF State of the Industry Dinner, NSSF President Steve Sanetti said, “I have never seen us so unified and united in our purpose.” As evidence, he pointed to NSSF’s fast-growing membership, which now tops 7,000, an all-time high.

More than 2,000 NSSF supporters filled the sold-out hall for the State of the Industry Dinner, which was sponsored by Outdoor Channel and included a review of NSSF’s accomplishment from the past year and entertainment from hugely popular comedian Larry the Cable Guy.

Opportunities abound at the SHOT Show, and some who attend are selling more than products. At South Dakota’s booth, representatives had a goal of convincing manufacturers they should be making products in the state. “Last year South Dakota connected with more than 50 companies. Within four months, two of those companies expanded their operations to South Dakota,” said economic development commissioner J. Pat Costello.

Many awards are presented at the show. NSSF presented Larry Potterfield of Midway USA with its Ken Sedlecky Achievement Award for his generous and longstanding contributions to programs that promote youth target shooting. The Professional Outdoor Media Association and NSSF honored veteran communicator and best-selling author S.P. Fjestad with the prestigious POMA/NSSF Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator Award. Fjestad publishes “The Blue Book of Gun Values,” a widely consulted database.

The show continues to benefit from the broadbased press contingent that lavishes attention on newly released products. The media, of course, are usually the first to spot celebrities, who this year included American Idol judge and rock star Steven Tyler, and NFL Hall of Famer Lynn Swann. A big success was SHOT Show Media Day at the Range on the day prior to the show, where credentialed press reviewed and tested products. More than 1,100 press and 100 exhibitors attended Media Day–more than ever before.

NSSF ramped up its use of social media to keep its members and consumers informed about the show, making frequent posts to the SHOT Show Blog and providing Twitter updates that showgoers followed on “Twitterfall” screens placed throughout the venue. An expanded NSSF press room sponsored by Budweiser accommodated the record number of press with free Wi-Fi, a large working press area and other amenities.

In conjunction with the SHOT Show, NSSF sponsored the PGA Charities’ Birdies for the Brave golf tournament that raised funds for injured armed service veterans.

The SHOT Show will return to the Sands Expo & Convention Center next year January 15-18.

About NSSF
The National Shooting Sports Foundation is the trade association for the firearms industry. Its mission is to promote, protect and preserve hunting and the shooting sports. Formed in 1961, NSSF has a membership of more than 7,000 manufacturers, distributors, firearms retailers, shooting ranges, sportsmen’s organizations and publishers. For more information, log on to www.nssf.org.

Larry and Brenda Potterfield

Midway USA

Columbia, MO --(Ammoland.com)- Larry and Brenda Potterfield, Founders of MidwayUSA, are in Dallas, TX this weekend attending the 2012 Dallas Safari Club (DSC) annual convention as the Official Sponsor of the show.

The convention and sporting expo show began Tuesday, January 3, 2012 with exhibitor registration and move-in, and ends Sunday, January 8th at the Dallas Convention Center and Hyatt Regency in Dallas, TX.

Between the usual hustle and bustle of exhibits, seminars and silent auctions, the Potterfields will be attending the first annual Youth Wildlife Conservation Experience (YWCE) at the convention on Friday, January 6. This event is offered to high school students in the Dallas Ecological Foundation’s (DEF) Outdoor Adventures Education program. At the YWCE, students will hear from professional guides, biologists and outfitters regarding wildlife conservation.

“Recruitment of the next generation of outdoorsmen and women is our biggest challenge to maintaining our hunting heritage,” said Ben Carter, Executive Director of the DSC. “Larry and Brenda’s gift has enabled us to bring 400 kids to our show and truly create a positive and educational experience in what the outdoors is all about. We could not have done this without their support”.

In addition to his appearance at the YWCE event, Larry will present the Educator of the Year award during the Friday night dinner and auction. He will also spend some time at the DSC membership booth Saturday, January 7th at 10:00am in the exhibit hall.

“Brenda and I are extremely excited to attend this year’s convention,” said Larry Potterfield, Founder and CEO of MidwayUSA. “Please meet us at the show and join in the efforts to preserve our hunting traditions.”

About MidwayUSA
MidwayUSA (http://www.midwayusa.com) is a family-owned catalog and internet retailer specializing in Just About Everything℠ for Shooting, Reloading, Gunsmithing and Hunting. Now celebrating our 35th Anniversary, Larry and Brenda Potterfield turned their passion for shooting sports into a career in 1977 by opening a small retail firearms store that would eventually become MidwayUSA. MidwayUSA is still owned by the Potterfield Family and Customer Satisfaction is still our Number One Goal.

For more information about MidwayUSA, please visit our website or call 800-243-3220.

For more information about the DSC, please visit www.biggame.org or call 972-980-9800.

Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show will present its 57th edition of the largest show of its kind February 4-12, 2012 at the State Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, PA.

This years’ event will feature more gun manufacturers, more fishing products, more outfitters, guides & charters and more opportunities to learn from world-famous experts. With over 1,200 exhibitors and over 200 companies new to the Show–this years’ event will offer a very special experience for the novice to the seasoned sportsman.

Making its debut in 2012, the new “Sportsman’s Shop Gun Alley,” will feature more gun manufacturers, gun representatives and gun retailers than ever before with Thompson/Center Arms, Benelli, Stoeger, and first time exhibitor, Smith & Wesson.

The 2012 Show will feature the latest and greatest in hunting and fishing equipment and techniques with an expanded Fishing and Boat Hall, two full Archery Halls, and hundreds of guides and outfitters from across the USA and around the world.

“We’ve worked very hard to uncover new companies, new products and bring in more celebrities and experts offering their latest tips and techniques. If you want to know what’s new for the coming season, you cannot afford to miss this Show!” said Chris O’Hara, Event Director for the Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show. “This year, we have more than 200 new exhibitors with more manufacturers than ever before. Big names like Hoyt USA, Fred Bear Archery, Summit Treestands, and returning after a 5 year hiatus, Muzzy Products,” added O’Hara.

Also new for 2012, both Cabela’s and BassPro Shops will be retailing fishing tackle and related products.

“Our Fishing Hall just keeps growing and growing,” said O’Hara.

O’Hara also said the 2012 Show will feature more boats, ATVs and RVs “Where else can you go to see everything connected with the great outdoors?”

A wide range of celebrity guests and seminar speakers will meet fans and provide expert advice and instruction throughout the show including: Fred Eichler, Greg & Jake Miller, Craig Boddington, Ralph & Vicki Cianciarulo, Lee & Tiffany Lakosky, Barry & Gene Wensel, Sean Mann, Chuck Adams, Pat Reeve & Nicole Jones, Jimmy Houston, Hank Parker, Dave Csanda, Frank Nale, and many more.

Family entertainment will include Raptors Up Close, Chris Brackett Archery Trick Shooting, Kids Trout Pond, and a NEW Kids Day on Saturday, February 11, featuring an entire day of fun activities for kids.

As always, the Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show is home to a variety of calling and other outdoors type contests, which claim entries from contestants all over the USA and beyond.

Contests include:

• • 22nd Annual Northeastern States Elk Calling Contest (Youth & Adult Division)
• • Duck and Goose Calling
• • Owl Hooting
• • Turkey Calling: Youth Division
• • Turkey Calling: Amateur Adult Division
• • Turkey Calling: Professional Open Division
• • Turkey Calling: Professional Friction Division
• • The Pennsylvania Fly Tying Championship
• • 2012 PA 3D Bowhunters Challenge & Keystone IBO Indoor Nationals
• • SRWA Gunning Decoy Contest
• • Taxidermy Competition
• • Photography Contest

For more contest information including dates, times, and registration information, log onto www.easternsportshow.com.

Many of the traditions that guests enjoy are returning, as well. Favorites that pack the seminar areas include: Sausage & Jerky Making with Rick Fetrow, Deer Butchering with Chef Albert Wutsch, Fly Casting Demos with Dusty Wissmath and Frank Angelo, and a chance to win a coveted one-on-one archery skills seminar with Chuck Adams.

Children are invited to participate in the Capital City BASSMASTER Casting Kids Contest, held both Sundays, February 4 and 12 in the Maclay Street Lobby area of the Show. Part of a nationwide fishing competition, this contest is designed to teach children ages 7-14 the basics of fishing and about environmental concerns. The winners will also advance to the Pennsylvania Finals of BASSMASTER Casting Kids Competition. The Capital City BASSMASTERS also provide children of all ages free fishing instruction and a bagful of goodies that are donated from their sponsors and exhibitors at the Show.

For more information on the complete schedule of seminar speakers, contests and family entertainment offered at the 2012 Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, visit www.easternsportshow.com.

Online ticket sales for the Show are open and discount tickets can be purchased at: www.easternsportshow.com

The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast. Now in its 57th year, the Show has grown to be the largest outdoor hunting and fishing event of its kind in North America. With more than 1,200 exhibitors, The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show brings the passion for the outdoors–indoors–by bringing outdoor sports enthusiasts of all ages from across the country to view the latest and best in hunting and fishing gear, shop for ATV’s and RV’s and plan & book hunting and fishing trips with outfitters & charters from around the world. The Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show also offers a wide range of seminars presented by experts along with hunting- and fishing-related contests and family-oriented entertainment. The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show is sponsored in part by Cabela’s, Thompson/Center Arms, Progressive Insurance and Chevrolet.

RSR Group

Winter Park, FL --(Ammoland.com)- RSR Group, Inc. announced its December 2011 E-Show was an overwhelming success.

The latest E-Show event took place on the RSR Group, Inc. web site, from December 6 through 9, 2011, and featured exciting savings opportunities as well as special programs from renowned industry vendors allowing dealers to stock their shelves quickly and competitively, just in time for the busy holiday season.

“We would like to thank our dealers, vendors and staff for making the event so successful,” said Christina Fisher, RSR Group’s Senior VP of Purchasing and Marketing. “Dealers have really embraced technology and this online event, which set a record as our best E-Show since its debut in 2004.”

Dealers were able to Unwrap Great Deals including new product introductions from vendors such as Springfield and Magpul, limited-time dealer programs, RSR Group exclusive package deals, reduced pricing on select products, and daily prize giveaways for participating dealers.

RSR Group, Inc. pioneered the shooting sports industry E-Show, and continues to provide this unique opportunity to its customers. For more than 30 years, the company has catered to shooting sports dealers with innovative programs and services, and the December 2011 E-Show, Unwrap Great Deals, is no exception.

RSR Group, Inc. is committed to the total satisfaction of its customers by providing a well-stocked selection of products at competitive prices. With five sales centers across the U.S. and a distribution center located in Texas, RSR Group is able to provide fast and reliable service. For additional information about RSR Group, Inc. contact the marketing department at 407-677-1333 or visit www.rsrgroup.com.

Safari Club International Annual Convention Achieving Unprecedented Growth

Safari Club Internationa

Tucson, AZ --(Ammoland.com)- Safari Club International’s (SCI) 40th Annual Hunters’ Convention taking place February 1-4th, 2012 is on pace to be the most successful Convention in the history of the organization.

SCI member registrations are 20% ahead of 2011’s convention to date and SCI will be bringing 13% more exhibitors than in any other year.

The total convention exhibit hall is over 50% greater than in 2011, with over one million square feet of the world’s finest hunts, finest guns and greatest taxidermy.

“In these difficult economic times we are more appreciative than ever of the incredible generosity of SCI’s members and exhibitors,” said SCI Chief Communications Officer Larry Rudolph. “With a record $8 million of donations from our valued exhibitors SCI can to continue our mission of being First for Hunters.”

Attendees of the 40th Annual SCI Hunters’ Convention will be granted unprecedented access to the most celebrated international hunting outfitters and the premier custom firearms in the world. Register today at www.showsci.com to join the largest gathering of sportsmen and women from around the world!

The keynotes speakers and evening entertainment for SCI’s members at the Mandalay Bay in Las Vegas, NV include National Rifle Association CEO Wayne LaPierre and musicians Martina McBride, Trace Adkins, Brit Beat and Frankie Valli & the Four Seasons.

Becoming an SCI Member:
Joining Safari Club International is the best way to be an advocate for continuing our hunting heritage and supporting worldwide sustainable use conservation, wildlife education and humanitarian services. JOIN NOW: www.safariclub.org/Join.

Safari Club International – First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 200 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 106 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

Outdoor Industry Association

SAN JUAN CAPISTRANO, Calif. --(Ammoland.com)- Although still six weeks away, Outdoor Retailer Winter Market’s more than 100 new exhibitors and nearly 900 returning exhibitors, are preparing for the industry’s leading business-to-business wintersports event bringing more extensive product categories, new technology and a better attendee experience.

Building on back-to-back record breaking show footprint*, the footprint for Winter Market has already eclipsed last year’s total by more than 25,000 net-sold square feet. The expanded show floor will be busy with an expected 7,000 retail attendees.
OR Winter Market

“While retailers are in the throes of early season sales and a very busy holiday season, outdoor brands are pulling together their newest technology, best products and most compelling sales programs to introduce at Outdoor Retailer,” said Kenji Haroutunian, Outdoor Retailer show director. “Kicking off the New Year at Outdoor Retailer is a great opportunity to absorb ‘big picture’ product trends, gain industry intelligence and recharge professional connections. We’re looking forward to another awesome show.”

Retailers looking to get their hands on the latest wintersports gear at the All Mountain Demo will be thrilled by the world class conditions at Solitude Mountain Resort and the latest gear from more than 40 elite wintersports brands.

Salomon will be making the most of its time with dealers, outfitting demo attendees with a new backcountry binding mounted on a updated version of its most popular all mountain ski.

“Historically OR is not an alpine hardgoods show for us, rather, for unveiling our newest innovation in backcountry skiing products. This year, however, OR is that perfect place,” said Salomon Alpine Brand Manager Jenny Naftulin. “In addition to what we will show at the on-snow demo, we’ve significantly added on to our booth indoors to include a showcase area for the new bindings, alpine boots, helmet line and a new women’s powder ski.”

Ongoing advances in eco-minded technology means retailers will see a wider range of product offerings from distributor, Liberty Mountain. Four hundred square feet of the company’s recently expanded booth will be dedicated to representing new eco-minded sleeping bags, backpacks and more from Vaude .

Additional space also proves valuable for brands interested in providing a very specific brand experience and merchandising ideas for retailers. The expanded Smartwool booth will include a new lounge area, a wall made from Colorado beetle-kill trees with green glass embedded throughout, a “tufted” fabric wall made from Merino wool and a gallery-style garment display to help colors and patterns stand out from the crowd.

“At the heart of our brand is this joyfulness that can be found when friends gather together outside and create memories. The additional space helps bring the brand personality to life and lets each of our product categories shine,” said Jennifer Wilkinson, Smartwool global visual marketing specialist.

These exhibiting brands join a long line of core outdoor manufacturers who are exhibiting at the All Mountain Demo and Outdoor Retailer Winter Market. The extensive list of exhibiting brands is available here.

For more information on how to participate as an exhibitor, contact Outdoor Retailer Sales Manager Marisa Nicholson at marisa.nicholson@nielsen.com or 949-226-5760. Retailers and trade members of the outdoor industry interested in registering for Winter Market can review registration requirements here.

* Net-sold square feet for Winter Market 2011 was 351,251. This number represents the highest net-sold, square feet for Winter Market since its inception in 1989.

About Outdoor Retailer
Outdoor Retailer (OR), produced by Nielsen Expositions of San Juan Capistrano, Calif., is a full-service trade show company that creates, markets and produces high-quality expos and educational conferences. OR is the leading outdoor industry business-to-business event management company, bringing together manufacturers, retailers, industry advocates and media to conduct the business of outdoor recreation. Now celebrating more than 25 years of successful events, Outdoor Retailer gathers approximately 40,000 attendees on a semi-annual basis for its Winter and Summer Market shows.

Preview the future of the outdoor industry at the Outdoor Retailer Winter Market, which will bring the best of winter product offerings to Salt Lake City at the All Mountain Demo from January 18, 2012 and the trade show from January 19-22, 2012.

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair

Tucson, Arizona --(Ammoland.com)- The Entertainment Stage at the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will feature well-known country music stars Aaron Tippin and Crossin Dixon.

The two acts will anchor the beginning and end of the three-day festival. In addition, the entertainment at the Main Stage will feature concerts by the Mike Brookshire Band, the Moonshine Mafia as well as other local bands.

All performances are included with the price of admission tickets that are available online at www.epicgamefair.org. Hosted by Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and Quail Unlimited (QU), the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair is September 23-25, 2011 at Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club just outside of Atlanta, Georgia.

“Adding such top entertainment to the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair is just the icing on the cake for what will be a crowd-pleasing event,” said Joe Hosmer, President of SCIF. “The Entertainment Stage is meant as a focal point where attendees can gather and watch fun and exciting shows – all for the regular price of admission! They’re just one more reason this is a can’t-miss event.”

Aaron Tippin, a singer known for his songs about hard work and patriotism, will be performing the closing act of the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair from 6 to 7:15 pm on Sunday, September 25. Tippin rocked the country music world in 1990 with his song “You’ve Got To Stand For Something” and continued releasing hits such as “Working Man’s Ph.D.” and “That’s As Close As I’ll Get To Loving You.” After the tragic events of 9/11/01, Tippin wrote the emotional anthem “Where The Stars And Stripes And The Eagle Fly.” Besides being a singer-songwriter, pilot, farmer, winemaker and competitive bodybuilder – Tippin is an avid outdoorsman. He recently joined former Arkansas governor, Mike Huckabee, on a turkey hunt in Texas.

Rising country music stars, Crossin Dixon, will play the opening night of the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair from 6 to 7:15 pm on September 23. Comprised of equal parts Southern rock and contemporary country, Crossin Dixon rose to Nashville’s attention in the mid-2000s on the strength of their live act. The band is made up of four Mississippi natives – vocalist Jason Miller, drummer Michael Bole, and guitarists/vocalists Brandon Hyde and Charlie Grantham. Crossin Dixon songs include “Guitar Slinger,” “Make You Mine,” “I Love My Old Bird Dog (& I Love You)” and “Goodbye to Henry.”

Atlanta’s hometown artist, Mike Brookshire, will be performing from 2:30 to 3:40 pm on Friday, September 23. Born in Atlanta, Mike learned to play on an old flat-top put together by his father from pieces salvaged from several old guitars. In 2007, Mike was inducted into the “Hall of Fame” by the Atlanta Country Music Hall Of Fame, the “Visionary Award” by the Georgia Music Industry Music Association, and awarded “Song Writer of The Year” by The Atlanta Society of Entertainers. He currently tours and plays solo dates around the south with his band, and has a great album out, “A Lot Of Explainin’ To Do.” Between gigs and sessions, he also finds time to play at some of the industry’s biggest events and galas, such as his yearly appearance on stage with such artists as Kenny Chesney, Carrie Underwood, Taylor Swift, Lady Antebellum, Sugarland, Montgomery Gentry, Brooks and Dunn, Reba McEntire and many more at the Academy of Country Music Awards.

Moonshine Mafia, a 4-piece band based out of Payson, Arizona will appear on the Entertainment Stage on Saturday and Sunday. They perform anything from classic country to current country as well as favorite classic rock songs from The Eagles and Pink Floyd.

In addition to the concerts on the Entertainment Stage, stars of the outdoor world, Scott Linden and Haley and G.O. Heath will also be featured during the weekend. Linden, the star of Wingshooting USA is bringing his “Bird Hunting Boot Camp” seminar to the stage. Full of fun, audience interaction, prizes and pop quizzes, Scott uses props for a dynamic, information-packed seminar that usually plays to standing-room-only crowds and garners rave reviews. Family Traditions with Haley Heath is a popular program on the Sportsman Channel that epitomizes today’s generation of hunters and shows first-hand how family traditions can be passed down in powerful ways. Haley, a 5th-generation hunter, “Ultimate Outdoorsman Finalist” and the first woman to receive The Sportsman Channel’s “Viewer-Favorite” award, hosts the show. Haley and her husband, G.O. will be signing autographs at the Entertainment Stage.

The entertainment on the Main Stage at the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will provide much-needed rest times from the action-packed activities that will be going on throughout the event. From archery to shotgun shooting to dog training to fishing and equestrian sports, the three-day event will have it all and will be a top destination this fall for families in the southeast.

There are many places online with up-to-the minute information about all of the exciting entertainment, events and seminars that are being planned for the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair. Besides the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair website (www.epicgamefair.org), you can also get regular updates at the event blog, EPICGameFairBlog.org and follow us on Facebook, Facebook.com/EPICOutdoorGameFair and Twitter, Twitter.com/EPICGameFair

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the world. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more information.

Quail Unlimited® is the oldest national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the management of America’s wild quail. Known as “America’s Leader In Quail Conservation SM,” our overall vision is to restore America’s quail populations for future generations. Our core values include the wise stewardship of our land and its resources, and the continuation of our proud heritage of conservation, therefore, leaving a legacy and firm foundation for our youth and families to build upon.

National Sporting Clays Association

San Antonio, TX --(Ammoland.com)- Exposing new generations to the shooting sports and an active outdoor lifestyle is one of the greatest obstacles to the growth of our sports, and the National Sporting Clays Association (NSCA) has joined with some of the most dedicated advocates in the outdoors to address that challenge.

The NSCA will be a sponsor of the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair, a three-day outdoor event focused on Education, Participation, Instruction, and Competition for the entire family, planned for September 23-25 near Atlanta, Georgia.

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair Logo Created and hosted by Safari Club International Foundation and Quail Unlimited, the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will feature activity villages in a host of categories, including shooting, archery, fishing, canines, ATVs, birds of prey, equestrian, and boating. Activities will be geared to both children and adults, beginners and experienced. Guests can also enjoy live music, exhibits, seminars, and a variety of performers.

Foxhall Resort & Sporting Club near Atlanta will be the venue for the event, debuting its new Marty Fischer-designed, 15-station sporting clays course. During the Game Fair, shooters may experience the wobble trap, 5-stand, or full sporting clays course. New shooters can get an introduction to shotgunning from a professional instructor. Wobble trap shooting is sponsored by Beretta and, as with most activities, is included in the daily Game Fair pass. NSCA members shooting the 100-target course may choose to have their targets registered as monthly targets.

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair

In addition to opportunities to shoot, guests can enjoy exhibitions by some of the most exciting shotgunners in the world. Xtreme Sport Shooter Patrick Flanigan will bring his energetic and entertaining show to the Shooting Village, as will Benelli shooter Scott Matthews. Olympic gold medalist and international shotgunning superstar Vincent Hancock will also be on hand for exhibition shooting and autographs.

As a sponsor, NSCA is providing Certified Instructors for new shooters, as well as exhibiting and providing expertise for the Shooting Village. “The National Sporting Clays Association is very excited to be a part of the 2011 EPIC Outdoor Game Fair,” said Robert Crow, NSCA Director. “This event is a perfect opportunity for the NSCA to introduce new shooters, long-time hunters, and other outdoorsmen to the exciting game of sporting clays. Thousands of people who enjoy the outdoors but have never shot sporting clays will be at the Game Fair. We want to show them how much fun the game is, and our highly-qualified instructors can give them just the kind of introduction to sporting clays that will make them want to shoot again.”

Safari Club International Foundation president Joe Hosmer welcomed NSCA as a sponsor, noting that National Hunting and Fishing Day occurs during the Game Fair. “What better time to be introduced to shooting than on Hunting and Fishing Day, and what better way to be introduced to shotgunning than through the experts of NSCA!” commented Hosmer. “Many of us who aren’t competitive shooters but hunt and travel with shotguns in pursuit of upland game and waterfowl already have a kinship with NSCA shooters. And,” Hosmer added, “the NSCA mission, which includes ‘to create an atmosphere of healthy competition and meaningful fellowship,’ is spot-on for this EPIC Game Fair.”

Among the other sponsors of the Game Fair are Orvis, Eukanuba, Winchester, Beretta, Crosman, General Motors, Rigby, Mossy Oak, Shooting Sportsman magazine, Laser Shot, Kevin’s Catalog, Earthquest, Gilchrist Club, and Safari Club International.

Full information on each of the activity villages, exhibitions, seminars, entertainment, sponsors, and more can be found at EPICGameFair.org or on the Game Fair’s Facebook page, Facebook.com/EPICOutdoorGameFair. Discounted advance-purchase tickets are also available on the site.

About:
The National Sporting Clays Association is the official governing and sanctioning body of Sporting Clays in the United States. Headquartered at the National Shooting Complex in San Antonio, it is the world’s largest Sporting Clays organization, with members in all 50 states and 10 foreign countries. To locate NSCA member clubs in your area or for more information on the National Sporting Clays Association, visit our website at www.nssa-nsca.org

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the world. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more information.

Quail Unlimited is the oldest national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the management of America’s wild quail. Known as “America’s Leader In Quail Conservation,” its overall vision is to restore America’s quail populations for future generations through wise stewardship of the land and its resources. See www.qu.org to learn more.

Mossy Oak

WEST POINT, MS --(Ammoland.com)- Mossy Oak along with NRCS, National Association of Conservation Districts, Ducks Unlimited, National Wild Turkey Federation, Quality Deer Management Association, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Safari Club International Foundation have joined forces to share the latest innovations for developing, preserving and enjoying America’s rich hunting land through the True North Seminar Summit.

This two-day series is designed specifically for hunters, landowners, and land managers looking to get the most from their properties through wildlife management and habitat development and focuses on four main subject areas:

• Wildlife Management - Attract, maintain, and protect the type of wildlife you want on your property. Seminars will explore how to build a strong, healthy population of deer and other desirable fauna, including tracking and culling, while combating predators and disease.
• Habitat Management - Develop your property into an ideal habitat for population growth among deer, fowl, and other animals. Seminars will explore how to maximize yield through food plots, plant control, improved property design, and other land enhancement techniques.
• Forests, Fields and Wetlands - Bring out the best in mother nature. Seminars focus on conservation of your ecosystem, including the maintenance of trees, grass, soil, and ponds. Explore the latest techniques and best practices for enhancing your property for beauty, sport, and income.
• Land Ownership and Assistance Programs - get the most out of your investment. Seminars will explore the best strategies for financing your land, developing income opportunities such as hunting clubs and leases, taking advantage of state and federal dollars for property improvements, and more.

“This is truly a first of its kind event,” said Toxey Haas, founder and CEO of Mossy Oak, “and one that is not only of great magnitude, but deeply aligned with our brand and businesses.”

Bass Pro Shops Land & Wildlife Expo

Hosted by the Gaylord Opryland Resort, Bass Pro, and Ram Trucks the three-day expo features a massive indoor hunting exhibit hall, outdoor equipment test drives, crop demonstrations, kids’ activities and a private concert with Opry Member Craig Morgan and special guest Jeff Foxworthy. For reservations and more information, please visit www.LandandWildlifeExpo.com.

Haas Outdoors Inc. is headquartered in West Point, Miss., was established in 1986 and is home of Mossy Oak (www.mossyoak.com). Mossy Oak specializes in developing and marketing modern camouflage designs for hunters and outdoorsmen. Mossy Oak patterns can be found on a multitude of products worldwide. Haas Outdoors Inc. is the outdoor industry leader in modern camouflage design, international licensing and marketing. Haas Outdoors Inc. markets its services and products under widely recognized brands including: Mossy Oak, BioLogic, Mossy Oak Productions, MOOSE Media, Nativ Nurseries, and Mossy Oak Properties.

RSR Group

Winter Park, FL --(Ammoland.com)- The RSR Group, Inc. 2011 E-Show has concluded, and we are pleased to announce its overwhelming success.

From July 26 through 29, Savings Safari took shooting sports dealers on the hunt for great deals, and offered them the opportunity to stock their shelves quickly and competitively, just in time for the Fall Season.

The E-Show showcased new products and exciting specials from renowned industry vendors, and gave participants the opportunity to take advantage of these unique deals, all directly from their personal computerss.

The adventure included product introductions from vendors such as Springfield Armory, Walther and Troy Industries, special dealer programs, exclusive package deals, reduced pricing on select products, and the chance to win a daily prize giveaway for participating dealers. All these advantages were offered by RSR Group, Inc. to customers from the comfort of their own home or store.

RSR Group, Inc. pioneered the shooting sports industry E-Show, and continues to provide this unique opportunity to its customers. For more than 30 years, the company has catered to shooting sports dealers with innovative programs and services, and the Summer 2011 E-Show, Savings Safari, was no exception.

RSR Group, Inc. is committed to the total satisfaction of its customers by providing a well-stocked selection of products at competitive prices. With five sales centers across the U.S. and a distribution center located in Texas, RSR Group is able to provide fast and reliable service. For additional information about RSR Group, Inc. contact Alysa George, Marketing Manager, at 407-677-1333 ext. 625 or visit www.RSRGROUP.com.

Ammunition and Bug-Out-Bags - Frank Talk About Guns

Frank Brownell - Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(Ammoland.com)- WOW!! It has been busy around here.

WE ARE NOW CARRYING AMMUNITION! And, we’ve nailed the price. You’ll find us to be priced at some of the lowest in the industry.

Full lines of all the good stuff from the best-known makers. This is a major jump into the market for us, and we’re determined to make Brownells a great place for you to shop for ammo. You asked and we listened. See it all at brownells.com

Service, Selection and Satisfaction, is what you can always expect from Brownells at all times. For ammo, we have Winchester, Hornady, Remington, Federal, CCI and a whole lot more brands in all kinds of calibers – 2,200 different items to be exact at this writing – and that offering is growing daily. You can expect the same down-home help you have always received from Brownells with a human being you can trust at the other end of the phone. And, ordering on the web is amazingly easy.

Plus, we offer you something no other supplier in the industry offers. With us, our no hassle, 100% satisfaction - forever guarantee applies to ammo, too – you can return it and get a refund or credit toward another purchase. This is totally unique to Brownells – and is a genuine service to you, our customer. You cannot do this with any other supplier in the marketplace. With everybody else, once you’ve bought it, baby, you cannot return it – even if you’ve ordered the wrong one. With Brownells, you can just return it!!

In addition, we will be charging you “flat rate” shipping. This means your ammo purchases from us will cost you cheaper shipping than from the other guys, and you can mix ammo with all kinds of other products from all three of our companies without getting billed a separate price for shipping the ammo.

Next, we have a really unique and mighty useful “Ammo Advisor“. Just click on the Ammunition bar on the top of the home page, and the “Advisor” comes up. Start by identifying gun choice, then cartridge, application and brand, and you will get the family group which includes the ammo you want. Locate the specific one you need within the group and place your order. If you want faster searching – or narrower filtering, click on the “more filter options” and you’ll have 9 more criteria you can select from pull down menus. Makes getting to the very specific ammo you want extremely fast.

In stock, great pricing, great selection, GREAT service. Give us a shout or a look us up on brownells.com when you need ammo.

Bug-Out-Bag
Last month I included a couple of articles on preparing a grab-it bag – or a “Bug-Out-Bag”. I got some really useful additions to the list from some of our readers, and I wanted you to know about them, too.

From Benn Scherzer: Comments from the Hurricane Zone in Eastern FL

“A chest freezer holds cold better than an upright. An upright will lose its cold air (which is replaced with ambient, hot and muggy air) when you open the door to chuck in some dry ice – you will feel it cascade out the bottom on your feet. Watch for sales on the larger ‘group’ size picnic/camping coolers on sale. Fill with ice if time allows and transfer 1 to 1.5 days cooling-required food to it so you can leave the fridge & freezer door closed. If you have time, set up a second cooler for day 1.5 to 3. Add dry ice (wrapped in paper or on a piece of Styrofoam to avoid freezer burn) if possible to the freezer and ice chests.

“The main power disconnect is necessary to prevent Flicker & Flash from applying power to your area and destroying your generator and house electronics. It also prevents your generator from electrocuting the Flicker and Flash repair party (possibly from out of state) trying to get you back on line.

“You bought boots for yourself to try to keep the nails from your feet; doesn’t your dog deserve the same?

“Light sticks, white, many each. With the white ones you can see what you’re looking at. The green ones don’t show up the leaking water from the ridge vent until your foot goes squish. Red light sticks can mark danger areas.

“If you have maintenance meds and get 3 months supply at one time, move a couple of week’s worth to other PROPERLY LABELED containers and keep the rest in the original containers in a Ziploc Freezer Bag so you only have one thing to grab.

“There are good monoculars out there for a smaller footprint than a set of binox.”

From Dan Coloccia

“Two things you might add to Roy’s list is an extra flashlight BULB and a few ‘Space Blankets’.
(My Response…)

From: Robert Guzauskas

“My first thought upon seeing this article was that they would tell people about how to store your guns in case of a storm. But there is not one word about that. That really surprised me. How many weapons are lying around on the ground? Hundreds? It does supply good information but misses that particular bit that its readers could certainly use.”
(My Response…)

I’d like to hear from those of you with other things for the Bug-Out Bag list. We had a small tornado go through our next neighboring town just last week, and huge lightening and hail storm with several inches of rain this week. Looks like the need for the bag still exists out here in the heart-land!

As you go forward this summer, we’d really appreciate you checking out our ammo offerings – and tell us what we’re doing wrong and what you’d like to see and – if you’re of a mind to – what we’re doing right, too.

About:
At Brownells Everything is Guaranteed period! Forever, 100%, with no restocking fees. Brownells is the world’s largest supplier of firearm parts, gunsmithing tools, reloading equipment and accessories. Stocking more than 30,000 items, the company supplies armorers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. All of their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction, unconditional, lifetime guarantee. For more information, or to place an order, call 800-741-0015 or visit Brownells.com

Summer 2011 Shooting Sports E-Show Is Coming to RSR Group

RSR Group

Winter Park, FL --(Ammoland.com)- RSR Group, Inc. extends an invitation to shooting sports dealers to be a part of its Summer 2011 E-Show: Savings Safari.

This event begins on Tuesday, July 26 at 11:00 a.m. EDT and runs through Friday, July 29 at 11:59 p.m. EDT. The E-Show offers RSR Group, Inc. customers the opportunity to participate in a trade show from the comfort of their own personal computers.

The Savings Safari will take place on the RSR Group, Inc. Web site, with dealers being able to log in and visit “virtual booths” from 35 industry manufacturers. RSR Group and its vendor-partners offer E-Show specials 24 hours a day, as well as sneak peeks at the newest product introductions, limited time dealer programs, and daily prize giveaways.

The E-Show features great specials, giving dealers all over the country a chance to stock their shelves quickly and competitively.

RSR Group, Inc. pioneered the shooting sports industry E-Show, and continues to provide this unique opportunity to its customers. For more than 30 years, the company has catered to shooting sports dealers with innovative programs and services, and the Summer 2011 E-Show: Savings Safari, is no exception.

RSR Group, Inc. is committed to the total satisfaction of its customers by providing a well-stocked selection of products at competitive prices. With five sales centers across the U.S. and a distribution center located in Texas, RSR Group, Inc. is able to provide fast and reliable service. For additional information about RSR Group, Inc. contact Alysa George, Marketing Manager, at 407-677-1333 ext. 625 or visit www.RSRGROUP.com.

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair

Tucson, Arizona --(Ammoland.com)- Advanced purchase tickets for the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair are now available online!

Hosted by Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) and Quail Unlimited (QU), EPIC Outdoor Game Fair will provide hands-on activities bringing outdoor sporting Education, Participation, Instruction and Competition to families, youth and individual enthusiasts. The three-day event is September 23-25, 2011 at the Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club just outside of Atlanta, GA.

Participants that purchase tickets in advance will find day passes on the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair website that are cheaper than onsite admission prices, and discounted 3-day event packages are only available online. In addition, registration for some of the seminars, shooting events and other special events will only be available through the event’s website.

“The EPIC Outdoor Game Fair’s website provides a quick and easy way for people to get tickets for this unique and exciting event,” commented Joe Hosmer, President of SCIF.

“Anyone with an interest in the great outdoors should plan on being at Foxhall Resort and Sporting Club this September. From shooting to archery to fishing to ATV’s to nature education to music and so much more, Game Fair is going to have it all. It is a can’t-miss event, and online ticket sales will allow you to get your passes locked in early!”

EPIC Outdoor Game Fair is going to have a first-rate lineup of activities that cater to outdoor enthusiasts with all levels of experience. Shooting Sportsman Magazine, Beretta, Laser Shot, Crosman and John Rigby & Co are headlining the Shooting Village that will include shotgun sports, shooting simulators and airgun venues, expert instruction, and the unique opportunity to field test fine guns that will be available for sale onsite. In addition, Marty Fischer has designed a new sporting clays course at Foxhall that will be one of the finest in the country.

The Canine Village is sponsored by Eukanuba and will feature a Super Retriever Series trial, Big Air Competition, “ask the pro” sessions and numerous opportunities for hands-on training seminars with the industry’s top trainers. Mossy Oak is sponsoring the Archery village that will include 3-D courses, sporting arrows and other archery sports. A Birds of Prey area, sponsored by Earthquest, Inc., will include live displays of owls, falcons, hawks and other raptors, as well as daily flight demonstrations and seminars on falconry and wildlife rehabilitation. In addition, there will be fishing, ATV, and equestrian villages, plus nature activities, numerous vendors, concerts and much, much more.

“Every week, new and even more exciting sponsors and exhibitors are getting lined up for EPIC Outdoor Game Fair,” said Bill Bowles, President of QU. “Even though this is the first year for this event, it is shaping up to be the southeast’s largest, hands-on outdoors festival. Get your tickets and make your travel plans now so you don’t miss the first of many years of EPIC Outdoor Game Fair fun!”

There are many places online with up-to-the minute information about all of the exciting events and seminars that are being planned for the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair. Besides the EPIC Outdoor Game Fair website, you can also get regular updates at the event blog, EPICGameFairBlog.org and follow us on Facebook, Facebook.com/EPICOutdoorGameFair and Twitter, Twitter.com/@EPICGameFair

Safari Club International Foundation (SCIF) is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization that funds and manages worldwide programs dedicated to wildlife conservation, outdoor education, and humanitarian services. Since 2000, SCIF has provided $47 million to these causes around the world. Visit www.safariclubfoundation.org for more.

Quail Unlimited is the oldest national, nonprofit conservation organization dedicated to the management of America’s wild quail. Known as “America’s Leader In Quail Conservation SM,” our overall vision is to restore America’s quail populations for future generations. Our core values include the wise stewardship of our land and its resources, and the continuation of our proud heritage of conservation, therefore, leaving a legacy and firm foundation for our youth and families to build upon.

Blade Show 2011

ATLANTA, Georgia --(Ammoland.com)- BLADE Show, the world’s largest tactical International Cutlery Fair is celebrating its 30th anniversary at the Cobb Galleria Centre this weekend. Co-located is the first Tactical Gear Expo.

The Tactical Gear Expo is open to the public and features manufacturers, dealers and suppliers of products and services related to anything tactical. There will be tactical firearms, tactical knives, self-defense gear and a number of products for civilians, law enforcement and military applications.

The BLADE Show, presented by BLADE Magazine, has the very best of the knife-making and knife-collecting industries under one roof. It is the world’s largest combined show of handmade, factory and antique knives and has over 700 tables and about 175 booths and products.

Some of the tactical gear products include: clothing and accessories, duty gear, eyewear, firearms/accessories, hearing protection, hydration equipment, ballistic equipment, books/DVDs, flashlights/accessories, firearms/knives, restraints and more.

The show has the most diverse array of knife manufacturers, custom knifemakers, cutlery manufacturers, collectors and collections. This year, there will be the Blade Magazine Knife of the Year awards, Blade Magazine Cutlery Hall of Fame induction, the annual ABS meeting, BLADE Show World Championship Cutting Competition, forging demos, collecting how-to’s and so much more.

BLADE Show tickets are $15 daily and $35 for a weekend pass, and includes the Tactical Gear Expo Ticket. The show is from Friday, June 10 to Sunday, June 12. For more information about the show, call 770-955-8000 or go to http://www.bladeshow.com. For more information about the Cobb Galleria Centre, go to http://www.cobbgalleria.com.

Bass Pro Shops Land & Wildlife Expo

Nashville, Tenn. --(Ammoland.com)- Hunting enthusiasts and land owners, mark your calendars for the first-ever Bass Pro Shops Land and Wildlife Expo Presented by RAM Trucks August 12-14, 2011 at Gaylord Opryland Resort and Convention Center in Nashville, Tenn.

The nation’s top conservation organizations and leading outdoor manufacturers have joined forces in a unique partnership designed to link land owners and hunting enthusiasts with the people and companies responsible for the latest innovations in hunting and farming equipment and land management techniques.

“The expo is a great opportunity to connect our partner conservation organizations with Bass Pro Shops customers who care as much about preserving and developing the land they hunt as they do the sport,” said Johnny Morris, Founder of Bass Pro Shops.

“These like-minded individuals are the key to preserving hunting land for future generations.”

Expo attendees will have access to hundreds of indoor hunting, fishing and land management exhibits and the 105-acre Outdoor Village featuring hands-on vehicle and equipment demonstrations, crop and food plot exhibitions and kid-friendly activities.

During the expo, the two-day Mossy Oak True North Seminar Summit will provide land owners and managers interested in improving their land management plans unprecedented access to more than 30 of the nation’s foremost experts from leading conservation organizations and government agencies. Whether they manage 100 acres or 1,000, seminar attendees will learn the latest practices used to cost-effectively increase property value and enhance the hunting experience.

Topics include:
Wildlife Management

• Build a strong, healthy population of deer and other desirable fauna, including tracking and culling, while combating predators and disease.

Habitat Management

• Maximize your yield through food plots, plant control, improved property design and other land enhancement techniques.

Forests, Field and Wetlands

• Bring out the best in Mother Nature by exploring the latest techniques and best practices for enhancing your property for beauty, sport and income.

Land Ownership and Assistance Programs

• Learn the best strategies for financing your land, developing income opportunities such as hunting clubs and leases, taking advantage of state and federal dollars for property improvements and more.

A Saturday night Conservation Dinner and private concert by recording artist and Opry Member Craig Morgan will round out the weekend’s festivities for an unforgettable, three-day experience.

Conservation partners include Ducks Unlimited, Safari Club International, National Wild Turkey Federation, Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation and Quality Deer Management Association (QDMA). The expo is being held in conjunction with the QDMA National Convention.

Seminar series and expo tickets are available now at Bass Pro Shops and BassPro.com. For more information, tickets to the Conservation Dinner and Concert with Craig Morgan or to reserve your room, visit LandAndWildlifeExpo.com.

Expo Contact:
Brian Abrahamson
brian@gaylordentertainment.com
615-316-6302

Bass Pro Shops Contact:
Larry L. Whiteley
lwhiteley@basspro.com
417-873-5022

Great South Predator & Wild Hog Extravaganza

Scurry Outdoors South

ATLANTA, GEORGA --(Ammoland.com)- Scurry Outdoors South presents the Great South Predator and Wild Hog Extravaganza, the only trade show exclusively dedicated to Predator & Wild Hog enthusiasts.

Scurry Outdoors South has brought together hunting experts, equipment manufacturers, and other hunting industry professionals to create a unique experience for the predator enthusiast.

Events will include nationally renowned hunting experts, the World Predator Calling Championship, a taxidermy competition, a Night Vision, Thermal, Laser & Spotting Light Seminar and a Pig Rig Truck Competition. Attendees can also visit over eighty predator and hog hunting companies.

THE EXHIBITION – Eighty different companies including holographic scope manufacturers, custom animal traps, predator callers, hunting specialty magazines, guided hunts, predator attraction scents, camouflage manufacturers, decoy developers, night vision and night lighting gear, Pig Rig vehicle customization companies, weapons manufacturers and resellers.

LEARN FROM THE PROS - Brian “Pigman” Quaca from the Sportsman Channel, Andrew West from Discovery Channel’s “Hogs Gone Wild”, “Mr. Predator” Byron South from the Pursuit Channel and Glenn Guess, Field Editor for Boar Hunter magazine and many top experts on a variety of subjects pertaining to predators and wild hogs.

OUTDOOR NIGHT VISION EQUIPMENT DEMONSTRATION – This hands-on, outdoor educational night time event is specifically designed to show the latest products and technology for the night hunting enthusiast. Vendors will demonstrate their products on various animals along with humans set out at 100 yard intervals.

THE GREAT SOUTH PREDATOR & WILD HOG TAXIDERMY COMPETITION – For both amateur and professional taxidermists. Competition categories include full mounts and shoulder pedestal mounts. Attendees can expect to see coyotes, foxes, bobcats, wild hogs, bears, snakes and even alligators. There is a special “first ever” Ugliest Mount category.

PIG RIG, TRUCK AND ATV COMPETITION – With this competition, the ATV, truck, golf cart or any other vehicle used to climb, crawl or get buried in the swamps, marshes and mud flats of the South will be judged with the winner receiving a pair of Tri-Tronics Trash Breaker Dog Collars.

ABOUT SCURRY OUTDOORS SOUTH
Scurry Outdoors South (SOS) was founded by brothers Ken and Jeff Scurry with the purpose of developing trade shows specifically for hunting enthusiasts. To do this, they brought together their lifetime love of hunting and the outdoors with their combined 40 years convention and trade show industry experience. The result is THE premier event incorporating the excitement of both predator and wild hog hunting. As predators and wild hogs continue to adapt and thrive in almost any environment and condition, their pursuit has become a rapidly growing sport. Visit: www.scurryoutdoorssouth.com

Wisconsin DNR

MADISON, WI --(Ammoland.com)- Hunter Education Instructors are needed to mentor fourth and fifth grade students while shooting BB guns at the Wisconsin Outdoor Education Expo on Thurs. May 19 and Fri. May 20, 2011.

The “Youth Expo” is held at the Dodge County Fairgrounds, three miles east of Beaver Dam on Hwy 33.

Five Expos held since 2006 have attracted more than 21,000 students, teachers and chaperones. The Expo is arranged by “camps,” including: archery, wildlife and conservation heritage enrichment, team building, firearm safety, fishing, camping, birds of prey, bird and animal calling, sporting dog demonstrations and trail recreation. All of this at no cost to the schools or groups attending.

Students arriving at the DNR firearm safety camp attend brief instruction on TAB-K presented by RSWs and then proceed to shoot BB guns at paper targets. Each student is mentored, one-on-one, by a Hunter Ed. Instr. or a Conservation Warden. This is where YOU can help. Plans are being made to have two 24 target ranges operating; which means over 50 instructors and/or wardens are needed each day.

If you want to help on one or both days, or want more information, contact Hunter Ed. Instr. Coordinator, Marlin Spindler, 921 N. Center St. Beaver Dam, WI 53916, phone (920)887-2895, or email at
mspindler@charter.net, or RSW Jon King atJon.King@Wisconsin.gov.

Safari Club International

Tucson, Arizona --(Ammoland.com)- Safari Club International today announced that its 39th Annual Hunters’ Convention in Reno, Nevada was a huge success.

Concluded on January 29, the 2011 Convention ranks as the second highest revenue generating Convention ever with over 18,000 attendees.

SCI members generously contributed over $12 million to support SCI’s advocacy to protect our hunting freedoms, to promote international wildlife conservation and to increase wildlife management education.

The SCI Annual Hunters’ Convention includes over 1,100 exhibiting companies, leasing over 650,000 sq. ft of booth spaces. The exhibitors’ generous donations of valuable items for SCI’s auctions ensure that SCI can advocate on behalf of hunters in the United States and at international wildlife forums like CITES. SCI’s Political Action Committee (SCI-PAC) raised nearly $200,000 to advance sportsmen’s interest in federal elections. A special auction for disabled hunters was purchased during the Saturday evening dinner and it raised $150,000 for the SCI Foundation’s Humanitarian Services Programs.

SCI is also pleased to announce the full list of award recipients at the 39th Annual Hunters’ Convention. Award winners include members and chapters who display a strong commitment to and have made great contributions to the sport of hunting, displayed a dedication to the conservation of wildlife, have a history of service to the global hunting community and are committed to SCI’s programs and mission statement to be First for Hunters.

Major Award Recipients:

• Hall of Fame Award – Dennis Anderson
• International Hunter Award – Larry Higgins
• C.J. McElroy Award – Raleigh Werking
• Diana Award – Suzie Brewster
• Federal Legislator of the Year – Congressman Dan Boren (OK)
• International Legislator of the Year – Ambassador Abdujabbour Shirinov (Tajikistan)
• SCI & Cabela’s Young Hunter – Liz Cadell
• SCI & Cabela’s Young Hunter – Hunter Chancellor
• SCI & Cabela’s Young Hunter – Mitchell Hooker
• SCI & Cabela’s Young Hunter – David Sanderson

The World Hunting Award Ring Recipients: Jim Shockey, Ricardo Longoria, Deb Cunningham, J. Alan Smith, John Malloy, Nicholas Franco, Dennis Anderson, James Grimm, Dennis Campbell

Chapter Award Recipients:

• Top Gun Award – Alaska Chapter
• Diamond Conservation Award – Western & Central New York Chapter

Chapter of the Year:

• 51-100 Members – Argentina Chapter
• 101-250 Members – Golden Gate Chapter
• 251 or More Members – Flint Regional Chapter
• International Chapter – Italian Chapter
• Rookie Chapter – Drayton Valley Chapter
• Membership Growth – Northeast Indiana Chapter (351 members)

SCI would like to thank all Corporate Sponsors, including: Boyt Harness Company, Browning, Cabela’s, Carl Zeiss Sport Optics, Fauna & Flora International, GSM Outdoors, Global Rescue, GunBroker.com, Hornady, Midway USA, Swarovski Optik, and Trijicon for making the 39th Annual SCI Hunters’ Convention such an amazing success. SCI has already started planning for the 2012 Convention that will be held in Las Vegas, Nevada February 1st – 4th at the Mandalay Bay Hotel.

About Safari Club International:
SCI-First For Hunters is the leader in protecting the freedom to hunt and in promoting wildlife conservation worldwide. SCI’s approximately 190 Chapters represent all 50 of the United States as well as 18 other countries. SCI’s proactive leadership in a host of cooperative wildlife conservation, outdoor education and humanitarian programs, with the SCI Foundation and other conservation groups, research institutions and government agencies, empowers sportsmen to be contributing community members and participants in sound wildlife management and conservation. Visit the home page www.safariclub.org or Call (520) 620-1220 for more information.

About the Hunters’ Defense Fund:
Safari Club International Hunters’ Defense Fund supports the important advocacy, conservation and legal work keeping hunters afield and promoting hunting worldwide. Donations to the Hunters’ Defense Fund have a direct impact on our freedom to hunt, wildlife conservation policy and important legislative, regulatory and legal issues. DONATE NOW: www.safariclub.org/hunterdefense

Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show

HARRISBURG, PA – The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, has announced that a lineup of top Bass Pro Shops hunting and fishing experts will be appearing at the 2011 Show.

The big-name roster includes: Anglers, Woo Daves, Timmy Horton and Jason Quinn, and hunters, Bob Foulkrod , and Allen Treadwell.

“These guys are at the top of the hunting and fishing world–among the best at what they do. And, they have a unique abilities to pass on their knowledge, skills and abilities to others,” says Chris O’Hara, Event Director.

• Woo Daves -Appearing February 6, 2011 -In 2009, Daves was inducted into the Bass Fishing Hall of Fame. His most recent wins include the 2009 Thomas Lee Hart, Sr. Fish for the Hungry Tournament. Daves is one of America’s most successful and well-known fishing personalities with more than 40 top-10 finishes on the BassMaster tournament trail. He is a 17-time BassMaster Classic Qualifier, the 2000 BassMaster Classic Champion and a member of the Nitro, Motorguide, Stren Line, and Flowmaster fishing teams. Daves is the only three-time winner of Master Fisherman/Promotion Award by Frank Carter Company and was selected as a Road Warrior for USA TODAY. Daves will present bass-fishing seminars at the Bass Pro Shops Hawg Tank.
• Timmy Horton -Appearing February 8 & 9 – In 2000, Horton was named Angler of the Year and Rookie of the Year. He is a 10-Time Bassmaster Classic qualifier with four Bassmaster wins to his credit. He has been in the money 97 times and has had 23, top-10 Bassmaster finishes. In 2006 and 2007 he was an Elite 50 and Majors qualifier. Horton is the youngest angler, voted by an expert panel, to be on ESPN’s 35 Greatest Anglers of All Time. Horton is member of the Bass Pro Shops / Nitro Pro Staff.
• Jason Quinn -Appearing February 6, 7, 8 – Quinn is a five-Time Bassmaster Classic Qualifier with more than $1-million in career earnings He is the host of Hardwares House on ESPN 2
• Bob Foulkrod -Appearing February 5 & 6 – Foulkrod is known as one of America’s most respected bowhunting authorities. He runs one of the country’s top bowhunting schools where he has taught his hunting skills to hundreds of bowhunters across North America. In 1993, Foulkrod was inducted into the International Archery Hall of Fame. Foulkrod is a member of the Redhead Pro Hunting Team.
• Allen Treadwell -Appearing February 10,11,12 – Treadwell is a former member of the U.S. National Skeet Shooting Team and one of the world’s most accomplished competitive shooters. He hunts everything from waterfowl to whitetails to bull elk. Treadwell is Redhead Pro Hunting Team member.

For more information on the complete schedule of seminar speakers, contests, family entertainment and how to buy tickets on line for the 2011 Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, log onto www.easternsportshow.com .

Other Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show sponsors include: Thompson/Center Arms, Cabela’s, Chevrolet, and Michael Waddell’s Bone Collector.

The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, now in its 56th year, has grown to be the largest outdoor hunting and fishing event of its kind in North America. With more than 1,200 exhibitors, The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show brings the passion for the outdoors–indoors–by bringing outdoor sports enthusiasts of all ages from across the country to view the latest and best in hunting and fishing gear, shop for ATV’s and RV’s and plan & book hunting and fishing trips with outfitters & charters from around the world. The Eastern Sports and Outdoor Show also offers a wide range of seminars presented by experts along with hunting- and fishing-related contests and family-oriented entertainment.

Frank Brownell - Brownells.com

Des Moines, Iowa – -(Ammoland.com)- Our Gang just got back from the SHOT Show – goodness want a bash!

I’ve talked with a number of our folks that went and we’ve got some comments for you.

Kinda disconnected in some places maybe, so I’ll just start off and run until I run out of things to pass along.

We were somewhat apprehensive going in, because nobody knew how the year was going to shape up.

Coming off the last two years of economic stress and an “odd” SHOT Show in ’10 – we all were very surprised how upbeat and productive it really was. The SHOT Show is a bellwether for the year. The words I kept hearing from our folks were “positive”, “enthusiastic”, “exciting.” The anxieties for 2011 seemed to slide to the backs of peoples’ minds, as they were caught up in the huge crowds and the huge wave of “optimistic vibes” flowing through the place. This show left all of us really charged up and raring to get back home and put the things we found and ideas we heard into place.

Each of our group commented on the really big group of new products we found – for all of our divisions.

For the Gunsmithing Group, what we saw were not so many new shooting platforms as we did lots and lots of neat little accessories to go on already existing accessories. Many or most for the AR-15 platform. Huge number of these items still coming. We saw lots of clever ideas and developing products from inventors looking for investors/developers. We saw huge interest in flashlights and the Glock and 1911 .22-cal conversion kits. Also the AR-15 in the .308 platform, and the very new .300 Black Out ammo from Hornady, which takes only a new barrel to be able to shoot. Also conceal carry is showing huge growth with lots of factory interest in this market. The factories were very open to suggestions about existing products, new products, modifications, service. And our key vendors were exceedingly positive about this 2011 year and the potential it has.

The Sinclair Group saw lots and lots of new products. Plus many new accessories to already existing products – again nothing astonishing so much as tweaks and refinements. Some new lines of ammo came out, more bullets, more cartridges. Ammo market’s big boom is “defense rounds” for all the guns coming out for that group of shooters. The market is still very strong and vibrant. New young blood coming into the reloading industry with some great new ideas. Overall, ammo delivery problems seem to be going away, and primers are becoming more widely available. Of course we’re all watching Hornady – waiting for their next amazing introduction. They’ve teamed up with Hodgdon Powder to make a “Su-performance” ammo, which the new Hodgdon Powder gives super velocity. Again, very positive feed-back from customers and factories.

From our Law Enforcement Group, there was tremendous positive reaction to our getting more involved in a full line of duty gear. Our guys and gals found an amazing number of new products to go into the LE catalog. Departmental customers commented that even with some of the Fed money running out, causing lots of conservation in the departments, it is beginning to look like it might not be as bad as they once thought. Our booth in the LE area of the show was very busy with many, many departments, customers and factories swinging by to catch up and see what was new and exciting – and to work with us to make the division even that much more successful. Our gang working that booth was totally delighted with how the show went for them.

We did something “progressive” this year and took pictures and video of as much as the show as we could fit in. You can find all of this on our Facebook site. Sign-up and take a look. We are doing more and more of this “Social Thing” my kids and grandkids keep talking about. Frankly it’s fun, informative and seems useful. Oh, keep checking back on the Facebook site for specials and other neat stuff we’re going to be introducing to you there.

Final wrap – all levels of the industry we interacted with seem positive, and it seems the industry is stabilized or stabilizing, catching its breath and really getting ready to embrace the future. While a lot of those in other industries around us are feeling the effects of the generally bad economy, the unemployment and the under-employment, the growth in the emerging economies with the U.S. Dollar losing value in the world market – our industry seems to be full of self-starters, folks who love their guns and their constitutional rights to self protection and making an honest living. They’re buckling down and doing it.

We saw deals still settled with a simple handshake. We saw a big push for that label “Made in America”. (By the Way, a major issue with Pete and me personally, and one we push with all our people here. We ALWAYS try to find a US made product first. Look for the American flag next to products we know are MADE in the good old USA – both on the web and in our catalogs. It’s important to support our own workers, factories and companies. These are our people we’re talking about.)

At the 2011 SHOT Show, we saw a bustling, active, energized, committed crowd of displayers and attendees connecting, interacting and working together to make it a growing, better industry.

Frankly, we’ve got great expectations for the potential of 2011. Keep checking back to the New Products sections of Browenlls.com, SinclairIntl.com and PoliceStore.com for all the new products we found at SHOT 2011 and will be getting on line just as fast as we can get inventory here.

****

John Hornby, the sender of so many great jokes, sent me the article that follows. I’d never looked at our beloved sport/vocation/avocation/hobby like this before. Makes you stop and think – and thank the good Lord that what we love to do and enjoy so much can also be so very important to our continued freedom.

The World’s Largest Army

I bet you didn’t know this. . .

In WWII, Japan’s highest-ranking naval officer was Isoruku Yamamoto. Although he was Japanese, and his loyalties were unquestionably with The Empire, he studied for many years in America, graduating from Harvard University. There is an oft-repeated (and sometimes disputed) quote attributed to him regarding the possibility of any nation taking a war to American soil:

“You cannot invade the mainland United States. There would be a rifle behind every blade of grass.”

Here is why he was correct:

America’s Hunters. The World’s Largest Army.

The state of Wisconsin has gone an entire deer hunting season without someone getting killed. That’s great, considering there were over 600,000 hunters that got permits this year.

Allow me to restate that number: 600,000

Over the last two months, the eighth largest army in the world – more men under arms than Iran; more than France and Germany combined – deployed to the woods of a single American state to keep the deer population under control.

But that pales in comparison to the 750,000 who are in the woods of Pennsylvania this week. Michigan’s 700,000 hunters have now returned home. Toss in a quarter million hunters in West Virginia, and it is literally the case that the hunters of those four states alone would comprise the largest army in the world.

And that is just FOUR states.

The total population of registered hunters in America today ranges from 23 million to 43.7 million individuals. (Based on annual data provided by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.) As long as the American Hunter retains his right to Bear Arms, America will forever be safe from foreign invasion of troops.

Hunting – it’s not just a way to fill the freezer. It’s a matter of National Security.

Brownells.com

About:
At Brownells Everything is Guaranteed period! Forever, 100%, with no restocking fees. Brownells is the world’s largest supplier of firearm parts, gunsmithing tools, reloading equipment and accessories. Stocking more than 30,000 items, the company supplies armorers, gunsmiths, and shooters worldwide. All of their products are backed by a 100% satisfaction, unconditional, lifetime guarantee. For more information, or to place an order, call 800-741-0015 or visit Brownells.com

Outdoorchannel TV

Temecula, Calif. --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Channel, America’s leader in Outdoor TV, invites you to join all of the action and excitement at the 2011 America’s Outdoor Show, Chicago’s largest and longest running sports show.

Outdoor Channel is proud to be the exclusive media sponsor for this year’s event, which is being held at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois from January 26th through the 30th.

America’s Outdoor Show is the premiere outdoor hunting and fishing event for the entire family. With hands on activities, demonstrations, over 200 hours of seminars and more than 100 hours of expert advice from the industry’s most experienced anglers and hunters, America’s Outdoor Show continues to be a must-attend for all Midwestern outdoorsmen and women.

Outdoor Channel is proud to be the exclusive media sponsor of the 2011 event. As America’s leader in Outdoor TV, Outdoor Channel reaches more than 35 million households nationwide with its action-packed, family-friendly adventure programming featuring the biggest on-air celebrities in the industry.

This year’s event will feature a lineup of the network’s most popular talent who will meet and greet fans at Outdoor Channel’s booth #1330. In addition, prizes will be given away daily to show attendees.

Check out Outdoor Channel’s booth for daily prize giveaways and raffles. But get their early, as special prizes (such as hats and camo beanies) will be given away to the first 100 people who visit the booth Thursday through Sunday. An Outdoor Channel prize pack, which includes a duffel bag, travel tumbler, t-shirt and hat, will be raffled off each evening.

Suit Up at the Outdoor Channel Outfitters Pavilion
Every outdoor enthusiast knows that a great outfitter can be the difference between success and failure. That’s where Outdoor Channel Outfitters comes in. They’re a national association for professional guides and outfitters.

America’s Outdoor Show Nuts & Bolts
The 2011 America’s Outdoor Show runs from January 26-30 at the Stephens Convention Center in Rosemont, Illinois. For complete information, visit www.americasoutdoorshow.com/.

Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show

HARRISBURG, PA – -(Ammoland.com)- For the first time, the Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, will feature NEW Family Meal Specials and Daily Food Specials to help lower the cost for everyone attending the Show.

“We know how hard it is to feed a family, especially in these tough economic times. That’s why we put together an offering of family and other food specials,” says Chris O’Hara, Event Director.

“We tried to add something for everyone, families, kids and adults, and make the prices better than in the past,” added O’Hara.

NEW Family Meal Specials & Daily Food Specials include:

• $20 Everyday Family Bundle served every day at Hitching Post, North Lobby Grill, Keystone Café, Sunset Strip, North Expo, South Expo and Lower Spine Café. Includes: four hot dogs, four (12 oz.) sodas, & choice of four either potato chips or 100-calorie cookie pack.
• $10 Everyday Family Bundle served every day at Hitching Post, North Lobby Grill, Keystone Café, Sunset Strip, North Expo, South Expo and Lower Spine Café Includes: two hot dogs, two (12 oz.) sodas, & choice of two either potato chips or 100-calorie cookie pack.
• $3.50 Kid’s Special at participating locations. Includes: one PB&J or hot
  dog, one milk or (eight-oz.) soda, and one pack of cookies or potato chips.
• $7.00 Daily Specials in the second floor cafeteria. Includes: daily entrée, potato chips & eight-oz. Pepsi.
• $7.00 Beer & Bratwurst every day in the second floor cafeteria.
• $6.00 Beer & Pretzel Specials at participating locations.
  Includes:12 oz. beer with a Philly-style pretzel.
• $2.00 Bottled Water served at all beer portable locations.

In addition, beer-battered fish sandwiches will be sold exclusively in the two concessions located in the Fishing Hall.

Also, the NEW Sportsman’s Lounge in the General Merchandise Outpost (Northwest Hall) will feature wild game dishes, sandwiches and an additional beverage station with plenty of seating.

For more information on exhibitors, a complete schedule of entertainment, seminar speakers, contests, and how to buy tickets on line for the 2011 Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, log onto www.easternsportshow.com.

Other Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show sponsors include: Thompson/Center Arms, Cabela’s, Chevrolet and Michael Waddell’s Bone Collector.

The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, now in its 56th year, has grown to be the largest outdoor hunting and fishing event of its kind in North America. With more than 1,200 exhibitors, The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show brings the passion for the outdoors–indoors–by bringing outdoor sports enthusiasts of all ages from across the country to view the latest and best in hunting and fishing gear, shop for ATV’s and RV’s and plan & book hunting and fishing trips with outfitters & charters from around the world. The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show also offers a wide range of seminars presented by experts along with hunting- and fishing-related contests and family-oriented entertainment.

National Shooting Sports Foundation

LAS VEGAS --(Ammoland.com)- Back in 1979 before the first SHOT Show, organizers worried that industry professionals might not show up for the fledgling event, a story recounted in the just-released National Shooting Sports Foundation 50th Anniversary history publication.

Organizers needn’t have worried then, or now, about the vitality of the SHOT Show.

The 2011 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show soared above expectations by setting records for buyer attendance at 31,769 and media attendance at 2,074.

Overall attendance of 57,390, comprising buyers, exhibitors, media and guests, ranked the show as the third largest ever behind the 2008 and 2010 events. In this sluggish economy, the SHOT Show demonstrates the resilience of one of America’s oldest industries and the popularity of its products.

“The importance of the SHOT Show to the firearms industry cannot be underestimated,” said Steve Sanetti, president and CEO of NSSF, which owns the trade show.

“The SHOT Show is simply the must-attend business event for all segments of our industry. Based on what we’re hearing, industry has every reason to think that 2011 shows promise of being another strong year.”

Filling the Sands Expo and Convention Center to capacity with 1,600 exhibiting companies covering 630,000 net square feet with their booths, SHOT Show brings together all facets of the $4 billion industry. Many companies use SHOT Show, the largest trade show of its kind in the world, to announce new products and services. Buyers and media members are able to handle and discuss products that include firearms, ammunition, outdoor and tactical clothing, optics, knives, related accessories and law enforcement equipment.

A number of changes were made to exhibition halls to make navigating the huge show easier, including widened aisles, better signage and a new escalator. Those changes received widespread positive responses.

“There was much better traffic flow,” said exhibitor George Trulock, whose choke tube company booth was set up on the lower floor. “The changes that were made worked.”

Comments from exhibitors and buyers confirmed that the 33rd SHOT Show was a success.

Bob Morrison, president and CEO of Taurus, captured the mood with his comments in a local television interview: “We are having terrific growth right in the middle of this recession, and I’m delighted to be in this business.”

Other industry professionals were just as upbeat about both the show and their prospects for the year.

Lea L. Ramthun of Beretta said, “Busy is the word. Dealers are excited about our new products. We’ve seen a lot of smiling, happy faces.”

Paul Pluff of Smith & Wesson said, “The show has been an extremely positive event, very busy—almost busier than I have ever seen it. We anticipate a great year due to a very successful SHOT Show.”

Samuel Glen of Weather Stone Ltd. said, “I’m the guy who puts the guns in the movie stars’ hands. I have to see what’s new, and this SHOT Show has been really great for that. Everything has been really smooth and set up so that it has been easy to get my work done.”

Laurie Aronson, president and CEO of Lipsey’s, a distributor, said, “Lipsey’s is going full speed at this show. We’ve heard nothing but positive comments from retailers who are telling us they are busy.”

Randall Pence, of Sturm, Ruger, said, “Traffic in our booth has been super. Our Scout rifle has been of big interest, and our LC9 pistol has been the hit of our booth. We’re sensing a very positive attitude from everyone.”

Chris Schwarzkopf of ArmaLite Inc., said, “New products are the retailers’ main focus. We’ve seen a lot more traffic in our booth than we expected, and we added some excitement in our booth with a simulator made by Cubic.”

Blake Mecham of Browning said, “Foot traffic is up, attendance is great, we’ve had good buzz about our products and our 1911-22 was the hit of the show for us. This SHOT Show has put us in a good position for the year.”

Retailers like Ron Mengel of San Juan Shooting Range in Montrose, Colo., say that attending the SHOT Show is a must. “I come to the show to stay current, to see people in industry and to get ideas about new ways to retail. We live in an out-of-the-way area, so finding these quality products can be a challenge.”

Internet-based retailer John Riddle of Outdoor Elements added, “Companies are really evolving and thinking outside the box, which is tremendous to keep the sport going. It’s enjoyable to see the innovations that are out there.”

More than 100 countries were represented at the show. Steve Collings of New Zealand-based Steve’s Wholesale said, “We import a lot of ammunition and gunpowder, so it’s very important to come and talk to my suppliers, to find new products, to get updates, to get a heads up on a change in metal prices. It’s absolutely essential to be here.”

Retailers do more than purchase products for their stores at the show. They improve their business skills at SHOT Show University, which was sold out, and at seminars where representatives from the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives review regulations that apply to federally licensed retailers. For the second year, law enforcement professionals were provided with their own series of educational seminars.

With media at an all-time high, a larger press room, including a new working press area, was widely praised. Media also turned out in force at Media Day prior to the show, where they could test new models of firearms and other products.

Highlights from the show included . . .

• Some 2,000 industry guests attended the NSSF State of the Industry Dinner sponsored by the Outdoor Channel at which NSSF reviewed its accomplishments over the past year. Comedian Jeff Foxworthy provided entertainment.
• NSSF announced its 50th anniversary celebration and publication of “The National Shooting Sports Foundation: A History 1961 to 2011, 50 Years of Promoting, Protecting and Preserving Hunting and the Shooting Sports by NSSF, the Firearms Industry’s Trade Association.” An accompanying film, which will soon be available online, was shown at the NSSF State of the Industry Dinner.
• Doug Painter, NSSF’s longest-serving employee and former president and CEO, who will retire this spring after 37 years with the Foundation, was honored for his service to the industry and the organization.
• Bob Behn, 41-year industry veteran and former Marlin president and CEO, was presented the NSSF-Ken Sedlecky Achievement Award.
• Michael Bane, television host, blogger and author, received the Professional Outdoor Media Association-NSSF Grits Gresham Shooting Sports Communicator Award.
• The NSSF Retailer of the Year Award was given to Sportsman’s Warehouse in Rocklin, California.

The 2012 edition of the SHOT Show will be January 17-20 at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas.

For coverage of the show visit www.shotshow.org.

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

NSSF celebrates its 50th anniversary in 2011. Learn about the Foundation’s history here.

Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- Hank Parker and Babe Winkelmen, two legends of the fishing world, are headlining the NEW Fishing Experience at the 2011 Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, February 5-13, State Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg.

“The NEW Fishing Experience is designed to promote fishing as well as educate and entertain fishing enthusiasts of all skill levels and ages,” said Chris O’Hara, Event Director.

“In the world of fishing it doesn’t get any bigger than Hank Parker and Babe Winkelman. Their skills, accomplishments and ability to teach others are amazing,” says Chris O’Hara, Event Director.

The NEW Fishing Experience has several elements designed to educate and entertain attendees of the Show including:

• All New Seminar Stage and Demo Pool – Try before you buy any fishing lure or rod!
• Hank Parker – Feb. 8-10 seminars at the New Seminar Stage and Demo Pool.
• Babe Winkelman – Feb. 11-13 seminars at the New Seminar Stage and Demo Pool.
• Expert Trout Fishing Seminars with Frank Nale – Feb. 5,6, 10-13
• Trout Filleting and Cooking – Learn how to properly handle your fresh catch in the field and turn it into a delicious meal when you get home.
• Bass Pro Shops Hawg Tank – Daily Seminars with Regional and National Pros and Experts.
• Kids Casting Contest – Capital City Bassmasters Casting Contest each weekend plus daily casting demos.
• Kids Trout Pond
• Fishing Simulator

For more information on the complete schedule of seminar speakers, contests and family entertainment offered at the 2011 Eastern Sports & Outdoors Show, log onto www.easternsportshow.com.

Other Eastern Sports & Outdoors Show sponsors include: Thompson/Center Arms, Cabela’s and Michael Waddell’s Bone Collector.

The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, now in its 56th year, has grown to be the largest outdoor hunting and fishing event of its kind in North America. With more than 1,200 exhibitors, The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show brings the passion for the outdoors–indoors–by bringing outdoor sports enthusiasts of all ages from across the country to view the latest and best in hunting and fishing gear, shop for ATV’s and RV’s and plan & book hunting and fishing trips with outfitters & charters from around the world. The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show also offers a wide range of seminars presented by experts along with hunting- and fishing-related contests and family-oriented entertainment.

SHOT SHOW Backstage Access on GunBroker.com

GunBroker.com

Kennesaw GA --(Ammoland.com)- Closed to consumers for more than 30 years, the Shooting and Hunting Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show in 2011 will for the first time reveal many of its new and traditional products to the public immediately on GunBroker.com, the world’s largest online auction of firearms and related accessories.

Through special arrangement with SHOT Show organizers and select exhibitors, the nation’s hunters and shooters will be able to get an exclusive look at new firearms, ammunition and other exciting innovations on GunBroker.com (www.GunBroker.com) at the same time they are announced to the trade.

Starting on the show’s opening date of January 18, visitors to GunBroker.com will be able to learn about these products months before others may have a chance to see them.

“GunBroker.com has enjoyed a productive business relationship with the SHOT Show and with the National Shooting Sports Foundation for years, and we are extremely excited about this major expansion of our partnership,” commented Steve Urvan, GunBroker.com founder and CEO.

“Also, we appreciate the tremendous support of our 1.6 million GunBroker.com users and three million monthly unique visitors in making our growth and success possible. We are pleased that we can bring this special service to our loyal supporters and new users in 2011.”

GunBroker.com’s special “2011 SHOT Show Product Center” will be open online from January 18 to March 1. Sponsored by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the SHOT Show has long been the largest display of firearms and other hunting and shooting equipment in the world. Because the SHOT Show is a professional trade show closed to the public, the actual exhibits can be viewed only by professional retailers, wholesalers, manufacturers and members of the media. The 2011 SHOT Show will be held in Las Vegas.

About:
GunBroker.com is an informative, detailed, secure and safe way to buy and sell firearms and hunting/shooting accessories. GunBroker.com promotes responsible gun ownership. Aside from merchandise bearing its logo, GunBroker.com sells none of the items listed on its Web site. Third-party sellers list items on the site and Federal and state laws govern the sale of firearms and other restricted items. Ownership policies and regulations are followed using licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. Currently GunBroker.com has over 1.5 million registered users, with 400,000 auctions running at any time and has over three million unique monthly visitors to the site.

Garden State Deer Classic

New Jersey Fish and Game

Trenton, NJ --(Ammoland.com)- Dozens of outstanding white-tailed deer taken during New Jersey’s 2009-10 hunting seasons will be available for viewing at the upcoming Garden State Outdoor Sportsmen’s and Adventure Show and Deer Classic. This years show will be held from January 13 – 16 at the New Jersey Convention & Expo Center in Edison, and promises to be the best ever.

The NJDEP Division of Fish and Wildlife will have a large, newly refurbished display and exhibit area at the show where hunting and fishing licenses will be available for purchase. Visitors will have the opportunity to speak with biologists representing different areas of expertise, and pick up some informational literature as well.

Division biologists will also be presenting seminars on “How to Score Your White-tailed Deer Rack” and the “Top 5 Reasons to Hunt Deer in New Jersey.” Check the show website at www.gsoss.com for seminar times and locations.

The Deer Classic Awards Ceremony will be held at 2:30 p.m. on Sunday, January 16 in the main ballroom at the show. Winning deer are the most recent seasons’ top scorers in the division’s Outstanding White-tailed Deer Program (see www.njfishandwildlife.com outdeer.htm for all-time lists of qualifying deer).

Additionally, the Show’s new management is offering a $1.00 discount on tickets and will donate $1.00 for every ticket sold through an online promotion to New Jersey’s Hunters Helping the Hungry (HHH) Program. HHH is a non-profit organization working with regional food banks that enables hunters to donate venison to the needy. Tickets can be purchased online at www.gsoss.ticketleap.com/gsoss/. Use promo code HHH.

For additional details on the discount ticket special go to www.sportsmensbuyersguide.com/blast/

The Garden State Outdoor Sportsmen’s and Adventure Show and Deer Classic provides a great opportunity for families to enjoy a day together learning about the great hunting and fishing opportunities in New Jersey, as well as all of North America, and to see the latest in hunting, fishing and outdoor gear.

The Garden State Deer Classic is sponsored by the New Jersey State Federation of Sportsmen’s Clubs, United Bowhunters of New Jersey, New Jersey Outdoor Alliance Conservation Foundation and the Garden State Outdoor Sportsmen’s and Adventure Show.

For more information on the Deer Classic visit www.njfishandwildlife.com/deerclassic.htm on the Fish and Wildlife website.

Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show

HARRISBURG, PA --(Ammoland.com)- The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show, presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, has added the US Open Turkey Calling Championship and a Predator Calling to its impressive lineup of championship contests at this year’s show, February 5-13, State Farm Show Complex, Harrisburg, PA.

“We’ve always had a turkey calling contest at the Show, and this year we’re pleased that the PA Chapter of the NWTF will again host their contests, but we have added the US Open to the 2nd weekend of the Show (Feb. 12 & 13) and it will definitely bring the best turkey callers from all over the country to compete,” says Chris O’Hara, Event Director.

“Predator calling is something new at the Show and we’re really excited about attracting some of the country’s best callers to the East Coast Predator Showdown,” added O’Hara.

The US Open Turkey Calling Championship is one of the most prestigious turkey calling contests and is considered one of the top 3 turkey calling contests in the country. This year’s contest will feature a new format for the Open Finals–for the first time in the history of the US Open, a bracket-style elimination will be utilized. There will also be a Friction Contest and a Youth Contest. Dates for the US Open are Feb. 12 for the Friction, Youth and Open Preliminaries and Feb. 13 for the Open Finals. Registration is on Saturday, Feb. 12 at 10:00AM with the contest starting at Noon.

The Predator Calling Contest, sponsored by FOXPRO High Performance Game Calls, will take place in the Small Arena on February 7th, with registration beginning at Noon.

Participants will compete for championships in two divisions, Distress Division and Coyote Vocalization Division. The top five (combined scores) finalists will then compete for the title of 2011 East Coast Predator Showdown All-Around Champion.

Other contests crowning champions during the Show include:

• • 21st Annual Northeastern States Elk Calling Contest – Youth And Adult Division
• • Duck and Goose Calling
• • Owl Hooting
• • Turkey Calling: Youth Division
• • Turkey Calling: Amateur Adult Division
• • Turkey Calling: Professional Open Division
• • Turkey Calling: Professional Friction Division
• • The Pennsylvania Fly Tying Championship
• • 2011 PA 3D Bowhunters Challenge & Keystone IBO Indoor Nationals
• • Antler Scoring
• • 31st Annual Knife & Hawk Championship
• • SRWA Gunning Decoy Contest
• • Taxidermy Competition
• • Photography Contest

For more contest information including dates, times, and registration information, log onto www.easternsportshow.com .

Other Eastern Sports & Outdoors Show sponsors include: Thompson/Center Arms, Cabela’s and Michael Waddell’s Bone Collector.

The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show presented by Outdoor Channel and Comcast, now in its 56th year, has grown to be the largest outdoor hunting and fishing event of its kind in North America. With more than 1,200 exhibitors, The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show brings the passion for the outdoors–indoors¬–by bringing outdoor sports enthusiasts of all ages from across the country to view the latest and best in hunting and fishing gear, shop for ATV’s and RV’s and plan & book hunting and fishing trips with outfitters & charters from around the world. The Eastern Sports & Outdoor Show also offers a wide range of seminars presented by experts along with hunting- and fishing-related contests and family-oriented entertainment.

Kowa USA

Los Angeles, California --(Ammoland.com)- Stop by ATA show booth #2132 Jan. 6 at 11 a.m. or by SHOT Show booth # 614 Jan. 19 at 10 a.m. for Kowa’s product showcase.

Learn about Kowa’s high-end binoculars and scopes and why they’re the best choice for discriminating hunters.

Kowa began producing quality spotting scopes in 1952 when they were designed to be used in shooting events and were designated the official spotting scope for the 1964 Tokyo Olympic Games.

Kowa Genesis 44 Whitetail Binoculars

Not long after, they were discovered by bird watchers and became very popular throughout the world. The scopes’ popularity spurred KOWA into producing high quality binoculars.

On some models, including the Popular Genesis binoculars, Kowa uses the very high spec XD Lenses from Prominar.

The Prominar Genesis line of binoculars is intended to challenge the highest end contenders. Kowa describes its BD42 series binoculars as an ideal companion for any outdoor activity that requires a bright image and a wide field of view.

The BD25 Binocular Series are not only very compact and portable, but also very popular.

For more info, check out www.kowa-usa.com

Millennium Tree Stands

Pearl, Mississippi --(Ammoland.com)- Stop by booth Millennium Treestand’s booth #2235 from 11-11:30 a.m. on Jan. 6 to meet country music star Craig Morgan.

The singer of hits such as Redneck Yacht Club and International Harvester, is a passionate hunter and a fan of Millennium’s products.

Jon and Gina Brunson, hosts of Addicted to the Outdoors TV show on the Outdoors Channel, will be at the Millennium booth at 1 p.m. on Jan 6.

Craig Morgan

You’ll also get to meet Mike and Bonnie McFerrin and the rest of the cast of the Outdoor Channels The Legends of the Fall TV show if you stop by the booth sometime from 9 a.m. until 1 p.m. Jan. 7.

Don’t miss out on your chance to meet these stars and diehard hunters. They’re looking forward to meeting you.

Millennium stands are engineered to be the most comfortable and quietest stands on the market allowing you to sit patiently from sun up to sundown without pain or discomfort. For this reason, when you hunt from a Millennium stand, your odds of success increase dramatically.

For more info, check out www.millenniumstands.com

About:
Hunting Solutions was founded in 1999 our mission is to provide hunters with safe, high quality products at a fair price. Hunting Solutions is dedicated to quality design and workmanship that can be seen in all our products. This is how we are able to offer an unlimited lifetime warranty.

North American Safari TV

Benton, ME --(Ammoland.com)- Blaine Anthony and the staff of the popular TV Show North American Safari on The Sportsman Channel will be present for all 3 days at the ATA Show in booth 2411 representing Quality Archery Design and the rest of their sponsors.

The NAS staff will be giving out free shirts and beanies to all that stop by while supplies last.

They will also be showing off the new North American Safari target, that is the only target with a lifetime warranty.

“We wear archery targets out, going through many ever year. Seth from Bull Dog Targets called and asked if he could produce a box target with what we felt is important and would set the target apart. Seth is so confident in the target, he offers a lifetime warranty on our target so it will be the last target you ever have to buy add that with the easy arrow removal, it is a perfect target” says Blaine Anthony of North American Safari.

Posters will be on hand for any of the staff to sign and hand out. The entire pro-staff plans to be there during the show at sometime with Blaine Anthony and Kevin Pruitt being there most of the time.

Also, the new “Safari Girls” being introduced in 2011, will be on hand to introduce themselves to the public and answer any questions.

So please come and meet the staff of the multi-award winning TV Show North American Safari at the ATA Show in Indianapolis in booth 2411 between January 6th to January 8th.

About North American Safari:
North American Safari airs on The Sportsman Channel, Wild TV and Fox’s SportsSouth. Founded in 2004 by Blaine Anthony, North American Safari has been entertaining outdoorsman for 6 years. They air year round on The Sportsman Channel and in the 3rd and 4th quarters on SportSouth and Wild TV.

Outdoor Industry Association

BOULDER, CO --(Ammoland.com)- Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) and The North Face today announced the industry breakfast in conjunction with the Outdoor Retailer trade show Tuesday, August 3, 2010 from 7:00 – 9:00 a.m. in the Salt Lake City Marriott Ballroom with special guests Secretary of the Interior, Ken Salazar and Nancy Sutley, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality, scheduled to speak.

“Secretary Salazar created one of the nation’s foremost open space, trails and parks programs in Colorado and is dedicated to establishing a well-funded and robust conservation and recreation program at a federal level.” said Frank Hugelmeyer, president and CEO of OIA.

“Secretary Salazar’s leadership also ensured that the America’s Great Outdoors Initiative is a priority on President Obama’s agenda. A presidential focus on the importance of outdoor recreation is unique in recent history and an opportunity the outdoor industry needs to embrace and support with all our enthusiasm and bright ideas.”

Nancy Sutley, Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ) serves as the principal environmental policy adviser to President Obama and is one of the principals leading President Obama’s Great Outdoors Initiative. Nancy has dedicated her life to environmental protection and formerly served President Clinton as a special assistant to the EPA Administrator in Washington, D.C.

“The North Face believes that a strong connection to the outdoors will lead to the protection of our natural landscapes and is dedicated to inspiring the next generation of explorers and conservationists,” said Steve Rendle, president of The North Face and VF Outdoor Americas.

“We are honored that Secretary Salazar and Chairwoman Sutley are joining us to share President Obama’s vision on how to ensure that the voice of youth and the outdoor recreation industry support the president’s vision for a 21st century conservation strategy.”

Please join us for this semi-annual event held at each Outdoor Retailer trade show. Space is limited; RSVP requested. Register here.

Listen-in available, information:

• Where: Downtown Marriott Ballroom
• When: 8:15 a.m. MDT
• Maura Lansford, SOAR Communications, cell 817.929.8123

About Outdoor Industry Association
Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) is a national trade association whose mission is to ensure the growth and success of the outdoor industry. OIA provides trade services for over 4000 manufacturers, distributors, suppliers, sales representatives and retailers in the outdoor industry. OIA programs include representation in government/legislative affairs, market and social research, business-to-business services and youth outreach initiatives. Educational events include the annual Rendezvous, Outdoor University®, and the Capitol Summit. Outdoor Industry Association is based in Boulder, Colorado, and is the title sponsor of the Outdoor Retailer tradeshows. For more information go to www.outdoorindustry.org or call 303.444.3353.

The North Face
The North Face, a division of VF Outdoor, Inc., was founded in 1968. Headquartered in San Leandro, California, the company offers the most technically advanced products in the market to accomplished climbers, mountaineers, snowsport athletes, endurance athletes, and explorers. The company’s products are sold in specialty mountaineering, backpacking, running, and snowsport retailers, premium-sporting goods retailers and major outdoor specialty retail chains.

Archery Trade Organization

New Ulm, Minn. --(Ammoland.com)- At a recent Board meeting in Washington, DC, ATA Board members reviewed their decision to make the 2011 Trade Show a members-only event and chose to stay the course.

The 2011 Trade Show will be a members-only Show, but with provisions.

“The provisions made are rooted in the recognition that there are different degrees of value to each of the ATA member categories,” said Jay McAninch, ATA CEO/president. “That was central to the Board’s discussions and the outcome are varying dues created to acknowledge those ranging values.”

Examples of varying values include Show attendee groups such as the international members, who do not enjoy the same benefits as American attendees. The list of benefits provided by ATA to members residing in the United States includes over $1million per year of total grant and contract support provided to state and federal agencies to grow archery and bowhunting, input into shooting and hunting regulations, policies and actions for local, state and federal agencies, access to political and legislative leaders and a suite of business and professional services all in addition to the annual ATA Trade Show, the world’s largest archery and bowhunting business and networking event.

Another group, multi-channel -retailers also known as “box stores,” represent a significant group of buyers at the ATA Trade Show. Their dues are tied directly to badges and place a minimum benefit of $200 to gain entry to the Show. Exhibitors have emphasized the importance of this group’s attendance and buying value.

For the independent retailers or dealers who are not currently members, once they join the ATA, they will have the same access — just as long-time ATA members do —to deeply discounted hotel packages, restaurant discounts and eligibility in valuable programs such as the Big Buck Tags. Membership dues for this group are $120 annually and dues include four free badges to the Show. Independent retailers or dealers also receives an access code to book rooms at Retailer Headquarters where rooms range from $99 to $109 per night, are located one block from the convention center and include free parking and internet. A free or discounted breakfast will also be available.

“Our intent is to make sure the Trade Show values are obvious and available to every dealer who has been coming or who wants to attend the Show,” said McAninch. “ The dilemma we face is how to get the most pro shop dealers on the show floor who are solid archery and bowhunting retailers, while preventing the attendance of those who undercut the ATA’s pro shop dealers by operating as “basement bandits” and sell mostly to their friends. There is a dilemma with exhibitors as well, who want as many buyers on the show floor as possible, yet can’t afford to take orders from businesses that aren’t stable enough to make good on an order.”

Response to the announcement of a members-only Trade Show for 2011 was strong among member dealers and most felt the requirement was long overdue. Beginning with the 2011 ATA Trade Show, all exhibitors, retailers, dealers and attendees will be members and thus have a stake in the largest, most diverse archery and bowhunting show in the world. In addition, these same groups will work together to grow archery and bowhunting through the net proceeds of the Show.

For membership dues and Show details, click here. To join the ATA today, you can download membership applications here or call the ATA office toll free at (866) 266-2776, ext. 2.

If you have questions or concerns, please call Maria Lewis toll free at (866) 266-2776, extension 2 or she can be reached by e-mail at marialewis@archerytrade.org.

2010 Blade Show

Wilson Combat

Berryville, AR - -(AmmoLand.com)- For anyone who is even remotely interested in collecting knives, whether they be factory models or custom made, the road to Mecca leads to Atlanta in June. The Blade Show is the mother of all knife shows.

Located in the Cobb Galleria complex in Atlanta, GA, it has become THE place to go to see the world of knives.

Just about everything you could ask for can be found under one roof during the three day expo. If your taste runs towards Case pocket knives or you are a veteran Randall Knife collector there is enough to keep busy. Knife making supplies such as steel, handle materials, power tools and leather working supplies can be found from several vendors.

As a young lad I became interested in collecting knives like many boys and I have continued this passion to this day. Many years ago I moved into the custom world and have had a lot of fun going to shows and meeting the various makers.

Knife makers as a whole seem to be a great group. Friendly and eager to talk about their products, they are willing to share the secrets of the craft with anyone who has the interest to listen and learn. In the last twenty years the popularity of the so called “Tactical Folder” has emerged. Most all of the major knife companies owe their designs to a custom maker. Most of these legends of the knife making world can be found at the Blade Show. Think of it, what other business can the average consumer think of where he can go and speak face to face with the big boys? That’s one of the things I like about the Blade Show, the chance to meet the actual maker of the product I’m buying. Over the years I have met many of the makers and they are some of the nicest folks I know. It’s worth the eleven or so hour drive to see them and catch up.

One of these is our very own Ryan Wilson of Wilson Tactical. As long as I’ve known him he has tinkered with knives and accessories. He has now reached a point that he is ready to display his own line of knives at the Blade Show. A sure sign that you have arrived in this industry. Collaborating with such knife making big names such as Chris Reeve Knives, Jason Knight and David Broadwell, Ryan has quickly become well known in the knife world for his innovative designs. About this time along came Para-Cord, growing out of an idea Ryan had for making lanyards and other neat stuff from para cord for his knives.

Para-Cord produces many items made from parachute cord or “550” cord as it’s often referred to as. All kinds of neat items including survival bracelets, key lanyards and other gadgets are made by braiding this cord. I use the lanyards on many things from knives to zippers and I confess to really liking the bracelets as well, having had Christine make a couple new variations for me at the show.

One of the nice things about the show is the location. The Waverly Renaissance Hotel is pretty much a self contained entity. With good food and a bar area inside the atrium of the hotel there is no reason to have to leave the premises. Connected to the Mall complex and Convention Center by hallways, you can walk the show then go back to the room to chill out, and go back to the show at your convenience.

If you want a killer steak there is a best kept secret called Ted’s Montana Grill that has one of the best steaks I’ve ever eaten. It was so good we went two nights in a row. On the second night we opted for Bison instead of beefsteak and it was great.

If you are into knives either on the tactical side or the custom art knife side then you need to put Blade on your calendar for 2011.

About:
At Wilson Combat we’re proud of our position as the acknowledged leader in customer satisfaction and quality products. We work hard to maintain the reputation we’ve built over almost thirty years, and continue to invest in the human resources, training, capital equipment, research and development to stay on top. We have added new leadership personnel in engineering, manufacturing management, materials, research, design, operations, and business development. One of our goals is to be a little better every single day, and we work hard to meet that goal.

Nebraska Game and Parks Commission

LINCOLN, Neb. –-(AmmoLand.com)- The public is invited to attend the free Nebraska Outdoor Expo on May 15 at Fort Kearny State Recreation Area, according to the Nebraska Game and Parks Commission.

The fourth annual expo, open from 9 a.m.-5 p.m., is designed to meet the needs of anyone interested in outdoor lifestyles, regardless of age or experience, through a variety of hands-on activities, demonstrations and interactive displays.

New attractions in 2010 include nationally known hunting experts, hands-on bow fishing, youth Discovery Zone, and a Marketplace showcasing outdoor-related vendors and exhibitors.

Visit http://www.ngpc.state.ne.us/outdoorsexpo/ for more information. A park entry permit is required for the event.

Ohio Department Natural Resources

COLUMBUS, OH –-(AmmoLand.com)- With an increasing number of Ohioans enjoying the state’s waterways, trails and campgrounds, the Ohio Department of Natural Resources (ODNR) is promoting outdoor recreational opportunities at PaddlePalooza—Ohio’s Outdoors Expo. The event is open April 30 from 4-8 p.m. and May 1, 10 a.m. – 8 p.m.

Kayaking, canoeing, camping, hiking and biking enthusiasts from across the state will converge in the Ohio Expo Center’s Lausche Building for PaddlePalooza, which will feature displays from ODNR’s Division of Watercraft and Ohio State Parks, located at booths 512-515. ODNR staff will be on hand to promote Ohio’s great trails, paddling and camping opportunities.

As an added convenience for event goers who purchase a canoe or kayak at the show, the Division of Watercraft is offering on-site sales of watercraft registrations and alternative registration at their PaddlePalooza booth.

PaddlePalooza will also feature an indoor kayak demonstration pool and certified instructors from Columbus Outdoor Pursuits and a number of ongoing seminars on subjects including car-topping equipment and techniques, rigging kayaks for fishing, selecting the right mountain bike or camping tent, and new product introductions and reviews.

Exhibits will feature the latest in canoes, kayaks and paddle gear, mountain bikes, camping equipment from local retailers. Canoe rental liveries and guides will share what they have to offer Ohioans seeking an outdoor water adventure. A number of local paddling, hiking and biking clubs will be on hand to answer outdoor-related questions.

Admission to PaddlePalooza is $10 for adults; $5 for children age 16 and younger; kids under age 5 admitted free of charge. Discount coupons will be available at select local outdoor retailers. Visit www.paddlepalooza.net for more information.

The Ohio Department of Natural Resources ensures a balance between wise use and protection of our natural resources for the benefit of all. Visit the ODNR web site at www.ohiodnr.com for additional information on outdoors recreation programs and facilities.