Hunting and Fishing News & Blog Articles

The $33-Million, 100,000-Square-Foot Facility will Create 176 New Jobs in Pickens County

Framed by a backdrop of the Blue Ridge mountains, FN America, LLC broke ground on what will be the site of the company’s second production facility in South Carolina. This second facility, built upon FN’s solid foundation and history within the state, will be located within the Pickens County Commerce Park in Liberty, South Carolina.

Mark Cherpes, President and CEO of FN America, commemorated the event alongside Julien Compère, Chief Executive Officer of the Herstal Group and FN Herstal, Gov. Henry McMaster, Chairman Chris Bowers of the Pickens County Council and Ray Farley of Alliance Pickens Economic Development. In attendance were colleagues, future neighbors of the new FN facility and members of the Pickens community.

“This was a historic day for FN. More than 40 years ago, FN opened operations in Columbia to fulfill a government contract for the U.S. Army. Since that day, FN’s business has grown tremendously, and we have forged unbreakable bonds within the state of South Carolina,” said Mark Cherpes, President and CEO for FN America, LLC. “Pickens County is a great ally to the manufacturing community and one we have had ties to for many years through our ongoing partnership with their Career and Technology Center’s Machine Tool students. That partnership has helped to develop our future workforce in the community and will be of great importance as we embark upon this expansion to better meet the needs of our customers.”

In attendance at the groundbreaking were several of the students and instructors from the Pickens County Career and Technology Center. For many years, FN America has worked closely with the school through a work-based learning partnership that engages the school’s highly skilled machine and tool students to give them real-world experience as they pursue a career path in manufacturing.

BELLEVUE, WA – The Second Amendment Foundation is celebrating a victory in California as a U.S. District Court judge has declared the state’s decades-old ban on so-called “assault weapons” to be unconstitutional.

Federal Judge Roger T. Benitez’ ruling will almost certainly be appealed to the Ninth U.S. Court of Appeals in San Francisco, but for the moment, SAF and its partners in the lawsuit known as Miller v. Bonta are celebrating a victory. SAF is joined in the case by the San Diego County Gun Owners Political Action Committee, California Gun Rights Foundation, Firearms Policy Coalition and four private citizens, including James Miller, for whom the case is named. They are represented by attorneys George M. Lee at Seiler Epstein, LLP and John W. Dillon at the Dillon Law Group, APC.

In his 79-page decision, Judge Benitez writes, “Falling back on an old, recycled justification, the State says that its ban should stand because a person can have as many other rifles, shotguns, and pistols as one wants…Heller demolished that argument. The same argument – that a handgun ban might be justified because government- approved alternatives are available – was rejected in Heller and it is rejected here. Heller said quite clearly that it is no constitutional answer for government to say that it is permissible to ban some guns so long as other guns are allowed. This is not the way American Constitutional rights work. It is not permissible for a state to ban some books simply because there are other books to read, or to close synagogues because churches and mosques are open. In their normal configurations, the so-called “assault weapons” banned in California are modern firearms commonly-owned by law-abiding citizens for lawful purposes across the nation. Under Heller, McDonald, Caetano, and Bruen, they may not be banned.”

“We’ve known all along the state ban could not hold up under constitutional scrutiny,” said SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb, “and we were encouraged by last year’s Supreme Court ruling in the Bruen case, which rejected the notion of ‘interest balancing’ when it comes to Second Amendment challenges. Judge Benitez came down on the side of the Constitution and history.”

“Judge Benitez has once again affirmed what we have argued since the beginning of this case,” SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut stated. “California’s ban on so-called ‘assault weapons’ is, and always has been, unconstitutional. Despite the Supreme Court’s clear directive as to how these challenges are to be examined, the State of California did everything conceivable in an attempt to interject interest-balancing into the analysis. The Court, as required, ignored these attempts and correctly concluded that based on the text of the Second Amendment, as informed by this nation’s history and tradition, such arms are constitutionally protected. We are pleased with the Court’s decision and are proud to have vindicated the rights of millions of Californians.”

The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) has selected the Federal Premium Law Enforcement Ammunition brand as the contract awardee for their 223 Rem. rifle ammunition. DHS, ICE protects America through criminal investigations and enforcing immigration laws to preserve national security and public safety. ICE has more than 20,000 law enforcement and support personnel in more than 400 offices in the United States and around the world.

The selected cartridge is the Tactical Bonded 62-grain soft point. This single-award, Indefinite Delivery Indefinite Quantity contract is a Strategically Sourced contract for all DHS components and other federal agencies with a maximum quantity of 28 million rounds. The ordering period is for a total of five years.

“Law enforcement and federal agencies put it all on the line for our safety and freedoms. They should expect nothing less from their ammunition. We are proud to provide the highest quality duty ammunition to ICE agents in the field,” said Federal Ammunition President Jason Vanderbrink. “Federal Premium Law Enforcement provides the top-quality products officers and agents need to have full confidence in any situation. Tactical Bonded has a long history of providing trusted performance time and time again for our nation’s law enforcement.”

Federal’s Tactical Bonded line is a trusted partner for some of the most intense conditions. Made exclusively for law enforcement, it achieves accuracy and terminal performance that defeats tough barriers with minimal deviation.

For more information on all products from Federal or to shop online, visit www.federalpremium.com.

When Taurus USA launched the first ever optics ready defensive revolvers, the 856 and 605 Taurus Optics Ready Option (T.O.R.O.) revolvers, consumers loved them. Now, Taurus launches the first extension to the T.O.R.O. revolver line: The Judge T.O.R.O. The most popular multi-caliber revolver on the market is now optics ready.

The Judge T.O.R.O. is available in four different models, all of which feature a 3 inch barrel, smooth double action trigger, and a fiber optic front sight if you don’t want to use the included optics plate. The four available models will be a stainless or matte black model with a cylinder that accepts 2.5 inch 410 shotshells, and stainless and matte black models that accept 3 inch 410 shotshells. The standard Judge T.O.R.O. and Magnum Judge T.O.R.O. optics plate accepts sights that fit the Holosun K-series or Shield RMSc footprints.

“What’s better than a Judge? A Judge with a dot on it,” said Caleb Giddings, General Manager of Marketing for Taurus USA. “The Judge is without a doubt our most popular revolver, and adding a red dot to it just enhances its capabilities.” The new Taurus Judge T.O.R.O. is shipping now, and MSRP will start at $615.99.

For more information on the Taurus Judge family of firearms, visit:  https://www.taurususa.com/revolvers/taurus-judge

About Taurus International Manufacturing, Inc.: Taurus Holdings, Inc. (“Taurus”) and its subsidiaries continue to evolve and produce revolutionary new products. In addition, new standards for quality and efficiency help deliver reliable and affordable guns to the market. Taurus is based in Bainbridge, Georgia. Taurus is owned by Taurus Armas, S.A. which is a publicly traded company based in Brazil. Taurus Armas S.A. manufactures a wide variety of consumer and industrial products that are distributed worldwide.

The ESCORT® BTS Bullpup offers all the perks of the VTS series shotguns in a more compact, portable package. This next-generation shotgun is available in either 12 ga or .410 cal and is offered in either black or FDE Cerakote. Their compact nature makes these shotguns an excellent choice for field use or home defense.

The 12-gauge models feature an 18” barrel with removable chokes, including an extended cylinder bore choke brake that helps tame recoil with heavy shots or slugs. Also included are full and improved cylinder flush-mount chokes, with additional options available from HatsanUSA. Each gun ships with two 5-round magazines, but an optional 2-round magazine is also available. The gun’s SMART Valve Piston will cycle 7/8 oz to 2 oz magnum loads in 2 ¾” and 3” magnum rounds, credited to its self-regulating design.

The .410 models feature a 20” barrel with a fixed cylinder choke, suitable for both shots and slugs. This shotgun is one smooth operator, offering the same recoil-absorbing characteristics as the larger caliber models. The BTS ships with two 5-round magazines, but an optional low-capacity mag holds three shells. The gas operation performs similarly; standard and magnum loads cycle smoothly and reliably without requiring external adjustments.

The length of any bullpup is an advantage over traditional designs. Using the same gas-piston system as the other VTS shotguns, the BTS Bullpup is slender, with smaller dimensions. The synthetic barrel cover features Hatsan’s patented ThermoDefend technology that absorbs and dissipates heat while containing the gas operating system. A DuraDefend magazine enhances the durability against extended use. 

The BTS Bullpup provides an exceptional shooting experience with enhanced ergonomics and thoughtfully laid-out controls. Recoil is expertly managed between a soft rubber buttpad and a long recoil spring. The soft rubber pistol grip is removable and can be exchanged for one of many currently available aftermarket options to suit the individual user. The tough polymer lower receiver also doubles as the forend grip, with soft rubber inlays for improved handling. 

What is LandTrust?

LandTrust is a website where hunters and other outdoor enthusiasts can book exclusive access on private land for hunting, fishing, foraging, camping, and more. 

Where did you come up with the idea of LandTrust and what makes this such a compelling business idea?

I came up with the idea because I wanted to use a platform like LandTrust, but it didn’t exist. I had just moved up to Bozeman from Colorado at the end of 2016 and was instantly confronted with the idea that is now LandTrust. Montana has a bunch of amazing public lands, but it also has a ton of incredible private land that I wanted to access to hunt & fish but there was no easy way to connect with the landowners. Of course, I tried door-knocking, but I had meager results. As with other sharing-economy platforms like Airbnb, Turo, and Outdoorsy there were a bunch of owners of an asset (land in our case) they weren’t fully utilizing.  There was also a large market of people, myself included, who would be happy to pay them for the opportunity to enjoy that asset so I want to work on creating the marketplace to connect the landowners and the sportsmen.

What makes LandTrust different from other options for hunting private land like annual leases, hunt clubs, outfitters, etc?

When hunters book a hunt on LandTrust, they have exclusive, DIY hunting access on that property for the dates they book. Unlike annual leases, hunters can simply book the dates that they’ll actually be hunting rather than having to lease a property for an entire year. Because hunters only pay for the days that they’re hunting a property, LandTrust bookings are usually much cheaper than annual leases of similar properties. Unlike hunt clubs, when hunters book LandTrust properties, they are the only hunters on the property for the days they booked. Additionally, LandTrust properties are not operated like hunt clubs where the club is trying to maximize hunter days on the property to earn revenues. LandTrust properties are predominantly working farms & ranches that are growing our food as their primary business and using LandTrust as an additional source of income. Because of this, LandTrust’s landowners are very conscious of not overhunting their properties because it’s not in their best interest. As mentioned above, LandTrust is about DIY hunting access so there are no guides. It’s essentially what has traditionally been known as a ‘trespass fee’ where a landowner charges you for access to their property to hunt.

Who should consider using LandTrust?

Hunters who are looking for exclusive, DIY access to private lands for hunting should strongly consider LandTrust. They’re either tired of the public land grind, want a more controlled, safe experience for kids or new hunters, or are simply looking to get outdoors without the crowds for their next trip. 

What states is LandTrust active in?

LandTrust has listings in 35+ states. We’re adding new properties to the platform every week so the best way to see if we have properties in states you’re interested in is to hop on LandTrust.com and search by that state. I would also strongly recommend that anyone who might be interested in LandTrust create a free account and tell us what state you live in, what states you’re interested in hunting, and which species you’re interested in. Once you do that, we’ll send you new properties that match your interests as soon as they go live on LandTrust. Essentially, LandTrust scouts for you year-round!

Jacksonville, Florida – Safariland®, a brand of The Safariland Group, a leading global provider of safety products designed for the public safety, military, professional and outdoor markets and one of Cadre Holdings, Inc.’s (NYSE: CDRE) (“Cadre”) recently partnered with Haley Strategic Partners to launch the industry-leading IncogX holster. The companies are committed to expanding the IncogX line to meet the needs of the concealed carry market. As part of this commitment the RDS-compatible IWB holster is now available for SIG Sauer’s P365-XMacro, the first of many upcoming fit additions.

IncogX is Safariland’s most popular and best-selling IWB holster to date. Customers have been asking for a holster fit for the P365-XMacro, and Safariland has answered the call with the IncogX, specifically designed to provide a secure and comfortable fit for the firearm.

“The IncogX has garnered significant attention from our customer base, with many expressing a strong desire for a Safariland holster tailored specifically for the P365-XMacro,” said Eric Gasvoda, GM of Duty Gear for Safariland. “This addition of the P365-XMacro is the first of many new fits that will be available. We are ramping up production of the IncogX to include numerous popular firearm fits that will be rolling out.”

The IncogX holster is designed for everyday carry and provides a smooth fit and draw. The passive retention and adjustable tension capabilities allow for precise customization, ensuring a secure fit for the SIG P365-XMacro. The holster accommodates concealed carry for a diverse range of handgun models while allowing for various carry positions.

Key features of the IncogX include:

Multi-Tools, in general, are a mixed bag. They offer a wide range of functions that rarely focus on the core needs of a user but the potential needs of all users. Mixing a large range of tools also means a significant increase in weight and dimensions. For those looking to keep something for everyday use or have a more focused tool on hand, it can become difficult to find something functional and compact. And here is where True Knives stands out.

True Knives has created the TITANIUM BLOCK MULTI-TOOL. This purpose-driven multi-tool takes a lot of searching and guesswork out of the daily use of multi-tools. It’s not a large, heavy and expansive system designed for every eventuality, but a tailor-made combination of essentials that serve a user’s specific purposes. Made from titanium nitride coated 3Cr13 steel, every part is designed to last. 

The TITANIUM BLOCK MULTI-TOOL features a 2.75-inch liner-locking tanto knife blade, bottle opener, flat edge scraper, and locking magnet bit driver that sits comfortably INSIDE a pocket with an incorporated belt clip. What this means for every user is simple: there’s an essential, easy-to-reach tool that does not require excessive housing or a large sheath to carry. The ¼-inch driver locking system is a patented Two Position Lockout System, which allows a 90-degree or 180-degree lock for better function in tight spaces or with more difficult screws. Bits can easily be changed and come with a Philips #2 and Flat #5 which are also titanium nitride coated for extra durability and strength. 

With an overall length of 3.75 inches when folded, it’s small enough to fit perfectly into a pocket with the integrated pocket clip. Weight isn’t a downside with True’s TITANIUM BLOCK MULTI-TOOL as it weighs a paltry quarter of a pound, which is far less than most multi-tools on the market. There is no longer a need for additional weight or useless tools. Opening a bottle, undoing a screw in a tight space, or cutting into a softer material is easier than ever with the new TITANIUM BLOCK MULTI-TOOL from TRUE.

To learn more about the TITANIUM BLOCK MULTI-TOOL, visit: https://true.acgbrands.com/ti-block-multitool.html

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, today announces the release of its new pistol caliber carbine, the S&W® Response.

This exciting new offering is Smith & Wesson’s first MSR-style PCC, which makes it easily compatible with many existing MSR parts and accessories. Chambered in 9mm, the Response has a 23+1 capacity out of the box and ships with two 23-round M&P double-stack magazines. The premier feature of this new carbine is rooted in its innovative and easy-to-install FLEXMAGTM  System. Its design consists of interchangeable magwell adaptors that allow the firearm to operate using a variety of S&W and other manufacturer magazines. Included with the Response are two FLEXMAG kits that are compatible with either M&P double-stack or G17® /G19® magazines. 

Loaded with features, the Response has a 16.5” threaded barrel, polymer handguard with Picatinny-style rail and M-LOK® slots, MAGPUL® MOE SL stock, flat face trigger, and an M&P® grip with four interchangeable palmswell adapters. It has an overall length of 35-3/8 inches fully extended and weighs just under 6.0 pounds.

“The Smith & Wesson Response is our solution for the PCC shooter that enjoys MSR platforms and prefers interfacing capabilities with various pistol magazines available in the market today. Its compatibility with the vast network of MSR aftermarket accessories allows the user to easily customize the Response to their specific preferences and needs. Smith & Wesson listened to the consumer and our goal was to deliver a completely versatile pistol caliber carbine that would be a perfect companion to your sidearm. This design is our response,” said John Myles, Senior Product Manager.

The new Smith & Wesson Response is built on a platform to optimize the user’s needs and breaks barriers for those looking to enter the PCC market. Embrace adaptability with the Smith & Wesson Response. MSRP $799.

“Hunting Matters” welcomes Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) Life member and member of the Board of Directors, Derek Ham. 

Derek is an accomplished businessman with a passion for the outdoors, hunting and conservation. He is especially passionate about getting kids and others involved in hunting and guiding them to understand the link and truth between hunting and conservation. He began his first career in Los Angeles working in the music industry. He later moved back to Texas in support of his family and pursued a career in Commercial Construction. Ultimately, his passion for the outdoors led him to Farm and Ranch Real Estate where he currently represents Ruple Ranch & Land. 

Derek’s passion for the outdoors was fostered as a young boy by his father who grew up on the famed LX Cattle Ranch in the Texas panhandle. His father set the groundwork for his love of hunting and fishing. Derek has been an avid hunter and conservationist for the majority of his life traveling around the world hunting both unique and more traditional game alike. His most notable hunting accomplishment was being dropped by float plane in Alaska for a week for a self-guided hunt where he harvested the Number 11 all-time Pope & Young Moose with his recurve bow. Among other countries, he has also been a successful hunter in New Zealand, Spain, Greenland and Newfoundland.   But, of course, he has and does most prominently hunt in our great state of Texas.  

Derek is a Lifetime member of Houston Safari Club Foundation, a member of the HSCF Board of Directors, and previously chaired the HSCF Annual Sporting Clays Tournament for two years. Prior to his time at HSCF, he chaired the Adventures program for Sky High for Kids where he organized and executed hunts for pediatric cancer patients for over five years.  Derek is also a member of TDA, RMEF, NWTF, TTHA, NRA, Sportsman’s Alliance, and Quail Coalition. Derek shares his passion for hunting with his wife Jeni and daughter Sydney. Both of whom have traveled with him on his hunting adventures. He takes care to demonstrate his concern for a healthy wildlife population and ensure that the hunt is more than the harvesting of game but, more importantly, it’s about the experience.

About Hunting Matters
Tune in to “Hunting Matters” with Houston Safari Club Foundation Executive Director Joe Betar as he engages in conversations with guests, from various backgrounds, who have a passion for hunting and conservation. Great discussions, news, hunting legislation updates and more! “Hunting Matters” airs each Saturday, 6am-7am CDT on KPRC AM 950 – Real Texas, Real Talk, a Houston iHeartMedia station, and Houston’s longest running radio station. “Hunting Matters” is also available via podcast on Apple/iTunes, iHeartMedia, Google, Overcast, PodBean and Spreaker. Subscribe, listen, rate and review. Hunting Matters is an award-winning podcast and has been recognized by AVA Digital, NYX/Marcom, MarCom, Davey, and the Academy of Interactive & Visual Arts.  

Must Have Tools for Any Canadian Trip

There is just something special about fishing in Canadian waters. People always ask me, “Why do you drive all the way to Canada to go fishing when the fishing is good here?”. I always tell them it’s more than just fishing. I love the peacefulness of being in the middle of the wilderness. The smell is different, the views are amazing, and there are endless fishing opportunities. 

You wake up, grab a cup of coffee, and watch the lake come alive with the sounds of birds. You walk down to the dock, hop in your boat, and head out to your spot for the day. There are endless miles of shoreline with no houses, no boats, and the occasional moose sighting. You meander through islands and channels back into some of the most beautiful areas. You don’t often find these things in the States, which is one of many reasons I keep returning.

Canada is one of the few places where you can go out and catch multiple species in one day and have them all be quality fish. You can go from catching a 28-inch walleye to a 32-inch lake trout, all within a short time. Don’t forget about the smallmouth bass, muskies, and northern pike! I fished on Cliff Lake in Ontario, which has over 200 miles of shoreline and one resort. I did everything from casting, trolling, and jigging and had success. Cliff Lake is very deep and clear, but it’s unique in that it has many rock structures, shallow bays, islands, and channels, giving you a vast array of fishing possibilities. 

Since Cliff Lake is so big, we used trolling to cover the water and locate fish. We were there at the beginning of June, and the lake trout started transitioning back into the deeper water. However, we did catch them anywhere from 20-70 ft. of water off of points and along the deep edges of the bays, trolling blue chrome Kwikfish with cowbells. For walleye, we trolled using spinner rigs anywhere from 8 to 15 ft. of water. Most of our walleye came when trolling along downed trees or over rocky structures and casting jerk minnows. The most exciting moment during the trip was catching a 32-inch lake trout on my walleye gear. It smashed my bait and took me for a wild ride. Let’s just say my forearms were burning by the time I landed it! 

Remington Ammunition is proud to celebrate Wyatt DeBrie’s exceptional achievements during this year’s trap shooting season. With an impressive record of shooting over 20,000 registered targets, DeBrie has proven himself as a force to be reckoned with in the world of competitive shooting.

Throughout the season, Nebraska native DeBrie showcased his remarkable skills by participating in over 12 different competitions across 10 states. His dedication and talent led him to numerous victories, solidifying his position as one of the top trap shooters in the game.

Among his many accomplishments, DeBrie broke 200 clays in seven singles championship events. Additionally, he triumphed in the Arizona State Shoot winning HAA while also claiming the Championship Singles Event win and secured the Sub Jr HOA title in almost every competition he entered.    

DeBrie’s shooting skills were on full display when he won the Sub Jr 2600 HOA at The Grand American in Sparta, Ill. The Western Grand in Vernal, Utah, also saw Debrie win big, earning second HOA over the entire field.

“We congratulate Wyatt on another solid season shooting for Big Green,” said Team Remington Manager Mike Hampton Sr. “DeBrie’s outstanding performance reflects the dedication and skill that Team Remington embodies.”

Booth Media Group LLC., a female-owned, full-service marketing company specializing in editorial and magazine publishing in the outdoor and shooting markets, has hired Kristyn Brady as a copy editor. 

Kristyn is a communications consultant and content strategist with more than 15 years of experience writing, editing and promoting stories about the outdoors. Previously, she served as the senior director of communications at the Theodore Roosevelt Conservation Partnership, where she oversaw daily content creation and multi-channel advocacy campaigns across a diverse portfolio of conservation policy initiatives. 

From 2008 to 2015, Kristyn was part of the award-winning editorial staff at Field & Stream Magazine, where she contributed to each print issue while managing the brand’s news blog. She was the first female feature writer to be published in Field & Stream in nearly a decade, and her work on the Toyota-sponsored Heroes of Conservation Awards helped spotlight more than 100 conservation volunteers nationwide. 

Through Kristyn Brady Communications LLC, she supports mission-driven brands with content strategy, project management, copywriting and editing. Kristyn also writes the biweekly Conservation Makers email newsletter for nonprofit communications and marketing professionals. She lives in rural Vermont with her husband Kurt and their son Ben.   

“I’m elated to have Kristyn on the BMG team. Her expertise in editorial, specifically in the hunting and conservation space will lend perfectly to the projects and clients we service,” said Britney Booth, owner of Booth Media Group.  

BoatUS Foundation for Boating Safety and Clean Water program supervisor Alan Dennison has been elected chairman of the National Safe Boating Council (NSBC). Created in its current form by the Federal Boating Safety Act of 1971, the Council is the nation’s principal public-private boating safety advocacy organization, representing a coalition of more than 330 U.S. and international member organizations. Its mission is to promote a safer recreational boating experience through education, outreach and training.

A Chesapeake Bay boater, Dennison began at the BoatUS Foundation in 2015 and joined the NSBC board as secretary in 2017. The 501(c)(3) nonprofit Foundation is the boating safety and clean water “sister” to the nearly 800,000-member Boat Owners Association of The United States (BoatUS).

Dennison’s election signifies the seventh time a BoatUS Foundation staff member has held the NSBC chair post since BoatUS founder Richard Schwartz signed the charter which created the current NSBC, and has included Foundation presidents Ruth Wood, Jim Ellis and Chris Edmonston. “It really humbles me to be following in the footsteps of these great boating safety leaders, and it shows our long-standing commitment to our NSBC partnership,” said Dennison.

“I have to thank outgoing chairman Robert Newsome for his mentorship, which helped lead me to this important boating safety post,” said Dennison. Newsome, the National Marine Manufacturer Association’s senior vice president of operations, remains as NSBC immediate past chair. The full slate of newly elected NSBC board members can be found here.

Dennison says he hopes to strengthen the BoatUS Foundation-NSBC partnership and is excited about growing curriculum for on-water training course instructors and students. “One of the important items required for expanding the availability of affordable on-water boat handling training is to ensure we have a consistent curriculum coast-to-coast,” added Dennison.

Blackhawk®, a leader in law enforcement and military equipment for over 20 years, has expanded its StacheÔ IWB Holster line to accommodate two more popular concealed carry pistols – the Springfield Hellcat Pro and the SIG P365 X-Macro.

Introduced in 2021, the Stache holster is a slim, lightweight polymer IWB holster designed to let the user choose between left-hand or right-hand carry. The Stache holster also allows the wearer to customize ride height, angle and how tightly the holster tucks the pistol against the user’s body.

“The Stache has proven to be very popular because of its modularity and comfortable design,” said Justin Hoffman, product manager at Blackhawk. “It’s exciting to give both professionals and responsibly armed citizens who carry Hellcat Pros and P365 X-Macros on and off-duty, the same versatile and dependable concealment option so many others have trusted in harm’s way. We look forward to expanding the Stache line to even more models of carry pistols soon.”

Stache holsters work well with popular Blackhawk accessories like the N.A.C.H.O. Belly Band, which allows the user to easily conceal a holstered pistol along with spare magazines, a flashlight, wallet or similar items without requiring a belt or normal pants. The holster is also compatible with the Stache R.A.H.C., which is designed to help conceal a holstered pistol while jogging or otherwise not wearing a gun belt.

The base model Stache for the Springfield Hellcat Pro and SIG P365 X-Macro are available now, with Premium Stache holsters for both pistols coming soon. The Premium Stache holsters combine the versatile Stache holster with a Stache Magazine carrier, making it easy and simple to always have an extra magazine carried next to the pistol.

The Ducks Unlimited Expo (DUX), presented by Purina Pro Plan, the official performance dog food of Ducks Unlimited, is set for Aug. 1-3, 2025, at the Renasant Convention Center in Memphis.

DUX is a three-day consumer show where attendees can see and buy the latest in outdoor products and talk with industry experts. DUX will also feature exhibitions, seminars and demonstrations.

Purina Pro Plan, the presenting sponsor of the DUX in Texas for the past three years, returns to DUX with a variety of attractions including dog training demonstrations, product giveaways and the chance to talk with top dog trainers from across the United States.

The newly renovated Renasant Convention Center has over 100,000 square feet of column-free exhibit space and is located near the Bass Pro Shops at the Memphis Pyramid, home to DU’s Waterfowling Heritage Museum.

Memphis is home to DU’s National Headquarters and, as a special benefit for sponsors and exhibitors, Ducks Unlimited’s 2025 National Leadership Conference will be held in conjunction with the 2025 DUX. DU’s event fundraising staff, along with hundreds of volunteer leaders from around the country, will be in attendance.

If you’re an outdoor enthusiast, hunting in Australia offers a unique adventure. However, knowing the rules, understanding the seasons, and having the right tactical equipment is essential for a successful expedition. Whether you’re a seasoned hunter or a beginner, this guide will take you through everything you need to know about hunting Down Under.

Australian Capital Territory

In ACT, hunting is restricted to feral species on private land, with the landowner’s permission. No specific game species are available for recreational hunting. Only a firearms licence is required, with no additional hunting permit or fee. Minors (aged 12-18) can only obtain a firearm permit for target shooting, not hunting. Feral species that can be hunted include rabbits, hares, foxes, pigs, goats, feral cats, and dogs.

As the ACT gets snowfall in winter months, hunters are encouraged to wear warm clothing with thermal layers, alongside wearing sunglasses to protect from glare. High-vis gear and other eye-catching attire is also recommended for those hunting in specified hunting areas. This applies to both ACT and all other Australian states.

New South Wales Regulations

New South Wales offers both recreational and commercial hunting of game, native, and non-protected species across various public lands. The NSW Department of Primary Industries Game Licensing Unit (DPI GLU) and the NSW National Parks and Wildlife Service (NPWS) administer different legislations and issue licences for hunting.

Game species in NSW are divided into two categories. Category 1 includes wild deer and some game birds, which require a licence to hunt on both private and public lands. Category 2 comprises feral animals like pigs, goats, wild dogs, cats, rabbits, foxes, hares, and several game birds. These species can be hunted on private land without a licence, but require one for hunting on public lands.

Whether you catch a prized animal or not, a successful hunt is worth remembering. Affordable, good cameras are easy to find so that you can capture and cherish those hunting memories.

Preparation is vital, whether you’re photographing someone else’s hunting trip or your own. Throughout history, people have told hunting stories through paintings and carvings. Now is the best opportunity to share your hunting adventure with friends and family. 

Excellent Tips And Tricks To Get Better Photos While Hunting

Make sure you have the right camera gear before going outdoors. Use a DSLR or mirrorless camera with a telephoto lens for wildlife and distant shots. Don’t forget a sturdy tripod, a lens cleaning kit, and extra memory cards. Bring all the necessary equipment for great photos.

Editing your photos can take your shots to a new level. Photo editing tools online can help you add spice to your captured images. You can use a background changer to create a bokeh effect to highlight your subject. Editing your pictures can add drama and unique effects to your masterpiece.

Become a pro with your camera settings. Knowing how to handle exposure, shutter speed, aperture, and ISO lets you handle different lighting like an expert. It is essential to master your camera to make capturing exciting moments a breeze.

Elevating Retailer Efficiency With Multifit Products

FALCO® Holsters, a globally renowned name in bespoke handcrafted leather holsters and customized everyday carry solutions, introduces a cutting-edge dealer program tailored for brick-and-mortar retailers. The program showcases dealer-only FALCO Multifit holsters, streamlining SKU management and optimizing retail space utilization. The entire category will be displayed at the 2023 National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) Expo in Columbus, Ohio, from October 25 to 27. Wholesalers, manufacturers, association members, and media are invited to Booth #386 to see FALCO’s premium, handcrafted leather holsters.

Katarína Zacharová, Vice President of Sales and Marketing for FALCO Holsters, emphasizes the program’s focus on collaborative dealer-distributor relationships. “Our dealer-exclusive category is designed to enhance the retail-to-consumer relationship at the counter level. Each holster is crafted to bring value to both merchants and their customers, offering exclusive products not available elsewhere—not on our website, and certainly, no better deals on Amazon or any other e-commerce platform.”

“Plus, we refuse to use your valuable retail space only to get eyeballs,” commented Zacharová. “We expect the FALCO products you carry to stand out and sell out. We pledge our support by focusing on long-term partnerships and reliable sell-throughs versus chasing a quick sale by pushing our merchandise through storefronts on every corner. While our competitors concentrate on mass-produced, entry-level holsters, FALCO is exceptional. We cater to the more sophisticated gun owners and high-end firearm compatibility with unsurpassed quality and stellar customer service,” she added.

FALCO Holsters Dealer Program, Tailored for Retailers

Fiocchi Ammunition, a global leader in premium ammunition, congratulates Shelby Skaggs and Shay Skaggs of the Fiocchi Pro Shooting Team on their wins at the Southwestern Grand at the Kansas Trapshooting Association in September.

The championship took place September 11th-17th.  Shelby took Lady 1 Champion in 7 events including the Singles Championship.  She also earned 3rd Place in the Doubles Championship and Lady 1 Runner Up in 2 events.  Shay took Lady 1 Runner Up in the Single Championship and 3rd place in the 12th event.

“We are extremely proud of Shelby and Shay’s accomplishments at this championship event,” said Holly Hammond, Fiocchi USA Marketing Manager. “Their dedication and skill showcase why they are valued members of our Pro Shooting Team. Fiocchi is committed to supporting competitive and recreational target shooters with premium ammunition they can trust to perform at the highest levels.”

Fiocchi has long been at the forefront of competitive shooting, and the company is dedicated to providing its brand ambassadors and professional shooters with the most reliable and precise ammunition available.

For more information about Fiocchi ammunition, visit FiocchiUSA.com.