FRIDAY, APRIL 17, 2026   |   SUBSCRIBE    ARCHIVES

EDITOR'S NOTE

Today's edition of The Dealer Wire is split into two: the morning edition you are reading now, and an afternoon edition that you will receive closer to noon Eastern Time. The split edition is due to the large volume of releases appearing today.

AWARDS & HONORS

Anthony Imperato, Founder and CEO of Henry Repeating Arms, received the Law Enforcement Supporter of the Year award from New York State Fraternal Order of Police Memorial Lodge 100. The honor recognizes Imperato's decades-long commitment to supporting law enforcement through personal efforts and Henry Repeating Arms' "Guns For Great Causes" program, which has supported organizations including the National Fraternal Order of Police and National Fallen Officers Foundation.

CONSUMER PROMOS

Kimber announced its Summer Centennial Promotion running April 1 through July 4, featuring the limited-edition 2K11 Independence pistol with a $250 cash rebate. The .45 ACP pistol includes custom Cerakote finish, three 13-round magazines, and optics-ready configuration, celebrating the company's heritage of American firearm craftsmanship.

Springfield Armory is launching the Model 2020 Gear Up promotion, offering purchasers of select new Model 2020 rifles a free XD-M Elite 10mm pistol worth $674. The program runs from April 15 through August 31, 2026, and includes an online redemption process with dealer delivery.

DEALER PROGRAMS

RSR Group announces its 2026 Spring E-Show running April 21-24 as a virtual trade event featuring manufacturer booths, exclusive dealer specials, new products, and daily prize giveaways on www.rsrgroup.com.

INDUSTRY UPDATE

NSSF filed a Federal Election Commission complaint against Giffords PAC, alleging violations of joint fundraising rules. The complaint claims Giffords PAC and allied candidates failed to comply with FEC filing and disclaimer requirements while soliciting funds for both the PAC and preferred gun control candidates.

The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) filed a motion for summary judgment in Poway Weapons & Gear v. Gonzales, challenging California's 11% excise tax on firearms and ammunition that took effect in July 2024. SAF argues the tax violates Second Amendment protections and contends that fundamental rights cannot be subject to special taxation.

Firearms Policy Coalition announced a motion for summary judgment filed in Poway Weapons & Gear v. CDTFA, challenging California's 11% excise tax on firearms, ammunition, and firearm precursor parts. Plaintiffs Poway Weapons & Gear and Sacramento Gun Range are represented by Cooper & Kirk, PLLC and Michel & Associates, P.C.

NSSF praised Kansas Governor Laura Kelly for signing HB2501, which removes state criminal prohibitions against firearm suppressors and eliminates state-level tax stamp requirements. The law passed with overwhelming bipartisan support and includes provisions for retailer immunity and enhanced penalties for criminal misuse of suppressors and short-barrel firearms.

CZ announced that former U.S. Navy SEAL and trainer Jeff Gonzales has joined as Marketing & Communications Specialist and brand ambassador. Gonzales, founder of Trident Concepts and host of AR15.com's Bulletproof Workshop podcast, will contribute to CZ and Dan Wesson's marketing efforts, product development, and customer engagement.

The Second Amendment Foundation and partners including the American Suppressor Association, National Rifle Association, and Firearms Policy Coalition filed a supplemental reply brief in Brown v. ATF challenging the National Firearms Act's registration requirements for short-barreled firearms and silencers.

Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) criticized the Trump Administration for continuing to defend the Biden ATF's "Frame or Receiver" rule after the Supreme Court upheld it, despite FPC providing alternative regulatory proposals to protect Second Amendment rights.

The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute (SAAMI) announced the release of the 2026 update to American National Standard SAAMI Z299.1-2026, providing pressure and velocity performance standards for rimfire ammunition and chambers. The standard ensures safety, reliability, and interchangeability of firearms and ammunition.

RetailBI released its monthly Firearm Sales Index showing an 11.9% year-over-year decline in March 2026 and an 8.2% year-to-date decline. The index, powered by Gearfire and compiled from over 2,000 U.S. firearms retailers, provides data-driven market insights to manufacturers, distributors, and retailers.

Hodgdon Powder Company marks the 50th anniversary of Pyrodex, the revolutionary black powder substitute introduced at the 1976 NRA Annual Meetings. Developed by Bob Hodgdon and Dan Pawlak, Pyrodex has become the most trusted propellant among muzzleloading enthusiasts, offering cleaner-burning performance and improved storage stability.

The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) named U.S. Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.) as its 2025 Legislator of the Year for his advocacy supporting firearm industry commerce, Second Amendment rights, and hunting. Cline championed the Hearing Protection Act, secured NFA tax elimination in the One Big Beautiful Bill, and sponsored legislation protecting industry access during government shutdowns.

JOBS, JOBS, JOBS

HeadHunters NW has been exclusively retained by a U.S.-based firearms accessories manufacturer to conduct a confidential search for a Sales Manager. The role involves leading revenue growth across multiple channels while championing AI integration into sales and customer service operations, with a preference for candidates in the Northeast United States.

Buck Knives is seeking an experienced Operations Manager to drive efficiency, lead teams, and support manufacturing and business operations growth. Interested candidates should contact Tim Keaty, Human Resources Manager, at Buck Knives in Post Falls, Idaho.

HeadHunters NW has been exclusively retained by Heckler & Koch USA to conduct a confidential national search for a National Sales Manager — Commercial. The role offers autonomy and accountability leading H&K USA's growing commercial sales operations from Columbus, Georgia, across distribution and premium dealer networks.

HeadHunters NW has been exclusively retained by a Salt Lake City-based firearms and accessories manufacturer to conduct a confidential search for a Director of Distribution & Fulfillment Operations. The role involves designing and operating a state-of-the-art distribution center, managing fulfillment systems, inventory control, and ATF/FFL compliance for a company trusted by the U.S. military and law enforcement.

NOW SHIPPING

HOWA's new 25 Creedmoor rifles are now available through Legacy Sports International in 1500 barreled actions with 22" and 24" barrel options. The cartridge, dubbed the Triple Threat, serves varmint hunting, deer hunting, and precision shooting applications with ballistic performance comparable to the 6.5 Creedmoor.

Daniel Defense announces the launch of the MUTE30Ti, a 3D-printed titanium suppressor engineered for precision bolt-action rifles. Weighing 8.3 ounces with a 1.55-inch diameter, the suppressor features a low-flow design, integral flash hider, and HUB mounting compatibility, backed by a lifetime warranty.

PRODUCT NEWS

Check-Mate announced a collaboration with EAA Corp. and Girsan on the next-generation Witness2311® XXX Series pistols, featuring a newly engineered slim-profile magazine with 16-round capacity. The launch will be unveiled at the NRA Annual Meeting 2026 in Houston, with Check-Mate and EAA Corp. hosting a special event at Booth 3031 on April 17.

Taurus USA announces the launch of the Taurus RPC, its first dedicated 9mm PDW built to NATO standards. The compact platform features fully ambidextrous controls, a 4.5" threaded barrel, and is available with or without a Strike Industries folding brace, now shipping to dealers nationwide.

Springfield Armory unveiled the Model 2020 Heatseeker .308 Pistol, featuring a compact 12" barrel and 22.5" overall length with bolt-action precision and AR-style modularity. The pistol utilizes a Sharps Bros 1913 Heatseeker Chassis, stainless steel barrel, and adjustable TriggerTech trigger, priced at $1,999 MSRP.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. announced the release of the Bodyguard 38 2.0, a compact .38 S&W Special +P revolver designed for personal protection. The 5-shot revolver features a 1.875" stainless-steel barrel, ambidextrous cylinder release, and is available with an optional Crimson Trace red laser at MSRPs of $449.00 and $549.00 respectively.

Davidson's has become the exclusive distributor for TANDEMKROSS's new TKX22 Light Rifle, a competition-ready semi-auto .22lr rifle weighing less than 3.5 pounds. The rifle features TANDEMKROSS components, fiber optic sights, and M-LOK mounting options, with an MSRP of $1,449.99 available in four stock colors.

SDS Arms introduces the Spandau Arms S2 12-gauge 21" shotgun in TrueTimber Strata camo, featuring an inertia-operated system, Benelli/Mobil choke tubes, and fiber optic front sight. Designed for turkey hunting and spring season, the shotgun combines lightweight handling with reliable performance and customization options.

Chattanooga Shooting Supplies announced two exclusive colorways of the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 Carry Comp: a blue titanium frame with Performance Center Gray Armornite slide and a midnight bronze frame with matching slide. Both models combine premium aesthetics with reliable performance for everyday carry.

Magpul expands its Enhanced Lever Gun (ELG) M-LOK Hand Guard lineup with a proprietary clamp system to fit Marlin lever guns manufactured by Ruger and Remington, including 1895, 1894, and 336 models. The one-foot-long handguard features six M-LOK slots and an integrated hand stop, available in black, FDE, and ODG.

EchoCore Suppressors' Topo 22 suppressor has been featured on the cover of On Target Magazine's 2026 Personal Defense issue, showcased mounted on an HK G36 .22LR platform. The titanium-constructed suppressor, available through Silencer Shop, represents a significant editorial endorsement for the brand's advanced rimfire suppressor design.

Taurus USA has released a threaded barrel option for its 22TUC micro-compact pistol, a lightweight .22 LR firearm weighing just 10 ounces and made in the USA. The new variant maintains the platform's tip-up barrel design and 9+1 capacity while offering suppressed shooting capability for personalization.

Springfield Armory unveiled the SAINT Victor 5.5" 9mm PDW, a compact firearm featuring an ultra-short barrel paired with an SB Tactical HBPDW collapsible brace. The direct blowback system delivers rugged reliability in a maneuverable platform ideal for tight spaces, with an MSRP of $1,399.

SHOWS

Charter Arms, a manufacturer of American-made revolvers for over 60 years, will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, TX from April 16-19. The company will showcase new models including the Boomer compact revolver and Pathfinder II .22LR revolver at booth #4643.

RCBS and Hodgdon Powder Company will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits at Booth #3617, featuring reloading tools, components, and innovations. Both companies will host in-depth reloading workshops for beginners, with Weaver Mounts also showcased at the booth.

Check-Mate will showcase its firearm magazines, components, and branded apparel at Booth #3337 during the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, April 17–19. The company will host a multi-sponsor giveaway featuring prizes from Kimber and Nine-Line, with drawings at 3:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Bear & Son Cutlery, an Alabama-based knife manufacturer, will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston at booth #3202. The company will debut over a dozen new products including the 112A Stainless Steel Frame Lock Assisted Opener, Locking Farmhand series, Slidelock Folder series, and expanded kitchen cutlery line.

Dead Air Silencers will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 16-19, showcasing their suppressor lineup including the Sandman, Nomad, Wolfman, RXD910Ti, Nomad Ti OTB, and CT5P at Booth #537.

MTM Case-Gard, a family-owned company since 1968, showcases its latest American-made storage and transport solutions at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas. New products include the Suppressor Protector 2, 250th Multi-Can Ammo Crates, Emergency Boxes, Chronograph Case, Pistol Range Kit, Molle Panels, and Truck Underseat Gear Crate at booth #2107.

Rock River Arms will exhibit at booth #3002 at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, showcasing their American-made Modern Sporting Rifles and pistols including 1911 pistols, AR-15 rifles, short-barreled rifles, and bolt-action rifles. The Colona, Illinois manufacturer will demonstrate firearms engineered for accuracy and reliability.

Springfield Armory will attend the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 17-19, featuring its latest firearms and an Ace Virtual Shooting Simulator. The company will host a Booth Party giveaway on Saturday, April 18th at 3pm CT, hosted by competitive shooter Julie Golob, offering seven firearms to in-person attendees.

Howa Precision Rifles will exhibit at the NRA Houston Annual Meetings April 17-19, 2026, showcasing new 2026 products including the Fence Line Series, Super Lite Gen 2 with HS Precision stock, and the new 25 Creedmoor cartridge. Daily rifle giveaways will be held at booth #1947.

Hornady and SnapSafe, a Hornady Company, will showcase their 2026 product lineup at Booth #2115 during the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits April 16-19, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Visitors can meet hunting celebrities and Team Hornady-sponsored shooters at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

AGM Global Vision, a Grand Prairie, Texas-based thermal imaging and night vision manufacturer, will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, April 17-19. Visitors to Booth 4203 can experience products including the Rattler V3 LRF, Adder V2 LRF, and Spectrum 4K-Mini, with opportunities to win thermal optics and gear.

EchoCore Suppressors will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 16–19, alongside Silencer Shop at booth #3643. The company will showcase its premium suppressor lineup, including the award-winning Sector 5.56 models and the newly released Topo 22 rimfire suppressor.

Sarsilmaz, a global firearms manufacturer, will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 17-19. At Booth #4335, the company will showcase the SAR9 SOCOM series, 7/24 Series, and SAR9 Gen3 family of pistols, highlighting their performance and reliability innovations.

HeadHunters NW, an executive search firm specializing in regulated industries, will attend the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 16–19. President Shaylene Keiner will be available for strategic meetings with industry leaders, alongside the firm's service dog George Washington.

Armscor/Rock Island Armory will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 16-19, showcasing new products including the RIA-USA Pak-Out, updated 22TCM Bolt Action Rifle, and TAC II Series at Booth #1934.

Samson Manufacturing and TANDEMKROSS have partnered to create a special prize package featuring a Ruger 10/22 with SAS Folding Chassis System, Spitfire Lightweight Barrel, Manticore Lite Trigger Assembly, and Game Changer PRO Compensator, valued over $2,000, to be awarded at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings in Houston.

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