Springfield Armory's Kuna 9mm pistol has earned an Editors' Choice Award from On Target magazine for being selected as a best new product for 2025. The PDW-style pistol features a roller-delayed operating system, ambidextrous controls, and is priced at $1,179 to $1,330 depending on configuration.
Spartan Precision Equipment's Springbok Tripod has received the NRA Golden Bullseye Award for Gear of the Year. The tripod features innovative silicone technology enabling rapid deployment from prone to standing positions and includes a MagnaSwitch quick-detach system for hunters in demanding environments.
TightSpot, a Black Gold Premium Accessories brand member, won the Gold Award in the quiver category at the 2026 Bowhunting World Readers' Choice Awards, marking the 14th consecutive year for this honor. The award was presented by Bowhunting World staff during the NSSF SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas.
Zanders, an all-women-owned distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, received OpticsPlanet's Distributor of the Year award for 2025. The recognition honors Zanders' commitment to outstanding service, reliable fulfillment, and industry-leading product availability across firearms, ammunition, optics, and outdoor gear.
Muddy Outdoors received a 2026 Gold Award in the Climbing Stick category from Bowhunting World magazine readers. The award recognizes Muddy's innovative climbing sticks and systems, including the Pro Sticks, for their design, durability, and ease of use trusted by hunters.
Harold Knight and David Hale, co-founders of Knight & Hale Game Calls, were inducted into the Grand National Calling Championships Hall of Fame during the National Wild Turkey Federation's 50th Anniversary Convention. The ceremony recognized their 50+ years of influence in game call design and conservation.
Camfour, Inc., a major firearms distributor, is hosting a Seecamp Firearms Focus Week February 16-20, offering up to 15% off select items. Seecamp pocket pistols in .25 ACP, .32 ACP, and .380 ACP are highlighted as ideal solutions for seasonal concealment needs.
Gun Owners of America (GOA) announces GEAR, a two-day outdoor summit combining firearms training and overlanding experiences at Merus Adventure Park in Texas on April 25–26, 2026. The event features live-fire training, guided trail runs, and family activities across 5,500 acres, designed for freedom-minded Americans seeking hands-on skill-building and community connection.
NSSF praises VA Secretary Doug Collins for eliminating a three-decade-old policy reporting veterans requiring financial fiduciaries to the FBI's NICS system. NSSF Senior Vice President Lawrence G. Keane commended the action, and the organization continues supporting the Veterans 2nd Amendment Protection Act introduced by Representatives Mike Bost and Morgan Luttrell and Senators John Kennedy and Jerry Moran.
Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed a motion for summary judgment in FPC v. Platkin, challenging New Jersey's prohibition on short-barreled rifles. FPC is joined by five individual members, High Caliber Ordinance LLC, and Louie G's Outdoors, represented by Chad Flores and Bradley Lehman. A favorable ruling would allow New Jersey residents to lawfully own these constitutionally protected firearms.
Silent Steel USA announced a strategic partnership with Maschmedt & Associates, a sales agency with over 50 years of outdoor industry experience. The agreement expands Silent Steel USA's representation across 23 western states, strengthening dealer relationships and market presence for innovative suppressor technology.
Primary Arms Optics announced the promotion of Stephen Morgan to Senior Director of Sales and Marketing. Morgan will oversee global sales strategy, marketing initiatives, and brand development for the company's optics division, building on his contributions since joining in 2021.
XTech Tactical announced the acquisition of Creature Grips, LLC in Q4 2025, rebranding the heat-venting rail cover technology as Thru-Flo™ Rail Covers. The lightweight, tool-free covers are compatible with M-LOK handguards and priced at $14.95 for a 6-pack, expanding XTech Tactical's product portfolio with patented innovation.
The National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers announced that Heckler & Koch joined VAULT as a founding member and strategic partner, committing all H&K SKUs to the centralized product data platform designed to standardize product information across the shooting sports industry.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) and the National Rifle Association filed an amicus brief with the U.S. District Court for the Middle District of Pennsylvania supporting SIG SAUER's motion to protect gun owners' privacy in Hall v. Sig Sauer, Inc., opposing forced disclosure of customer identities in civil litigation discovery.
Derya Arms appointed Bill Hicks & Co., Ltd. as a new distributor for its firearms products across the United States. The partnership expands Derya's distribution network and brings its pistols, rifles, and shotguns to independent dealers through Bill Hicks & Co., Ltd.'s established wholesale channels.
Superior Outfitters, one of Texas's largest shooting sports retailers, seeks to expand its footprint through new store openings and strategic acquisitions of existing firearms businesses. The company invites dealers facing market challenges to discuss potential partnership or acquisition opportunities.
SDS Arms has ended its exclusive agreement with TİSAŞ Trabzon Silah Sanayi and will no longer import, distribute, or service Tisas firearms. Warranty support is now handled by new U.S. importer Tisas Arms Corp. SDS Arms continues offering firearms under brands MAC, Inglis, Tokarev USA, and Spandau Arms.
NSSF, the Firearm Industry Trade Association, applauds President Trump's Make America Beautiful Again 250 commission chaired by Interior Secretary Doug Burgum. The initiative aims to increase hunting and public land access while reducing bureaucratic barriers to conservation and outdoor recreation on public lands and waters.
Walther Arms, INC. announced David Farrell's appointment as Chief Revenue Officer effective January 12, 2026. Farrell brings extensive sales management experience from Maxim Defense, Christensen Arms, and Sig Sauer, and will oversee sales, marketing, and product strategies to drive growth in commercial and professional markets.
NSSF celebrates the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service's announcement that nearly $1.3 billion is being delivered to state conservation and wildlife programs, with $804.8 million sourced from firearm and ammunition excise taxes paid by manufacturers under the Pittman-Robertson Wildlife Restoration Act.
The Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is seeking a Convention & Events Manager to oversee its annual multi-day hunting and conservation convention and year-round member events. The position requires five years of large-scale trade show and convention management experience, with responsibilities including exhibitor coordination, vendor management, and event execution.
Krieghoff International is seeking an experienced Accessories & Merchandise Manager for its Ottsville, Pennsylvania headquarters. The role oversees branded merchandise and accessory programs, including product development, sourcing, and online store management, supporting the company's competitive shooting and hunting communities.
MyOutdoorTV premieres new episodes of Dropped and Wardens every Friday. Dropped follows brothers Chris and Casey Keefer and cameraman Jason Brown surviving 30 days in remote wilderness locations. Wardens chronicles Conservation Officers protecting wildlife across America's most remote areas.
Gun Owners of America (GOA) announced the launch of State of the Second, its first digital magazine exclusive to members. Building on the success of GOA's State of the Second Podcast, the publication will feature expert gun reviews, factory tours, and Second Amendment advocacy coverage.
Pursuit Channel highlights the 16th season of Angler's Bass Channel Bass Wrap Up, a weekly bass fishing recap show featuring top pros and regional experts. The show covers competitive and recreational bass fishing events, breaking news, pro tips, and interviews, reaching 158.4 million viewers across platforms in 2025.
Federal Ammunition is now shipping its new Federal Fit Pursuit Rifle Case, designed to protect and transport modern rifles with suppressors. The adjustable case features heat-resistant lining, multiple storage pockets, and dual carry options for convenient field transport.
Henry Repeating Arms has begun shipping its new Explorer Carbine series, featuring a distinctive Burnt Bronze Cerakote finish inspired by American Southwest landscapes. Available in multiple calibers including .30-30 Winchester, .360 Buckhammer, .45-70 Gov't, .357 Magnum, and .44 Magnum, the carbines offer threaded barrels, adjustable sights, and American walnut furniture at an MSRP of $1,430.
Browning Trail Cameras introduces the Spec Ops Elite HP5 Ultra, an advanced SD-card trail camera featuring exceptional daytime and nighttime performance with no-glow infrared flash, HD video, and a 2-inch full-color viewing screen for field verification and setup.
Patriot Ordnance Factory Inc. (POF-USA), in partnership with Patriot Tactical LLC and Goldberg's Garage, released the Goldberg Blade, a limited-edition folding knife featuring custom CGC Cerakote artwork and designed as a companion to POF-USA's Rogue Jackhammer Signature Series rifle. Limited to 300 units with an MSRP of $300.
Konus introduces the #7962 Fiery-Dual riflescope and monocular, an affordable dual-function device combining thermal and night vision technology with 7x magnification, 256x192 resolution, and digital reticle for $1,199.99.
Bear Creek Arsenal introduced the Grizzly 102 .380 ACP handgun featuring a compact design with 15+1 capacity and ergonomic grip enhancements. The company also launched a .380 ACP Conversion Kit for existing Grizzly 102 owners, including a complete slide assembly and magazine.
BANISH Suppressors announced the release of the BANISH 20 and BANISH 410 shotgun suppressors, expanding their hearing-safe firearm suppressor line. Both models feature interchangeable chokes, adaptive mounts, and are made from titanium using additive manufacturing, with the BANISH 20 weighing 14.7 ounces and the BANISH 410 weighing 7.2 ounces.
Zanders, a national distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, announced it is now stocking Akkar shotguns, expanding its shotgun lineup for dealers nationwide. Akkar shotguns are known for quality craftsmanship and competitive pricing across hunting, clay shooting, and home defense applications.
FALCO Holsters announced expanded compatibility for Glock Generation 6 handguns, including the Glock 19, 17, 45, and 49 Gen 6 models. The company now supports over 3,600 handgun models across its full portfolio of leather, nylon, Kydex, and carbon fiber holsters.
C&H Precision released new Gen 6 MIL/LEO Optic Adapter Plates for Glock Gen 6 MOS platforms, precision machined from 6061 aluminum with MIL-SPEC Type III hard anodizing. The adapter plates support multiple optics footprints including C&H EDC, Holosun 407K/507K, SIG Romeo 0, and Vortex Defender-CCW, with pricing starting at $69.99.
GForce Arms announced the LVR30S, a new side-eject .30-30 Winchester lever-action rifle in the Saddlehorn lineup. Built on a Marlin 336-style action with a 20-inch barrel and 6+1 capacity, it offers multiple finish and stock options. Shipping begins March 2026.
Magpul introduced the Sub-Compact Enhanced Handgun Grip (EHG) for the Ruger RXM pistol, enabling users to convert between full-sized, compact, and sub-compact configurations. The grip features Magpul's Trapezoidal Surface Projection texture, undercut trigger guard, and compatibility with Magpul GL9 PMAGs and GLOCK magazines.
BANISH Suppressors, founded by Brandon Maddox, introduces the BANISH VRMT 223 Ti, a lightweight titanium suppressor designed for .224-caliber cartridges and smaller. The HUB-compatible suppressor achieves over 35 decibels of sound reduction and weighs 9.7 ounces, making it ideal for varmint hunting, predator control, and target shooting.
Chiappa USA highlights the Honcho Pump Series, American-made 12-gauge and 20-gauge pump-action shotguns manufactured in Dayton, Ohio for home defense and tactical applications. The lineup includes three models: Honcho Tactical Pump Synthetic, Honcho Tactical Pump Walnut, and Honcho Tactical Pump California Model, all featuring aluminum receivers, steel barrels, and bird's head grips.
Browning Trail Cameras introduces the Recon Force Elite HP5 Ultra, a premium trail camera featuring true-to-life daytime and nighttime clarity, low-glow infrared flash, fast trigger speed, and a 2-inch full-color viewing screen for wildlife monitoring and land management.
ZeroTech Optics announced the launch of the Thrive 1-10x24 SFP Illuminated LPVO series, featuring true 1x magnification for rapid target acquisition and 10x magnification for mid-range engagement. Available in three illuminated reticle configurations—RAR, PHR4, and G4—the optic is designed for competition, tactical, and hunting applications.
Magpul now offers six GEN M3 PMAGs in Olive Drab Green, including 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem., .300 BLK, and .308 Win. variants. The new magazines feature the company's rugged polymer construction and meet strict military standards while maintaining reliability and affordability.
Wildlife Research Center® has launched a new 9 FL OZ squirt top bottle of Ultimate Bear Lure®, featuring an intense burning sweet aroma formula that works effectively in wet conditions. The product is available at authorized retailers for $25.99 MSRP.
The Oklahoma Department of Wildlife Conservation opened a new shooting range at Copan Wildlife Management Area, 13 miles north of Bartlesville. The facility features 50-yard pistol and 100-yard rifle ranges, archery facilities, and ADA access. Funding came from the Wildlife Restoration Program, National Rifle Association's Public Range Fund, and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers.
Liberty Ammunition will exhibit at Enforce Tac in Nuremberg, Germany on February 23-25, showcasing its Pro Series ammunition and new developments to military and law enforcement allies. CEO Gary Ramey stated the company is excited to review the latest ammunition innovation at the event.
Patriot Ordnance Factory Inc. (POF-USA) will exhibit at IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany from February 26-March 1, showcasing its AR-type rifles and accessories. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Corey Soriano highlighted the event as an opportunity to connect with global partners and customers while expanding POF-USA's international presence.
Viridian Weapon Technologies will exhibit at Enforce Tac 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany, February 23–25, showcasing weapon-mounted systems including advanced green dot optics, tactical lights, the 4LUX integrated foregrip, and MDS Series optics at Booth 8-123.
European American Armory Corp. will exhibit at Kinsey's Dealer Show 2026 (February 19-21, Lancaster, PA) showcasing new 1911 double stack models, long-guns from Balikli Firearms, and California-compliant pistols with exclusive dealer pricing and margins.
Die Free Co. (DFCO), a rifle parts and furniture manufacturer, will debut internationally at IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany. The company will showcase its product lineup including the Kung Fu AR-15 grip, Tiger Claw forward control accessory, and Plug device, with products available through Brownells.
Gearfire, a technology solutions provider for shooting sports and outdoor retail, will exhibit at the 2026 Kinsey's Dealer Show in Lancaster, Pennsylvania, February 19-21. The company will showcase its eCommerce software and debut Gearfire POS, a cloud-based point-of-sale platform designed for archery and firearms retailers.
Derya Arms will showcase its firearms lineup at IWA Outdoor Classics 2026 in Nürnberg, Germany from February 26 to March 1. The company will feature the MAX Shotgun, TM22 Rifles, DY9 Pistol, and new products including the DY9Z, highlighting its commitment to innovation and global accessibility across 50 countries.
Looking back to the beginning, Chris Meter admits he had his doubts about the value of the First Shots® program.
This was in 2024, when Mission94 Firearms Education Center in Kenosha, Wis., opened its doors for the first time. Meter, the operations manager, remembers thinking the NSSF® training program would be little more than a “nicety” that might provide a little boost while the store found its legs.
Those doubts have long since faded away: “These classes have turned out to be power hitters,” Meter shared.
Consider that Mission94 started by hosting the introductory pistol and rifle classes a couple times a month. But driven by strong demand, the pistol class is now offered six times a month. And they are debuting the brand-new suppressor course, with plans to offer it at least twice a month.
Today, Meter sees First Shots as the gateway to Mission94.
“It’s the perfect description, considering the things this leads to. Four-to-six out of 10 students typically seek more training with our institution after participating,” he said.
Meter attributes the successes both to First Shots and the store’s welcoming approach that’s designed to help newcomers get past any negative preconceived notions they may have about gun stores and gun owners. A good experience in class brings them back for more of what the store is offering.
“This is where they’re buying their firearms. They’re buying their accessories, bags, eye protection, ear protection, optics, cleaning kits and all of that,” Meter said. “When we bring one person into the First Shots class, we consider it bringing in a new person who may become a customer for life.”
The NSSF program provides most of the tools and resources needed to put on a class, whether the focus is handguns, rifles, shotguns or suppressors. Support includes targets, ammunition, eye/ear protection and a First Shots handbook for each participant.
Whatever the topic, Mission94 has been impressed with the First Shots approach.
“We had developed our own class before this,” said Jennifer Nienhaus, Mission94’s training manager. “But one of the things we like about the First Shots material is it’s very detailed and complete. At the same time, it’s well written for new shooters and beginners with a limited knowledge base.”
That’s why it was so easy to add the new First Shots suppressor class, with more customers — inspired by the change in the tax stamp prices — expressing interest in learning more. Like other First Shots courses, this one will start in the classroom, followed by range time and the opportunity to shoot several suppressed firearms.
“We want to be able to provide our customers and our students with more information to help them make informed decisions about their suppressor purchases,” she said.
And while ranges are welcome to adjust class curriculum, Mission94 hasn’t found a need to do so. Instead, they’ve added some extra time onto the end of the class to help students answer a key question: “What’s next?”
“We have the opportunity to work with them on their next steps in their shooting sports journey,” Nienhaus said.
With every class, the goal is the same — to help students have a great first experience with firearms, or one that erases any lingering anxiety from a previous experience. They want course graduates to see firearms as a potential part of their lives going forward.
“I want them to have a higher level of comfort that makes them want to come back and try this again and think about where they want to go,” she said. “Maybe it’s someone who is looking at recreational shooting. Do they want to do hunting? Are they looking for self-defense? This class can be a starting point for anyone, no matter what direction they’re going to go.”
“Four-to-six out of 10 students typically seek more training with our institution after participating.”
— Chris Meter, Mission94 Operations Manager
Keys to Success
Both Meter and Nienhaus see First Shots as a program that sets you up for success from the start, thanks to the course materials, supplies and assistance with promotions. Still, there are things any range can do to increase the chances customers will respond in a positive way.
Let’s start with the guns the students will be shooting. It’s helpful, they say, to have every participant using the same gun and that those guns will function well. For Misson94 it’s the .22-caliber FN 502. The consistency and lack of malfunctions help keep the focus on the fundamentals.
“You’re working with the same firearm with all of the students, and you’re not having to adapt things like grip functionality for different students,” Nienhaus said. “You don’t have that extra layer of confusion when you have a brand-new student who’s trying to figure out why their gun operates differently than someone else’s.”
Sticking with .22 also makes sense for a beginner’s class, said Meter.
“When you have somebody who already is incredibly nervous and skittish, you don’t want the person next to them using a 10mm,” he said.
And like other successful shops, they stress the importance of creating a welcoming environment for students. Remember, for many of them, this may be the first time they’ve even held a gun.
“Especially if you have women or groups who don’t traditionally feel welcome in the firearms community, this is your chance to show them differently,” Nienhaus said. “You can show them there’s no judgment and this is a safe place.”
Meter also urges ranges to take a hard look at the training staff. Do you have trainers who will be patient with rookies?
“You don’t need the hard-ass law enforcement or military instructor in this class,” Meter said, while pointing out his own staff includes several instructors with extensive military and law enforcement experience.
The key is they understand the tone that needs to be set in the class.
“One of our trainers is a Vietnam vet. He’s a Silver Star recipient and retired Army colonel,” Meter explained. “But he has a very soft, grandfatherly approach. You want to ease people into this. You can’t just show up out there and start acting like you’re dealing with a bunch of 19-year-old infantrymen.”
Mission94 regularly hosts First Shots events in its modern classroom.
Is First Shots Right for Your Range?
Do you want more customers? Is your facility equipped to introduce first-time shooters to safe and fun shooting? Do you have instructors and range safety officers who enjoy working with new shooters? If you answered “yes” to each of these questions — your facility is ready to reap the benefits of hosting a First Shots introductory course.
There are courses available for introductions to rifle/pistol, clay target shooting and suppressors.
An additional incentive to consider: Funding, which was previously limited to marketing efforts, is now available to qualifying NSSF member ranges, instructors and shooting sports organizations to help cover a variety of expenses related to First Shots hosting efforts. Hosts are eligible to receive $15 per First Shots participant, up to a maximum of $1,500.
To learn more or to sign up as a host, contact Ann Gamauf at agamauf@nssf.org or Zach Snow at zsnow@nssf.org. For more information on First Shots, visit the First Shots welcome page on the NSSF website.
