Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

TUCSON, AZ – As the calendar readies to turn to 2025, Riton Optics is offering peace of mind for dealers and users alike with the conversion of The Riton Promise Warranty to a fully-transferable unlimited lifetime warranty.

“As hunters and shooters ourselves, we wanted to offer the highest level of support we could to our customers, but also to our network of dealers, so they can have absolute confidence in all aspects of the Riton brand,” said Brian Young, Vice-President of Sales at Riton.

The Riton Promise Warranty will require no proof of purchase to exercise and will cover any manufacturer defect as well as accidental damage or breakage. The warranty will cover variable power optics, binoculars, spotting scopes, and unlike many other brands, red dot optics as well.

“We stand behind our products,” said Chris Varas, Assistant Director of Product Research and Development. “When we looked at our processes, we were already going above and beyond for our customers anytime we could. We were already functioning like this, because a quality customer experience matters so much to us, but we weren’t promoting it. There just wasn’t any reason not to do this,” he concluded.

Like all unlimited lifetime warranties, there are exclusions to what is covered, such as loss, theft, or deliberate damage.

Can you share more about your story starting MKC? How did you first get interested in the business?

Starting Montana Knife Company was really the culmination of a lifelong passion. I made my first knife when I was just 11 years old, and I became obsessed with bladesmithing, eventually earning my Master Bladesmith title at age 19.. Over the years, I realized there was a need for quality, American-made knives specifically built for hunters and outdoorsmen, designed to hold up to the tough demands of our environment. That’s where MKC was born. I wanted to combine my skills as a bladesmith with my love for Montana to create knives people could rely on for generations.

How did growing up in Montana influence your interest in starting MKC?

Montana is a big part of who I am. Growing up here, you learn to respect the land and the work that goes into making something last. We’re a state of hunters, ranchers, and hard-working folks who rely on good tools, and that’s a huge influence on MKC. It’s about building something that’s practical, tough, and true to the Montana way of life. I wanted to create a product that’s as rugged and reliable as the people who use it.

How has the business evolved since 2020 when it first started?

When we launched in 2020, it was a leap of faith. I started out small, with just a one design and the help of my kids in my garage, but we quickly saw demand take off. Since then, we’ve expanded our lineup and grown our team, but the core of what we do—crafting high-quality knives with purpose—has stayed the same. Now, with our new facility being built in Missoula, we will be able to bring even more jobs to the community and keep up with demand, while still focusing on craftsmanship.

How does your role as the Master Bladesmith keep you engaged in the work and business?

As a Master Bladesmith, I’m deeply involved in every aspect of the knife-making process, from design to testing. Being hands-on with the craftsmanship keeps me connected to what makes MKC unique. It’s not just about running a business for me; it’s about creating products I’m proud to put my name on. Every knife that leaves our shop has to meet the standards I’ve set as a bladesmith, and being involved in that process is what keeps me passionate about the work.

What differentiates MKC from other knife manufacturers?

Our knives are built for the real-world needs of hunters and outdoorsmen, and they’re made right here in Montana. No other major knife company is actually led by a master bladesmith. We focus on creating tools that are dependable, versatile, and durable enough to pass down. We also do things a little differently with our drop releases, so we’re producing in smaller, focused batches that let us keep quality high. We’re proud to offer knives that are made with precision and designed specifically for people who share our love for the outdoors.

Can you share more about your story starting MKC? How did you first get interested in the business?

Starting Montana Knife Company was really the culmination of a lifelong passion. I made my first knife when I was just 11 years old, and I became obsessed with bladesmithing, eventually earning my Master Bladesmith title at age 19.. Over the years, I realized there was a need for quality, American-made knives specifically built for hunters and outdoorsmen, designed to hold up to the tough demands of our environment. That’s where MKC was born. I wanted to combine my skills as a bladesmith with my love for Montana to create knives people could rely on for generations.

How did growing up in Montana influence your interest in starting MKC?

Montana is a big part of who I am. Growing up here, you learn to respect the land and the work that goes into making something last. We’re a state of hunters, ranchers, and hard-working folks who rely on good tools, and that’s a huge influence on MKC. It’s about building something that’s practical, tough, and true to the Montana way of life. I wanted to create a product that’s as rugged and reliable as the people who use it.

How has the business evolved since 2020 when it first started?

When we launched in 2020, it was a leap of faith. I started out small, with just a one design and the help of my kids in my garage, but we quickly saw demand take off. Since then, we’ve expanded our lineup and grown our team, but the core of what we do—crafting high-quality knives with purpose—has stayed the same. Now, with our new facility being built in Missoula, we will be able to bring even more jobs to the community and keep up with demand, while still focusing on craftsmanship.

How does your role as the Master Bladesmith keep you engaged in the work and business?

As a Master Bladesmith, I’m deeply involved in every aspect of the knife-making process, from design to testing. Being hands-on with the craftsmanship keeps me connected to what makes MKC unique. It’s not just about running a business for me; it’s about creating products I’m proud to put my name on. Every knife that leaves our shop has to meet the standards I’ve set as a bladesmith, and being involved in that process is what keeps me passionate about the work.

What differentiates MKC from other knife manufacturers?

Our knives are built for the real-world needs of hunters and outdoorsmen, and they’re made right here in Montana. No other major knife company is actually led by a master bladesmith. We focus on creating tools that are dependable, versatile, and durable enough to pass down. We also do things a little differently with our drop releases, so we’re producing in smaller, focused batches that let us keep quality high. We’re proud to offer knives that are made with precision and designed specifically for people who share our love for the outdoors.

We get a lot of questions about how folks go about finding the right properties for hunting leases as well as how to find them and what the rules are. We reached out to Aaron Sutton, Managing Broker at National Land Realty. Aaron brings a vast amount of knowledge to the land sales market as an avid sportsman, conservationist, and role model to young hunters. He has traveled North Carolina hunting from the mountains to the coast and ventured throughout the US and Canada on hunting trips as well.  With over 15 years of real estate experience, Aaron understands how to obtain or sell properties with the customer’s best interests at heart.  He also has created a niche for himself by building relationships amongst clients as he promotes integrity, honesty, and creating mutual trust between himself and buyers or sellers.  

1. What exactly is a land lease, and how does it work?

There are different types of leases, but a land lease is exchanging money for the use of a property. Hunting leases are strictly recreational, so you’ll get more enjoyment out of it as opposed to a farm lease which is more of a business lease. 

3. Who typically rents land for hunting, and what kind of land are they looking for?

Typically it’s groups of people looking for private land to hunt on. The type of property they’ll look for varies because different regions of the country provide different experiences. For example, duck hunting properties are really common in Arkansas, whereas the Midwest is more deer hunting. Acreage size varies regionally a lot too. Here in North Carolina, we have smaller tracts that have been divided up over the years. Out in the Midwest though, you’ll see more multi-thousand-acre tracts with a single owner.

Traditional optics often leave a graying silhouette in low-light conditions, leaving a hunter doubtful about their target. Buck Commander, with 17 years of hunting experience, knows that many opportunities have been missed because of guesswork on a target. This is why Buck Commander is proud to launch the latest addition to any hunter’s arsenal with the BUK OPS® Buknoculars, the only binoculars to change how hunters can utilize low-light conditions to maximize their time in the stand.

The Buknoculars Prime Binoculars feature an industry-first technology called Primetime Color Vision. This patent-pending technology enhances low-light conditions to maximize every moment of shooting time. Hunters can quickly identify their target buck in vivid color when traditional optics only provide a graying silhouette. Primetime Color Vision does not use thermal imaging or infrared; it uses its own proprietary technology unlike any other. Gain the advantage during dawn or dusk, effortlessly identifying bucks and optimizing chances of success in the field.

The Buknoculars come equipped with a shielded viewing screen, adding an extra layer of convenience and protection for hunters. With the manual focus lens, 1-5x zoom, large HD viewfinder, and 4k high-resolution recording capabilities, the Buknoculars are the most versatile prime binoculars on the market. Included in the package is BUKSKIN, a premium neoprene protective skin in Veil Tac Black Camo to keep Buknoculars in like-new condition. Add a set of Buck Commander’s BUK OPS Buknoculars to your optics arsenal and make primetime count!

Buknoculars Features:

About BUK OPS

In 2024 the Mule Deer Foundation sponsored, the Wild Women’s Rendezvous, an event bringing over 50 women into the field to learn about hunting, shooting, archery, survival, trapping, health, wilderness safety, connection and Conservation.

“These women came from different states, countries, cultures and ethnicities. They were young and old. Some were seasoned outdoors women and some were brand new babies in the outdoor world. One thread connected them all, and that is the thing that makes them different in their circles at home. It’s the unique and precious quality of curiosity and adventure they all shared, and that unquenchable lust for anything wild and untamed. This event had the potential to change the trajectory of women in the wild and it far exceeded those expectations.” -Tana Grenda, Founder of Bristol Bay Retreats 

“This is an event by strong, confident, outdoor women to forge more strong and confident outdoor women because our daughters need us, the next generation needs us. Passing on these skills and this mindset is becoming more and more rare and isolated. This lifestyle is not forgotten and connection with likeminded women is important for its preservation for us all. Women have created waves of change throughout history and last June, a new wave formed.”- Tara Bell, CEO of the Thrival Foundation

The week was filled with learning, bonding and growing as the women participated in workshops ranging from big game hunting, butchering, long range shooting, health and survival. Each woman who came was instantly bonded by their mutual love of the outdoors and everything wild but the relationships forged grew stronger and stronger every day as they stepped out of their comfort zones with each other. Sun filled days of learning were capped in the evening by fires, music and laughter. 

Many of these women had experience with hunting and the outdoors but none of them had been given the opportunity to not only witness but to get hands on experience in everything related to hunting. For many it was a week of firsts. The first time they had skinned an animal themselves, the first time they had rung steel at 1000 yards, the first time they had started a fire with a flint and steel.

Wildlife Management Institute (WMI), Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) and Tyee Resources have partnered to develop the Connecting with Conservation Podcast.

The Connecting with Conservation Podcast (CWC Podcast) was created to allow for a broad mix of guests from wildlife agencies, manufacturers and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) to share their stories about how they and their organizations support outdoor recreation and conservation.

“The outdoor industry doesn’t get the credit it deserves when it comes to conservation,” said WMI SE Field Representative and podcast host Dr. Jon Gassett. “The Connecting with Conservation Podcast will serve as an outlet to hear stories of conservation from folks that don’t actively seek attention, but certainly deserve credit for all they do to support conservation.”

The format for the CWC Podcast is more conversational than Q&A and episodes average 30 minutes in length.

“Available in both video and audio format, the new Connecting with Conservation Podcast provides a unique look deep inside the world of conservation,” stated podcast co-host and Executive Director of OSCF, Jim Curcuruto. “The audience will be treated to rarely told stories about how land, fish and wildlife conservation is truly managed and funded in America.”

Ryan Teach and Dan Johnston tapped for expanded roles in support of better fishing experiences

St. Croix Rod, handcrafters of the Best Rods on Earth® for over 75 years and parent company to the SEVIIN Reels, St. Croix Fly, and Rod Geeks brands, announces the promotions of Ryan Teach and Dan Johnston. Teach, formerly Product Manager and Brand Manager, is appointed to the newly created position of Vice President of Innovation. Former National Sales Manager Dan Johnston has been appointed Director of Sales.

“St. Croix has always been and will always be an angler-focused company,” says St. Croix CEO, Scott Forristall. “We have grown significantly over the past five years, but that growth hasn’t come from any simple desire to become larger. It’s been a deliberate response to the needs of anglers, fueled by our unique ability and desire to provide new and better products that help them enjoy fishing even more. That takes imagination and innovation, but it also requires experienced leadership. Ryan and Dan have proven their ability to spearhead the desired growth of our brands through creative execution and by always putting anglers at the forefront of our decision making.”

As a new member of St. Croix’s Executive Leadership Team, Teach will lead the product-development activities of all St. Croix brands.

“I’m grateful to the Executive Team for entrusting this role to me, but I’m most excited about what actually having a newly created Vice President of Innovation means to our anglers,” Teach says. “It’s an outward show of our continued commitment to support anglers with new products that deliver better fishing experiences on all fronts. Our Product, Engineering, Operations, Marketing, and Sales Teams are completely aligned in this commitment, and everything we’ve done during my tenure with St. Croix has been for that purpose.”

For as long as man has lived, the combo of a hunter and his dog has been an iconic image recognized all throughout history and culture. But more than just a companion in the field, a hunting dog can also be a loyal companion for camping, sports, and outdoor-related activities as well as a wonderful friend to families.

With their keen instincts, physical prowess, and ability to track or retrieve game, these dogs are quintessential to the hunting experience. Hunters also know that the dog also gets something in return for their hard work: for them, hunting serves as an engaging activity and a source of healthy exercise and mental stimulation.

There are different ways to prepare your dog for a life hunting alongside you. One option is to enroll them in a training program handled by professionals, and another is to train your dog yourself. No matter your choice, it’s important to ensure that your dog has received proper training and has been raised for the experiences before you take them hunting. To that end, here are some practical tips to raise your dog to become a skilled and dependable hunting buddy:

1) Enroll Your Dog in a Professional Training Program

If you’re new to raising hunting dogs or want expert guidance, professional training is an excellent starting point. Trainers with experience in the field can teach your dog critical skills like scent tracking, retrieving game, and responding to commands in high-pressure situations. They also handle specialized training, such as gunfire acclimation, which can be challenging for beginners to manage on their own.

The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) has filed an important amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court supporting the firearms industry in its defense of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA), which is being attacked through a lawsuit against gun manufacturers by the Mexican government. The case is known as Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc., et al., v. Estados Unidos Mexicanos. 

SAF is represented by attorneys Thomas R. McCarthy and Tiffany H. Bates of Consovoy McCarthy PLLC in Arlington, Va., through the Antonin Scalia Law School Supreme Court Clinic. 

“Allowing Mexico to pierce the Protection in Lawful Commerce of Arms Act would result in foreign countries dictating the types of arms that should be commercially available to Americans,” explained SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut. “These types of lawsuits, like the one brought by Mexico, are designed with one purpose in mind – to bankrupt the firearms industry and drive it out of existence. Such a result is untenable and directly impacts the right to keep and bear arms. SAF will continue to assert itself in matters that impact American’s ability to acquire arms to exercise their Second Amendment rights.” 

“Mexico’s attempt to hold U.S. firearms manufacturers legally responsible for the criminal activity of others, in a foreign country, is precisely the type of lawsuit that Congress designed the PLCAA to block,” noted SAF Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. “Mexico’s lawsuit isn’t just an attack on gun makers, it’s an effort to undermine the authority of Congress to protect manufacturers and consumers alike. As we note in our brief, if Mexico’s lawsuit is allowed to stand, it will result in a new wave of massively expensive litigation solely designed to crush the firearms industry and ultimately eviscerate the Second Amendment. That cannot be allowed to happen.” 

Mexico’s lawsuit was originally rejected by U.S. District Judge Dennis Saylor — a George W. Bush appointee — in 2022. However, his decision was appealed to the liberal Boston-based U.S. First District Court of Appeals and overturned earlier this year.

MONA, Utah – December 3, 2024 – Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets are excited to announce new affiliate programs. Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets will utilize the Murray Road Agency’s strong relationships with proven affiliates and brand ambassadors to launch these new programs. 

Sierra Bullets’ and Barnes Bullets’ affiliate networks will be hosted on AvantLink, an industry-leading cost-per-sale affiliate marketing network. Affiliates who join the programs will have the opportunity to promote Sierra and Barnes products while earning a commission.  

“Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets are thrilled to introduce these new affiliate programs,” said Sierra Bullets’ and Barnes Bullets’ VP of Marketing and Business Development Andrew Sparks. “We believe these programs will amplify our reach and help get our products in the hands of partners who are passionate about our work and share our mission.”  

With the launch of its affiliate programs, Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets seek to enhance market presence and boost brand visibility. Partnering with AvantLink allows Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets to ensure a seamless and efficient experience for its affiliates, allowing them to focus on promoting the top-quality products that have made both brands renowned.  

Affiliates who join the programs will gain access to a wide range of marketing materials including banners, text links and product images. These resources will assist affiliates in effectively promoting Sierra Bullets’ and Barnes Bullets’ products to their audiences. Additionally, Sierra and Barnes will provide ongoing support and guidance to affiliates, ensuring success in each program. 

SPRING, TX (Dec. 3, 2024)— WATCHTOWER Firearms is honored to announce its nomination for “The Most Innovative Brand of Year” at the 2025 Gundies Awards. This is no ordinary accolade; it’s a recognition reserved for those who push boundaries and redefine what’s possible in their field.

The Gundies Awards have long celebrated excellence in the firearms and outdoor industries, shining a light on creators, influencers, and brands that are truly shaping our community. As new faces in this dynamic landscape, being acknowledged alongside established names is an incredible honor for WATCHTOWER Firearms. With this new category of “The Most Innovative Brand,” it is clear that creativity and ingenuity are now more important than ever. At WATCHTOWER Firearms, the commitment to quality resonated with enthusiasts who value craftsmanship as much as performance.

“As we strive for excellence, we invite everyone who believes in supporting innovation within the firearms community to vote for us,” said Ray Cash Care, Chief Communications Officer. “Every vote counts and will help shape the future brands dedicated to creating exceptional products that stand out in today’s competitive landscape. That is what we do at WATCHTOWER Firearms.”

TO VOTE: 

https://thegundies.com/event-category/most-innovative-brand-of-the-year/

Voting is open until December 15th. Make sure to sign in to cast your vote daily—remember that voting resets at Midnight EST each day. Your participation not only supports your belief in an American-made company committed to pushing boundaries in design and quality within the firearms industry, but it also gives you a chance to win an all-expenses-paid trip to experience the excitement of the Gundies Awards in person. The awards ceremony will be held on January 20, 2025, at the luxurious Venetian Hotel in Las Vegas, NV.

About WATCHTOWER:
WATCHTOWER Firearms, The Next Great American Firearms Company, is a veteran-owned firearm manufacturing company headquartered in Spring, Texas. WATCHTOWER is dedicated to redefining the firearms manufacturing landscape through innovation, precision, and unwavering customer satisfaction. Our diverse range of products, crafted in the USA, includes military, civilian, and precision firearms, along with suppressors and accessories. In addition to consumer markets, WATCHTOWER supplies superior firearms to global military and law enforcement markets. All WATCHTOWER Firearms are backed by a lifetime guarantee, underscoring our commitment to quality and reliability. Embodying the spirit of American craftsmanship, WATCHTOWER Firearms continues to honor the nation’s legacy in gun making. For more information about our products and initiatives, visit www.watchtowerfirearms.com.

President Biden’s Investing in America agenda supports third round of grants to high-priority, locally led conservation projects across the United States 

WASHINGTON — The Biden-Harris administration joined the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation (NFWF) and public-and private-sector partners today in announcing $122.4 million in grants through the America the Beautiful Challenge (ATBC). The 61 new grants announced today will support landscape-scale conservation projects across 42 states, 19 Tribal Nations, and 3 U.S. territories. The grants will generate at least $8.7 million in matching contributions for a total conservation impact of $131.1 million. Approximately 42 percent of all 2024 ATBC funding will support projects implemented by Indigenous communities and organizations, representing another year of record funding dedicated to Tribally led projects for a single grant program at NFWF.  

America the Beautiful, launched by President Biden in 2021, set the nation’s first-ever goal to conserve at least 30 percent of U.S. lands and waters by 2030. The 10-year, locally led and nationally scaled initiative lifts up efforts to conserve, connect and restore the lands, waters and wildlife upon which we all depend. Over the past four years, the Biden-Harris Administration has conserved more than 45 million acres of our nation’s lands and waters.  

ATBC grants support projects that conserve, restore and connect wildlife habitats and ecosystems while improving community resilience and access to nature, which also advance President Biden’s ambitious environmental justice goals. The competitive grant awards were made possible through President Biden’s Investing in America agenda, with funding from the Bipartisan Infrastructure Law, other federal conservation programs, and private sources. The Biden-Harris Administration launched the Challenge in 2022 as a partnership with the Departments of the Interior, Agriculture and Defense, Native Americans in Philanthropy, and NFWF.  

“President Biden’s America the Beautiful initiative has been truly transformative. By working together across the federal family, and through private-public partnerships, we have built an enduring path to support hundreds of locally led collaborative conservation projects across the country,” said Secretary of the Interior Deb Haaland. “The America the Beautiful Challenge has advanced engagement with Tribes, funding a record amount of Tribally led efforts and elevating the use of Indigenous Knowledge to benefit endangered species and treasured landscapes. These innovative investments will leave a lasting legacy on our nation’s lands and waters.”  

5.11®, the global innovator of purpose-built apparel, footwear and gear today announced the launch of its latest Everyday Carry (EDC) offerings in time for fall and holiday shopping season. Designed to meet the needs of both tactical professionals and everyday adventurers, this new collection includes a range of versatile tools, accessories, and apparel that are engineered to provide maximum utility, comfort, and style, ensuring that users are always equipped and ready for the demands of their day.

“The EDC line is designed to empower our customers, whether they’re out in the field or navigating daily life,” said Troy Brown, CEO of 5.11. “We understand the importance of gear that performs under pressure, and this collection reflects our dedication to providing dependable solutions for every situation.”

The 5.11 Deploy TL-USB, PL-USB, and K-USB lights are compact and versatile lighting solutions built for ideal peace of mind. The Deploy TL-USB ($80) is the largest of the trio, delivering 1000 lumens of powerful brightness for more demanding situations. The Deploy PL-USB ($60) offers a slimmer profile with 300 lumens, making it a great pocket-sized option for quick, reliable lighting. The smallest of the group, the Deploy K-USB ($30), is a keychain-sized flashlight offering 150 lumens of light in an ultra-portable form. All three models feature rechargeable USB-C functionality, durable weather-resistant construction, and multiple lighting modes, ensuring dependability in a wide range of environments. Whether you need maximum visibility or a more compact everyday solution, the Deploy series has a reliable lighting tool for any scenario. All Deploy lights are offered in black, and the Deploy PL-USB and K-USB are also available in ranger green. 

Made for high-end, professional performance, the Response XR1 line offers multiple levels of lights designed to meet the varying needs of professionals in high-pressure environments. All three models  offer powerful illumination in a compact form, making them ideal for law enforcement, military personnel, and first responders. 

The Response XR1T ($75) is the largest of the trio, offering enhanced grip and durability, while the Response XR1C ($65) is more compact than the XR1T, perfect for every day without compromising on performance. Despite being a mostly polymer construction, the Response XR1P ($50) strikes a balance between size and power, offering high performance in a portable form. All models feature multiple lighting modes, are constructed from rugged, impact- and weather-resistant materials, and are dual-fuel 18650 rechargeable compatible. The XR1 series provides reliable, long-lasting lighting in demanding conditions. All Response XR1 lights are offered in black, and the Response XR1P is additionally offered in orange.

Irving, TX – Dobyns Rods has expanded its ever-growing lineup with the brand-new Josh Jones Hyperlite Series. Designed to Josh’s specifications with forward facing sonar in mind, the new Hyperlite Series features 5 different lengths (10′, 11′, 12′, 14′, 16′) in a 2-piece rod.

“With forward facing sonar, you’re now fishing for a single fish rather than just throwing into a school,” says Vince Borges, brand manager for Dobyns Rods. “Anglers need a long rod to get the bait where it needs to be without sacrificing sensitivity or power. Josh is as good as they get with FFS, and he really wanted a lighter, more balanced rod. Dobyns delivered.”

The Josh Jones Hyperlite Series is a must-have for crappie anglers. The 10′, 11′, and 12′ versions retail at $259.99 while the 14′ and 16′ models are priced at $269.99. The Josh Jones Hyperlite Series – only the best, for the best. Available now at your favorite fishing retailers.

For more information on Dobyns Rods, please visit their website HERE, or find them on Facebook and other social media avenues. 

For any additional questions or inquiries, please email [email protected]. Or, if you’d like to check out the entire family of GSM brands, please visit www.gsmoutdoors.com.

 Benelli USA is excited to announce the appointment of Chris Binion to the position of Chief Logistics Officer. Binion will assume his new position with the company beginning May 15, 2024.

Chris brings to the job of CLO over 20 years’ worth of experience in logistics and distribution and he holds a Master and an undergraduate degree in logistics and transportation management from Eastern University.

Prior to his most recent position as Senior Vice-President of Operations and Logistics Services for New River Logistics, Chris served as Global VP of Transportation and Logistics for Avnet Electronic, VP of Distribution & Supply Chain for Premier Farnell, and Director of Distribution, Logistics, and Supply Quality for Sony Ericsson Mobile Communications.

“Chris brings a wealth of experience, as well as expertise, in logistics and distribution management that will significantly benefit our organization,” said Tom DeBolt. “With previous senior leadership roles in global and multi-warehouse distribution centers, Chris has demonstrated a strong focus on innovation, collaboration, and team engagement to achieve strategic goals. His leadership style aligns perfectly with our corporate compass. We look forward to Chris’ contributions in driving our logistics operations as we continue to grow.”

While this is Binion’s first position in the shooting sports segment, he is no stranger to the lifestyle. “I am a lifelong hunting, fishing, shooting enthusiast,” said Chris. “I am thrilled to be working for a company whose products I have owned and used most of my life.”

Sandy, UTAH – Known for their high-quality packs, gear and innovative camouflage patterns, Badlands has announced the launch of two new insulation pieces — the Ultralight Packable (ULP) Jacket and Ultralight Packable (ULP) Vest.

Perfect as light outerwear or as low-profile insulation under a hard shell or soft shell, both the ULP Jacket and ULP Vest feature 40g of synthetic PrimaLoft® Gold Cross-Core Insulation for an impressive warmth-to-weight ratio. 

The jacket and vest are also easily compressible and can be packed into their own pockets for storage. Throw on the ULP Jacket or ULP Vest at your glassing spot or to beat the morning chill, then stuff it back into its pocket and toss it into your backpack or range bag for later.

Available in two solid colors, Onyx (black) and Stone (gray), the ULP Jacket and Vest are versatile pieces for backcountry hunts, trips to the range or everyday wear.

To check out the ULP Jacket (MSRP $219.99), ULP Vest (MSRP $169.99) or the rest of Badlands’ lineup of packs, apparel and gear, visit BadlandsGear.com.

Now in its 32nd year, Badlands continues to focus on exceptional quality, continuing innovation, unmatched performance, and as always, the only unconditional lifetime warranty in the industry.

Everyone has a favorite pair of slip-on shoes. For some people, it’s a pair of Crocs or true slip-ons. For me, it’s always been a rubber boot. I had a pair of Muck boots for years. They served me well in the fall and winter but my feet roasted come spring and summer. I had to weigh the swift ease of my pull-on boots with sweat, swollen feet, and being all-around uncomfortable. (Ask anyone – wet feet or uncomfortable shoes can easily ruin a day.)

Over a year ago now I replaced my deteriorated tall boots with Irish Setter’s unisex MudTrek boots. They offer several styles varying in insulation. I opted for the 15” waterproof vulcanized rubber full fit version without insulation. Swathed in Mossy Oak Country DNA camouflage, these boots were already ready for the woods though the plain color of the rest of the boot kept them unassuming. One of my first concerns was sizing. Unisex shoes always tend to be hit or miss for women. These were a home run. My regular shoe size is a women’s 8.5 to 9 depending upon the brand. I fit perfectly in a size 8. The boot comes only in wide width. I have never been officially classified as having a wide foot, but mine are wider than the average and they fit me well. Keep in mind that with a boot like this sock choice can be critical. Consider what kind of socks you plan to wear — thick, thin, Merino, cotton, etc. — and take that into consideration when making your purchase.

My MudTreks have endured well over a year of hunting trips in various weather, yard maintenance, sessions on the shooting range, and countless other adventures. These are the shoes I use to walk into the chicken coop to tend the flock or collect eggs. Though I wish I had another pair to dedicate to this purpose, they wash off easily with a hose and no matter how much water I’ve used or walked through, it’s never gotten into the boot (unless I accidentally poured it inside or stepped in water deeper than the boots). They are comfortable to wear and do not feel clunky and awkward. Thick patterns on the sole provide much-needed traction in slick environments while an integrated ledge above each heel makes them simple to remove hands-free. I was especially impressed by this feature as I’d often struggled to slip off my old pair of boots without grabbing hold of the dirty sole by hand.

I would not recommend walking extreme distances in these boots. Unless you have the perfect combination of size and sock, you may experience some uncomfortable rubbing on your heels. I have found this with every tall, rubber boot I’ve ever worn, but I did notice it less with Irish Setter’s offering. Also on the con side, I have had to fix the insole a few times as I’ve accidentally disturbed it while pulling the boots off.

Irish Setter incorporated ScentBan into these boots, a proprietary process designed to kill odor-killing bacteria. I have successfully harvested deer wearing these boots but I honestly can’t quantify how well this feature works. Irish Setter’s website also mentions “TempSens,” a technology designed to react to body temperature and sweat level. I cannot quantify the efficacy of this technology either but I will say they are great all-around boots. My feet did get cold if I took them hunting in the snow, but using HotHands toe warmers took the edge off. In hot weather my calves will get a little sticky, but nothing anywhere close to my insulated Muck Boot experience. I am aware this is not a true apples-to-apples comparison and I did love my old boots. They weren’t bad, they just didn’t fit my needs as well as the Irish Setter MudTreks have. Time well tell to see which lasts longer.

Hornady® and SnapSafe®, a Hornady Company, will be attending the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Booth #8534, May 17-19, 2024, at the Kay Bailey Hutchinson Convention Center in Dallas, TX. 

Stop by the Hornady booth to view their comprehensive lineup of 2024 new products, meet many of outdoor television’s most popular hunting celebrities, and speak with Team Hornady sponsored shooters.    

New for this year, Hornady and SnapSafe will be offering an exclusive discount for NRA Annual Meeting attendees on all Hornady Security and SnapSafe products. Visit booth #8534 to learn more.

The NRA is recognized as the premier firearms education organization in the world and meets annually to celebrate freedom, firearms, and the Second Amendment. The Exhibit Hall will be open all three days and will showcase over 14 acres of the latest guns and gear from the most popular companies in the industry.

For more information on the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, visit: https://www.nraam.org/

The ACE Reauthorization Act aims to boost funding and provide vital enhancements to conservation programs benefiting fish and wildlife. 

(Washington D.C.)— The America’s Conservation Enhancement (ACE) Reauthorization Act of 2024 passed the Senate on Wednesday May 8, 2024, by unanimous consent. The ACE Reauthorization Act was sponsored by Senators Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Shelly Moore Capito (R-W.Va.) and would reauthorize multiple programs that benefit hunting and angling including, the National Fish Habitat Partnership, the North American Wetlands Conservation Act, the Chesapeake Bay Program, and the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation. It also helps address threats like chronic wasting disease. This reauthorization provides technical improvements, administrative streamlining, and increased authorized funds to improve these programs. 

“The America’s Conservation Enhancement Reauthorization Act will benefit fish and wildlife while enhancing outdoor recreation opportunities for millions of hunters and anglers,” said Becky Humphries, CEO of the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, “TRCP applauds the Senate’s passage of this important bipartisan legislation and looks forwards to building on the success of these crucial programs.” 

The original ACE Act was passed in 2020 and sponsored by Sen. Tom Carper (D-Del.) and Sen. John Barrasso (R-Wyo.). Many of its authorizations expire next year, necessitating the passage of the ACE Reauthorization act to ensure these programs can continue to operate in good legal standing.  

The ACE Act is co-sponsored by Senators Ben Cardin (D-Md.), John Boozman (R-Ark.), Alex Padilla (D-Calif.), Roger Wicker (R-Miss.), Sheldon Whitehouse (D-R.I.), Markwayne Mullin (R-Okla.), Chris Van Hollen (D-Md.), Bill Cassidy (R-La.), Ron Wyden (D-Ore.), Cindy Hyde-Smith (R-Miss.), Lindsey Graham (R-S.C.), Gary Peters (D-Mich.), Angus King (I-ME) and John Barrasso (R-Wyo.).