Here is some of the latest news from the shooting sports industry:
Sig Sauer Academy will host best selling author Jack Carr for an exclusive book-signing event Sept. 15 from 1-4 p.m. in Epping, N.H.
Jack Carr is a (retired) Navy SEAL and the best selling author of True Believer, the follow-up to his previously released novel The Terminal List. His books chronicle former Navy SEAL James Reece’s path of revenge as he uses his skill, cunning, and heroism to put the U.S. government back in his debt.
Carr draws on his experience and skill as a Navy SEAL to bring authenticity to James Reece’s character and encounters, while featuring Sig Sauer firearms including the SIG SAUER P320 XCARRY and the award-winning everyday carry, high capacity SIG SAUER P365 pistol throughout his story, in addition to referencing the training opportunities at the SIG SAUER Academy. Further, True Believer is a high-intensity roller-coaster ride that explodes with action and authenticity that cements Carr as the new leader in political thrillers.
The book-signing event will feature an exclusive reading from True Believer, meet-and-greet, and photo opportunity with Carr. The Terminal List and True Believer novels will be available for purchase throughout the event, in addition to event exclusive discounts on in-stock Sig Sauer items and special pricing on Sig Sauer firearms packages at the Sig Sauer Academy Pro Shop.
Henry Repeating Arms Title Sponsor for 2020 Road America Event
Henry Repeating Arms and Road America have reached an agreement naming Henry Repeating Arms as the title sponsor of the 2020 NASCAR Xfinity Series race at the 4-mile, 14-turn road course.
The Henry 180, scheduled for Aug. 8, 2020, takes place less than 300 miles away from Henry Repeating Arms’ 138,000 sq. ft. manufacturing facility in Rice Lake, Wis.
“We’re fortunate to have such a unique track in our home state of Wisconsin. The drivers love it, the track is beautiful, and the racing is always exciting,” says Anthony Imperato, President and Owner of Henry Repeating Arms. He continues, “The Henry 180 is going to be a very special race on the NASCAR Xfinity Series calendar in 2020 and we are looking forward to continuing our partnership with Road America and Stewart-Haas Racing.”
The Henry 180 pole qualifying winner and race winner will receive custom lever action rifles manufactured by Henry Repeating Arms.
“We have used Haas Automation CNC machines for years to manufacture our lever action rifles and shotguns,” says Andy Wickstrom, Vice President and General Manager of Henry Repeating Arms. “We share a ‘Made in America’ DNA so the partnership is a great fit with our company, and we are proud to continue working with them at the Henry 180."
Henry rifles and shotguns can only be purchased through a licensed firearms dealer. Most Henry dealers will offer a discount from the MSRP. For additional information about the company and its products visit henryusa.com.
Extreme Long Range Record Set With Berger Bullets
Shooting ammunition handloaded with Berger 338 Caliber 300 grain OTM Tactical Hybrids and Lapua cartridge cases, Randy Wise scored three consecutive hits on a 36-inch plate at 2,158 yards to set a world record at the NRA Extreme Long Range Long Range Championships.
Randy, a retired machinist from Newark, Ohio, used his Savage 112 in .338 Lapua Magnum. It was mounted in a metal chassis he designed to set the record under the stringent conditions ELR Central (an organization of ELR competitors) requires to set the new record.
What does it take to set a new ELR world record? Only three shots can be fired, all of which must impact a target no larger than 36 inches; all shots must be fired within three minutes; and neither the shooter, nor the rifle may have fired within the last five hours.
After more than 60 unsuccessful attempts by fellow competitors to hit the world record target in challenging conditions, Randy set up his rifle, checked the wind, and told the officials he was ready. He fired quickly, spotting his own impacts, and was able to score three hits on the 36-inch plate at more than 1.2 miles within the allowed three minute time limit.
Savage Arms Aligns With Sales Representation
Savage Arms has aligned sales priorities and representation by establishing excellent coverage across the United States. JKS Unlimited, Tim Bailey & Associates and Jones & Company will combine to service valued Savage retailers, dealers and distributors.
Jones & Company remains Savage’s choice for the southern U.S. The company has been with Savage for more than 30 years. JKS Unlimited covers New England and part of the Midwest. Tim Bailey & Associates returns to Savage and brings with it more than 30 years of selling experience for the brand. The team will focus their efforts in western states.
All sales representation groups report to Rob Gates, Vice President of Sales. Gates has led sales efforts in multiple markets, categories and areas for several top brands and organizations within the industry. He is now responsible for Savage sales worldwide.
Riton Optics Adds Tarantino, Piscione
Riton Optics has added John Piscione as Vice President of Sales and Tony Tarantino as Marketing Manager.
Tarantino will focus on marketing programs including the ProStaff program and media programs. He has almost 20 years in the firearms industry, including extensive experience in retail and law enforcement sales, supply chain and indoor range operations. He most recently filled the Sales Manager position at Patriot Ordnance Factory.
With almost 20 years of firearms industry experience, Piscione will facilitate the sales environment and build upon the company’s mission to provide high quality, affordable optics backed by industry leading customer service.
Chattanooga Shooting Supplies Adds Daniel Defense
Chattanooga Shooting Supplies has added Daniel Defense products to its growing list of manufacturers. Daniel Defense is a family owned firearms manufacturer located in Black Creek, Ga., and was founded in 2000 by President/CEO Marty Daniel.
“Our mission is to exceed our customers’ expectations and give them what they want, when and how they want it. Daniel Defense offers high-quality, state-of-the-art products that align with the needs of our customers which makes this a perfect fit,” said President/CEO Ron Staffieri.
Nick Evans, Merchandiser at Chattanooga Shooting Supplies, has spearheaded this initiative.
“I was impressed with the durability, accuracy and standard to which all Daniel Defense products are held," Evans said. "We are proud to provide this quality to our dealer base.”
Chattanooga Shooting Supplies was founded in 1977.
Meopta Optika6 Riflescopes Shipping
Meopta USA Sport Optics is now shipping its newest line of premium riflescopes — the Optika6 series.
Available in hunting and shooting models, Optika6 riflescopes feature a 6x zoom, zero-reset turrets and advanced MeoBright lens coatings that deliver edge-to-edge clarity and exceptionally bright, sharp images. The 3-18x50 and 3-18x56 FFP and SFP models are currently shipping along with the 5-30x56. The other Optika6 models will continue to roll out throughout the month of September.
“The new Optika6 series marks a significant expansion in Meopta’s riflescope offerings, delivering new features, premium performance and exceptional value in a 30mm riflescope,” said Randy Garrison, Director of Meopta USA Sport Optics.
The Optika6 Shooting series is available with numerous illuminated and non-illuminated first focal plane reticle options, including new DichroTech reticles, which feature battery-free illumination in varying light conditions. The 30mm Shooting series is available in the following models: 1-6x24, 3-18x50, 3-18x56 and 4.5-27x50. There is also a 34mm 5-30x56 model with ED glass to eliminate chromatic aberration at high magnification. All Optika6 Shooting series riflescopes feature rubber-armored target turrets for a non-slip grip.
The 30mm Optika6 Hunting series is available with numerous illuminated and non-illuminated reticle options in the second focal plane, including DichroTech, in the following models: 1-6x24, 2.5-15x44, 3-18x50, 3-18x56 and 4.5-27x50. The turrets on most Optika6 Hunting models come with rubber-armored metal caps for the perfect combination of durability and functionality.
Retail pricing on the riflescopes is from $499 to $899
GPO Teams With Southern Outdoor Sales
German Precision Optics USA has established a partnership with Southern Outdoor Sales for representation in Texas, Arkansas, Louisiana and Oklahoma.
This "TALO" region represents one of the strongest firearm and firearm accessory sales regions in the country.
“The GPO sales team is growing and we are very excited to welcome Southern Outdoor Sales to our team,” said Mike Jensen, owner and CEO. “We are confident that their passion, determination and experience in this critical region will help us to reach and exceed our sales goals.”
Southern Outdoor Sales is an independent sales rep group owned and operated by outdoor industry veterans Paul Thorpe and Marcus Jurecka. The two have more than half a century of industry experience at work for their long list of archery, hunting, shooting and outdoor clients. Headquartered in Arkansas, Southern Outdoor Sales can be reached at 870-635-0015.
NSSF Sponsors Annual Appreciation Dinner at NASGW Expo
The National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers, the association representing shooting sports wholesalers, manufacturers and their trade partners, is pleased to announce that National Shooting Sports Foundation will sponsor the NASGW Expo Appreciation Dinner on Oct. 22 in Orlando.
"The NASGW Annual Appreciation Dinner is a great event which celebrates the strong partnerships that are created in the shooting sports industry through two-step distribution. This event also recognizes excellence within the shooting sports industry through the NASGW leadership and NASGW-POMA Caliber Awards," said NASGW President, Kenyon Gleason. "The night kicks off our Annual Expo, a crucial meeting for wholesaler buyers and manufacturers to prepare for the upcoming year. The Expo could not be possible without the help and support of our sponsors. NSSF has been a big supporter of NASGW and we appreciate their partnership and commitment through sponsoring this year's Annual Appreciation Dinner."
“We’re delighted to support our partners at NASGW,” said Chris Dolnack, NSSF Senior Vice President & CMO. “NSSF appreciates our participating member companies and we are fully committed to supporting our industry’s two-step distribution business model and the key role that wholesale distributors and the sales professionals who partner with them.”
The NASGW Expo will be held Oct. 22-25 at Gaylord Palms Resort and Conference Center in Orlando. The Expo is the premier event for shooting sports wholesalers and manufacturers to review current market conditions, forecast future sales, and plan for the upcoming year. This is the first opportunity for manufacturers to introduce new products to their wholesale partners and lays the groundwork for the upcoming sales cycle. It is a closed event for NASGW Members only which creates a very productive business environment for Expo attendees. For more information visit www.nasgwexpo.org.
Mathews Joins Bear & Son Cutlery as National Sales Manager
Michael Mathews has been appointed national sales manager of Bear & Son Cutlery.
Mathews, 61, from Frankfort, N.Y., has decades of sales experience within the cutlery industry including the last 18 years at Utica Cutlery.
“As our company continues to expand in the marketplace, we are building a team that will drive growth and excellence in the outdoor business area,” said Bear & Son president Ken Griffey. “Michael's successful track record in sales and growth strategies and his focus on sales will be an advantage for all of our brands and product categories.”
Hi Mountain Seasonings Launches Updated Website
Hi Mountain Seasonings has updated its website, optimizing it for mobile and tablet devices and presenting newly organized product lines that creates an easier, more user-friendly experience.
New features include:
- A recipe library with beautiful images of prepared dishes to demonstrate the versatility and value of the Hi Mountain products.
- An updated dealer locator.
- A new design emphasizing the western traditions behind the Hi Mountain Seasonings brand.
- Optimized image processing for quicker load time on all devices (desktop, mobile and tablet.)
“At Hi Mountain Seasonings we are always looking to improve our services to our customers,” said Hans Hummel, president and owner. “Our new website, with faster load times and a full gamut of recipes and pictures does just that. We will continue to look for new and innovative ways to better serve our existing and new customers now and in the future.”
Located in the heart of Wyoming, Hi Mountain Seasonings was founded in 1991.
HAVA, Clays for Heroes Celebrate Successful Challenge
Honored American Veterans Afield (HAVA) and Clays for Heroes (CFH) raised nearly $20,000 at their 8th Annual CFH/HAVA Clays Challenge at the Rochester Brooks International Trap and Skeet Club.
Supported by Rochester Brooks, the Rochester business community and local outdoor enthusiasts, the event featured a full day of instruction and competition for 164 shooters. The near-$20,000 raised will help the HAVA national program of active outdoor events for disabled veterans.
The partnership began in 2013. For the past two years the CFH Committee also has hosted shooting and hunting events for New York state veterans plus several events for disabled veteran patients from Walter Reed Military Hospital.
“We are very impressed with the Clays for Heroes group and are honored to receive their assistance in support of our national disabled veteran program,” said Tom Taylor, HAVA Chairman. “CFH was started by a young high school student named Ashley Butcher. The enthusiasm for her community and outdoor sports has blossomed into a legitimate force for good in western New York state. Ashley is a successful young woman now, and after eight years, is still committed to guiding the CFH/HAVA program into a constant stream of new activities.”
Team Blaser's Charnigo Wins Grand American
Breaking an astonishing 950 single targets straight, Blaser-sponsored shooter Joe Charnigo won the 120th Grand American World Trap Shooting Championships held at the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Ill.
Charnigo, who shoots a Blaser F3 shotgun, took the ATA World Clay Target Champion title. He also was crowned NRA Singles Champion, Blaser Handicap event Champion, AAA Singles Champion, runner-up in the Rio Ammo Double, and placed third in the President Terry Dean Handicap event. More than 20 competitions involving more than 5,000 shooters took place over the course of the two-week tournament.
“I would have to say it is a true honor to hold the title of Grand American Clay Target Champion," Charnigo said. "This event is all about perfection and endurance. I never thought I would get the chance to hold this title but will remember it for the rest of my career."
Blaser Shooters Win Multiple Clays Titles
Blaser-sponsored shooter Cory Kruse from Willis, Texas, was crowned champion of the 2019 World English Sporting Championship at Northbrook Sports Club in Hainesville, Ill.
Kruse secured his first World English Sporting title with his Blaser F3 shotgun. The tournament was held Aug. 11.
The three-day competition, hosted by the National Sporting Clays Association, saw 880 competitors take to the three courses to shoot 200 English sporting targets. The top 12 competitors secured a place in the Sunday super final.
Kruse, an oil field service company sales consultant, finished with 181ex200 by shooting 61 on the red course, 60 on white and 60 on blue, two targets ahead of his competition. Despite leading scores of 23ex25 in the super final by fellow Americans Joseph Fanizzi and Wendell Cherry, Kruse’s score of 21ex25 was enough to hold pole position, finishing with a combined score of 202 to take the world title.
For Team Blaser, it didn’t end there. Bill McGuire of Tennessee claimed the World Veteran Champion title shooting a Blaser F3 with a score of 164ex200, four points ahead of the field. Mike Wilgus from Washington scooped the Preliminary Champion and 5-Stand World Champion titles with his Blaser F3 on respective scores of 98ex100 and 96ex100.
“I’ve been close a few times. I bagged a silver in 2008 but finally tagged a gold!" Kruse said. "What a cool tournament and I obviously really enjoyed the targets. They were exactly what I enjoy shooting and feel challenged to shoot. I was very entertained and scared at the same time. My gun performed flawlessly."
