FRIDAY, OCTOBER 30, 2026   |   SUBSCRIBE    ARCHIVES

ARCHERY

As whitetail season kicks into gear across the country, hunters are looking for every possible edge against one of the most wary game animals in North America. With the Barnett Hyper Raptor T-Rex™ crossbow, they now have a powerful, ready-in-an-instant option built to perform.

Easton Archery announces the new 4MM X4, a premium Acu-Carbon target arrow for competitive archers. Available in Standard Grade and Match Grade options, the X4 features advanced carbon construction and dimensional consistency for high-level target competition across multiple disciplines.

AWARDS & HONORS

Benelli's M2-G1 Tactical shotgun has been named Guns & Ammo's 2026 Shotgun of the Year, recognizing its innovative Rear Piston Operated gas system and refined design. The award follows extensive evaluation by Guns & Ammo editors and a 4.54-out-of-5 Gold Standard rating from the National Tactical Officers Association.

INDUSTRY UPDATE

AGM Global Vision announced the appointment of Svetlana Richter as Vice President of International Sales. Richter brings over 20 years of experience in thermal imaging and night vision, most recently serving as Chief Sales Officer at Yukon Advanced Optics Worldwide. She will lead AGM's international expansion and strengthen global distribution partnerships.

Bass Pro Shops celebrates its fifth New York location opening in Victor with an Evening for Conservation on November 12, 2026, featuring legendary anglers Jimmy Houston, Kevin VanDam, Bob Izumi, and George Poveromo. Fifteen percent of sales will benefit local conservation organizations, with festivities including live entertainment, meet-and-greets, and family activities.

Safe LivinG, in collaboration with AAFES, concludes its 2026 Grand Safety Tour at Fort Hood Main Exchange on October 30-31, offering free hands-on firearms safety training, responsible gun ownership education, and suicide prevention awareness. The mobile range features FATS by InVeris simulators, product demonstrations from SABRE and Streamlight, and family-focused safety discussions.

MFSI Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization, announced the appointment of Paul Pluff as Executive Director. Pluff brings nearly three decades of management experience from Smith & Wesson and a decade at Sturm, Ruger & Company. He will lead the development and expansion of MFSI Inc.'s shooting sports leagues and teams.

 NSSF® announced that the Firearm Handler Check (FHC) Final Rule will be published today in the Federal Register. The FHC Final Rule will allow all federal firearms licensees (FFLs) to run background check verifications on current and prospective employees through the FBI’s National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS). 

Bass Pro Shops will celebrate the grand opening of its new 200,000-square-foot Outdoor World location in Sayreville, New Jersey on November 11 with an Evening for Conservation event. The destination features an 80,000-gallon Shipwreck Aquarium, The Flemish Cap restaurant, and will donate 15% of sales to local conservation organizations. Celebrity appearances include Martin Truex Jr., Ott DeFoe, Jimmy Houston, and other outdoor legends.

NSSF filed a preliminary injunction motion with the U.S. District Court for the District of New Mexico to block enforcement of Governor Michelle Lujan Grisham's seven-day waiting period law for firearm purchases. This follows a Tenth Circuit ruling that deemed the law unconstitutional, yet New Mexico continues to appeal and enforce it.

Primary Arms Optics announced the promotion of Carson Heck to Director of Manufacturing and Quality. Since joining as a Product Engineer in 2020, Heck has led design and development of optics and mounts, including the PLx® HTX-1 enclosed pistol red dot sight, the company's first U.S.-made optic.

The Second Amendment Foundation and partners including the National Shooting Sports Foundation and National Rifle Association filed a motion for preliminary injunction in NSSF v. Torrez, challenging New Mexico's House Bill 129 waiting period law. Despite a previous Tenth Circuit ruling that HB129 was unconstitutional, New Mexico continues enforcing it against residents not named in the Ortega case.

German Precision Optics (GPO USA) announced a partnership with MWS Associates, Inc. to represent GPO product lines across 37 states. MWS Associates brings 50 years of shooting sports industry experience and established retail relationships to support GPO's dealer network expansion in the eastern market.

GrabAGun Digital Holdings Inc. completed its $34.0 million all-cash acquisition of Camfour LLC, a wholesale distributor of firearms, ammunition, and outdoor products. The transaction combines Camfour's established dealer network and manufacturer relationships with GrabAGun's proprietary technology, AI, and logistics capabilities to improve purchasing economics and inventory management across the firearms industry.

JOBS, JOBS, JOBS

The Mule Deer Foundation and Blacktail Deer Foundation are hiring a Regional Director for California Coast and Central Valley to lead volunteer chapters, expand fundraising, and cultivate donors. The remote position, based in California, offers $67,000–$74,500 salary plus benefits, with applications due November 13, 2026.

The Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation is hiring a Senior Coordinator for the South Central States region covering Arkansas, Oklahoma, and Texas. The role supports policy, advocacy, and development efforts while liaising with state legislators, wildlife agencies, and conservation partners. Candidates should have a bachelor's degree and 2-3 years of relevant policy experience.

NOW SHIPPING

Federal Ammunition has expanded its American Eagle rifle line with a new 22 ARC, 75-grain Total Metal Jacket load designed for AR-15 platforms. The ammunition delivers high-velocity, flat-trajectory performance with minimal recoil and is now shipping to dealers nationwide.

PRODUCT NEWS

XS Sights has released R3D 2.0 night sights for CZ P-09 Nocturne pistols, featuring dual-illumination 3-dot designs with green or orange Glow Dot front sights and tritium. The sights are backed by a Limited Lifetime Warranty and 12-year illumination warranty.

BLACKHAWK introduces the Mini EDC Pocket Multi-Tool, a lightweight everyday carry option featuring eight essential tools including pliers, tanto-style knife, and screwdrivers in a compact 3.15-inch closed length. The tool retails for $64.99 and is available through Bear & Son Cutlery.

Bear Creek Arsenal is launching the Bear Bolt Pro Series, featuring new bolt action AR complete upper assemblies. The line debuts with 308 Winchester, with additional AR10 and AR15 calibers coming soon, all compatible with mill-spec lowers.

Sightmark announced the Latitude XD LRF 10x42 Binoculars, featuring integrated laser rangefinding up to 3,280 yards, premium ED glass, and OLED display. CEO James Sellers highlighted the product's advanced technology and rugged design for long-range shooters and hunters, with availability beginning November 2025.

ZeroTech Optics USA introduces the Thrive X 3-9x40 hunting riflescope with four reticle options: Zeroplex, G4, PHR 3, and PHR 4. The scope features a 40mm objective, 30mm aluminum tube, weights starting at 18.4 ounces, and an Adjustable BDC Turret included with select models.

Chiappa USA released a limited-edition 1911 Field Special 250th Independence Edition commemorative pistol with only 250 units produced to honor America's 250th birthday celebration in 2026. The .45 ACP pistol features a Blue Navy Cerakote finish with laser-etched commemorative design, manufactured in Italy to Chiappa's standards.

Whitetail Institute announces the Obsession Block, a nutritional supplement featuring 17% protein and essential minerals designed to support whitetail deer year-round while providing strong attraction to encourage consistent deer activity on hunting properties.

ZeroTech Optics USA introduces the Thrive X 3-12x44 hunting riflescope with five reticle options including Zeroplex, Mildot, G4, PHR 3, and PHR 4. The scope features MOA or MRAD adjustments, parallax adjustment from 10 yards to infinity, and an Adjustable BDC Turret on select models.

Zanders now stocks the Springfield Armory Echelon 9mm Central Operating Group (COG), a serialized modular component enabling customizable handgun configurations. The COG works with compatible OEM and aftermarket components across multiple grip and slide options.

Tink's Nose Candy introduces three olfactory blocker options—Sweet Apple, Anise, and Vanillin—designed to mask human odor while stimulating deer curiosity. Matt Kinamore, Senior Director of Product Development at Tink's, explains how these scent products complement comprehensive hunting strategies including scent elimination and wind awareness.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. announces the release of two classic revolvers: the Model 22 of 1917 Classic chambered in .45 ACP and the versatile Model 22 Classic available in both .45 Auto and .45 Colt. Both feature blued N-Frame construction, 6-shot capacity, and heritage-driven design elements honoring the company's military revolver legacy.

Beretta announces U.S. availability of exclusive 500th anniversary firearms including the BRX1, A400, 687 Silver Pigeon, and 694 limited editions. Each model combines proven Beretta platforms with commemorative details celebrating five centuries of Italian craftsmanship since 1526.

Pulsar has launched the Thermion 3 LRF thermal riflescope in XR60 and XT60 configurations, featuring extended laser rangefinding up to 1,312 yards, improved HD sensors, refined traditional controls, and enhanced battery life while maintaining the familiar riflescope design.

Apex Ammunition and 24.7 Hunt have partnered to launch the Cold Front™ Waterfowl series of shotshells in 12- and 20-gauge, featuring graphite-coated, zinc-plated steel shot and a Limited Bore Contact WAD System designed for improved pattern consistency and velocity retention during waterfowl hunting season.

Diamondback Firearms introduces the SDR-A BLACK, a lightweight .38 Special +P revolver weighing 15.6 ounces with a Black anodized frame and stainless steel cylinder. The hammerless, double-action-only revolver features a 2-inch barrel and is available through authorized dealers with an MSRP of $614.

ZeroTech Optics USA introduces the Thrive X 4-16x50 riflescope featuring a 50mm objective, 16x magnification, and five reticle options including Zeroplex, Mildot, G4, PHR 3, and PHR 4. The scope weighs 21.9-22.4 ounces and includes an Adjustable BDC Turret on select models for customizable distance references.

ZeroTech Optics USA announced its Adjustable BDC Turrets, featuring five customizable Adjustable Impact Markers that allow hunters and shooters to personalize distance references without tools while retaining traditional elevation markings. Compatible with select Thrive X and Thrive HD riflescope models, the system enables marker repositioning when ammunition or conditions change.

Custom & Collectable Firearms unveils the limited-edition Daniel Defense DDM4 V7 Woodland Pistol featuring a custom Woodland Camo Cerakote finish, 10.3-inch barrel, Die Free Co. Tiger Claw foregrip, and SB Tactical brace for collectors and shooters seeking distinctive performance.

Derya Arms announced the launch of two new .22LR firearms: the TM22 Fresh, a compact pistol with a 6.5" threaded barrel and foldable brace, and the RANX Mag Fed, a lever-action pistol with a 12" threaded barrel. Both firearms use TM22 magazines and feature modern specifications at MSRPs of $249 and $599 respectively.

Boyt Harness Company has launched its new Moleskin Shirt and Moleskin Vest collection, featuring durable cotton moleskin fabric designed for outdoor hunting and shooting. According to Jeff Johnson, Director of Brand Development at Boyt Harness, the pieces combine heritage outdoor apparel with modern comfort and are available through boytharness.com and authorized retailers.

Federal Ammunition has expanded its Fusion and American Eagle rifle product lines with new 22 Creedmoor loads featuring 75-grain bonded soft point and total metal jacket options, both delivering 3,300 feet-per-second muzzle velocity. The loads are now being delivered to dealers nationwide.

Samson Manufacturing introduces SAS/22 Charger folding chassis systems for both the 10/22® Charger and 10/22® Charger Takedown models. The chassis features an integrated SAS-K folding stock, adjustable length of pull and cheek riser, and a forward rail section for optics compatibility.

Millennium Treestands announces its complete Antler Shak Series of ground blinds — the Antler Shak 7 Mag, Antler Shak 30/30, and Antler Shak 30-06. Together, the series sets a new standard in concealment and visibility, giving hunters a blind built for every style of ground hunting, from spacious multi-hunter hub blinds to a durable, adaptable all-arounder.

SHOWS

The National Field Archery Association will host its inaugural 3D Challenge during ATA Show Week, January 7-10, 2027, at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis. The event runs January 8-10 alongside the NFAA Rushmore Rumble and welcomes archers of all ages and experience levels to compete for fun, awards, or cash prizes.

Iron Valley Supply has launched its Fall E-Show with over 1,200 items marked at their lowest seasonal prices, including guns, ammo, optics, and accessories available at IronValleySupply.com.

The Headrest Safe Company will exhibit at the 2026 SEMA Show in Las Vegas, showcasing its discreet in-vehicle storage solutions including the Vulcan, Slide, and Compact Headrest Safe models designed for automotive enthusiasts and daily drivers.

 
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