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Distinguished Combat Magnum Revolver Returns to Smith & Wesson Classic Line.

Smith and Wesson

SPRINGFIELD, Mass.--(Ammoland.com)- Smith & Wesson Corp. announced today that the Company has added a new revolver to its legendary Classic line with the introduction of the Model 586.

Deemed the Distinguished Combat Magnum when first introduced by Smith & Wesson in 1980, the new revolver reunites collectors and .357 Magnum aficionados with one of the most sought after law enforcement firearms of its time.

Manufactured with a carbon steel frame and cylinder along with a blue finish, the Classic Model 586 harkens back to an era when revolvers were predominately worn on the hips of law enforcement officers. As with the original, the new Classic revolver is chambered for six rounds of .357 Magnum®/.38 S&W Special. Available with a 4-inch or 6-inch barrel configuration, the Model 586 features a smooth single-action and a crisp double-action trigger pull that is the hallmark of every Smith & Wesson revolver.

On top of the frame, the revolver features an adjustable white outline rear sight and a red ramp front sight for a clear, precise sight picture. Much like the original, the Classic Model 586 is standard with an authentic square-butt design and is packaged with checkered wood grips containing the Smith & Wesson medallion. The retro-revolver is also standard with a serrated back strap for improved firearm control when shooting heavy magnum loads.

“The original Model 586 is perhaps best known for its extensive use as a law enforcement commemorative model,” said Tony Miele, Business Manager of the Smith & Wesson Classic line.

“Selected by highway patrol and conservation agencies as an ideal limited edition and anniversary model, the Model 586 has amassed several years of service both in the United States and overseas. Highly collectible and duty-proven, the original Model 586 offered law enforcement a reliable firearm for handling heavy Magnum cartridges.”

Today, collectors, retired officers and recreational shooters are able to relive history through the introduction of the Classic Model 586. Old school in nature, but ready to take on the demands of today’s shooter, the newest Classic revolver brings together two worlds in a way that is uniquely Smith & Wesson.

About Smith & Wesson
Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality firearms, related products and training to the global military, law enforcement, and consumer markets. The company’s brands include Smith & Wesson, M&P and Thompson/Center Arms. Smith & Wesson facilities are located in Massachusetts and Maine. For more information on Smith & Wesson, call (800) 331-0852 or log on to www.smith-wesson.com.

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Men’s and Women’s Garments Combine Conceal Carry Functionality, Every Day Street Wear Appeal and Rugged American Heritage.

Wild Things & Smith & Wesson Apparel

Wild Things Gear

NEWPORT, RHODE ISLAND --(Ammoland.com)- In response to the increasing demand for versatile outdoor apparel with an emphasis on street style and a genuine American heritage, Wild Things, LLC (“Wild Things,” www.wildthingsgear.com), apparel licensee for Smith & Wesson, today unveiled its first line of branded apparel for men and women.

Smith & Wesson has extended its iconic status as a rugged truly original American brand to a line of apparel for both gun enthusiasts and a wide range of consumers.

The line features classic twill and canvas fabrics, as well as modern highly technical materials that provide the function and style for which Smith & Wesson is known.

Wild Things Gear of Newport, Rhode Island, was selected as the sole licensee for the Smith & Wesson line because of its long history in the alpine industry and military community, as well as its expertise in utilizing the most modern technical materials and design techniques. The new line will be available via outdoor and shooting specialty outlets, as well as www.smithandwessonapparel.com.

“This line is a direct reflection of Smith & Wesson’s identity– independent, tough and confident,” said Ed Schmults, CEO of Wild Things LLC.

“It reflects 100% performance, while showcasing classic sportswear with an iconic style that appeals to fashionable men and women, whether or not they carry a firearm. This is an infusion of technical fabrications with an emphasis on functional ergonomic design. For instance, the jackets incorporate pockets designed for concealed carry of a handgun that can be used as easily for a smart phone. The pants have wide belt loops specifically designed to accommodate a variety of holsters, but will hold a tool belt just as well. This is style, quality and innovation that echo the essence of the Smith & Wesson brand.”

Specifically, both the men’s and women’s lines will have four jackets, four vests, four pants and four shirts with a wide variety of price points. There are unique, yet subtle design features incorporated throughout the individual pieces that will surely catch the trained eye. The line is divided into four categories, Shooting, Range, Tracking and Hybrid. The Shooting collection is styled to reflect the long military history Smith & Wesson was founded upon, while the Range collection is a reflection of the American West expansion. The Tracking collection is based upon a more traditional hunting style, while the Hybrid combines the most technical design elements to bridge the gap between outdoor apparel and everyday apparel. It is a line that is versatile in a variety of conditions and situations.

The rivets, snaps and buttons are recognizable parts of Smith & Wesson firearms and ammunition. The gun handle grip motif is present on several pieces, while a graphic of an original vintage blueprint of a classic Smith & Wesson .38 can be seen on the lining of the jackets.Lastly, the zipper pulls are made from the hammer of a classic .45 caliber pistol.

“The untrained eye may never notice, but a true fan of Smith & Wesson will pick up on the details almost immediately,” continued Schmults.

“As consumers are looking to their apparel to be more cross-functional, the Smith & Wesson line delivers,” said Kim Pingaro, the vice president of merchandising for Wild Things. “This is a line that will function well on a shooting range or while hunting, but at the same time, can be worn in an office-casual environment, running errands on a Saturday afternoon or even a Friday night out.”

In addition, Wild Things, LLC, under the Smith & Wesson name, is designing and manufacturing a complete tactical line of apparel designed for law enforcement, the M&PTM by Smith & Wesson line. The M&PTM by Smith & Wesson line is influenced by Wild Things, LLC’s WT Tactical (www.wttactical.com) product platform and uses high-performance technical components including PrimaLoft synthetic insulation and Tweave (www.tweave.com) fabrics. This line is completely engineered to exceed the needs of military and law enforcement professionals in the worst environmental conditions and provides a versatile range of styles that are meant to be worn alone or together.

“We chose Wild Things for these two apparel initiatives because of its respected 30-year heritage developing best in class technical, functional apparel in the outdoor and military categories,” said Harry Falber, vice president of licensing for Smith & Wesson. “With its strong alpine heritage and expertise in the most advanced fabrics, Wild Things is well suited to ensure that the Smith & Wesson heritage lives on.” For additional licensing opportunities, please contact: Harry Falber hfalber@smith-wesson.com.

About Wild Things, LLC:
Founded in 1981, Wild Things, LLC has earned a reputation for sophisticated, tough, lightweight technical outerwear, alpine-style backpacks, haul-bags, and innovative tactical clothing. Chosen for the world’s most demanding conditions by the world’s most demanding users, Wild Things, LLC manufacture its products in the USA under two divisions — Wild Things for the outdoor enthusiast and WT Tactical for the unique needs of the military and law enforcement communities. In addition to the design studio and executive offices located in Newport, Rhode Island, Wild Things operates a retail store and second design studio in North Conway, New Hampshire. For more information, visit: www.wildthingsgear.com

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