FRIDAY, FEBRUARY 6, 2026   |   SUBSCRIBE    ARCHIVES

ARCHERY

Easton announces the 5MM Steel HIT Break-Off Insert, an adjustable steel accessory for archers that allows weight adjustment from 50 to 75 grains. The stainless steel insert is four times stronger than brass or aluminum and is compatible with all Easton 5mm arrow shafts.

AWARDS & HONORS

TenPoint Crossbow Technologies won Best Crossbow in the 2026 Bowhunting World Readers' Choice Awards, voted by the magazine's dedicated readership. The company's 2026 lineup features the NEW Ultra Series of Crossbows and Vision™ HD 3-12X Digital Rangefinding Crossbow Scope, designed for superior accuracy and reliability.

Benelli USA announced its 2025 Sales Representative of the Year Awards honoring outstanding performers across its Benelli, Franchi, Stoeger, and Uberti USA brands. Recipients include Chase Spurgin, Ken Johnson, Tyler Harpster, Dave Lotito, James Tullos, Bentley Scott, Christian Larsen, and Greg Rader, recognized for exceptional sales performance and customer service.

Outdoor Sportsman Group presented Chris Dolnack, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer for the National Shooting Sports Foundation, with its Lifetime Achievement Award at SHOT Show in Las Vegas. The award, presented by Michael Waddell during live filming, recognized Dolnack's three decades of contributions to the shooting sports and firearms industry.

XS Sights' Optic Plate and OR-Height Sight Bundles for Glock MOS pistols won ON TARGET Magazine's Editors' Choice Award. The precision CNC-machined steel plates offer 30% more thread engagement and are compatible with ACRO and RMR footprints, providing a drop-in solution for red dot mounting with minimalist iron sight backups.

Otis Technology announced its 2025 Customer Awards at SHOT Show, naming Weby Corp as Customer of the Year and Sports South as Distributor of the Year. The awards recognized outstanding partnerships that drove growth for Otis Technology and Shooter's Choice throughout the year.

Kim Rhode, a decorated U.S. Olympic athlete and Team Winchester member, received the NSSF Ken Sedlecky Lifetime Achievement Award at the SHOT Show. Rhode competed in six consecutive Olympic Games, earning six medals across three shotgun disciplines, and has contributed extensively to youth shooting programs and firearm safety advocacy.

Summit Treestands earned the Gold winner award in the 2026 Bowhunting World Readers' Choice Award for Climbing Treestands. Brian Malone at Summit Treestands highlighted the company's commitment to designing treestands that exceed expectations for safety, comfort, and silence.

Federal received the 2026 Gold Award in the Shotshells category from Predator Xtreme readers, marking their eighth consecutive year winning the honor. Federal Shotshell Product Director Dan Compton highlighted the Federal Premium Buckshot 4B load's copper-plated pellets and tight patterns for predator hunting.

CCI Rimfire Ammunition won the Predator Xtreme 2026 Gold Award for Rimfire Ammunition for the 10th consecutive year. CCI Rimfire Product Manager Steve Monniere announced two new Hunter Series loads featuring Small Game Bullets in 22 LR calibers for 2026.

On Target Magazine awarded Federal Ammunition's 7mm Backcountry cartridge a 2025 Editors' Choice Award as part of its 24th annual awards program. The cartridge features patented Peak Alloy case technology and is engineered for short-barreled hunting rifles, achieving 3,000 feet per second through 20-inch barrels with 170-grain bullets.

INDUSTRY UPDATE

Todd Seyfert, President and CEO of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc., has been elected to the NSSF Board of Governors at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. Seyfert brings extensive industry experience from previous roles at FeraDyne Outdoors, Vista Outdoor, and other manufacturing enterprises.

Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed an opening brief with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in Elite Precision Customs v. ATF, challenging federal laws prohibiting licensed firearm dealers from selling handguns to out-of-state buyers. The case is represented by David H. Thompson, Peter A. Patterson, William V. Bergstrom, Cody J. Wisniewski, and R. Brent Cooper.

Silencer Central announced that South Dakota's legislature unanimously voted to deregulate suppressors, with the bill now heading to Governor Rhoden for signature. Founder Brandon Maddox stated the company is working with the National Shooting Sports Foundation to pursue similar legislation in other states and achieve full federal deregulation.

The Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed an amicus brief with the Supreme Court in United States v. Hemani, challenging the federal ban on gun possession by marijuana users. Represented by Bradley Benbrook and Stephen Duvernay of Benbrook Law Group, PC, FPC argues Congress lacks Article I authority to enact the ban. Oral arguments are scheduled for March 2nd, 2026.

The 2026 SHOT University, presented by NSSF, attracted over 3,100 retailers and industry professionals during SHOT Show. The event featured comprehensive sessions on compliance, marketing, and workforce development, plus a debut Suicide Prevention Town Hall led by mental health advocates. NSSF continues education year-round through SHOT University Online with on-demand compliance and business modules.

Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing announces Anne Mauro as director of special events and technical services specialist. Mauro, an NRA Certified Advanced Shotgun Coach Level 3 and 2025 NRA Golden Bullseye Award recipient, brings extensive experience from roles at Syren USA, Caesar Guerini USA, Fabarm USA, and Blaser Jagdwaffen GmbH.

HeadHunters NW President Shaylene Keiner will conduct face-to-face executive recruiting consultations in the Phoenix area from February 10 through March 5, 2026. Organizations can meet directly to discuss 2026 hiring needs, gain market intelligence on talent expectations, and develop customized talent strategies with no obligation required.

ATF Deputy Director Robert Cekada, President Trump's nominee to lead the agency, testified before the Senate Judiciary Committee and pledged to focus on violent crime while protecting Second Amendment rights. The NSSF expressed strong support for Cekada's confirmation, praising his three decades in law enforcement and commitment to not burdening lawful gun owners.

JOBS, JOBS, JOBS

European American Armory Corp. (EAA Corp.) is hiring an Inside Sales Representative in Cocoa, Florida to support the company's growth in 2026. The role involves customer support, account management, and sales support for the firearms importer.

A leading ammunition manufacturer is hiring a remote Sales Manager with a nationwide territory, offering uncapped commissions and experience-based salary. HeadHunters NW is conducting this retained search for high-energy B2B sales professionals with 5-7+ years of proven results.

Scopos, located in Manassas, VA, is hiring for Technician and Entry-level Software Engineer positions with projected start dates within the next few months. The company offers competitive pay and generous benefits. Interested candidates should visit scopos.tech/pages/jobs and submit resumes to jobs@scopos.tech.

Silencer Central is hiring for multiple positions including Event Sales Professional, Director of Marketing, and Sr. Software Development Manager due to record business growth and expanded operations in Sioux Falls, South Dakota.

NEWSSTAND, RADIO & TV

Pursuit Media TV, LLC announced a record-breaking 2025 viewership milestone of 158.4 million total viewers across all platforms. The achievement includes a 6% increase on Pursuit Channel and a 32% increase on Pursuit UP streaming service, driven by expansion across linear TV, Roku Channel, Samsung TV Plus, Google TV, and other platforms.

Outdoor Channel, presented by US Palm, launches "Freshwater Sundays" airing 8-11:30 a.m. ET with fishing shows featuring hosts Kevin VanDam, Bill Dance, Mark Zona, Charlie Ingram, Ben Ballou, Dave Mercer, and Mark Courts. The lineup offers fishing tactics, techniques, and angling action focused on freshwater species, especially bass.

Sportsman Channel presents the "Super Pigskin Bowl" on Saturday, Feb. 7, featuring hog-hunting programming from Predator Pursuit with Jeff Thomason, Night Crew with Chris Robinson, Pigman with Brian Quaca, and MeatEater with Steven Rinella hunting wild boars in New Zealand.

Pursuit Channel highlights its flagship Sportfishing Sunday block airing every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. ET, featuring programs like Vice Versa Saltwater Adventures with Scott Martin, Texas Team Trail, National Walleye Tour, and Bass Pro Shops Collegiate Bass Series. The 2026 lineup reached 158.4 million total viewers across all platforms in 2025.

Gun Talk with Tom Gresham, the nation's longest-running firearms radio show, announced its newest affiliate KFIV AM 1360 in Modesto, California, airing Saturdays from 7-10 PM PT. The expansion marks Gun Talk's continued growth to over 310 stations nationwide as it celebrates its 30th year on the air.

Pursuit Media TV, LLC announced dual Friday night programming blocks starting at 8:00 p.m. ET across Pursuit Channel linear TV and Pursuit UP free streaming platform. The lineups feature shows like Trigger Time TV, Ted Nugent Spirit of the Wild, and Americana Outdoors presented by Garmin, reaching 158.4 million total viewers across platforms in 2025.

PRODUCT NEWS

American Technologies Network Corp. (ATN) announced the ThOR® 6 Mini compact thermal riflescope is now shipping to dealers nationwide. The 6th generation thermal optics feature SharpIR™ AI-enhanced imaging, lightweight magnesium construction, and advanced features like Wi-Fi connectivity, with pricing starting at $895.00.

Wildlife Research Center® launched Golden Estrus® Scent Stick Formula, a weather-resistant estrus scent designed to trigger rutting bucks' mating instincts. Made with premium doe urine and estrus secretions, the 2.5 oz stick offers easy application and extended scent release for hunting season.

NEXTORCH North America announces NEXTORCH Ultra-Thin Tactical Gloves built with CORDURA® stretch fabric, dual-layer palm protection, and ten-finger touchscreen technology. Designed for tactical training, patrol duty, and outdoor activities, the gloves feature seamless fingertip construction, moisture-wicking materials, and direct mounting support for NEXTORCH tactical lights with an MSRP of $44.99.

Blaser Group unveiled the R8 Professional 2.0, an enhanced straight-pull rifle featuring an ergonomic vertical pistol grip, DLC A+ barrel coating, and height-adjustable comb. The rifle is available in a kit with TSA-approved hardcase and starts at $5,500 MSRP through Blaser Premium Dealers.

Browning Trail Cameras introduces its 2026 Cellular Trail Camera Security Box, an all-steel enclosure designed to protect cellular trail cameras from harsh weather, tampering, and theft. The security box is compatible with select Browning models including the Defender Vision Pro Livestream, Defender Vision Pro HD AI, Defender Pro Scout Max HD AI, and Defender Pro Scout Max HD-DV.

Federal Ammunition expanded its Rob Roberts Raptor Steel waterfowl shotshell line in 2026, collaborating with Rob Roberts Custom Gunworks to offer six new options in 12-gauge and 20-gauge configurations. The specialized loads feature heavy payloads, high pellet counts, and optimized velocities designed for improved pattern consistency and performance on ducks and geese.

Mission First Tactical introduced the MFT Ultra Low Ride IWB Holster, which sits 1.5" lower than standard holsters for deep concealment and comfort. The ambidextrous holster features adjustable retention with audio click confirmation, is made in the USA, and carries a lifetime warranty at $59.99 MSRP.

Whitetail Institute introduces Whitetail Sorghum Select, an innovative blend of two premium hybrid sorghum varieties designed for hunters and land managers. The product combines early and late-maturing hybrids to extend feeding opportunities while offering drought and disease resistance, attracting whitetail deer, turkeys, and game birds.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. announced a partnership with Lipsey's to release the exclusive Performance Center Model 36 Field Ethos revolver. This limited-release J-Frame features a .38 Special +P chambering, Tyler Gunworks premium walnut boot grips, and a bobbed hammer for concealment, with an action job performed at the factory.

Lipsey's, Smith & Wesson, and Field Ethos unveiled an exclusive Model 36 J-Frame revolver featuring a polished blued finish, Performance Center-tuned action, gold bead front sight, and Tyler Gun Works walnut grips. The collaboration combines classic design with modern performance for discerning shooters and collectors.

Federal Ammunition and Henry Repeating Arms collaborated on a limited-edition 150-grain 30-30 Win. cartridge featuring a bonded soft-point bullet and nickel-plated case designed for reliable lever-action rifle feeding. The commemorative ammunition will debut at CattleCon 2026 in Nashville, Tennessee.

Kinetic Development Group announced the updated 3.25" Stribog Rail is back in stock with extended length and enhanced bridge design for improved strength and mounting space. The refined accessory maintains KDG's lightweight construction and durability while offering greater functionality for shooters.

Beretta introduces a commemorative 500th Anniversary Medal designed in partnership with the Italian State Mint, available to customers purchasing select new Beretta firearms during 2026. The medal features the Beretta 500 logo and historic Beretta Villa, presented in a custom display package upon warranty registration.

ZeroTech launches the Thrive HD 1-8x24 LPVO RAR Illuminated riflescope, engineered for rapid target acquisition at 1x magnification and precision at extended distances. The optic features a 30mm maintube, 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum construction, and RAR illuminated reticle optimized for tactical, competition, and hunting applications.

Winchester introduces Super Suppressed, a comprehensive subsonic ammunition line available in centerfire handgun, rimfire, and centerfire rifle calibers at major outdoor retailers. The ammunition features clean performance with lead encapsulation technology and pairs with suppressors to optimize noise reduction for target and range shooting.

Ani-Logics Outdoors launches four new deer products: CRUSH Concoction, Camo CRUSH, Ani-Shield Base Mix, and Mass Maker. These offerings combine deer attraction with nutritional support, featuring protein-based formulas, immune support through Ani-Shield TX4, and minerals designed to enhance herd health and antler growth.

Warne announces the MaxLite MSR Scope Mount, a lightweight aluminum optic mounting solution designed for modern sporting rifles. Available in 1-inch and 30mm tube sizes at $109.99 MSRP, the mount offers precision construction and proper MSR height for shooters using LPVOs and other modern optics.

Iron Valley Supply is offering limited-time sales on shotguns, accessories, ammunition, and cold-weather gear for the upcoming 2026 turkey season. The Birmingham, Alabama-based distributor of shooting sports and outdoor products invites customers to view their full product lineup and contact an account representative.

ZeroTech Optics introduces two new reticle options for its Thrive 3-9x40 riflescope platform: the G4 for fast target acquisition and the PHR4 for precise shot placement. Both models maintain the rugged construction and optical performance expected from the Thrive family and are available through authorized dealers and online.

Avian-X announces the launch of Ridge Runner and Ridge Runner X turkey vests designed for mobile hunters, featuring backpack-style designs with EVA-molded call pockets and magnetic quick-deploy seats. Limited-edition NWTF versions will debut at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention in Nashville, Tennessee, February 12-14.

SHOWS

Orchid, a leading FFL technology provider, will exhibit at the 2026 NBS Spring Semi-Annual Market in Oklahoma City, offering retailers up to $5,000 in software credits. The promotion includes one year of Orchid POS, eCommerce, eBound/e4473, and native 4473 electronic storage, plus waived implementation and training fees.

Taylor's & Company will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show from February 7-15 in Harrisburg, PA, unveiling new USA-made rifles and historically-accurate firearms at booth #265. The nine-day event features over 1,000 exhibitors across 650,000 square feet of exhibit space celebrating hunting, fishing, and outdoor traditions.

CZ will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show, February 7–15, 2026, in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania. At Booth #317, CZ representatives will showcase firearms for hunting, personal defense, and sport shooting, discussing product features and innovation with attendees.

Silent Steel USA will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, PA at Booth 587, showcasing its FLOW-IQ Technology suppressors designed to reduce blowback and improve shooter comfort. The company, an independent U.S. extension of Silent Steel Finland, will educate attendees about suppressor technology and practical applications for hunting and shooting.

WE Knife will showcase its latest innovations in EDC, tactical, hunting, and outdoor knives at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show, February 7-15 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, PA. VP Marketing Seth Ercanbrack highlighted the company's excitement to share new designs at booth #440.

TriStar Arms will exhibit at the Nation's Best Sports Spring Market February 10–13 in Oklahoma City at Booth #501. The event connects independent sporting goods retailers and manufacturers, allowing TriStar to showcase firearms and strengthen relationships across the outdoor and shooting sports industry.

Hornady will exhibit at the Dallas Safari Club Convention February 6-8 in Atlanta, Georgia, hosting a free Introduction to Long Range seminar on Saturday, February 7th from 11:30-12:30 PM instructed by Preston Lentfer and Seth Swerczek.

WE Knife Co. will exhibit at the 2026 NBS Spring Semi-Annual Market in Oklahoma City, February 10-13, showcasing its latest outdoor, hunting, and fishing knives to dealer members. VP of Marketing Seth Ercanbrack highlighted the opportunity to connect with retailers and demonstrate how WE Knife's products support outdoor enthusiasts.

Traditions® Performance Firearms will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show, February 7–15 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. Attendees can visit Booth #693 to explore the company's muzzleloading and hunting firearms innovations. The world's largest consumer outdoor show attracts over 200,000 visitors annually.

Patriot Ordnance Factory Inc. (POF-USA) will exhibit at the NBS 2026 Spring Semi-Annual Market February 10-13 in Oklahoma City, showcasing its AR-type rifles and product lineup at booth 218. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Corey Soriano highlighted the event's importance for connecting with retail partners and discussing opportunities for the upcoming year.

BERSA USA will exhibit at the Nation's Best Sports 2026 Spring Semi-Annual Market in Oklahoma City, February 10-13, showcasing its firearms lineup including new M2XI double-stack 1911 models and striker-fired pistols at booth No. 431.

Meprolight will showcase new and proven products at the NBS Show in Oklahoma City, October 10-13, at Booth #1924. New offerings include the Mepro CABS backup sights, Mepro CRIS iron sights for pistol optics, and green reticle options for micro pistol optics. The company will also feature battlefield-tested Variable Optic riflescopes and the Mepro MCO PRO carbine optic.

Bear & Son Cutlery, Alabama's largest knife manufacturer, will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, February 7-15. The company will debut over a dozen new products including Locking Farmhand pocketknives, Executive stainless steel series, and expanded kitchen cutlery at booth #720.

Target Sports USA will showcase its booth #710 at the Great American Outdoor Show, featuring raffles, exclusive ammunition pricing, a Ford F-250 giveaway truck, and AMMO+ membership promotions with a free $130 gift for new members.

CZ will exhibit at the 50th Annual National Wild Turkey Federation Convention & Sport Show on February 12–14, 2026, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The company will showcase hunting-focused firearms at Booth #1114 and connect with industry leaders and conservation-minded sportsmen.

APEX Ammunition will exhibit at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention February 12-14 at Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, showcasing their TSS turkey loads in Booth #1445. The company will offer multiple gauges and blends, with the APEX Cigar Box available free with purchase of three or more boxes of turkey ammo.

T/C Arms will exhibit at the 2026 Nation's Best Sports Spring Semi-Annual Market in Oklahoma City, February 10–13, 2026, at Booth #1918. The firearms manufacturer will showcase its latest products and connect with independent sporting goods retailers to discuss market trends and growth opportunities.

Kinetic Development Group (KDG) has been approved as an official vendor partner with MidStates Buying Group, expanding distribution of its American-made firearm accessories including MREX® rail systems and Kinect™ quick-attach solutions. KDG will showcase products at the MidStates Fall Rendezvous in Arizona this August.

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