Hunting and Fishing News Blog Articles

Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) proudly announces its continued partnership with FORLOH as the Official Technical Apparel of Houston Safari Club Foundation. 

FORLOH has been a supporter of HSCF since 2020. FORLOH’s partnership is vital in helping the nonprofit association continue its mission to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage.

“It’s great to partner with an organization that aligns so well with our shared values, like a passion for the outdoors, a love of hunting, a commitment to the responsible management of our national resources, and the education of future generations on the responsibilities of being hunter-conservationists,” commented Nick Skally, Forloh Vice President of Marketing and eCommerce. 

FORLOH will have a presence throughout all of HSCF’s media channels including the award-winning Hunter’s Horn magazine, Hunting Matters radio program and podcast, HSCF’s Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention and its various other properties. 

“We are extremely excited to continue this partnership,” said HSCF Executive Director Joe Betar. “It is an honor to partner with FORLOH, a company that proudly stands by its commitment to promote the outdoor lifestyle and produce advanced, technology-driven, made in America apparel.” 

Maintaining a diversity of food plot types can significantly improve the ability of your land to attract and hold a greater number and variety of wildlife species. However, different plants sometimes have various-sized seeds, which may call for several different implements when using conventional planting equipment. This is especially true when planting small seeds like clover that are particularly popular in wildlife food plots. Furthermore, planting seed blends is often a better approach. It will widen the window of attractiveness and act as a hedge against environmental fluctuations like early or late frosts or varying amounts of rainfall. 

Fortunately, Firminator’s Accurate Seeding System can handle any seed sizes from large corn, soybeans, peas and sunflowers down to the tiniest clovers, without seed waste or the need to change seed hoppers. Firminator’s Accurate Seeding System is a true all-in-one food plot implement and the industry’s most versatile piece of equipment.

Whether you’re planting large or small seeds or a variety of both, the Firminator’s Accurate Seeding System ensures they are spread in the right amount and without waste. Operation of the unit allows for precise control and is also very simple. Once the seed hopper is filled, adjust the metering openings in one-sixteenth-inch graduations until you find the proper selection for the largest seed. Then let the Firminator Accurate Seeding System do the rest. 

Because the system is ground-driven, the seed is metered out relative to the speed of travel, so that you can control the seeding rate. The optional seed hopper agitator keeps the seeds thoroughly mixed and prevents smaller seeds from sifting through too quickly, so it evenly spreads seed blends with extreme size differences in a single pass. When the unit stops, an automatic shut-off prevents wasteful spills that occur with other hopper types.

As you move forward, seeds are dropped into a specially designed baffle that thoroughly distributes them in front of the culti-packer. The Firminator’s commercial-grade culti-packer rolls over the seeds and compacts soil, enhancing seed-to-soil contact for better germination rates and protection from wind deflection. The result is better growth and a better return on your time, money, and effort investment in building food plots.

One sure-fire way of triggering a vehicle break-in is to leave valuables in plain sight. SnapSafe’s Trunk Safe II is a simple and effective security solution to this everyday problem. The safe offers plenty of room for hiding and securing tools, firearms, electronics, documents and other valuables, deterring common thieves.

Heavy-duty is an understatement for the Trunk Safe II. Its 13-gauge exterior and robust 6-gauge steel door protect the safe’s contents while the door recesses into the frame – its eight interior locking lugs prevent prying around its perimeter. Internal hinges and premium gas shocks ensure smooth operation. It weighs 69 pounds and strikes the perfect balance between heft and portability – heavy enough to prevent an opportunistic grab-and-go but light enough for easy loading into the vehicle. 

The Trunk Safe II includes a 3-foot cable for anchoring to a stationary object for added security. Four pre-drilled holes on the bottom panel enable permanent installation. A padded bottom liner protects the safe’s contents.  

It measures 42-inches wide, 7-inches high and 13-inches deep, creating more than 3700 cubic inches of storage space! These dimensions fit the back of an SUV, car trunk or RV and equally well at home. For ease of moving, there are integrated d-handles on the end panels. 

A programmable digital lock allows quick entry with a 3-to-8-digit access code. And a key ensures a backup opening method in the case of a low battery. 

FN America, LLC announces a safety recall for the FN 502 Tactical .22LR pistol, which was previously the subject of FN’s January 27, 2022 safety bulletin. The original concern involved a missing manual safety lock lever in a small number of FN 502 Tactical pistols that would allow the discharge of the pistol when the trigger is pulled with the manual safety in the SAFE position. While investigating this issue with Umarex, the supplier of the FN 502 Tactical, we encountered a separate concern with proper installation of the manual safety lock lever. Consequently, if forced by multiple pulls of the trigger in succession, or if the pistol is jarred, an unintended firing may happen when the manual safety is in the SAFE position.

Because the safety of our customers is our primary concern, FN is voluntarily issuing a recall to address this newly discovered issue involving the safety and advising all owners of the FN 502 Tactical with a serial number lower than LR010300 to suspend use of their pistol and return the pistol to FN for repair or replacement in accordance with the recall instructions. 

For more information, please see the FN 502 Tactical safety recall at fnamerica.com/customer-support/fn-502-safety-recall/. For assistance in returning a firearm, please contact FN Support at  [email protected] or call 1-800-635-1321, ext. 144, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Eastern time, Monday through Friday. 

Carry the Future® | FN America, LLC, the U.S. subsidiary of Belgium-based FN Herstal, S.A. provides U.S. military, law enforcement, and commercial customers with a complete range of state-of-the-art, groundbreaking solutions developed around small caliber firearms and associated ammunition under the FN brand name.  

FN Herstal is the Defense & Security entity of Herstal Group that also includes a Hunting & Sports Shooting entity (Browning and Winchester Firearms’ brand names) and operates globally. 

Bushnell®, an industry leader in performance optics, congratulates Elite Tactical pro shooter Troy Livesay on his first-place finish at the Accuracy Indiana Long Range Precision Rifle Shoot.  Livesay claimed the top spot at the 1-mile match in Newberry, Indiana, for a second year in a row using the new Bushnell Elite Tactical XRS3 riflescope.

This year’s Accuracy Indiana Long Range Precision Rifle Shoot consisted of 11 stages with targets ranging from 268 to 1,760 yards (one mile). Throughout the match, shifting winds and difficult target arrays challenged competitors on each stage. Despite the tough match conditions, Livesay was able to stay one-step ahead of the other 94 competitors to claim the top overall spot. Livesay’s first place finish matched his performance from 2021, giving him back-to-back titles at the annual competition.

“Shooting long range field-style matches has always been my favorite,” Livesay said. “These types of matches force you to make good wind calls and the unpredictable environment keeps everyone on their toes. This was also my first match behind the XRS3, and it was a critical piece of coming out on top in some challenging conditions. I couldn’t be happier with clarity of the glass or its consistent tracking. The new G4P reticle gave me everything I needed and more. I can’t wait to keep shooting with it.”

The new Elite Tactical XRS3 6-36×56 riflescope used by Livesay features the most advanced Elite Tactical optical system ever. The XRS3 comes with a high magnification ED Prime objective, as well as fully multi-coated elements, EXO Barrier™ protection, and an all-new proprietary floating dot reticle. Other updates on the XRS3 include a multi-position throw hammer, bold turret markings plus an enlarged eyebox for faster target acquisition.

To learn more about the Elite Tactical XRS3 riflescope, check out Bushnell.com.

Union Sportsmen’s Alliance, Ironworkers Local 397 host youth fishing event at Suncoast Youth Conservation Center

Apollo Beach, Fla. — Over 250 youth and adults turned out for Take Kids Fishing Day at Suncoast Youth Conservation Center (SYCC) in Apollo Beach, Florida, on March 12, despite Friday’s weather bulletin indicating gale force winds, heavy rain, and a tornado watch.

“It was the worst weather we’ve had in a long time. We thought about cancelling, but we never give up—we like to do good things for the community,” said Keven Barber, Ironworkers Local 397 Financial Secretary-Treasurer/Business Agent who organized the event. “We had quite a few kids fishing in the rain, so volunteers went out with them. It was worth it to see the kids enjoying the outdoors and experiencing something for the first time.”

Hosted by the Union Sportsmen’s Alliance (USA) and Ironworkers Local 397, the free community event aimed to introduce youth to saltwater fishing from the boardwalk and fishing pier constructed by union volunteers at SYCC in 2019.

The wheelchair-accessible structure was the result of a multi-year community service project organized by the USA through its Work Boots on the Ground conservation program. It flanks a restored saltwater pond and marsh adjacent to the SYCC’s 6,000-square-foot education facility.

Fishing is a superb outdoor activity to spend time with your loved ones. No matter the age, experience, or physical ability, fishing can be enjoyed by anyone. However, planning for a trip can become overwhelming if you don’t understand the essentials of fishing. Here are some top things you need during your first fishing trip to make it an experience to remember.

Protection

No matter the place you choose to fish at, always make necessary preparations to keep yourself protected from changing weather conditions. Sunscreen can protect you from the harmful ultraviolet rays whereas a lip balm soothes the lips and prevents them from getting dry. Don’t forget to bring your hat as direct sunlight, especially during the summer can cause sunstroke. 

Always check the weather conditions of the area you plan to visit on your fishing trip and pack your clothing and related accessories accordingly. For example, if it’s raining out there, consider packing a rain suit, boots, and other waterproof clothing to keep you protected while you fish. 

Fishfinders

If fishing means serious business, consider investing in a fish finder to make the most out of your trip. Fishfinders use ultrasonic waves to detect fish and provide information like the depth of the water body. The information is then displayed on a digital screen. Nowadays, there are a lot of things to consider when buying a fish finder, like the accuracy of the device, GPS connectivity, and durability. These fish finders come in a variety of features and form factors. Therefore, always consider your requirements, evaluate each option, and then make a decision to get the best outcomes. 

First Aid Kit

Bringing a first aid kit is crucial when going fishing. First-timers can experience a variety of medical issues which can be resolved if they have a first aid kit with the right medications. Here are a few medications you need to carry:

No, you did not miss anything in the latest The Simpsons episode. Springfield we will talk about is from our world and is very real. Moreover, Springfield is not only a town where it all began – it is a legacy carried through the centuries. The legacy of the first federal armory and one of the primary firearm manufacturers treasured by all gun appreciators. The legacy, continued by another valiant company that followed into the original armory footsteps. Those are indeed big shoes to fill, but modern Springfield Armory Inc. never fails to live up to its name.

It all began back in 1777 when Jorge Washington authorized the construction of the first federal armory in the town of Springfield, Massachusetts. Even though the settlement was small, it was endowed with several geographical advantages that made the place a fitting choice for an armory. Springfield stood at the intersection of three rivers, including the Connecticut River, and four major roads. Another factor that contributed to the town’s advantageous geographical position was the river waterfall located to the south of the settlement. The waterfall was too steep to be navigated by naval vessels, so Springfield was protected from seaborne assaults. Thus stood the Armory atop of the Springfield hill and shone like a beacon, illuminating the bright future that was to come.

At first, the Springfield Armory only stored weapons while manufacturing cartridges and gun carriages to assist the course of the Revolutionary War. When the war ended, the armory’s facilities continued to store weapons for future needs. By the mid-80-s, it became a primary ammunition and weapon arsenal. Such a position turned out to be the catalyst for another event that fate had planned for Springfield. During the Shays’ Rebellion of 1786-1787, American War Of Independence veteran Daniel Shays led an uprising to confront the Massachusetts government. High taxes and harsh economic conditions drove Shays, accompanied by other local leaders and about 1200 men, to attack the federal arsenal in January of 1787. Even though the uprising failed, it was not fruitless. The government introduced several laws, easing the economic condition of debtors. Shays’ action also influenced the Constitutional Convention delegates, who pushed for a stronger central national government.

One could probably say that the rebellion was the last significant event to happen to Springfield Armory before its closure in 1986, but this is not entirely true. Even though it wasn’t the venue for other historical events, it contributed immensely to the course of Industrial Revolutions and remained a major supplier of firearms for every armed conflict the US was involved in. In 1793, Springfield Armory launched the manufacture of ordnance, from paper cartridges and musket balls up to howitzers. 1795 marked the production of the first American musket that went down in history as the Model 1795. The Armory was a major driver of the first Industrial Revolution through the introduction of interchangeable parts for firearms, since replacing the broken firearm parts was easier than fixing the gun on the battlefield. The production of a sufficient volume of interchangeable parts called for greater use of machines, division of labor, and improved quality control. Increased production rates also contributed to the distribution of weapons among non-military people, who were not that proficient in gunsmithing. From then on it was enough to replace the broken part, sparing people the need to come to gunsmiths every time.

The Springfield Armory was one of the key factors that helped the Union to come out victorious in the Civil War. After the Harpers Ferry Armory was taken by the Confederacy, Springfield was the only government manufacturer of arms for almost a year. The Springfield Armory reached unprecedented production rates thirty times as high as the pre-war ones. These technological advancements prepared the ground for the upcoming Second Industrial Revolution.

When it comes to hog hunting, most hunters are familiar with how to utilize tree stands or blinds and baiting/feeding to hunt and attract wild swine. However, what’s not so well-known is that wild hogs can be effectively called into the area, often with spectacular results. To that end, we asked professional predator and hog hunter Byron South for some top tips to bag hogs. 

“Hogs are by nature very gregarious, vocal, and territorial,” says Byron. “These three things make them very responsive to calling. Calling hogs is an effective tool to pull hogs out of thick cover or off a neighboring property, and this can be done day or night.”

To get hogs to come to you, Byron says your best bet is to set up as close as possible and play high-quality sounds at as low a volume as you can get away with – always keeping downwind of the porkers.

“A great strategy is to move in as close as you can to thick cover you suspect holds hogs (in warmer months, this means water holes/wallows and creek bottoms) and try and draw them out using calls. Hogs noses are second to none, so always keep the wind in your favor when calling hogs.

“Hogs are smart and have good hearing, which means that to be consistently successful, you must have accurate, high-quality sounds and a playback device that is capable of reproducing these sounds. This is where the Convergent system comes in. This system uses high fidelity speakers powered by Lithium-ion batteries that put out more than twice the power of any other game call on the market.”

Springfield, Missouri  – The Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund is pleased to award the USA Clay Target League a grant of fifty thousand dollars. The Outdoor Fund is supported by the generosity of sportsmen and women who by round-up for conservation when shopping with Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s.

“Connecting new audiences to the outdoors is a key mission of the Outdoor Fund,” said Bob Ziehmer, Senior Director of Conservation for Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s. “The USA Clay Target League introduces America’s young men and women to outdoor clay target shooting. Bass Pro Shops and Cabela’s Outdoor Fund is proud to continue investing in such a fun, safe, and effective program.”

“We are grateful for the ongoing support the Outdoor Fund has given to the League.” said John Nelson, President of the USA Clay Target League. “Such longstanding support from our sponsors has been key in the tremendous growth of the League, and allows the League to keep clay target shooting sports accessible for tens of thousands of student athletes every year.”

With over 45,000 athletes expected to participate in 2022, the 501(c3) non-profit USA Clay Target League is the largest youth clay target shooting sport program in the world. The League offers trap, skeet, sporting clays, and 5-stand leagues to secondary and postsecondary schools across the country.

The USACTL 2021 Annual Impact Report can be viewed online by clicking this link.

Californian e-bike manufacturer responds to customer demand, contributing to valuable family time and outdoor recreation  

SUPER73® – the American lifestyle adventure brand specializing in electric motorbikes – has perhaps the largest and most active community of owners in the world. The company has facilitated the creation of Super Squads, which have allowed owners to ride, explore and communicate together. And one of the greatest assets to emerge from the Super Squad community is the feedback loop, which gives SUPER73 owners and enthusiasts direct access to the designers and engineers within the Californian brand’s headquarters.

The development of the new SUPER73 Youth Series is the direct result of customer requests for a kid’s bike and it will be available for reservation from  super73.com, giving children their first form of e-bike freedom. Customers can pre-order and secure their place in line with a $100 deposit at the introductory price of $995.

The new platform came about because research revealed that a large percentage of existing SUPER73 riders had young families and were looking at ways to transform their riding experience into a family activity. This was particularly apparent during the COVID-19 lock downs, where families were spending extended time together and needed regular “screen breaks” to keep the learning process fresh by creating real world adventures. This model will be a great way for children to get outdoors with the whole family. 

In addition to the Youth Series, SUPER73 is simultaneously announcing a groundbreaking electric motorbike concept, the SUPER73-C1X, a new entry-level model in the SUPER73-Z Miami, the updated SUPER73-R Brooklyn, plus new colorways for its entire 2022 range. Information about these exciting products has been sent to you separately.

XS® Sights is pleased to introduce R3D Suppressor/RMR Height Sights for the popular HK VP9 Optics Ready pistol. These taller R3D sights are designed to allow a clear view of the target and accurate alignment while using a suppressor. They are also excellent back-up sights for optics and allow a lower 1/3 co-witness with the Holoson 507 series, Vortex Viper series, and Trijicon RMR series of red dot sights.

The XS R3D Night Sight offers a traditional 3-dot tritium, notch and post sight picture with a notch that is 15% wider than the front sight. This design allows more visible light around the front sight, resulting in faster and more accurate target acquisition. Available with a bright Orange front sight, made of XS’ Ember Glow Dot technology and a tritium center for dual illumination, the R3D sight is easy to see in changing light conditions and when shooting on the move.

“Demand has been high for suppressor-height sights for the HK VP9 OR, and XS is pleased to be the first to introduce aftermarket night sights for this popular pistol,” said Addison Monroe, Marketing Manager, XS Sights. “In addition to the R3D, we also offer a suppressor-height Minimalist Night Sight for the HK VP9 OR. This sight has a traditional notch and post sight picture, serrated non-tritium rear, and Glow Dot tritium front sight.”

Retail Price: $143.00

For more information, visit www.xssights.com.

Shoot Like A Girl is bringing the 2022 Sea to Shining Sea Tour to Bass Pro Shops in Bossier City, Louisiana this weekend for an interactive event that introduces women and their families to shooting sports in a fun, safe and comfortable atmosphere. Experience the state-of-the-art mobile gun range and join their certified female instructors as they share their extensive knowledge of firearms, archery, outdoor accessories and safety with guests while promoting confidence within shooting sports. New and experienced shooters and their families are invited to stop by the Shoot Like A Girl trailer in front of Bass Pro Shops on Saturday, March 19 from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Sunday, March 20 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Shoot Like A Girl’s unique events connect brands, products and the public. Attendees are never charged and are given one-one-one attention from passionate experts in the shooting sports field.

What to Expect

New and experienced shooters are encouraged to stop by the Shoot Like A Girl mobile range event to learn more about ways to get involved in the shooting sports. Inside the mobile range, using a military-grade firearm simulator which provides immediate recoil, impact and sound feedback, guests who are 16 years of age or older will gain confidence through handling and shooting handguns and long guns through this immersive event. Guests will also be supported by archery coaches through a live archery demonstration, allowing attendees to experience archery firsthand and learn more about the sport through hands-on instruction.

Shoot Like A Girl strives to empower women through shooting sports demonstrations and events while opening a discussion surrounding sports and outdoors. Attendees are encouraged to bring their families and children to discuss and learn more about firearm safety in a comfortable and controlled environment. No experience is necessary to participate in this free event, and all equipment is provided to guests upon their arrival.

Written in collaboration by Ashley Brugnone, Mike Barranco and Darita Miller

The CMP is disheartened to announce the passing of long-time competitor, volunteer and friend, Mike Miller of Peoria, Arizona, on Jan. 26, 2022. He was 75.

Mike had a magnetic personality and was a generous man – always willing to help those around him, including fellow competitors and juniors. He often volunteered to assist CMP staff members with coordinating supply deliveries and other tasks during the annual Western Games event at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Phoenix, Arizona, and was a warm presence each year.

“The CMP lost a great friend and competitor,” said Christie Sewell, CMP programs chief. “Mike Miller was one of a kind and someone we will never forget.”

Sewell recalls Mike’s many stories and jokes – remarking how fun he was to be around along with being a supportive colleague on the range.

The ThOR 4 Thermal Riflescope, ATN’s flagship scope in the company’s lineup of hunting thermal scopes, has been named the American Hunter Optic of the Year.

ATN, Corp., an industry leader of innovative optics for civilian, law enforcement, and the military, is pleased to announce it has been selected as a recipient of the 2022 NRA Golden Bullseye Award for the ATN ThOR 4 Thermal Riflescope. This year marks the 20th year the NRA has awarded the Golden Bullseye for industry-leading products in the shooting sports marketplace. NRA publication editors annually award the Golden Bullseye to firearm products in various categories that best offer a combination of utility, innovation, reliability, outstanding performance, and consumer value. For 2022, the ThOR 4 scope has been named the American Hunter Optic of the Year.

“This is a testament to the hard work and dedication that our engineers, developers, and staff have put in to create a product that is worthy of such an esteemed award. To be recognized by the NRA is a great honor that we will always cherish,” commented James Munn, ATN CEO.

Criteria to be chosen for a Golden Bullseye Award include perceived value to consumers, designed in a style suited to the enthusiasts of the hunting and shooting industry, met or exceeded performance expectations in the field, innovative design and function, among other requirements to be considered.

The ThOR 4 Thermal Riflescope is ATN’s flagship scope in the company’s lineup of hunting thermal scopes. The ThOR 4 is designed specifically for professional hunters who need superior functionality and industry-leading features. The ThOR thermal scope has a 16-hour battery life and a 4th generation sensor that supports dynamic range conditions. Hunters are always prepared with ThOR 4’s smooth zoom and electronic compass. A smart range finder easily gauges target distances, while the scope includes video recording, Bluetooth, and WIFI to share your perfect hunt easily.

In its biggest product announcement ever, the e-bike company has something for everybody!

Fans, followers, and industry insiders know SUPER73® – the American lifestyle adventure brand specializing in electric motorbikes – is setting a blistering pace for product development and innovation. However, few people could have expected such a flurry of activity, with two brand new products being announced, in addition to the revolutionary new SUPER73-C1X Concept and new SUPER73 Youth Series. Information about each of these developments has been sent to you separately while we will focus here on the all-new SUPER73-Z Miami as well as the updated SUPER73-R Brooklyn. We will also reveal new colorways for the entire 2022 SUPER73 model range.

SUPER73-Z Miami

This new model is an evolution of the iconic Z1, one of SUPER73’s original products. The Z1 has been its most successful e-bike to date thanks to its accessibility in terms of seat height and cost. The new SUPER73-Z Miami will continue to provide a fun and accessible entry point into the world of SUPER73 but with a raft of updates inspired by community feedback.

The new Z Miami features an extensive list of significant improvements to refresh the entry-level model, including a lightweight aircraft-grade aluminum-alloy frame with improved ergonomics. The new frame construction will help to reduce weight, making it the lightest bike in the SUPER73 full-size lineup. This lightweight construction allows for easier transportation of the bike as well as improved agility while riding.

Salt Lake City, Utah USA- Easton, celebrating a century of innovation in 2022, has just released the all-new Jazz recreational arrow for every archer and club looking for the precision of Easton aluminum target arrows, with a budget-friendly price and best-in-class performance.

Featuring a sleek, hard anodized black exterior, the XX75 Jazz now utilizes an upgraded UNI-bushing nock system, with Easton’s tough, precise N-Nock pre-installed. With eight sizes from 1214 to 2016, the Jazz provides a great, Made in USA choice for every recreational shooter.  90,000 PSI tempered strength comes from Easton proprietary T9 cold-drawing process, while best in class straightness and weight tolerances ensure precision shooting.

Available in pre-fletched 6-packs with 2-inch Bohning Bully Vanes, or as a pre-fletched 72 arrow pack for clubs and programs, the Jazz is also offered as bare dozens or 60 count bundles for arrow builders and DIY camp projects.  Components are sold separately.

For 100 years the Easton name has ensured the highest quality, Made in USA archery equipment.  The new Jazz continues to be the best choice for recreational archers of all ages.

Get all the details on the new Jazz, as well as the entire 2022 lineup of Easton Target Archery Products, at www.eastonarchery.com, or your local authorized Easton Pro Shop.

A brief history of commercial firearm packaging

Where it all began

The use of firearms began in 10th century China and evolved into guns as we modernly know them in the 13th century. They quickly spread from Asia to many countries in Europe. They have since been developed into much more powerful weapons with a range of styles and functions. The first gun was intended for warfare use. There is record of firearms being used for hunting starting in the 15th century. Around this time, rifles were being made and used mainly for hunting purposes. In the 17th century, guns became the top choice of weapon for duel. Rapiers started to fade out and firearms were, instead, becoming extremely popular. 

Firearm packaging at the start of mass production vs today

Guns began being commercially manufactured and mass produced in 1835 with the first Colt revolver. This weapon was packaged in a wooden box. This early commercial firearm packing was typically lined with a felt or velvet-like material and sometimes had dividers inside to separate the gun from its complementing service tools. A similar concept has been retained throughout the centuries leading up to modern day. However, many updates in materials have been made. Today, commercial firearm packaging is more durable, as it usually securely holds various detachable components of the gun, such as the optic, scope, or small parts, in seperate boxes. It is also lined with a foam material that is custom fit to the specific firearm, which ensures minimal movement within the box.

The rapidly growing industry

Over just the past decade, gun manufacturing in The United States has risen drastically by nearly double. The number of licensed firearm manufacturers has also gone up in large amounts during this time. There was an 18% increase in the number of U.S. gun dealers from 2009 to 2018, with the highest amounts being located in Wyoming, Montana, Alaska, North Dakota, South Dakota, and Vermont. There has also been a rise in both gun exports and gun imports. When it comes to shipping firearms, the packaging is especially important to guarantee safe and secure delivery. The market for guns is growing rapidly, and subsequently so is the market for the corresponding packing materials. The total value of the packaging industry in the United States increased around 7 billion dollars from 2018 to 2019. The packaging demand is larger than ever and continuing to rise.

Packaging challenges unique to the gun industry

Rules and Regulations

When mailing firearms, there are several rules and regulations one should be aware of. It is very important to research these policies to make sure you are adhering to all of them. Failure to do so can result in severe penalties, so be cautious and careful. You can mail long guns through the U.S. Postal Service, but hand guns are not mailable through this service unless your situation falls within a few very specific scenarios. These exceptions include mailing an antique handgun between collectors, a handgun that has been certified by a museum, or shipments between approved licensed dealers and importers. A firearm should never be mailed loaded, or even in the same package as ammo. Also, according to federal law, there should not be any markings on the outside of the package that indicate the contents.

Shipping Tips

In the case that you are sending a firearm of value, which many tend to be, via mail, it may be a good idea to invest in insurance on your package. You also should upgrade your shipment to get tracking. Especially with something like a firearm, you really do not want your package to get into the wrong hands.

Outdoor Edge, the company that combines functional design with the finest materials and hand craftsmanship to create high-quality knives and tools, has redefined the uses of a utility blade with the introduction of its new 6-in-1 UtiliPro folding utility knife. 

Designed with a thumb-actuated blade release for safe and tool-free blade changes, the UtiliPro also packs several extra features not found in a traditional folding utility knife. The UtiliPro features an integrated Phillips and flathead screwdriver/pry bar, bottle opener, and line cutter when closed. This multi-functional utility tool comes equipped with a stainless steel pocket clip for convenient carry options and a sturdy frame lock design.

Crafted on a rugged 420J2 stainless steel frame with a scaled glass nylon handle, the UtiliPro offers a secure and comfortable grip. Weighing in at only 3.1 oz and an overall length of 5.3 inches, this multi-use utility knife accepts all standard utility blades and is a great addition to any pants pocket, toolbox, glove box, tackle box, kitchen drawer, or just about anywhere else a utility knife would come in handy.

The new UtiliPro is available in black and orange and has a suggested retail price of $21.95. It will be available at retailers nationwide and conveniently online at www.outdooredge.com in the late summer 2022

About Outdoor Edge: Founded in 1988 and headquartered in Denver, Outdoor Edge is a leading designer and manufacturer of knives and tools. Today, Outdoor Edge continues to innovate and develop state-of-the-art products for outdoor enthusiasts, game processors, survivalists, handymen and others who require the very best knives and tools available for leisure, work, and every day-carry needs. The company prides itself in offering a variety of products that undergo extensive field-testing in harsh, rugged environments resulting in durable, long-lasting products that come with a lifetime guarantee. For additional information on Outdoor Edge and its full line of products write to: Outdoor Edge, 5000 Osage Street, Suite 800, Denver, CO 80221; call toll-free 800-477-3343; email [email protected]; or visit www.outdooredge.com.

Kim Rhode, the most iconic Olympic shooting sport athlete ever is continuing her career with Winchester Ammunition, The American Legend. Rhode will continue to take on the world’s best competition, shooting the famous Winchester AA® shotshells.  

Kim has been shooting Winchester ammunition products in training and competition for more than 30 years. 

“Kim Rhode has established a legacy in competitive shooting that is unmatched. She is a fierce competitor but also one of the most genuine ambassadors of the shooting sports,” said Matt Campbell, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for Winchester Ammunition. “Kim and Winchester will continue to work together at the highest levels of competition, but also in driving more people to participate in the shooting sports.”

Rhode continues her pursuit of the highest achievements in the shooting sports as she chases her goals of representing the United States in the 2024 Olympics in Paris and in her home state of California at the Los Angeles games in 2028.

“Winchester has been with me since the very beginning of my career and their support has been remarkable,” said Rhode. “I’ve always tried to do my very best in representing the shooting sports as an inviting activity, for people of all ages and skill levels. I love talking to people who want to get started in shooting just as much as I love to compete.”