Colt CZ Group SE successfully closed its acquisition of 51% stakes in Synthesia Nitrocellulose and Synthesia Power for CZK 10.0 billion, strengthening control over key ammunition production materials. Kaprain Chemical Limited became Colt CZ's third largest shareholder with a 9.86% stake.
Industry Update
FastBound announced full availability of NICS Direct, its integrated background check solution now powering daily transactions for FFLs nationwide. The platform eliminates technical barriers by automating server management and certificate renewal while integrating directly with Electronic A&D and 4473 workflows. FastBound's partnership with FFLGuard provides funded legal defense for administrative actions.
Christensen Arms announced Shane Meisel's appointment as President effective January 1, 2026. Meisel, an industry veteran, will lead the precision firearms manufacturer through its next growth phase, succeeding interim president Matt Fleming.
Kovix announced a partnership with Silencer Shop, the nation's largest suppressor distributor. Silencer Shop will distribute Kovix's complete product lineup, including the new Badlands series suppressors debuting at the 2026 SHOT Show.
TH Holsters is seeking a sales representative group to expand its national presence. The company emphasizes its value proposition including high-quality holsters at intermediate pricing, space-saving designs for dealers, and simplified SKUs for rep groups. CEO Thomas Heppner states the company is expanding production and seeks partners valuing quality, simplicity, and service.
WOOX, an Italian-made gunstock, axe, and knife manufacturer, announced Brian Matthews as National Sales Manager. Matthews will oversee domestic sales and report to CEO Ben Fleming, bringing extensive outdoor industry experience from Advanced Armament Corporation and BPI Outdoor.
HeadHunters NW completed an executive search resulting in Dr. Todd Adkins' appointment as Executive Director of the Oregon Hunters Association. Dr. Adkins brings 30 years of hunting and conservation experience, including previous roles at Sportsmen's Alliance and the NRA-ILA, and will lead OHA's transformation and growth.
Charter Arms announced a partnership with BCE Marketing for sales representation across Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota. BCE Marketing will handle commercial sales and support for the American-made revolver manufacturer founded in 1964.
Tactical Target Systems is seeking a sales representative group to expand its national presence and strengthen relationships with dealers and ranges. Founder Don Robertson emphasizes the company's commitment to partnering with rep groups that value growth, long-term relationships, and integrity.
Orchid announced its Winter ONEderland Promotion running January 10βFebruary 20, 2026, offering FFLs up to $10,000 in software credits. The company introduced Orchid POS Spark, a cloud-based solution for startup and small retail FFLs at $99 monthly, and will exhibit at Camfour Dealer Show, NSSF SHOT Show, NBS Spring Market, and Sports Inc Outdoor Show.
The Indiana Court of Appeals unanimously ended the City of Gary's 26-year lawsuit against firearm manufacturers, upholding House Bill 1235 championed by NSSF that reserves to Indiana the exclusive authority to sue industry members. NSSF Senior Vice President Lawrence G. Keane praised the decision as a victory for the rule of law against frivolous litigation.
Dasan USA has partnered with Wild West Marketing as their sales representation group for the Alpha Foxtrot pistol line in the western U.S. region. The partnership supports Dasan USA's 2026 product launches and reflects the company's commitment to dealer support and market expansion.
Bowtech Archery appointed Colin Legge as Executive Vice President of New Products and Innovation. Legge brings entrepreneurial experience, technical archery expertise, and financial acumen from founding The Carriage Archery Club and working in banking and energy sectors.
Derya Arms announced a distribution agreement with Fleet Farm, a Upper Midwest retailer with over 50 stores. The partnership will bring Derya's DY9 9mm pistol and .22LR Rifle Series to Fleet Farm locations starting December, with expanded offerings planned for 2026.
Christensen Arms appointed Daniel Vernon as Director of Marketing to lead brand strategy and creative development. Vernon, formerly of Yomping Royal agency, will guide marketing initiatives across Christensen Arms' product lines including the Ridgeline FFT and MPR platforms.
The NSSF's Protect Liberty PAC received a $25,000 contribution from the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) to support candidates dedicated to preserving Constitutional rights and Second Amendment protections ahead of the November 2026 election. NASGW President Kenyon Gleason and Protect Liberty PAC Treasurer Lawrence G. Keane urged industry members to support the super PAC's efforts.
FS Holdings announced the appointment of Lynn Twiss as Vice President of Marketing, bringing over three decades of industry experience from roles at Kimber, Leupold & Stevens, and SIG SAUER Electro-Optics. Twiss will lead marketing strategy across FS Holdings' portfolio including FirstSpear, FirstSpear Technology Group, Atlas 46, and Black Crest.
American Sniper announced a strategic partnership with Maschmedt & Associates to expand retail presence across 23 western states. The collaboration will launch new tactical products including knives, gloves, and backpacks, with support from AGE Retail Partners managing the brand's retail expansion and the TACK-F Foundation receiving financial support.
Kinetic Development Group announced Dirty Bird Industries, a family-owned firearms retailer founded by brothers Jay and Dustin Pitcher, as a new authorized dealer. The Bakersfield, California-based company expands KDG's dealer network and coincides with the rollout of KDG's Dealer Locator tool.
Janette Palmer has rejoined 1791 Outdoor Lifestyle Group as Vice President of Sales. Palmer brings extensive industry experience from previous roles at Rock Ridge Outdoors, Crimson Trace, HIVIZ Shooting Systems, and Michaels of Oregon. She will lead sales efforts across all channels to meet growing distributor and retailer demand.
