Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

The Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) has announced a change to its regular matches held each month at the Talladega Marksmanship Park in Alabama – with the events now moving to a set quarterly match schedule.

“We had been discussing the format with the individuals who come to the monthly matches, and they told us they would like to be able to shoot more matches on the days they were at the park,” said Joey Hardy, CMP Talladega Marksmanship Park manager. “Our response was to make the matches more of an event rather than just a single competition.”

He went on, “They also led us to believe that other competitors would come if more was offered. Our goal is to also increase attendance, to boost the competitiveness of the matches and to expand the park’s outreach to the marksmanship community.”

The Talladega Quarterly Matches will feature both rifle and pistol outdoor events. Rifle competitions will be fired on CMP’s state-of-the-art electronic target and scoring system, while pistol will be held on paper turning targets – all part of the 500 acres of accessible opportunities on the Talladega Marksmanship Park grounds.

Talladega Quarterly Matches for 2023:

Low Profile Safety Combo Kit Includes Both ANSI-rated Eyewear and Hearing Protection

Gearing up for a day at the range can be a daunting task. Check off two safety essentials in one purchase with Pyramex’s new-for-2023 Venture Gear VG Combo Kit. The all-in-one affordable pack includes both ANSI-rated safety eyewear and ANSI-rated hearing protection, making it easy to toss the kit in your range bag and effectively protect your most valuable senses while shooting.

The included clear-lens safety glasses meet ANSI 787.1+ safety standards for quality eye protection against any debris, discharge or hazards encountered at the range or in the field. The glasses incorporate a wrap-around design which adds to its level of eye coverage and protection. The lenses are lightweight and constructed from scratch-resistant polycarbonate which means these lenses will stand strong for numerous shooting sessions and countless tosses in and out of the range bag. Soft non-slip rubber temple tips ensure an all-day comfortable wear.

In addition to eye protection, no one should head to the shooting range or afield without proper hearing protection. Luckily, the Pyramex Venture Gear VG Combo Kit also includes a pair of Pyramex’s quality safety earmuffs which meet ANSI S3.19 safety standards plus a Noise Reduction Rating (NRR) of 24dB. This means you can trust your hearing is well protected from the potentially harmful and intense sound exposures from each gunshot. The earmuffs feature a low-profile design with height adjustment capabilities for a customized fit. They are also ergonomically arched so fitting over the head or over a hat is extremely comfortable for the wearer. All VG Combo Kits come with clear lens safety glasses with a choice from a wide variety of earmuff colors including gray, pink, OD green and powder blue. With so many useful features, it’s surprising that shooters will be able to purchase the VG Combo Kit for right around $27.99, making quality eye and hearing protection that much more attainable for all shooters.

Customers can also customize their VG Combo Kit by imprinting their logo or a customer’s logo right on the glasses and earmuffs. Logo artwork and a minimum order of 48 kits are required.

January 19, 2023 (Washington, D.C.) – Today, the Congressional Sportsmen’s Foundation (CSF) announced the new leadership of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus (CSC) for the 118th Congress. The Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus is a bipartisan, bicameral, caucus that features approximately 200 members in the House and Senate, representing all 50 states. The CSC champions efforts on behalf of America’s 55 million sportsmen and women that promotes fish and wildlife conservation, sporting access and opportunities, and works to combat efforts that seek to limit our time-honored traditions of hunting, fishing, trapping, and recreational shooting. Collectively, the CSC is one of the most powerful and organized Caucuses on Capitol Hill.

In the new Congress, the Senate leadership is comprised of Co-Chair Senator Joe Manchin III (WV), Co-Chair Senator John Boozman (AR), Vice-Chair Senator Angus King Jr. (ME), and Vice-Chair Senator Roger Marshall (KS). In the House, leadership consists of Co-Chair Representative Bruce Westerman (AR), Co-Chair Representative Jimmy Panetta (CA), Vice-Chair Representative Garret Graves (LA), and Vice-Chair Representative Jared Golden (ME).

“Outdoor recreation is a way of life in Arkansas that has shaped me and countless other Natural State residents,” said Sen. Boozman. “I’m proud to serve as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus, which has been such a strong leader in advancing policies protecting the environment and conserving our planet for future generations to enjoy. I look forward to working together to continue this advocacy, crafting legislation to safeguard the long-term health of wildlife habitat and promoting responsible stewardship.”

“I am honored to once again serve as the Co-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus in the 118th Congress. Growing up in West Virginia, I was introduced to all that the outdoors has to offer from a young age and to this day, I remain an avid sportsman. Our nation’s hunting and fishing heritage is so important to who we are as a country, and the number of visitors to our public lands only continues to grow as more Americans fall in love with the great outdoors. I look forward to working with my fellow caucus members to ensure that people across this nation can continue to enjoy hunting, fishing, recreational shooting and the outdoor traditions we know and love,” said Senator Manchin, Co-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen’s Caucus.

“It’s an honor to serve as a Co-Chair of the Congressional Sportsmen Caucus in the 118th Congress.  I look forward to working with fellow Co-Chair Bruce Westerman (AR), our colleagues in the Caucus, and with the Congressional Sportsmen Foundation to promote the necessary conservation practices in order to perpetuate people’s privilege to fish and hunt,” said Rep. Panetta.  “As the U.S. Representative for the 19th Congressional District, I have some of the West Coast’s most pristine spots to fish and forests to hunt.  However, we on the American West face the enduring threat of extreme weather events from wildfires to flooding which can restrict and reduce our outdoor activities.  The Congressional Sportsmen Caucus will continue to advance bicameral, bipartisan legislation to help conserve, manage, and restore our forests, oceans, lakes, rivers, rangelands, wetlands, and grasslands and protect at-risk species and wildlife so that we also can support and sustain our nation’s outdoor recreational heritage.”

SPRINGFIELD, MA., (1/17/2023) – Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, is proud to announce the new full-size M&P®5.7 pistol with a 22-round capacity.

In an effort to enhance the performance of the increasingly popular 5.7x28mm round in a polymer handgun platform, Smith & Wesson set out to deliver a new and innovative design that will offer a more reliable, accurate, and consistent shooting experience. Designed within the M&P5.7 is Smith & Wesson’s new gas-operated, locked-breech, rotating Tempo Barrel System. Developed to harness the speed of the round, this new 5-inch barrel allows for a quicker extraction once the bullet passes the gas port, creating a more secured fireform effect. This key feature allows for increased precision following the first trigger pull and works to utilize the ballistic advantages of the 5.7x28mm round.

“The M&P5.7 is an exciting new pistol from Smith & Wesson that incorporates a gas-operated Tempo Barrel System to effectively harness the 5.7x28mm round, creating a lighter recoil for an overall better shooting experience. Like all Smith & Wesson firearms, the M&P5.7 is proudly made entirely in the USA and is backed by the Smith & Wesson Limited Lifetime Service Policy. Whatever your purpose, the M&P5.7 is versatile, fun, and a must-have,” says Andrew Gore, Product Manager, Handguns.

The M&P5.7 is slide cut for optics to accommodate your preferred micro red dots, has a Picatinny-style rail for added accessories, and includes a 1/2×28 threaded muzzle with thread protector to allow for suppressed shooting capabilities. Its single-action flat-face trigger maintains a crisp break and is designed to allow for consistent finger placement that translates to more accurate and repeatable shooting. This pistol boasts a 22-round capacity and ships with two magazines.

Pick up the TEMPO with accurate and consistent results from the M&P®5.7.

Richmond Hill, GA (January 17, 2022) – With the recent announcement of pistol optics coming to the market, C&H releases their COMP pistol optic. The COMP is an all-around solution for users who demand and crave a large window pistol optic that remains protected by CNC aluminum housing. Not only does this make it a rugged and durable solution, but it also fulfills the industry need for a large sight window to better identify acquired targets or to move rapidly from one target to another. 

Suitable for competition, carry, or duty use, the COMP has many features rarely seen in a pistol optic. With ten brightness levels, accommodations can be made for any level of ambient light. The first two settings are designed for night vision compatibility, thereby increasing the usable applications of this pistol optic. The 50,000-hour battery life is quickly becoming the new industry standard, and C&H has met that goal. The COMP provides auto on/off technology to save on battery life. Shake-awake tech turns on the optic when moved, and after 5 minutes of inactivity, the optic reticle turns itself off. This smart power management provides a near guarantee that it will not fail when needed the most. This is all powered by a single CR 2032 3V lithium battery.

Proper housing is essential for continued durability and protection from additional damage with any large, windowed optic. The COMP features a one-piece CNC machined housing made from aircraft-quality aluminum. The housing is durable, and the internals are Shock Rated for +P and +P+ and waterproof. Regular slide reciprocation is no match for the dependability of this new release, and it’s guaranteed for 1500G for 1000 times. As with other recent releases, an IPX7 rating comes standard, offering 1 meter of water resistance for up to 30 minutes. 

There is no doubt the COMP is a formidable pistol optic in a world of wide-ranging options. When target acquisition and clarity in identification are paramount, the COMP can easily fill the role. This large optical window lends itself perfectly to the EDC, competition, and duty pistol optic needs. In all of these uses, sighting a target and what lies behind and to the side can mean the difference between life and death. Don’t settle for less when you can have the most.

FEATURES:

January 2023, (Accokeek, MD) — Stoeger Industries, manufacturer of performance-grade shotguns, personal defense handguns, and air guns, updates its popular M3500 and P3500 shotgun series for 2023. Whether a shooter wants to smash clays or slay fowl and upland game, the M3500 and P3500 series stand ready.

Renowned for their smooth operation, durability, and reliability, Stoeger shotguns are a favorite of those looking for a “priced right” shooter that will put meat in the freezer and provide a lifetime of memories.

For 2023, the M3500 line gets an improved design. Of course, those who put their trust in the Stoeger name can still bank on a tough shotgun that will perform no matter the weather conditions or environment, but now that shotgun has been slimmed down for improved handling. This leads to consistent shouldering and enhances downrange accuracy. The grip is also thinner and the view from the receiver to the rib is lower.

Still, Stoeger didn’t pump the brakes. Engineers worked to add more purposeful features to benefit clay busters and bird hunters alike. An oversized bolt handle boosts functionality when the hunter’s hands are cloaked in heavy gloves. The safety is bigger, the forend is redesigned, and the magazine cap is easier to grip and remove. A beveled loading port makes reloading quick and efficient, and a new recoil pad prevents shoulder abuse even when firing heavy loads. The cheek piece, which is available on all models besides the satin walnut, adds comfort but is also removable to ensure fit-and-feel customization.

Pump-action fans will appreciate the P3500’s checkered synthetic stock with an integrated swivel stud to ensure easy sling attachment, and like the M3500 series, the grip has been slimmed. Twin barrel steel bars promise repeatable, no-stick pump action, and the rotating bolt head ensures a positive steel-to-steel lockup that ups strength and overall durability.

Richmond Hill, GA (January 17, 2022) – C&H Precision has long been known for its slide milling services and pistol optic adaptor plates. Their quality and experience in the industry are well-known and respected. So, it’s no surprise they have decided to offer their first in-house line of pistol optics.

At SHOT Show 2023, C&H Precision’s new proprietary pistol optic line will be on display for the first time. It’s easy to see how this can be one successful venture for the adaptor plate powerhouse. There is little to stop C&H from making it easy for shooters to order, attach, and use a new optic from a single source.

The new proprietary line presents the perfect pistol optics for any potential use. Home defense, range time, and EDC are well within the capabilities of these red dots. Like competitors on the market, the new optics are built with ’shake awake’ technology and will turn off after 5 minutes of no use, preserving the 50,000-hour battery life. Being CNC constructed from one piece of aluminum makes it easy to make it IPX7 water resistant. This means the new optics can be submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. To make the perfect optics for any pistol, each model is Shock Rated for +P and +P+.

It’s easy to see why C&H Precision is getting into the pistol optic market. It’s also easy to see why these optics will be popular, durable, and useful options for all kinds of shooters. So, mount up, head to the range, carry on your personal defense pistol, or daily carry.  C&H Precision is ready for the challenge. 

Swing by booth #30407 at SHOT Show, January 17-20, for a firsthand look at the new line of optics from C&H Precision.

January 2023, (Accokeek, MD) – Stoeger Industries, manufacturer of performance-grade shotguns, personal defense handguns, and airguns, responds to consumer demand for the company’s leading concealed carry 9mm by adding two new models this year.

For 2023, the Stoeger STR-9SC (sub-compact) pistols are offered in two new optic-ready versions. Model #31792 comes with two 10-round magazines for additional carry firepower and three interchangeable backstraps to ensure a custom fit for every shooter. Model #31793 also includes two 10-round magazines and three backstraps, but also comes with factory installedfront and rear tritium night sights.

All striker-fired, polymer frame STR-9SC 9mm pistols boast the same performance-driven features as those found on the full-size STR-9 handguns but in a smaller, easier-to-conceal package. The slides come with aggressive serrations front and back for a solid grip and positive manipulation in any condition. A black nitride finish on the slide offers excellent wear- and corrosion-resistance, which is essential for everyday carry. An ergonomic grip with high-traction stipling, crisp trigger performance, and an integrated accessory rail delivers a defensive handgun that is as accurate and reliable as class-competing models costing much more.

Finally, the STR-9SC optic-ready models come with a cover plate for open-sight use and four adapter plates to accommodate the popular red dot optics on the market today.

Stoeger STR-9SC Sub-Compact Optic-Ready Specifications

Richmond Hill, GA (January 17, 2022) – C&H Precision has long been known for its slide milling services and pistol optic adaptor plates. Their quality and experience in the industry are well-known and respected. So, it’s no surprise they have decided to offer their own line of pistol optics.

At SHOT Show 2023, C&H Precision’s proprietary pistol optic line, the EDC, will be on display for the first time. It’s easy to see how this can be one successful venture for the adaptor plate powerhouse. There is little to stop C&H from making it easy for shooters to order, attach, and use a new optic from a single source.

The new EDC is a perfect compact pistol optic for any potential use. Home defense, range time, and EDC are well within the capabilities of this red dot. It comes with ten brightness levels, with the first two being night-vision compatible. This EDC is built with ’shake awake’ technology and will turn itself off after 5 minutes of no use, preserving the 50,000-hour battery life. Being CNC constructed from one piece of aluminum makes it easy to make it IPX7 water resistant. This means it can be submerged in 1 meter of water for 30 minutes. To make this the perfect optic for any pistol, it is also Shock Rated for +P and +P+.

When it comes to overall usability and function, several elements put the EDC ahead of the curve. While still offering a plethora of standard features, there is also a multi-reticle option. A user can choose between a 3 MOA dot, 34 MOA circle, or a combination of the two. With a windage and elevation adjustment of up to 70 MOA total – 35 MOA in each direction – it’s sure to adjust to various firearms. It’s more than suitable for a wide variety of eyes as well. The 16mm lens diameter provides plenty of space for target acquisition. Overall, the EDC’s weight is 17g with a battery installed. 

It’s easy to see why C&H Precision is getting into the pistol optic market. It’s also easy to see why the EDC will be a popular, durable, and useful option for all kinds of shooters. So, mount up, head to the range, carry on your personal defense pistol, or carry it every day: The EDC from C&H Precision is ready for the challenge.

January 2023, Accokeek, MD – For nearly two decades, the M2 Field shotgun has been hailed by experienced shooters and hunters as the unfailing workhorse of the Benelli semi-auto shotgun stable. Now, Benelli is billing the M2 Field as “workhorse rugged with thoroughbred speed.” It is an apt description given that, for 2023, the M2 Field is updated to deliver even better performance and to do so, surprisingly, at a slightly lower price point.

To start, all M2 Field shotguns in 12- and 20-gauge benefit from an updated stock, forend, and receiver design. The forend and receiver take on a sleek profile, blending seamlessly together in a way that is both aesthetically pleasing and provides a longer grip surface on the forend so shooters of all sizes can maintain a more comfortable and optimized grip. The conventional round-style bolt release button has also been updated to a longer bar shape that is easier find and is quicker to manipulate when wearing gloves.

The equally new buttstock design offers an extended AirTouch surface behind the pistol grip to enhance traction when hands are wet or gloved. This stock also features Benelli’s new Micro Cell recoil pad. This is a one-piece unit that works in conjunction with a corrosion-resistant recoil tube and stainless-steel spring housed inside the stock that significantly reduces felt recoil. Optional Micro Cell recoil pads are also available in varying widths to offer customized length-of-pull adjustment from the standard 14 3/8 inches (13 1/8 inches on the Compact models) to 13 7/8 or 14 3/4 inches.­

Another new feature for the M2 Field shotguns is a revised bolt. The new design provides smooth, quiet operation with enhanced strength and efficiency for flawless cycling with any loads courtesy of Benelli’s Inertia Driven System.

As expected, the M2 Field series continues to benefit from Benelli’s standard Crio® treated barrels and choke tubes.

Richmond Hill, GA (January 17, 2022) – Fully enclosed optics have long been the benchmark for durability. Having emitters protected from dirt and debris makes sense in harsh environments. Likewise, optical glass is well protected from unnecessary damage and scratches. While not always necessary, users often prefer this additional peace of mind in their optics when used in areas of high failure due to physical damage or abrasive elements. What’s even more difficult is finding an optic that meets all these needs and is small enough to be mounted to a pistol. C&H Precision beings that need to consumers in the DUTY pistol optic.

The DUTY is a side-clamp mount enclosed optic that keeps dust, rain, twigs, grass or other foreign objects out of the optic. Manufactured from one-piece CNC aircraft aluminum housing, it comes Shock Rated for +P and +P+ and is waterproof. In addition, the IPX7 rating allows for 1 meter of submersion for up to 30 minutes. Enclosed is a CR 2023 lithium battery to power an optic with a 50,000-hour life. A shake-awake and auto-off after 5 minutes are standard to preserve the battery life. 

DUTY comes with two options of reticle color; red or green. In addition, there is an option for a multi-reticle system. While a 3 MOA dot comes standard on all models, the multi-reticle system comes with a 48 MOA circle that can be used independently or in conjunction with the 3 MOA dot. These reticles have ten brightness settings, two of which are night vision compatible. 

No one can ever predict the exact environment they will find themselves in when they need to defend themselves. An optic that can handle a vast array of environmental hazards and operate at maximum efficiency takes the guesswork out of optic choice. DUTY from C&H Precision provides the best protection for a pistol optic; it’s at home in the sand as much as the swamp.

FEATURES:

January 2023, Accokeek, MD – Uberti, the world’s leading manufacturer of classical, single-action revolvers, western heritage black powder revolvers, and cartridge rifles, expands its lineup of the famed Model 1866 lever action with the introduction of the 1866 Yellowboy Deluxe.

The 1866 Yellowboy Deluxe is based on the Uberti 1866 Yellowboy short rifle, boasting a 20-inch octagonal barrel and luxurious A-grade walnut stock and forend. Chambered for .45 Colt, the 10+1 capacity 1866 Yellowboy Deluxe includes a case-hardened lever that seamlessly blends the brass frame with rich walnut furniture.

While a finely crafted example of the iconic Model 1866, the Yellowboy Deluxe carries its distinction to the next level courtesy of its exquisite engraving work. The expansive brass presented the ideal canvas for famed Italian engraver Atélier Giovanelli to introduce classically inspired acanthus-leaf motifs across the polished receiver. Worked into the design is a bugling elk captured in a medallion-shaped frame. On the opposite side of the receiver is an escutcheon that can be left blank or be engraved with the owner’s initials for a truly custom touch. Since the Model 1866 features a “closed top” design, except for the ejection port, a floral engraving is included across the top and bottom of the receiver.

Although the 1866 Yellowboy Deluxe strikes a commanding presence as a display, this rifle will not shy from the field. The .45 Colt chamber accepts a broad range of loads for everything from cowboy action and target loads to heavier loads suitable for hunting.

Uberti 1866 Yellowboy Deluxe Specifications

MINNEAPOLIS, Minn. – January 17, 2023 – Viridian Weapon Technologies is proud to reintroduce their impressive line of the brightest and best green lasers and lights on the market, the C Series. Now, the everyday carry enthusiast and loyal C Series fans can take charge with Viridian’s new patent pending SafeCharge technology combined with a proven, popular line.

New C Series offerings include the C5, C5L , CTL and CTL+ , all compatible with Viridian’s SafeCharge system. The original lineup includes two of the best light-only products in Viridian’s history, a nice compliment to the laser options that put Viridian on the map. These new products offer excellent performance and an innovative, effective recharge process to guarantee law enforcement, military and civilians are charged up and ready for the field.

The SafeCharge system allows Viridian accessories to be charged in any location, ensuring maximum battery longevity. The connection is simple and the SafeCharge will automatically wake up, charge the accessory and then shut down. This eliminates the need to manually start or stop the charger or worry about optimal battery performance. Each full charge of the SafeCharge allows a Viridian C Series accessory to be charged five times.

“We’ve taken the iconic C Series and created an entire new line of rechargeable laser systems to perform when you need them most,” said Viridian President and CEO, Brian Hedeen. “When the gun is drawn from a holster, the light/laser is on. After introducing the revolutionary green laser sights almost 20 years ago, we know human eyes see green better. We’re thrilled to offer our internal SafeCharge system to ensure our customers are ready to take charge in any given situation.”

The reintroduced C Series lasers features Viridian’s unmatched INSTANT-ON technology, a new Holster Retention Feature for compatibility never seen before and adjustable universal rail mounts. The new and improved series includes:

January 2023, Accokeek, MD — Reputations are not given—they are earned. That is why Benelli’s Super Black Eagle 3 (SBE) line of semi-auto shotguns continue to lead the field. No matter how unruly the weather or what ammo is used, the SBE 3 meets the challenge with its second-to-none ergonomics, flawless operation, and reliable shot-to-shot consistency. For 2023, the SBE 3 series further bolsters its field performance with a new camo option.

This year, multiple Benelli SBE 3 models are available in Realtree’s all-new Max-7 camo pattern, allowing the shotgun to blend seamlessly into any waterfowl environment. Models include 12-, 20-, and 28-gauge chambering. 

The SBE 3 is feature-heavy with Benelli innovations like the ComfortTech® 3 System and Crio®-treated barrels and choke tubes. The enlarged bolt release and handle along with improved grip-to-trigger geometry boost ergonomics and functionality. Benelli’s Inertia Driven System ensures consistent cycling no matter the load and is the cleanest semi-auto system in the industry.

Benelli’s new-for-2023 SBE 3 shotguns in Max-7 are available in the following models in barrel lengths of 26 and 28 inches:

• Super Black Eagle 3 – 12-Gauge, 3.5”, MSRP: $2199

The new ZEISS SFL 30 stands out with its particularly compact lightweight and rugged design combined with outstanding optical performance.

ZEISS is introducing the ZEISS SFL 30, the newest, lightest, and most compact binoculars to the ZEISS SF family. The ZEISS SFL (SmartFocus and Lightweight) stands out for its exceptional optical performance combined with an extremely compact design and low weight. The new binoculars come in two models, the ZEISS SFL 8×30 and 10×30 configurations. “Our new ZEISS SFL 30 is the latest addition to our successful ZEISS SF binocular family and combines the advantages of high-performance binoculars with those of compact, pocket-sized binoculars,” said Tammo Lueken, Head of Category Management Hunting at ZEISS.

Compact and Lightweight Design

The new ZEISS SFL 30 is the most compact and the lightest member of the ZEISS SF product family. “When stalking, every gram adds up over time,” Lueken knows as an experienced hunter. Thanks to the reduced lens diameter, the use of thinner and more closely spaced lens elements, and the rugged and durable magnesium housing, the ZEISS SFL 30 is up to 23% lighter than comparable models. The binoculars are extremely compact and therefore conveniently fit in any bag, backpack, or jacket.

True- To-Life Color Fidelity and Sharpness of Detail – Thanks to the UHD Concept

The ultra-high-definition (UHD) concept ensures that the binoculars deliver the highest level of detail and reproduce colors with natural fidelity thanks to special coatings, high-quality glass types, and an improved optical design. In combination with their high degree of light transmission and T* multicoating, the ZEISS SFL 30 makes precise imaging possible and allows the hunter to reliably detect even the smallest details and distinguishing features to identify the game.

Simple and Intuitive Handling

“To make the right decisions during the hunt, sometimes seconds are crucial. That’s why it’s so important that hunters can operate the binoculars intuitively and easily,” Lueken added. Featuring the tried-and-true SmartFocus concept and a perfectly positioned larger focusing wheel, hunters can focus quickly and precisely, even when wearing gloves. Thanks to its large exit pupil in relation to its size, and the modified eyecups, the ZEISS SFL 30 also offers a comfortable viewing experience comparable to larger high-performance binoculars.

The wait is over. With an overwhelming response from the loyal CZ Custom customer base, the CZ-USA team is pleased to show off the new custom A01-SD OR Pistol to the product line. The CZC A01-SD OR Pistol adds to the list of hammer-fired, optics-ready offerings and is loaded with custom high-performance features that’ll edge out the competition. 

The A01-SD OR comes equipped with a fixed rear sight mounted on a removable cover plate. Upgrading to a reflex sight optic is easy using the included DPP or RMR footprint adaptor plates. 

A well-balanced pistol is essential for rapid target transitions. The design team shorted the pistol’s dust cover, which shifted the pistol’s balance point closer to the shooter’s hand. Further ergonomic enhancements include a deep beavertail and undercut trigger guard for a rock-solid grip, while raised 25 LPI checkering provides a solid grip.

Performance features include a bull barrel for enhanced accuracy and an internal magwell for fumble-free, lightning-fast reloads using its 19-round magazine. Pinning the hammer and sear directly to the frame improves trigger pull consistency. The A01-SD OR includes CZC components for a competitive edge, like a competition hammer, short reset disconnector, extended firing pin, and a trigger straight from the CZ 85 Combat.

The forged steel frame and 4.9-inch bull barrel enhance accuracy and soak up recoil; the pistol tips the scale at 51.2-ounces. The custom shop A01-SD OR pistol includes a conveniently located manual thumb safety. 

Columbia, MO – MidwayUSA Foundation is our country’s leading advocate for youth shooting sports and the public charity’s 2022 impact set records across multiple categories.  Supporting nearly 2,800 youth shooting teams and almost 80 youth shooting sports organizations, including SCTP, SASP, ATA, USA Shooting, and USAYESS, through earmarked endowment accounts, the 501(c)(3) nonprofit generated nearly $3.4 million in match-eligible donations throughout the year. 

MidwayUSA Foundation Executive Director, G. Scott Reynolds, spoke about the collaboration that must happen to create this success. “While there is no replacement for the hard work of our Foundation staff, it’s clear we would accomplish only a fraction of our goals without the generous support of our industry-leading sponsors, our charitable donors, and the time and effort of the thousands of coaches, families, and volunteers working to fund their endowment and make a difference in the lives of our youth.” 

2022 Highlights include:

Donations to an endowment grow a program’s annual cash grant. However, expenses still far outweigh the funds provided through a MidwayUSA Foundation grant, which is what makes industry support so important.  Sponsors can provide cash and/or products to supplement the endowment funding.  Many of the products currently donated by industry leaders are used in MidwayUSA Foundation’s product grant program. Teams and organizations receive items at no cost and conduct community fundraisers. Some proceeds are donated to grow their endowment, which the Foundation matches, and additional funds are kept local to assist with immediate expenses.  This unique program would not be possible without sponsors, and participating companies receive brand exposure. 

All 2023 donations to team endowments will receive a 1:1 match.  In addition, 100% of any tax-deductible donation will directly benefit the team of the donor’s choice.  This is all possible through the personal donations of Larry and Brenda Potterfield, proving their passion to support the growth and long-term funding of youth shooting sports.

Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology presented their 2022 Sporting Goods and Law Enforcement Sales Awards on the opening morning of the 2023 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show. 

Every year Otis Technology presents awards to the sales representatives and agencies which have shown initiative, sales growth, outstanding effort and customer service over the course of the last year. Otis Technology has recognized J.R Keller of Jeff Robles & Associates as the 2022 Sales Representative of the Year.  “Keller took over one of our largest retailers when a long time rep retired and has really stepped up to fill some big shoes,” remarked Kenda Campbell, Director of Commercial Sales at Otis Technology.  She continued, “His dedication to his territory and persistent pursuit to getting our brands placed is remarkable.  In a challenging year we really appreciate his dedication to keeping our brand name strong. “

Additionally, Otis Technology and Shooter’s Choice also recognize its top sales agencies that have shown exemplary performance over the last year.  This year, Otis is excited to announce Jeff Robles & Associates as Sporting Goods Sales Agency of the Year, Odle Sales as Law Enforcement Sales Agency of the Year and Forward Edge Marketing Group as Government Sales Agency of the Year.

“As Otis’ longest tenured agency, Jeff and his team continue to show the enthusiasm and knowledge of the Otis product line that it takes to drive business in the ultra-competitive firearms accessories category. In an extremely tough market and year, they continue to outperform expectations,” stated Campbell.

Greg Essenlohr, Government Sales Manager for Otis Technology, remarked, “With the Odle LE sales team’s out of the box thinking, they were able to understand and maneuver the uncertainties brought upon by the pandemic and subsequent international turmoil.  Not only did they grow existing accounts but cultivated new sales channels within their respective territories as well.”  
 
“Forward Edge has unrelenting dedication and enthusiasm for our brands which positions Otis to better serve the U.S. Armed Forces Exchange Services.  This year alone, we were able to grow our product placement exponentially and position our brand as the mainstay in the category”, reflected Essenlohr.

Sports, Inc., one of the most diverse and largest sporting goods buying groups in the United States, and Browning, one of the most recognized brands in the outdoor industry, have returned as key sponsors of Shoot United in 2023. Target shooting is one of the most popular and fastest growing recreational activities in the United States with more than 60 million adults participating each year. Sports, Inc. and Browning share Shoot United’s commitment in continuing the growth of the shooting sports.

“From our vast dealer network to our employees, shooting sports are a large part of our identity at Sports, Inc.,” said Andy Eames, vice president of sales and marketing for Sports, Inc. “We are pleased to continue our support of Shoot United’s mission to promote the positive impact shooting sports and responsible firearm ownership have on millions of Americans.”

“Bringing new participants to the shooting sports is a top priority for our industry. Shoot United is taking a fresh approach to demonstrating how fun and accessible the shooting sports are. We’re excited to support them and welcome all the new participants the program brings to this exciting sport,” said Rafe Nielsen, director of marketing and communications for Browning.

In 2022, Shoot United reached millions with the message of bringing shooting and responsible firearm ownership to a wide variety of people through mainstream media and educational content. In addition, more than 250 new individual participants received training from qualified instructors through grassroots events across four states. Shoot United is expanding its range event program in 2023.

“Shoot United’s mission is to promote the shooting sports, one of the most popular and inclusive recreational activities in the country,” said Jason Gilbertson, director of marketing for Shoot United. “In 2023 we will continue collaborating directly with shooting ranges across the country to bring the positivity of the shooting sports and responsible firearm ownership to new shooters through our range events. The support of Sports, Inc. and Browning are instrumental to this initiative, and we are grateful to have their support for Shoot United as we move into the new year.”

Introducing the Velos LBP
SilencerCo’s new low back-pressure suppressor, the Velos LBP.  The Velos LBP offers exceptional sound performance for the 5.56 caliber with minimized back pressure to host firearms. As a result, shooters will experience less gas blow-back. It’s our most durable suppressor yet, constructed with 17-4 Stainless Steel, a 3D printed Inconel 625 core, and our trademarked Hoplon Baffle . Shipping soon! For more information click here.

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