Hunting and Fishing News & Blog Articles

The National Deer Association is pleased to announce the election of five new members to its National Board of Directors. They include Brian Bohn of Pennsylvania, Mark Kenyon of Michigan, Kris Rockwell of Pennsylvania, Chuck Sykes of Alabama and Karen Waldrop of Tennessee.

Brian Bohn of Pennsylvania is a founding partner of The Bohn, Brinker, Floberg, Gleason Wealth Advisory Group at Merrill Lynch. An avid outdoorsman and conservationist, Brian contributes time and resources to mentoring the next generation of hunters. When Brian isn’t with clients or in the woods, he is spending time with his family in Pittsburgh.

Mark Kenyon is the author of That Wild Country: An Epic Journey into the Past, Present, and Future of America’s Public Lands, founder of the Wired To Hunt Podcast, and host of MeatEater Inc’s whitetail films and television shows. He is a nationally published writer, NDA certified Level 1 Deer Steward, and an avid hunter-angler-conservationist. 

Kris Rockwell of Pennsylvania is an entrepreneur in the learning and development industry. He founded Hybrid Learning Systems as well as the Additive Project, an online 3D printing curriculum for underserved communities. In 2016 Kris joined the S. Kent Rockwell Foundation and began to focus on conservation, education, and entrepreneurship through supporting organizations that work in these fields. In 2023 Kris joined Piper, a company that builds STEM computer kits for middle school programs. He also serves on the boards of The Kiski School, For Good PGH, Trout Unlimited Headwaters and as Chairman of the Board for the Minority Outdoor Alliance.

Chuck Sykes is the Director of Wildlife and Freshwater Fisheries at the Alabama Department of Conservation and Natural Resources. Chuck earned a degree in wildlife biology in 1992 from Auburn University. In 2001, he created “The Management Advantage” television program that aired on the Outdoor Channel for 11 years and is now producing an online video series. He is the current President of the Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies (AFWA) among numerous other posts and honors in wildlife conservation.

Greeley, CO – Building on the success of the T6Xi series tactical riflescopes, Steiner Optics, known for precision made riflescopes and binoculars with industry leading light transmission and clarity, announces the H6Xi riflescopes, tailored for today’s discerning big game hunter, are now being with a new MIL reticle for enhanced precision.

The new STR-MIL reticle (Steiner Tree Reticle) being introduced on the H6Xi riflescope was developed by the Steiner USA team as a MIL-based tree reticle that bridges the gap between Steiner’s military heritage [with products like the M-Series and T-Series scopes] and classic hunting scopes.  This reticle gives customers who are familiar with MIL-based systems in their competition setup a more lightweight tool to use in their hunting setup.  Additionally, this elevates the whole H6Xi family by providing additional crossover capability (tactical/precision hunting) as a flexible, lightweight option for a tactical setup as well.  The precise tree reticle, with 0.2 mrad subtensions, gives the shooter the ability to dial or holdover with near-equal precision for both drop and wind holdoff.  In practice, using the tree reticle hold is quicker than dialing and can be especially helpful for shooters who prefer to leave their elevation turret fully capped – another feature included with every H6Xi.

The Steiner H6Xi is crafted for hunters seeking an optic that promises impeccable precision, adaptability, and optical performance, all while thriving in challenging hunting terrains. Consisting of three models, the H6Xi series caters to a variety of needs. The first focal plane 6x optical system is available in zoom ranges of 2-12x42mm, 3-16x50mm, and 5-30x50mm, setting unparalleled standards for German-inspired, American-crafted hunting scopes.

Forged from aerospace-grade 6061-T6 aluminum, the H6Xi’s 30mm tube assures durability with its waterproof, fog-proof, and shockproof attributes. Its design prioritizes weight efficiency and compactness. Furthermore, hunters will appreciate the additional features tailored for challenging shots.

Steiner’s acclaimed HD (high density) lenses guarantee supreme optical clarity and optimal light transmission.

Jacksonville, Alabama – Bear OPS, a manufacturer of high-quality tactical knives based in Alabama, invites all law enforcement, military and veteran personnel, and security specialists to visit their booth 12685 during the 2024 SHOT Show and explore their diverse range of new pocketknives. On display will be the new Out-The-Front series, premium butterfly knives, automatics, fixed blades, and tactical folding knives.

One new lightweight knife on display will be the Bear OPS Mini Rancor IX. This folder features a 2.30-inch drop point made of D2 tool steel, noted for its durability and superior edge retention. The pocketknife is available in a tan or green Zytel handle model, each with pronounced jimping, ambidextrous thumb studs, and a slide lock mechanism. Boasting light weight at a mere 1.60 oz., the Mini Rancor IX is tailored for daily carry, both on- and off-duty.

Also debuting at the 2024 SHOT Show, Bear OPS presents their Out-The-Front automatic knife series. Featuring a D2 steel blade enclosed within a black G10 handle, this knife effortlessly combines style with functionality. The incorporation of a CNC-machined metal slide button ensures rapid and dependable blade deployment. To further enhance performance, the blade opens with a precision ball bearing mechanism, facilitating smooth and precise blade operation. For greater versatility, users have the option to select between the drop point and tanto blade configurations, solidifying Bear OPS’s reputation for blending traditional craftsmanship with modern innovations.

Another must-have for 2024 is the Bear OPS AC-1900 Bold Action, a new automatic knife that blends traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design sensibilities. Shaped from D2 Steel, this modified drop-point blade exemplifies both strength with style and deploys with a simple press on the recessed button. The meticulously machined aluminum handle with a refined flat grey finish highlights its contemporary allure. A distinguishing feature is its pen-style pocket clip, facilitating discreet and streamlined carry. Stop by the booth and see the AC-1900 in person.

To learn more about Bear & Son Cutlery and Bear OPS knives, stop by the SHOT Show booth 12865 or visit www.bearandsoncutlery.com

SLG2, Inc is thrilled to announce its attendance and exhibition at the 2024 Industry Day at the Range event. On January 22, 2024, SLG2, Inc will bring its two mobile ranges to Boulder City, Nevada to demonstrate its state-of-the-art military grade firearm simulator to those in attendance.

“Our mission has grown to provide women, men, families, and communities with the tools and knowledge to excel in shooting sports, and this event allows us to expand that lasting impact,” said Karen Butler, founder and president of SLG2, Inc. “I’m extremely proud of how much we’ve grown and am very excited to kick off 2024. Being able to showcase our mission to the media as well as top industry professionals is an amazing opportunity for Shoot Like A Girl and Safe LivinG.”

SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range is an exclusive one-day event held at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club, preceding the renowned SHOT Show. This annual gathering provides invited media and buyers unparalleled access to a wide range of brands and hundreds of manufacturers, showcasing the latest products in the hunting and outdoor market. Attendees have the unique opportunity to preview and test the hottest guns, gear, and gadgets before anyone else in the industry.

Last year, SLG2, Inc introduced Safe LivinG, a program designed to empower women, men, families, and communities with the confidence to live securely. Through interactive informational experiences and web resources, SLG2, Inc has reached a wider audience to promote safety and confidence in all aspects of life. Attendees are encouraged to visit the trailers during the event and witness firsthand the exceptional instruction and dedication of the team as they continue to provide people with the resources to build unmatched confidence in their shooting sports abilities. This year starts the process of blending the two iconic brands.

SLG2, Inc would like to express its gratitude to all the incredible partners and industry leaders who have supported its mission. The unwavering commitment to promoting safety and empowering individuals has been instrumental in the company’s success. See the 2024 Shoot Like A Girl and Safe LivinG tour schedule here.

HIVIZ® Shooting Systems, the premier manufacturer of high quality tritium/fiber-optic and fiber-optic sights for shotguns, handguns and rifles, is thrilled to announce their latest innovation—the FastDot H3®.

HIVIZ has raised the bar for firearm enthusiasts, by introducing a reliable sight that is bright, easy to acquire and fast when you need it most.

The FastDot H3 provides the user with faster sight acquisition out of the holster and positive sight alignment feedback through conventional sight alignment. Instead of a traditional blade centered in a notch, this sight uses a circle within a circle. As the user brings the front sight into alignment with the rear, the front red sight disappears behind the rear sight leaving behind a glowing green circle to alert the user of positive alignment.

Features of the FastDot H3 include:

“Since 1996, HIVIZ has sought to improve the art of shooting through simple, yet innovative products for rifles, pistols and shotguns,” said HIVIZ President and Founder, Phil Howe. “With the popularity of red dot sights increasing over the last decade we saw an opportunity to use our expertise in iron sights and bridge the gap between traditional iron sights and red dot sights. That’s when the FastDot H3 sight set was developed. This sight set offers the simplicity of a red dot sight system while eliminating the bulk, it doesn’t require batteries and allows for faster sight acquisition right out of the holster. It is quickly becoming a favorite among many who require simplicity and speed from their sight sets!”

A new era in crossbows has arrived with the launch of the highest-performing crossbow in the industry

Ravin, the leading innovator in crossbow technology, debuts its new, category-redefining DuoMax Cam System with the launch of the all-new Ravin R50X, setting a new standard in precision and performance. Designed to enhance and extend the overall user experience, the DuoMax Cam System powering the all-new R50X, combines technological advancements that revolutionize the crossbow hunting experience. 

“As we unveil the all-new DuoMax Cam System, equipped within the most advanced and efficient crossbow on the market, we’re not just setting a new standard – we’re defining a future where precision meets performance seamlessly,” said Russ Rowan, Chief Brand Officer at Ravin Crossbows. “With this launch, we proudly present the pinnacle of performance, delivering a crossbow that offers the most innovative features on the market.”

DuoMax Cam System
Crossbow shooters will experience the perfect combination of power, precision and a remarkably smooth shooting process with the DuoMax Cam System. This groundbreaking technology not only harnesses more power and extends string life, but also significantly reduces vibrations, ensuring comfort and control with every shot. This industry-first, dual-track system achieves a perfect rotational balance, resulting in blistering speeds and increased accuracy that instills users with a newfound level of confidence. Developed with the most innovative dual-loop string construction on the market, the technological pairing of the cam and string systems transfer efficient energy through the power stroke and into the arrow, virtually eliminating any antagonistic rotational forces. With enhanced string life, users gain more time to focus on their season, target and the shot, making the DuoMax Cam System the crest of the wave in crossbow technology.

Ravin R50X
The DuoMax Cam, a pioneering technology in the industry, collaborates seamlessly with advanced string technology to achieve an impressive 360-degree rotation. This entirely new system transfers massive amounts of harnessed energy with maximum rotational stabilization. The combination of the two will reduce limb wear, increase string life and extend effective shot count. The R50X delivers a staggering 505 FPS speed with a 400-grain arrow and boasts a sleek axle-to-axle width of 4 inches when cocked.

HeadHunters NW, the leading executive recruiting firm specializing in talent acquisition for the international small arms, shooting sports, and defense industries, presents the next episode of the HeadHunters NW Podcast. Hosted by Shaylene Keiner, President of HeadHunters NW, this segment features an insightful discussion with Kenyon Gleason, Executive Director of the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW).

In Episode #025, Keiner delves into the pivotal role NASGW plays in representing distributors and wholesalers and fostering success in the two-step distribution model. “With a focus on building strong relationships between distributors and manufacturers, NASGW indirectly serves a network of retailers, contributing to the industry’s vitality,” says Keiner.

The discussion emphasizes the importance of the annual NASGW tradeshow as a platform for foundational relationship-building among businesses of all sizes. “Despite technological advances, the handshake remains the crucial element in the industry, offering an opportunity for genuine, unplugged interactions,” Keiner explained.

Keiner highlights the role of NASGW’s SCOPE program, a comprehensive data collection initiative that offers a view of market trends and sales channels. By incorporating point-of-sale and retail components into the data, SCOPE enables stakeholders to trace a product’s journey from manufacturing to the end customer. “This transparent approach empowers businesses to make informed decisions, optimizing inventory and mitigating risks,” she added.

“We encourage the industry to stay tuned for NASGW’s upcoming initiatives, ranging from advocacy to banking, as well as an array of informational resources,” says Keiner. 

For Otis Technology and Shooter’s Choice at Booth #12254

Lyons Falls, NY: Otis Technology and its family of brands is excited to announce its attendance at the 2024 Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor (SHOT) show in Las Vegas on January 23th – 26th.  Otis Technology and Shooter’s Choice can be found at booth #12254 in the same location as last year.

Otis Technology, known for its premium, innovative gun care solutions, encourages attendees to stop by their booth to learn about their products. Shooter’s Choice was acquired by Otis in 2018 and features a line of cleaners, lubricants, protectants, and all-in-one CLPs.

Buyers are encouraged to stop by the booth and learn about new product offerings as well as place reorders to stock their shelves. New and existing dealers are eligible to take advantage of the show special, where they can receive up to 20% off on select items from Otis & Shooter’s Choice.

Following their ongoing tradition, clear your calendar for Wednesday and Thursday’s Happy Hour (and a half).  Stop by the booth for a beer and light snacks from 4:00pm – 5:30pm.  The Otis and Shooter’s Choice staff look forward to meeting and chatting with show attendees about the company and its products.