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.
Industry Update
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, 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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
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.
NSSF praised South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden for signing Senate Bill 2, which deregulates suppressors in the state. The law was signed at Silencer Central with NSSF Board member Brandon Maddox and NSSF's Moriah Day present, removing suppressors from the state's controlled weapon definition.
Wiley X announced the appointment of Johnathan Weikum as Vice President of Sales. Weikum will lead the company's sales organization across all channels, overseeing strategic growth initiatives and key partnerships. He previously served as Director of Sales for Wiley X's Optical Division and held senior roles at Oakley and Costa Del Mar.
Kinetic Development Group recognizes MidwayUSA as a key stocking partner, highlighting their longstanding relationship built on trust and shared commitment to the shooting sports community. With new product launches planned for 2026, both companies are aligned on expanding their partnership and increasing KDG product availability through MidwayUSA.
Kovix, a premium titanium suppressor manufacturer, relocated its headquarters from Lake Norden, South Dakota to Kalispell, Montana. CEO Luke Hanson stated the move enhances team synergy and positions the company more centrally for operations while maintaining seamless customer service.
Wiley X announced the appointment of Cory Uehlein as Vice President of Marketing & Digital. In this role, Uehlein will lead the company's comprehensive marketing and digital strategy, driving brand growth and customer experience across all channels.
Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) announced a successful settlement in Shaffer v. Quattrone, eliminating New York's non-resident firearm carry ban. The State now confirms that residency is not required for firearm licensure, with Chautauqua, Steuben, Tioga, and Orange counties agreeing to accept applications from non-residents. FPC has established a New York Carry Hotline to report any licensing denials.
South Dakota Governor Rhoden signed SD 2 into law at Silencer Central's headquarters, removing suppressors from the state's controlled weapons definition. The legislation, sponsored by Senator Casey Crabtree and Representative Drew Peterson, was supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation and provides a template for other states seeking suppressor deregulation.
