SHOT Business -- January 2014

VOLUME 22, NUMBER 1 JANUARY 2014

GOOD STUFFWINCHESTER AMMOS LONG-RANGE

TURKEY LOAD CHANGES THE GAME PG. 60

FIRING LINEUMAREX OCTAGON BREAK-BARREL AIR RIFLE IS A REAL GAS TO SHOOT PG. 24

Manufacturers have worked overtime to design and produce

a rich and varied crop of new rifles, shotguns, and handguns that should appeal to a broad audience. Best of all, retailers will see these models in all price levels. PG. 31

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JANUARY 2014SHOT BUSINESS1

CONTENTSSHOT BUS INESS JANUARY 2014 VOL . 22 , I SSUE 1

Features

NSSF Update 17 FROM THE NSSF Hopes and expectations for 2014 18 NEW SPORTSMENS ACT SHARE Act introduced by

U.S. Rep. Bob Latta

18 PROJECT CHILDSAFE Cabelas joins the effort 19 SHOT SPONSORS RETURN Gunbroker.com and

ArmaLite sponsor services

19 HUNTERS FEED THOSE IN NEED An informative infographic on hunter giving

20 NSSF DELIVERS VALUE 21 RETAILER TOOLBOX Retailer education seminars

are a free opportunity

22 YOU SHOULD KNOW How SHOT Show helps fund NSSF and its programs

32 RIFLES 2014 Retailers will see a large and incredibly diverse new product offering this year, including rimfires, bolt-actions, and modern sporting rifles BY CHRIS CHRISTIAN

42 SHOTGUNS 2014 This years shotguns will have something for everyone, no matter the size of the wallet BY CHRIS CHRISTIAN 52 HANDGUNS 2014 Its all about semi-autos this year, and your customers will enjoy a plethora of new models designed for

personal defense and competitive shooting BY CHRIS CHRISTIAN

Departments

2 EDITORS NOTE Why the right brand can make a big difference

4 NEWS BRIEFS ATK/Bushnell deal finalized; Strategic Armory acquires MacMillan; Buffer markets Crosshair; Remington joins the outfitter game

24 FIRING LINE Power and accuracy define the Umarex Octagon

26 UNDERCOVER SHOPPER Looking for a budget deer rifle in central Wisconsin

60 GOOD STUFF Winchesters Long Beard loads will change the game for turkeys

62 WHATS SELLING WHERE 68 NEW PRODUCTS Outdoor Technologys

rugged wireless speakers; Summits Peak treestand; and more

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2SHOT BUSINESSJANUARY 2014

EDITOR S NOTE

The Price of CoffeeThe brand does make a diference

A ccording to Thomas K. McCraw, author of American Business, 19202000: How It Worked, brand marketing as we know it today began 83 years ago with an internal memo at Proctor & Gamble about how to differentiate soap brands, specifically Ivory and Camay, so they could compete effectively against competitive brands, but not against each other. Thats a concept very familiar to Joe Andrews, director of brand management at The Freedom Group, parent com-pany of such well-known American brands as Remington, Bushmaster, Marlin, and DPMS, among others. His job is the care and feeding of the companys products so they remain competitively positioned in the marketplace.

Thats a tall order, but Andrews, a brand-management veteran of the packaged-goods industry, says he was drawn to FGI because of the power of its brands.

Look at it this way, he says. Products are things. Think of cof-fee, golf balls, and television sets. Brands are special. Now, think of Starbucks, Titleist, and Sony.

To Andrews, these brands mean something special to a consumer, and its one reason they can com-mand premium pricing.

The best brands are experience brands, and this industry has brands that simply ooze experience.

One driving force behind what Andrews is doing is to make sure the company remains relevant to the Millennials (also known as Generation Y.) This group of 18-to-35-year-olds is some 88 million strong and has an estimated pur-chasing power of $170 billion.

Those numbers are staggering, he says. Thats why its so impor-tant for manufacturers to connect with this group.

But Millennials are a challenge because they access information in new ways. Something like 85 per-cent of these guys sleep with a cell phone beside their bed, and they actually watch more video than television, Andrews says. In addi-tion, 77 percent of them are using

another device while theyre watch-ing TV. Whether theyre download-ing apps or accessing online infor-mation, theyre doing it increasingly in a mobile environment. Theyre using their smartphones to check features and prices before they even walk through the door.

According to Andrews, Gen Y is demanding a different relationship with brands. They want to be engaged in a way their Baby Boomer parents werent. These folks are rightfully demanding a con-nection with their brands on a regu-lar basis, he says. If they have

something to say, they want to be heard. Thats why they use social media.

The challenge for a manufacturer, and a retailer, is that it is no longer a command-and-control universe. To connect with this key group youre forced into a two-way

conversation, something that is alien to many retailers in the shooting-sports industry.

Andrews believes success depends on an ability to engage with this group on its terms. But its also about the individual power of your brand. So, think a bit. Is your store Starbucks, or is it merely any old cup of coffee?

Slaton L. White, Editor

SLATON L. WHITE, EditorMargaret M. Nussey, Managing EditorDavid E. Petzal, Shooting EditorMaribel Martin, Senior Administrative AssistantJames A. Walsh, Art DirectorJudith Weber, Production Manager

CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Larry Ahlman, Barbara Baird, Scott Bestul, Philip Bourjaily, Chris Christian, Christopher Cogley, David Draper, Jock Elliott, William F. Kendy, Mark Kayser, Peter B. Mathiesen, Brian McCombie, Tom Mohrhauser, Robert Sadowski, Robert F. Staeger, Peter Suciu, Wayne Van Zwoll

ERIC ZINCZENKO, Executive Vice PresidentADVERTISING: 212-779-5316Gregory D. Gatto, PublisherPaula Iwanski, National Sporting Goods DirectorBrian Peterson, West Katie Logan, Sporting Goods SalesJohn Driscoll, Vice President, Corporate SalesElizabeth A. Burnham, Chief Marketing OfficerIngrid Reslmaier, Marketing Design Director

BUSINESS OPERATIONSTara Bisciello, Business Manager

CONSUMER MARKETINGRobert M. Cohn, Consumer Marketing DirectorBarbara Brooker, Fulfillment Manager

MANUFACTURINGLaurel Kurnides, Group Production DirectorStefanie La Bella, Associate Production Director

BONNIERChairman, Jonas BonnierChief Executive Officer, Dave FreygangExecutive Vice President, Eric ZinczenkoChief Content Officer, David RitchieChief Financial Officer, Nancy CoalterChief Operating Officer, Lisa EarlywineChief Human Resource Officer, Leslie GlennChief Brand Development Officer, Sean HolzmanVice President, Consumer Marketing, Bruce MillerVice President, Corporate Communications, Dean TurcolGeneral Counsel, Jeremy Thompson

SHOT Business (ISSN 1081-8618) is published 7 times a year in January, Feb ruary/March, April/May, June/July, August/September, October/November and December by Bonnier Corporation, 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5695, and is the official publication of the National Shooting Sports Foundation, Flintlock Ridge Office Center, 11 Mile Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470 (203-426-1320). Volume 22, issue 1. Copyright 2014 by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. All rights reserved. Editorial, circula-tion, production and advertising offices are located at 2 Park Avenue, New York, NY 10016-5695 (212-779-5000). Free to qualified subscribers; available to non-qualified subscribers for $25 per year. Single-copy issues are available for $5 each. Send check, payable to NSSF, to: SHOT Business, c/o NSSF, 11 Mile Hill Road, Newtown, CT 06470-2359. SHOT Business accepts no respon-sibility for unsolicited manuscripts and photographs. All correspondence should be accompanied by a stamped, self-addressed envelope. Requests for media kits and advertising information should be directed to Katy Marinaro, Bonnier Corporation, 625 N. Michigan Ave., Ste. 1270, Chicago, IL 60611. Periodicals postage paid at New York, NY, and at additional mailing offices.

Printed in the USA. For Customer Service and Subscription questions, such as Renewals, Address Changes, Email Preferences, Billing and Account Status, go to: shotbusiness .com/cs. You can also email shotbusiness@emailcustomer service.com, in the U.S. call toll-free 866-615-4345, outside the U.S. call 386-246-0188, or write to SHOT Business, 2 Park Ave., New York, NY 10016. For editorial inquiries, write to Slaton L. White, SHOT Business, 2 Park Ave., New York, NY 10016REPRINTS: E-mail [email protected]. POSTMASTER: Please send address changes to SHOT Business, P.O. Box 422494, Palm Coast, FL 32142-2494.

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NEWS BR IEFSNEWS PROMOTIONS AWARDS OUTREACH

ATK Completes Acquisition of Bushnell Group Holdings

ATK recently completed the acquisition of Bushnell Group Holdings Inc., a leading global

designer, marketer, and distributor of sports optics, outdoor accessories, and per-formance eyewear. The Bushnell portfolio includes innovative and affordable products targeted to outdoor enthusiasts.

ATK is committed to expanding our product offerings, strengthening leader-ship positions in our core markets, main-taining a strong balance sheet, and deliver-ing long-term, profitable growth, says Mark DeYoung, ATK president and CEO. Completing the Bushnell acquisition, plus our first-quarter acquisition of Savage Sports Corporation, positions ATK with a comprehensive product offering of ammunition, sporting arms, and accesso-ries in our existing markets, and creates an opportunity to expand into new and adjacent outdoor recreation markets.

In September, ATK announced it had entered into a definitive agreement to acquire Bushnell. Under the terms of the transaction, ATK paid $985 million in cash, subject to customary post-closing adjust-ments. ATK financed the acquisition

through borrowings, including refinancing its existing secured debt with new $1.96 bil-lion Senior Secured Credit Facilities and new $300 million Senior Unsecured Notes. Bushnells projected sales for calendar year 2013 are approximately $600 million.

ATK will integrate Bushnell into its Sporting Group, under the direction of senior vice president and group president Jay Tibbets. Fitting within ATK Sporting Groups existing accessories business, Bushnell increases the companys expo-sure to higher-growth hunting and out-door lifestyle markets. With the addition of Bushnell, the Sporting Group will account for approximately 45 percent of total ATK revenue. Across the enterprise, commercial and international sales will account for approximately 50 percent of ATK total revenue.

We are executing a focused integration strategy aimed at maximizing deal value, leveraging the strengths of our existing and new capabilities, optimizing common areas such as product development, sales, marketing, and distribution, while mini-mizing the risk of operational and cus-tomer disruptions, says DeYoung.

Bushnells total sales for 2013 are projected to be approximately $600 million.

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Bits & Pieces

Minox Hires G.B. Stumpp & Assoc.

Minox USA, Inc. has named G.B. Stumpp & Associates as its sales agency in the Northeast. This is a further step in Minoxs overall strategy to aggressively extend and enhance service through its established and rapidly growing dealer network.With the addition of G.B.

Stumpp & Associates, we have increased our sales force to include a highly experienced and well-established agency to properly service our ever-expanding network of dealers and distributors, says Matt Suuck, Minox USAs sport optics manager.

HatsanUSA Taps Chevalier

HatsanUSA Inc. has selected Chevalier Advertising, Marketing & Public Relations as its agency of record. The Turkish manufac-turer offers a wide range of innovative products, from mod-erately priced break-barrel spring airguns to high-end underlever spring, vortex gas piston, and pre-charged pneu-matic (PCP) airguns.

Cyclops Offers Duck Commander

In-Store DisplaysCyclops, a manufacturer of outdoor lighting products, is now an official licensee of the popular Duck Commander enterprise. It is offering for a limited time free in-store dis-plays with purchases. Retailers who buy 27 Micro hatclip lights will get a free countertop dis-play; those who purchase 27 headlamps or a mix of the Ranger LT in Realtree Max 4 Camo will get a free sidekick display.

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Strategic Armory Corps Acquires McMillan

Strategic Armory Corps announced it has acquired McMillan Firearms

Manufacturing LLC. McMillan is a premi-um manufacturer of tactical and hunting rifles, including the innovative Alias Rifle System. The Alias, which allows for inter-changeable components and a switch bar-rel design, is available in the CS5 conceal-able subsonic/supersonic sniper system, the STAR standard tactical application rifle, and the Target model.

The McMillan Firearms deal will con-tinue to expand Strategic Armory Corps acquisition of product category leaders in premium firearms manufacturing. McMillan joins ArmaLite, Surgeon Rifles, AWC Silencers, and AWC Ammo to serve the needs of high-end firearms enthusi-

asts, law enforcement, military, and inter-national users.

The acquisition of McMillan is consis-tent with our focus on acquiring the highest- quality manufacturers of premium firearms, says Mark Johnson, Strategic Armory Corps CEO. This transaction provides the perfect product line comple-ment to the ArmaLite and Surgeon Rifles product lines, and will allow us to more effectively serve the needs of the custom bolt-action rifle enthusiast.

Kelly and Ryan McMillan will continue as long-term consultants with McMillan Firearms. We are proud of our heritage and are confident that Strategic Armory Corps will continue to build the highest-quality firearms for our valued custom-ers, says Kelly McMillan.

McMillan Firearms is the latest acquisition of Strategic Armory Corps.

EOTech Announces a $60 RebateEOTech will offer a mail-in rebate on all in-line EOTech holographic weapon sights and magnifiers. Customers will have the ability to recoup up to $120 in savings when they purchase a holographic sight and magnifier. According to director of sales Rod Coons, the rebate is a way to reward its customers for their support of EOTech.Once the customer has made a purchase, he or she can register the

claim rebate at eotech.rebateaccess.com or mail in a printed copy of the rebate form (which can be downloaded from eotech-inc.com). The rebate applies to all in-line holographic sights or magnifiers purchased by January 31, 2014. Applicants have until February 28, 2014, to submit their rebate claims.

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Buffer Tech. Targets Recoil with Crosshair Buffer Technologies is now carrying the Crosshair recoil buffer, the design of which reduces bolt-impact recoil and improves accuracy.

Our goal at Buffer Technologies is to provide our customers with the best options in firearms accessories. Thats why we are now offering the Crosshair hydrau-lic recoil buffer. We learned recently that some of the other hydraulic buffers were going out of production, so we started looking for a suitable replacement. Adding Crosshair to our product offering made perfect sense, says Rob Parham, director of operations at Buffer Technologies.

The Crosshair dynamic recoil buffer is made from a corrosion-resistant high-strength aluminum alloy. It is easy to install and designed to improve accuracy and control by allowing shooters to better manage their rate of fire while reducing damage to expensive optics.

According to Barnes Ballistic Research, the Crosshair buffer reduces average rear-ward bolt velocity by up to 16.2 percent compared to the stock rifle, while compet-ing buffers reduced recoil by up to 12 per-cent. The slower the speed at which a bolt travels rearward, the less the recoil. This recoil buffer has shown a 22 percent reduc-tion in bolt-travel speed. (buffertech.com)

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Brightness, Durability and Interchangeability Thats what the third generation of HiViz sights has to of er. Features include:

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NEWS BR IEFS

On the Move Recent promotions and hirings in the industry

Curt WilsonHard Core Brands has named Curt Wilson as West Coast division (13 states) sales man-ager. He will also manage the Pro Staff for the entire U.S. Previously, he had been territory manager for Avery Outdoors.

John SpurrierStrategic Armory Corps has named John Spurrier as its new president and chief operating officer. He was most recently the president and chief executive officer of Kriss USA, a maker of weapons- operating systems.

Chad SchearerChad Schearer, BPI Outdoors director of media relations, has been named director of advertis-ing and media rela-tions. He will now assume the pur-chasing responsibili-ties for all television and print advertis-ing campaigns.

Jason BristOutdoor Channel has promoted Jason Brist to executive vice president of advertising sales. He will lead the channels ongoing efforts in develop-ing and executing innovative advertis-ing and sponsorship opportunities.

Jeff PughJeff Pugh has been promoted to the position of vice president of sales at Ellett Brothers. An 18-year veteran of the distributor, he was most recently director of sales. Before joining Ellett Brothers, Pugh was a retailer.

BRITE-STRIKE APALS GETS DOD STOCK NUMBERBrite-Strikes All-Purpose Adhesive Light Strips (APALS) are a series of LEDs on slender aluminum strips with adhesive backing. The product, originally devel-oped for the military and tactical mar-kets as a replacement for chemical light sticks, benefits hunters as well. Last fall, Brite-Strike received some good news from the Department of Defense. The DOD assigned a National Stock Number to the APALS line.

Having a National Stock Number assigned by the DOD is a breakthrough for us, says COO Ronald Johnson, a former Brigadier General USMC (Ret.). It is the official label applied to an item of supply that is repeatedly pro-cured, stocked, stored, issued, and used throughout the DOD/Federal supply system. The importance of an NSN cannot be overstated, as this will allow the military units in the U.S. and NATO countries ready access and simplified ability to order APALS in large quantity. (508-746-8701; brite-strike.com)

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Otis Awarded U.S. Army Gun-Cleaning ContractOtis Technology, a defense contractor for the U.S. gov-ernment since the early 1990s, was recently award-ed a three-year contract to provide I-Mod (individual) and T-Mod (team) gun-cleaning supplies to the U.S. Army. Deliveries are set to begin in May 2014.

Otis Technology pro-vides a variety of gun-cleaning systems and acces-sories to the government, and most recently, Otis sup-plied the IWCK (Individual Weapons Cleaning Kit). The new contract replaces the IWCK contract and addresses the need for both individual and team clean-ing systems. Initial deliver-ies may include both the I-Mod and T-Mod.

The I-Mod cleaning sys-tem is intended for the indi-

vidual soldier to use and cleans 5.56mm weapons systems. It includes the new Ripcord, a Gerber MP600 multi-tool, and additional components to clean properly from breech to muzzle. The T-Mod sys-tem is intended for a squad and contains equipment to clean 5.56mm, 7.62mm, 9mm, and .45 weapon sys-tems. Both systems feature

anti-IR reflective coating and have anti-glare black-ened components.

This is an Indefinite Delivery/Indefinite Quantity (IDIQ) contract. For that reason, the amount can range any-where from the minimum amount of $10,000 over three years to the maxi-mum amount of $39.2 million over the three-year contract.

We are proud to be cho-sen as the premier supplier of individual and team-ready cleaning systems for the Army, says Nancy Davoy, contract manager for Otis Technology. We will continue to be on the front lines with our service-men and women, helping to keep them safe. (800-684-7486; otistec.com)

E.R. Shaw Unveils Mark VII VS Rifle

To celebrate its 100th anniversa-ry, independent gun barrel man-ufacturer E.R. Shaw is introduc-

ing its Mark VII VS (Varmint Special) centerfire rifle. The VS differs from the standard Mark VII in two key ways. First, it is based upon a RH single-shot stainless-steel action with a minimal-size ejection porttwo features that make for a much stiffer receiver. As any accuracy-obsessed shooter knows, the more rigid the receiver, the greater the accuracy potential.

Second, E.R. Shaw offers a nearly unlim-ited selection of barrels, allowing a cus-tomer options that other manufacturers cannot provide. The straight-taper varmint-weight barrel can be ordered in lengths from 18 to 28 inches in chrome-moly or stainless. Barrels also can be ordered with straight or E.R. Shaws patented helical fluting. With stainless barrels, flutes can be blackened; the flutings contrast with the raw stainless matte surface finish lends the rifle a highly distinctive look. (412-221-3406; ershawbarrels.com)

E.R. Shaws Mark VII VS centerfire offers a nearly unlimited selection of barrels.

Otis I-Mod and T-Mod cleaning systems will replace the IWCK.

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NEWS BR IEFS

Daniel Defense Helps Combat-Wounded VeteranDaniel Defense CEO Marty Daniel has always admired those who join the armed forces, and not too long ago, he got an opportunity to show his appreciation in a very tangible and meaningful way.

Through the Military Warrior Support Foundation, Daniel Defense learned of Specialist Justin Foley, a soldier who had been injured when the armored vehicle he was in struck an Improvised Explosive

Device (IED). Foley now awaits medical retirement from the U.S. Army.

Military Warriors Support Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit charity, founded by Lt. General Leroy Sisco, USA (Ret.), in 2007. The foundations mission is to pro-vide support for our nations combat-wounded heroes and Gold Star Families as they transition out of the military and into their new civilian life.

This is a very fragile time for these heroes and their families, and our goal is to provide programs that facilitate a smooth and successful transition, says Josh Kinser, spokesman for the Military Warrior Support Foundation. The programs include home donation, and academic and employment assistance, as well as recre-ational activities.

To that end, Daniel Defense, with grati-tude, presented Foley and his wife with the gift of a mortgage-free home. During a military tribute at the Inaugural Patriot Weekend in Pooler, Georgia, a check for $22,500 was presented to the Warrior Transition Battalion on Ft. Stewart. Shortly after, Specialist Foley, assigned to WTB Bravo Company, was given a ceremonial key to the home.

We at Daniel Defense recognize the sacrifice the men and women of the United States Armed Forces make every day, and we wanted to ensure that their dedication and care for the safety of their fellow Americans does not go unnoticed, Daniel says. (866-554-4867; danieldefense.com)

Through the Military Warrior Support Foundation, Daniel Defense donated a home to Specialist Justin Foley.

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Remington Launches Outfitter ServiceAfter nearly 200 years of producing fire-arms, Remington Arms is now leading cus-tomers even deeper into the outdoorsas outfitters. The new Remington Country Outfitters is a full-service outdoor-travel agency with hunting and fishing destina-tions across North and South America, Africa, and the Bahamas.

Remington Country Outfitters (RCO) started with a simple idea, say father-and-son co-founders Carl and C.J. Brown.

We knew what it was like to go to a place and find that it just was not right, Carl says, So we wanted to help people find great places to hunt and fish.

Scott Blackwell, president of Remington Arms, shared the vision. Taking make it right as their mantra, the team dedicated more than a year to building RCO. They considered safety, lodging, facilities, and the quality of the hunting and fishing opportu-nities. They researched destinations and outdoor experiences. And they chose trust-ed local outfitters to make the experiences happen. Confident that the scouting had been done properly, the team has hung out their outfitters shingle at Remington Country.com.

Were offering a select number of high-quality hunting and fishing options that live up to Remington legacy, offer the right amenities, and have high success rates, says Carl. We have something for just about everybodyfrom hog hunting to yacht-based brown bear hunts. The prices range from a few hundred dollars a day up to $30,000 for a trip.

Remington Country Outfitters features opportunities that include hunting destina-tions in nine U.S. states, Canada, Mexico,

Argentina, and South Africa, where hunters can pursue antelope, brown and black bears, caribou, ducks, hogs, elk, grouse, moose, mountain goats, mule and whitetail deer, pigeons, quail, sheep, turkeys, wood-cock, and other game. Fishing destinations include Alaska, the Bahamas, Colorado, and Manitoba, where anglers can pursue Arctic grayling, bonefish, halibut, lake trout, salm-on, ling cod, northern pike, red snapper, walleyes, and other species.

Family vacation destinations were an important consideration, too. Destinations in this category include Colorado and Maine, and the varied offerings include fly-fishing, shotgunning, cooking classes, wild-life viewing, hunting, rafting, equestrian activities, mountain biking, nature tours, and other family-friendly activities.

The outfitter website offers destination overviews, photographs, planning resourc-es, gear lists, firearms recommendations, sample itineraries, and rates. Once a cus-tomer has a trip in mind, they can either use the online system to make reservations or they can call directly.

However you do it, were with you every step of the way, says C.J. Were constantly in contact, helping you plan your trip and air travel, secure your dates, and get trip insurance. We provide gear lists to make sure youre prepared. And we help with licenses, preference points, any deadlines, and just about anything else.

Our goal is to exceed your expecta-tions, says Carl. We look at every trip like its one of our own. We want your trip to be just like one we would book for our-selves. (888-283-7336; remington country.com) Shane Townsend

Remington Country Outfitters is a full-service outdoor-travel agency run by a father-son team, Carl and C.J. Brown. The pair will help hunters plan trips to domestic and international locations.

www.facebook.com/KahrArms

www.kahr.com

6 different models with 3 different barrel lengths and 4 different calibers

CW4543 - .45 ACP, 3.64 BarrelCW4043 - .40 S&W, 3.6 BarrelCW9093 - 9mm, 3.565 Barrel (Shown)CW3833 - .380 ACP, 2.58 BarrelCM4043 - .40 S&W, 3.1 BarrelCM9093 - 9mm, 3.0 Barrel (Shown)

2014 SHOT Show Booth

# 15949

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UPDATEFROM THE NSSF BY STEVE SANETT I , PRES IDENT & CEO

New Years OutlookExpectations and hopes for 2014

H ow glad we all are that the roller-coaster year of 2013 is over! Beginning as it did in the awful shadow of the Newtown tragedy in December 2012, we were in the fight of our lives in the face of multiple legislative and media onslaughts. Indeed, the vice president essentially told us to capitulate to the administrations gun-control agenda or be washed away, along with the Second Amendment, in the tidal wave of public grief.

Thankfully, with some significant exceptions at the state levelwhere anti-gun sentiments prevailed in one-party steamrollerslogic, facts, and common sense prevailed over emotions, fear, and blind hostility toward gun owners, law-fully owned firearms, and our industry. Subsequent efforts to veto, modify, or delay some of the worst of these mea-sures, together with successful recall efforts to some vocal proponents of dra-conian anti-gun laws, seems to have taken the wind out of the sails of the anti-gun movementfor now.

So we enter 2014 with a sense of opti-mism, a feeling that they took their best shot at us and missed. Exploitation of tragedy will always be a hallmark of the anti-gun movement, but the resounding show of unity and anger at our unjusti-fied vilification shocked even the most stalwart opponents of the lawful enjoy-ment of firearms.

Paradoxically, this may mean a gradual continuation of the slow return of fire-arms sales to more normal levels. However, were not quite certain what the new normal might be, as record num-bers of new firearms owners, recreational shooters, hunters, and first-time buyers who purchased firearms for personal pro-tection have been added to our ranks dur-ing the last five years.

The signature goal of NSSF and the affiliated organizations that combined forces as Task Force 20-20 in 2008 was

to increase participation in hunting and the shooting sports by 20 percent by 2014. This was a true stretch goalyet, amazingly, our research on the measur-able growth of a large number of hunt-ing and recreational shooting programs seems to indicate that by working togeth-er, our industry actually met that land-mark goal! The challenge will be to retain those new hunters and target shooters, as well as to motivate existing participants and those who have dropped out of active participation. This will mean con-tinued development and enhancement of range facilities (both indoor and out-door), new range construction, continu-ing to enhance retail facilities to keep people coming back, and continual cre-ation and revitalization of new recre-ational shooting disciplines. This we are committed to do.

Americas changing demographic makeup will also be addressed in this and future years. This is a seemingly daunting task, though it must be remembered that most of us have come from immigrant ancestors. Even those who arrive without any cultural or family history of firearms ownership or enjoyment of the shooting sports can become lifetime hunters and recreational shooters through programs like NSSFs First Shots and a careful intro-duction and nurturing into our sports by friendly mentors. We will all throw our-selves into this task with great anticipa-tion and sincere hopes of success.

As ammunition purchasers come to realize that ammunition and components are gradually becoming more available on retailers shelves, the artificial ammuni-tion shortage will abate, as the hoarding mentality of many shooters returns to normal expectations of product availabili-ty. With more ammunition available, expect to see more shooters returning to the ranges and enjoying afternoons afield, whether hunting or just plinking and pass-ing on family traditions to new genera-tions.

It is undeniable that modern sporting rifles are here to stay, and even though weve never seen more manufacturers of them, market specialization has made a wide variety of pre-accessorized models available to suit every personal preference and pocketbook. Add to this the huge variety of accessories available for those who already own these hugely popular rifles, and its a safe bet that we will con-tinue to see more and more of these fire-arms on the range and in the hunting fields.

So, 2014 is shaping up to be an exciting yeardifferent, with changing market expectations, but still one with a bright outlook for the industry and devotees of Americas shooting sports and outdoor traditions.

FROM THE NSSF

Steve SanettiNSSF President and

Chief Executive Officer

SHB0114_FRM.indd 17 12/10/13 11:51 AM


FROM THE NSSF UPDATE

Rep. Bob Latta Introduces New Sportsmens Act

I n late 2013, Congressional Sportsmens Caucus(CSC) co-chair Rep. Bob Latta (R-Ohio) introduced HR 3590, a new bipartisan version of the Sportsmens Heritage and Recreational Enhancement (SHARE) Act of 2013.

Earlier last year, Latta and CSC co-chair Bennie Thompson (D-Miss.), joined by vice-chairs U.S. Reps. Rob Wittman (R-Va.) and Tim Walz (D-Minn.), introduced the SHARE Act as a package of pro-sportsmen legislation designed to safeguard and pro-mote Americas hunting and fishing tradi-tions. The legislation enjoys wide support from both sides of the political aisle.

The SHARE Act is made up of several pro-sportsmen bills that will help ensure our outdoor traditions are preserved, pro-tected, and promoted, said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF senior vice president and general counsel. H.R. 3590 addresses some of the most pressing concerns of American hunters and recreational shoot-ers. Its passage would be a significant accomplishment for the sportsmens com-

munity and for America. We salute Congressman Latta for his continuing stewardship of this important legislation.

Priorities addressed in the SHARE Act include: protecting the traditional use of lead ammunition and fishing tackle by American hunters and anglers; the poten-tial increase of Pittman-Robertson funds for shooting ranges; the permanent authorization of the electronic duck stamp; and helping facilitate the use of and access to Bureau of Land Management and U.S. Forest Service lands and waters for hunting, recreational fish-ing, and shooting. It also prohibits the enforcement of individual firearm regula-tions at water-resources development projects administered by the Corps of Engineers and prohibits additional fees for commercial filming on federal lands and waterways.

In addition, this legislation will also permanently establish the Wildlife and Hunting Heritage Conservation Council Advisory Committee to advise the Secretaries of the Interior and Agriculture on wildlife and habitat conservation, hunting, and recreational shooting.

Cabelas Partners with NSSF and Project ChildSafeThe National Shooting Sports Foundation and Cabelas Inc., the Worlds Foremost Outfitter of hunting, fishing, and outdoor gear, have announced a new partnership to promote firearm safety in sup-port of NSSFs Project ChildSafe program.Both Cabelas and the National

Shooting Sports Foundation place a premium on firearms safety and responsibility, said Scott Williams, Cabelas chief marketing officer. Cabelas is proud to support Project ChildSafe and help educate firearm owners on the importance of safe and proper firearm storage.In providing its support, Cabelas

joins a growing list of leaders in the hunting and target-shooting worldincluding USA Shooting, Outdoor Channel, and many of the nations largest hunting, shooting, and outdoors publishersthat

have endorsed and supported Project ChildSafes mission this year.Were thrilled to have Cabelas

involved in this effort, said Steve Sanetti, NSSF president and CEO. This is another powerful testimo-ny to the strong belief in and com-mitment to firearms safety and responsibility in the sporting com-munity. The hunting and shooting

community is the largest audience and the best source of ambassa-dors for these messages. The more we can empower them to deliver those messages to their families and others in their community, the more we can help prevent firearms accidents.Not as familiar with Project

ChildSafe as youd like to be? Visit projectchildsafe.org.

Rep. Bob Latta and his daughter Elizabeth at the end of a whitetail hunt.

Cabelas is now support-ing Project ChildSafe, NSSFs long-running fire-arms safety program that provides free gun locks.

SHB0114_NSF.indd 18 12/10/13 11:52 AM

2014 National Shooting Sports Foundation, Inc. All Rights Reserved. SHOT Business, SHOT Show and all other trade names, trademarks and service marks of the National Shooting Sports Foundation appearing in this publication are the sole property of the Foundation and may not be used without the Foundations prior express written permis-sion. All other company and product names are trademarks or registered trademarks of their respective owners.


Visited Range Report Lately?O nce thought of strictly as a quar-terly magazine for shooting facilities, The Range Report has become a 24/7 resource for the shooting range industry. Since May of last year, the publication has been distributed monthly as an electronic newsletter, which has a permanent home online at range report.org.

There, visitors read not only all of the feature arti-cles and popular depart-ments that appear in the most current newsletter, but also archived features and

departments. In addition, on a frequent basis, headlines in the news related to the shooting range industry are

refreshed on the websites Ranges in the News section, along with links to the origi-nal news reports.

The Range Report has always been the publication for shooting range facilities, and its new e-newsletter and website format makes it an even more valuable

resource, said Glenn Sapir, NSSF director, editorial ser-vices, who has served as the longtime editor. Now that The Range Report is housed in one placenssf.orgvisitors can find current and past arti-cles, keep an eye on range- relevant news, and even con-veniently send a comment or suggestion.

The website also provides the opportunity to subscribe to The Range Report to receive the free monthly e-newsletter.

If you havent visited the website, become acquainted with rangereport.org.

Two More Familiar Names Return to List of SHOT SponsorsThe SHOT Show, scheduled for 2014 for Jan. 1417, receives support from the shooting, hunting, and outdoor trade in many ways, including sponsorships of particular aspects of the show. Two familiar names that have signed on again as sponsors are ArmaLite and GunBroker.com.

ArmaLite Inc., the internation-ally known manufacturer of AR-10, M-15, AR-30, and AR-50 rifles, is returning as the title sponsor of SHOT Mobile. The SHOT Mobile app allows show attendees to search for exhibitors, navigate the show floor by using interactive maps, find new prod-ucts, learn about show specials, view the shows education schedule (such as for SHOT Show University), set up appoint-ments with exhibitors, request callbacks, and find show services.

GunBroker.com, the worlds largest online auction site for firearms and related accesso-ries, will return as exclusive sponsor of the NSSF Member Lounge and Business Center. NSSF members will find free wireless service among many other amenities in the NSSF Member Lounge and Business Center, which serves as a central point for NSSF members to take a break from the show floor or to net-

work and conduct business.Chris Dolnack, senior vice president and

chief marketing officer for the National Shooting Sports Foundation, which owns and sponsors the SHOT Show, praised these

two sponsors.GunBroker.com continues to

be an extraordinary partner of NSSF and the SHOT Show, he said. GunBroker.com is a great example of an NSSF member that makes the extra effort to help grow hunting and the shooting sports, from supporting the SHOT Show and the Shooting Sports Summit to dis-tributing NSSFs Pull The

Trigger newsletter to its list of nearly 1 mil-lion opt-in e-mail subscribers.

Dolnack added, We are extremely pleased that ArmaLite will be the title spon-sor of SHOT Mobile. This show-navigation technology enriches the SHOT Show experi-ence for buyers and attendees. We greatly appreciate ArmaLites support in this effort.

In recognition of ArmaLites continued support, the splash screen of the SHOT Mobile app, the SHOT Mobile webpage, and the app download section of iTunes will fea-ture the companys logo.

SHB0114_NSF.indd 19 12/10/13 11:52 AM

UPDATE

Designed to offer the best protection and benefits in the industry, NSSFs new Premium Retailer Membership is now available to any qualifying retailer member with an FFL who has been an NSSF member in good standing for at least a year. At the heart of the program is a defense fund to help retailers protect their businesses against administrative actions taken by ATF and judicial proceedings challenging an ATF license revocation. To help Premium Retailer Members become aware of any compliance issues in their operation, an NSSF FFL Compliance Consultant will make a free visit to the members store to review operations and make recommendations where helpful. Visit nssf.org/retailers to learn more about NSSF Premium Retailer Membership.

NSSF Delivers Value ONE MEMBER SEXPERIENCE

Member: Bryan Lingle, Owner

Business: Gunslinger Arms, Berryville, Virginia

Description of Business: Gunslinger Arms is a full-service f rearms retailer. We established our business in 2011 out of a passion for all things f rearms. We specialize in tactical and self-defense f rearms and accessories. We value our customers and pride ourselves on providing excellent customer service. Whether its tactical, self-defense, or hunting gear that our clients are looking for, they can rest assured they have found a company that will take the time to make sure their every need is accommodated.

Experience with NSSF Premium Membership FFL Compliance Consultation:We at Gunslinger Arms were in the process of opening our second retail location in Berryville, Virginia, when the Premium Retailer Membership was of ered from NSSF. As a former federal law enforcement of cer, I always keep ATF compliance at the forefront of everything we do. The NSSF Premium Retailer Membership of ers a free compliance consultation with former ATF of cials. I took full advantage of this opportunity and met NSSF consultant Wally Nelson at our shop. Mr. Nelson spent the better part of a day with us reviewing records and going over compliance concerns. His knowledge and expertise with compliance were worth every dollar spent on the NSSF Premium Retailer Membership.

Value of NSSF membership: NSSFs Premium Retailer Membership of ers protection and benef ts to my company like no other in the industry. For me as a small f rearms retailer, the NSSF Premium Retailer Membership of ers a plethora of resources that make me feel as if I have an entire team working alongside me. My membership gives me access to the legal defense fund, a free NSSF compliance visit, 24/7 compliance hotline, a copy of NSSFs compliance compendium, NSSF research and reference materials, a free ticket to Shot Show University, and Shot Show VIP access. The legal defense fund and free compliance consultation alone are worth more to my business than the annual Premium Membership fees.

Interested in NSSF Membership?

Promoting the great American tradition

of hunting and shooting is what the


is all about. For our members, its more

than a sport; its a way of life. Join the

more than 8,000 companies and

individuals who have already discovered

that NSSF Delivers Value! To learn more,

visit nssf.org/join or call 203-426-1320

for Bettyjane Swann, NSSF director of

member services ([email protected])

or Samantha Hughes, NSSF member

services coordinator ([email protected]).


Premium Retailers Free Compliance Consultation

SHB0114_DEL.indd 20 12/10/13 11:53 AM

RETAILER TOOLBOX

Retailer Education SeminarsA free opportunity for all frearms retailers

O ne of the great tools that the National Shooting Sports Foundation offers to all firearms retailers is ATF compliance education in the form of our free Retailer Education Seminars. NSSF, with the mission to help protect the shooting industry, is providing 12 Retailer Education Seminars for 2014. We hold these seminars to deliver the latest in compliance materials and information regarding ATF operations. The half-day seminars are designed to provide information that will benefit both veteran firearms retailers and those just getting into the business of selling firearms.

The seminars are free for all Federal Firearms License (FFL) holders, so 45 days prior to the event, notices will be sent to all FFL holders near the host city.

The seminars are pre-sented by NSSFs FFL Compliance Consul-tants, all of whom are former ATF officials with extensive field experience. Our consul-tants have conducted and overseen literally thousands of store audits, and will be on hand to share their expertise and knowledge as they review all facets of ATF compliance.

Based upon member and attendee feedback, we have added an hour to the course and have added new sessions. The complete listing of semi-nar topics includes: Error-Proofing Your 4473 Forms (Seventy percent of all errors are found in the 4473 form, and once found, can be easily corrected.) Acquisition and Disposition (A&D) Book: Ins and Outs

How to Take a Firearms Inventory Like the ATF (We cant stress this enough: please take a regular inventory of all firearms!) When You Are Inspected by the ATF (Session covers what the inspection entails, what information you are required to provide, and how to be prepared when the ATF arrives.) Store Security Best Practices Gun Show Sales

Internet Sales of Firearms Straw Purchase Awareness FBC NICS/POC Background Check Process (In POC states, we ask the state author-ities to attend and pres-ent on the particulars of their background check system.)

The seminar ends with a question-and-answer period, during which our team will address any concerns

retailers have about ATF compliance.

The seminars have been very successful, educating thousands of retailers about best prac-tice compliance proce-dures, understanding the NICS background checks process, and pro-viding tips on store secu-rity procedures and inventory controls.

Ron and Michele Goodenow, owners of the Outpost Range in Citrus County, Florida,

had this to say about the seminar they attended: One of the best infor-mative and educational seminars we at Outpost Range have been to. Even if you knew all about the ATF forms and dealt with straw deals, everyone walked away better informed.

Dale Hawkins from Powderhorn Gun Works in Missouri stated, I just wanted to let you know how much I appreciated the recent seminar. I found it very informative and enlightening, and I thought the former ATF officials were excellent in their presentation.

For more informa-tion regarding the semi-nars, please go to nssf.org/retailers.

NSSF would like to thank our educational sponsorsSmith and Wesson (Platinum Level Sponsor), Outdoor Business Network, and Black Rain Ordnance (Gold Level Sponsors)for their support of NSSFs mission to pro-vide compliance educa-tion to retailers.

2014 Retailer Education Seminars

This years locations and dates are as follows:

(North) Houston, Texas APRIL 15 (South) Houston, Texas APRIL 16 San Antonio, Texas APRIL 22 Phoenix, Arizona MAY 13 Jacksonville, Florida MAY 20 Bloomington, Illinois JUNE 24

Indianapolis, Indiana JUNE 26 Charlotte, North Carolina JULY 22Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania AUGUST 12Springfield, Massachusetts AUGUST 19Denver, Colorado SEPTEMBER 9 Portland, Oregon SEPTEMBER 16


UPDATEBY PATRICK SHAY, D IRECTOR, RETA IL DEVELOPMENT

SHB0114_RET.indd 21 12/10/13 11:54 AM


UPDATE BY CHRIS DOLNACK , NSSF SR . VP AND CMO

SHOT Show Helps Fund NSSFShow revenue signifcant in industry programs

O ne of the great programs that the National Shooting Sports Foundation conducts every year is the Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade Show, better known as the SHOT Show. As owner and sponsor of the show, NSSF works closely with manage-ment companies to produce the worlds largest trade show for our industry, providing an international crossroads for businesses and businesspeople, ranging from manufacturers to retailers to more than 2,000 credentialed members of the media.

All together, more than 60,000 industry members participate in the SHOT Show, which this year is being held once again at the Sands Expo and Convention Center in Las Vegas. The immediate benefits of this NSSF program are obvious: Exhibitors get to display their latest offerings and infor-mation on products and services, retailers gain a hands-on familiarity with the same, and media personnel get to preview the many products their readers and viewers will be purchasing in the coming year.

Of course, the benefits of the show extend beyond that. Informal networking and more formal educational opportuni-ties present themselves. In a wide variety of ways, an annual visit to the SHOT Show is a wise investment in a business-persons future.

Not so obvious is the investment every participant is making in building the resources of NSSF, which, in turn, can channel the SHOT Show profits toward its many undertakings during the rest of the calendar year, all aimed at fulfilling its mission to Promote, Protect, and Preserve Hunting and the Shooting Sports. By fulfilling that mission, NSSF is paving the way for better business oppor-tunities for all in the industry.

Participation in the SHOT Show gener-ates as much as 80 percent of the funding for NSSF programs. One such effort is a proactive government relations program to guard your rights and business interests.

In addition, NSSF invests SHOT Show revenue in customer-recruitment cam-

paigns, such as Families Afield and First Shots. The former has actively remedied legislative barriers preventing family hunt-ing participation, and the latter has offered newcomers the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of firearms and firearms ownership at member ranges, while actually experiencing the fun of shooting under the careful supervision of qualified instructors.

Families Afield was born eight years ago as a joint initiative of NSSF, the National Wild Turkey Federation, and the U.S. Sportsmens Alliance, and having since picked up support from the NRA and the Congressional Sportsmens Foundation, the initiative has fostered the adoption of measures in 35 states, result-ing in more than 1 million apprentice hunting licenses being sold.

First Shots continues to be presented in ranges around the country, and by the end of 2013, nearly 7,000 people had become new shooters through the program.

Another NSSF investment of SHOT Show revenue is in the Collegiate Shooting Sports Initiative (CSSI), which provides money to help establish new shooting programs on college campuses at nearby shooting facilities. CSSI helps strengthen existing collegiate varsity and club shooting programs, and aids in the founding of new ones.

In the long run, the entire hunting and sport-shooting industry benefits from the revenue produced at the SHOT Show, and the greatest beneficiaries are the members of NSSF.

NSSFs government relations efforts, per-haps most famous for championing the passage of legislation that preempted the frivolous lawsuits that nearly crippled the industry, continue the fight in state capitals, in Washington, D.C., and in the courts to protect the interests of our industry.

NSSF research gathers information, including customized market surveys, that help businesses better understand industry-wide trends as well as local demographics. At SHOT Show, formal educational oppor-tunities present themselves through SHOT Show University and Retailer Seminars. Throughout the year, in different parts of the country, Retailer Education Seminars give FFLs a better understanding of ATF compliance requirements.

These many activities of NSSF are only a sampling of the programs that are funded, in great part, by the revenue gen-erated at the SHOT Show.

YOU SHOULD KNOW

An annual visit to the SHOT

Show is a wise investment in a businesspersons future, and in the future of the

shooting sports industry.

SHB0114_YSK.indd 22 12/10/13 4:23 PM

BC_024005_SHB0114P.indd 1 12/11/13 12:26 PM


BY JOCK ELL IOTTF IR ING L INE

Its a Gas!The Umarex Octagon is a gas-spring air ri e thats both

powerful and accurate

T he Octane is Umarexs first venture into making and bringing to market a gas-spring break-barrel air rifle. The 48.5-inch, 10-pound 3-ounce air rifle (with included scope) delivers a ton of power, accompanied by a neighbor-friendly report.Available in .177 caliber and

.22, the heart of the Octane is a powerplant that Umarex has dubbed ReAxis Reverse-Axis Gas Piston. The powerplant uses a gas cylinder, similar to the gas strut that lifts the rear gates of mini-vans and SUVs, to store and release energy. By contrast, conventional spring-piston airguns use a steel spring for energy storage.

The ReAxis mechanism works like a conventional pow-erplant: When you pull the barrel down and back, you drive the piston down the cylin-der, compressing the gas inside the gas spring. The cocked powerplant sits there, storing energy until the shooter pulls the trigger. Then the gas spring drives the piston forward, com-pressing air in front of it until the compressed air squirts

through the transfer port into the breech, blasting the pellet down the barrel.

There are several advantages to the gas-spring powerplant. There is no spring noise; its as silent and smooth as a bank vault and requires about 42 pounds of effort on the Octane. Theres no spring torque, twang, or vibration when the shot goes off; all youll feel is a quick pulse of recoil. Further, you can leave a gas-piston air-gun cocked for days without worrying that a steel spring is going to weaken. Finally, expe-rienced air-rifle hunters report that gas-spring air rifles are easi-er to shoot well off sticks or a rest because they are less hold sensitive than conventional spring-piston air rifles.

ReAxis is unique in that the gas spring operates in reverse

of other gas springs, providing more mass behind the piston. The result is more power at the muzzle. Although the Octane box claims 1,250 fps with alloy pellets and 1,050 fps with lead pellets, for greatest accu-racy, its best to keep pellets well below the speed of sound (1,100 fps at sea level). The .22 Octane I tested would launch 14.3-grain pellets at 838 fps average for an impressive 22.5 foot-pounds of energy at the muzzle. With proper shot placement, thats more than enough to anchor that raccoon that has been molesting your garbage cans or a woodchuck in the garden.

The Octane, which comes with a three-year warranty, fea-tures an all-weather ambidex-trous composite thumbhole stock with a soft-rubber butt-

pad. The two-stage adjustable trigger lets off at about 3.5 pounds. The 39x40 AO duplex reticle scope mounts onto the receiver through a Picatinny rail adaptor. In addition to the scope, there are front and rear fiber-optic sights.

At the end of the 19.5-inch barrel is the SilencAir, a molded polymer five-chamber non-removable airgun-silencing sys-tem. SilencAir drops the report significantly, which should help to keep the peace with the neighbors.

I found the Octane to be sol-idly built and fun to shoot. I was impressed by its power and smooth operation. At 20 yards, it delivered dime-sized five-shot groups. I could happily recom-mend it for hunting and pest control. SRP: $245. (479-646-4210; umarexusa.com)

Selling the OctaneRemind the customer the Octane is a self-contained, all-in-one hunting and pest control package. All you need are pellets. Point out that the ReAxis gas-spring powerplant promises years of trouble-free operation, and it comes with a three-year warranty.Consider a graphic display of the Octanes power. Shoot a section of two-by-four from the side with the

Octane, then use a nail or a dowel to show how far the pellet penetrated into the wood. Its impressive. Put the section of board next to where you display the Octane. The penetration power of the Octane also points out the need for a high-quality pellet trap for sighting-in and target practice.

The ReAxis gas-piston powerplant supplies the Umarex Octagon with an impressive amount of downrange force.

SHB0114_FIR.indd 24 12/10/13 4:24 PM

NSSF.ORG/SUMMIT

The f rearms industry is stronger than ever before. Lets keep it that way. Connect with industry leaders and hear from inf uential speakers as

we take a look at where our industry stands now and where it is headed in 2014

and beyond. Past NSSF Summits have yielded great results, launched countless

positive programs and sparked many ideas. Today, many programs now exist that

were born from an idea, a conversation or a need identif ed at the Summit. Join

us in Springf eld, where our industrys roots will meet its future.

REGISTRATION NOW OPENVisit nssf.org/summit to take advantage of the early-bird discount.

industry summitSpringf eld, Mass. June 9-11, 2014

2014 NSSF

N

OW is

the time

to shape our industrys FUTURE

Jeremy Gutsche

Innovation expert, award-winning author,

founder of the worlds No. 1 trend-spotting

website, TrendHunter.com.

Emily Miller

Washington Times senior editor of opinion,

award-winning journalist and

author of Emily Gets Her Gun.

John Robinson

World-renowned speaker and author, devoted to

introducing inner city youths to the outdoors.

Katie Pavlich

News editor at Townhall.com, Fox News contributor

and award-winning author of The New York Times

best seller Fast and Furious.

Jonah Berger

New York Times best-selling author of

Contagious: Why Things Catch On.

Sp

eakers

Panelis

ts


BC_023481_SHB0114P.indd 1 12/3/13 10:47 AM


UNDERCOVER SHOPPER

PIXEL PUSHERS

Deer Me!Looking for a budget deer rife in central Wisconsin

Traveling through Wisconsin in the early fall, I noted that many of the gas stations, tav-erns, and storefronts already had their traditional Welcome Deer Hunters! signs up. Which got me thinking: With so many new, bargain-priced long guns on the market, what might I find locally in the way of an affordable, bolt-action deer rifle, in the ubiquitous .30/06 Springfield? My search focused on big-box stores in the Wausau metro area and the nearby city of Marshfield.

STORE A

AT LEAST ITS AN OPINION My first stop was a large retailer dedi-cated to hunting, camping, fishing, and related activities. The gun counter was busy, and it took a few minutes for a clerk to make his way to me. I told him what I was looking for, and referenced an in-store flyer Id grabbed at the door, which listed a new Ruger American at $349, well within my $500-and-under budget.

The clerklets call him Billwas in his mid-20s. He said, for my price range, this Ruger was what hed buy. He had a Ruger himself for deer hunting. He also showed me two Remington models and a Savage, all the while insist-

ing the Ruger was superior. Had he used the non-Ruger rifles? No,

he admitted, he had not. Had he heard bad things about them from customers? Nope. So why was the Ruger so much better? I asked. Better tolerances, Bill claimed.

STORE B

THE MAN WHO KNEW TOO LITTLE Next stop was a large general retailer that sold firearms. I found the hunting section in the back, thanks to the full-size deer archery target mounted atop the counters. The gun selection consisted of two upright glass cases, one of rifles,

the other of shotguns. I had to wait a good five minutes before the clerk, Chad, showed up. He said he had three rifles that might fit my criteria.

He did, and he let me handle each rifle. But as I began asking questions, Chad admitted he knew next to nothing about firearms or hunting.

Im really more into camping and hiking, he said, rather apologetically.

He quickly added that he could check the computer for inventory, and anything I wanted could be in-store within the week.

STORE C

FIT FOR FIREARMS SALES Store C was a general sporting goods

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UNDERCOVER SHOPPER

retailer with large selections of athletic clothing and shoes, plus weight-lifting and other workout equipment. Yet, the store also boasted a surprisingly large hunting and firearms area. Sam was at the gun counter, and he greeted me immediately.

Sam first handed me a Remington Model 783. With a mail-in rebate, the sales price was $320, which seemed like a darned good deal. He even had one in .30/06. He also showed me a Savage Axis, a rifle that was selling very well for them, he noted. He mentioned that customers were saying positive things about the rifle.

Sam had a Savage, though not an Axis, and he felt they made a top-notch rifle.

He admitted he knew very little about the Remington 783, or the Remington 770 that was also on sale.

STORE D

FARM-FRESH SERVICE WITH A SMILE Late for an appointment, I left Wausau and drove 40 miles or so east to Marshfield. Here, I found another larger retailer, this one more focused on farm equipment and hardware than the other three, but it had a well-stocked hunting and firearms section.

Can I help you, sir? the firearms clerk, Phil, asked. It wasnt until I heard his greeting that I realized the pre-

vious clerks had limited their salutations to Hey.

Phil showed me a Savage Axis with 39X scope, on sale, and, without ask-ing, checked his computerized inventory and found three of these in .30/06. He also showed me a Remington 783 and a Ruger American, again checking the .30/06 inventory on both models. Phil had fired the Ruger and the Savage. He noted that all three rifles had sold very well in the last two months, and hed not had a single one returned for defects or problems.

Before I left, Phil added that he had a full selection of .30/06 ammunition in various bullet weights. He also thanked me for stopping by.

Howd They Do?Customer Service

Product Knowledge

Product Availability

Winner: STORE

DThe best selec-tion of rifles and a polite and helpful clerk made this the best of the big-box retail-ers I visited.

Mills Fleet Farm1101 West Upham St.Marshfield, WI 54449715-387-3768fleetfarm.com

STORE

AAll my questions were answered, although the clerk

had a tendency to stare out over the store, seemingly disinterested in what I was saying.

The clerk knew the Ruger pretty well, but after that....

Had one of each model in my desired caliber.

STORE

B The clerk was friendly and willing to help, but this hiker and camper was completely out of his depth behind a gun counter.

The clerk admitted his com-plete lack of firearms knowledge. One star for honesty!

Had one of each of the rifles I would have considered, at good prices.

STORE

C The clerk was atten-tive to my questions.

The counterman had fired a model similar to the first rifle he showed me, but didnt know much about the other options that were available.

Among the three models I was shown, only one .30/06 was on hand, although the clerk could get me another in a week.

STORE

D Amazing what a difference a simple Can I help you, sir? makes!

The clerk had a firearms background, very apparent from his quick comparison of three rifle models. Hed personally shot two of them.

Had two to three of each model and caliber on hand.

SCORING SYSTEM: Outstanding: Very Good: Average: Fair: Poor:

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By Chris

Christian


Over the past year, manufacturers have worked overtime to pro-duce a rich and varied crop of rifles, shotguns, and handguns. These new modelssome completely new, some extensions of popular existing product linesshould have broad-based con-sumer appeal, which is good news for retailers. Even more important, these models are peppered over a broad price spectrum, meaning just about any buyer will find something exciting in his or her price range.

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RIFLES

This year offers retailers one of the richest and most varied selections of new rifle introductions in memory. The modern sporting rifle is well represented with intro-ductions in both 5.56mm and 7.62mm NATO, while new tactical bolt guns also appear from several makers. In the hunting field, new camo finishes and caliber ad-ditions appear in many product lines, and a surprising number of new rimfire mod-els will also be available. Lever-action aficionados will find some surprises as well. Regardless of the target, 2014 offers a new way to hit it.

ARMALITE

For 2014, ArmaLite intro-duces the AR-31 rifle system. It shares the same design features as the companys AR-30A1 (detachable magazine, precision accuracy), but there are some differences. The AR-31 is a short-action version chambered in 7.62 NATO/.308 Win., and as such it accepts ArmaLite double-stacked AR-10B maga-zines. That allows shooters to choose between magazines with a capacity of 5, 10, 15, and 20 rounds to suit current requirements.

Like its predecessor, the AR-31 is built upon a through-hardened receiver, which for this gun has been optimally sized for the 7.62 NATO car-tridge. The 24-inch barrel is capped with ArmaLites one-piece muzzle brake with indus-try-standard -24 threads, which allows many suppressors to be screwed directly to the

barrel without an adapter.The wide and deep maga-

zine well extends under the receiver, which makes maga-zine insertion fast and easy while in a shooting position. The magazine catch is conve-niently located so that the shooter can release the maga-zine and catch it with the same hand. This not only makes loading/reloading quick, it vir-tually assures that magazines wont be lost in rough terrain. The bolt-mounted safety locks the firing pin to the rear to pre-vent accidental discharges.

The stock system allows the buttstock to be interchanged between the same standard and target models used on the AR-30A1, with only the use of an Allen wrench. The cheek-pieces are metal with a pad, and the cheekpiece supports contain an integral cleaning rod guide that prevents bore damage caused by improper

cleaning-rod guidance. The included top Picatinny rail allows for 20 minutes of rail adjustment to allow for proper zeroing at extended ranges.(800-336-0184; armalite.com)

BROWNING

New in Brownings 2014 cat-alog is the AB3 bolt-action, designed to give consumers a value-packed rifle that has Browning quality and accuracy, but at a more affordable price. The new AB3 will be offered with a composite stock and a matte blued finish receiver and barrel. Other features include a 60-degree bolt lift, detachable box magazine, top-tang safety, bolt-lock override button, free-floating barrel, and an Inflex Technology recoil pad. Average weight is 6 pounds 13 ounces in standard calibers, and 7 pounds 3 ounces in magnums. The new AB3 will be available in .270

Win. and .30/06 Sprg. with a 22-inch barrel length, and 7mm Rem. Mag. and .300 Win. Mag. in 26-inch barrel. SRP: $599.99.

In addition, Browning will expand the X-Bolt bolt-action lineup to include the new X-Bolt Eclipse Hunter model for 2014. Features include a matte blued finish on a free-floating barrel and receiver. A laminated gray satin-finish stock has a thumbhole grip with Monte Carlo cheekpiece. Other standard features found on all X-bolt rifles include a detach-able rotary magazine, adjust-able Feather Trigger, 60-degree bolt lift, and the Inflex Technology recoil pad. SRP: $1,019.99 to $1,059.99. (801-876-2711; browning.com)

CZ-USA

CZs popular 455 bolt-action rimfire will see four new models this year. The 455

This year offintroductions in memoryductions in both 5.56mm and 7appear frditions appes will algardl


ArmaLite The AR-31s wide maga-zine well makes mag-azine insertion nearly effortless while in a shooting position.

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Training Rifle (SRP: $374) moves the popular .22LR train-ing rifle into the 455 bolt-action rifle platform. Like its predecessor, it has a 24.8-inch barrel, a tangent rear sight that is adjustable for distance, and a beechwood stock with a Schnabel forend. The biggest difference is the ability to change the barrels and stocks, a trait possessed by all 455 models. The 455 Training Rifle is shipped with a five-round polymer magazine, but a single-shot adapter and 10-round magazines are available.

The 455 Precision Trainer (SRP: $940) is designed to pro-vide the same look and feel as a full-size tactical bolt-action rifle while allowing for economical .22LR training. It features a Manners Composite T4 stock (made of multiple layers of car-bon fiber and fiberglass hand-laid in high-temperature epoxy resins that are vacuum heat cured) with a new camouflage paint pattern and a .866-inch-diameter heavy barrel.

The 455 American Synthetic Suppressor-Ready (SRP: $421) features a 16.5-inch barrel in .22LR that is factory-threaded to accept muzzle devices using -28 threads. The stock is black synthetic with a soft-touch finish. The 455 Varmint Tacticool Suppressor-Ready (SRP: $549) sports a 16.5-inch varmint barrel with a factory-cut -28 thread pattern that accepts many aftermarket sup-pressors.

The CZ 557 bolt-action is a new addition to the line and a departure from the Mauser-style bolt found on the compa-nys 550 models. It features a short extractor and plunger-style ejector, commonly called a push feed system, that pro-vides smooth operation with

enhanced ejection and also makes it easier to load single rounds into the chambera feature many shooters prefer for range work. The new receiver is machined from steel billet, and has CZs integral 19mm dovetails for scope mounting. Equipped with a two-position safety, the bolt can be cycled while the safety is in the on position. The trigger mechanism is fully adjustable to tune pull weight, creep, and overtravel. The 557 will be available in both short- and long-action models, depending upon caliber, and in three dis-tinct model variations.

The 557 Sporter Manners (SRP: $1,268) is available in .30/06 Sprg., .270 Win., and 6.5x55mm. It features a 20.5-inch barrel (without sights), a hinged floor-plate magazine with a four-round capacity, and the Manners composite car-bon-fiber stock in Coyote Tan. Empty weight is 6.7 pounds.

The 557 Sporter (SRP: $792) will be available in .30/06 Sprg., .243 Win., .270 Win., 6.5x55mm, and .308 Win. It features a classic walnut stock without a cheekpiece and a 20.5-inch barrel without sights. Empty weight is 7.8 pounds.

The 557 Carbine (SRP: $812) is available in .30/06 Sprg., .243 Win., .270 Win., 6.5x55mm and .308 Win. It features a walnut stock with cheekpiece as well as a 20.5-inch barrel with an elevation-adjustable fiber-optic front sight and a windage-adjustable rear sight.

Four new models enter the classic Mauser bolt-action 550 line this year. The 550 Badlands (SRP: $2,599) is chambered for the .338 Lapua and designed to deliver massive energy at extended ranges. At 800 yards the .338 Lapua 300-grain hunt-


Browning The AB3 Composite Stalker (left) now comes with a composite stock and a matte blued finish receiver and barrel. The X-Bolt (right) features a free-floating barrel for enhanced accuracy.

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ing loads deliver more than 2,000 foot-pounds of energy, making it more than adequate for any North American game, as well as most African species.

The 550 Badlands action is anchored in an American-patterned Kevlar-reinforced stock with a full-length alumi-num bedding block. The pre-mium 25-inch medium-weight barrel is equipped with a cus-tom muzzle brake to reduce recoil and redirect muzzle blast. A thread protector is included for those who choose to dis-pense with the muzzle brake. Empty weight is 9.2 pounds.

The 550 Sonoran (SRP: $3,199) is built to be more of a long-range hunting rifle than a lighter-weight mountain rifle, but the empty weight is kept under 8 pounds through the use of the Manners composite stock and fluted barrels. Designed for rough use, the Sonoran is ferritic-nitrocarbu-rized inside and out. That results in a Rockwell hardness of R72 while providing excep-tional corrosion resistance. The stock is an olive drab Manners carbon-fiber compos-ite, with all metalwork fin-ished in flat black QPQ nitride.

The Sonoran is available in 7mm Rem. Mag. and .300 Win. Mag. with 26-inch No. 4 contour fluted barrels. Empty weight is 7.8 pounds. It is also available in standard chamber-ings (.30/06 Sprg. and .270 Win.) with a 24-inch No. 3 contour fluted barrel. Empty weight is 7.6 pounds.

The 500 Magnum H.E.T. II (SRP: $3,929) is a redesign of the High Energy Tactical preci-sion long-range platform. A 550 Magnum action rides in a Manners tactical series stock with an adjustable cheekpiece and is covered with a molded-in

midnight camo finish. It is fed by Accuracy International detachable magazines that are secured in the chassis by cus-tom Badger Ordnance bottom metal. A low-mount Picatinny rail provides the optics mount-ing platform. (800-955-4486; cz-usa.com)

FNH USA

For 2014, FNH announces the release of a new modern sporting rifle line. It consists of the FN 15 Carbine and the FN 15 Rifle.

The FN 15 Carbine features a 16-inch chrome-lined barrel and is chambered for 5.56mm NATO. A black two-piece, ribbed, round polymer forearm and a six-position collapsible buttstock are standard and pro-vide a length of pull from 9.9 to 13.2 inches, with an overall extended length of 35.2 inches. It uses a 1:7 twist barrel and an A2-style compensator and A2 fixed front sight. The rear sight is a removable A4-style carry handle sight. Empty weight is 6.9 pounds.

The FN 15 Rifle features a 20-inch chrome-lined bore in 5.56mm NATO chambering (1:7 twist) with an A2 fixed front sight and compensator and an A4 removable rear sight. It also has a two-piece ribbed round polymer fore-arm, but this version sports a fixed A2-style buttstock. Length of pull is 10.6 inches. Overall length is 39.5 inches, and the empty weight is 7.9 pounds. (703-288-3500; fnhusa.com)

LEGACY SPORTS

INTERNATIONAL

New camo stock finishes for the Howa rifle line, a new rifle/

RIFLES


CZ-USA A number of new bolt-actions are joining the CZ line this year, including the 455 Varmint Precision Training Rifle (left), the 550 Badlands (right), and the 557 Sporter Manners. Each is available in a variety of calibers and configurations. Also joining the crowd is the 550 Magnum H.E.T. II.

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scope combo, and an interest-ing M1 Carbine model highlight Legacy Sports new rifle offer-ings this year. The new Howa/Kryptek camo rifle features the venerable Howa bolt-action rifle with the HACT two-stage trig-ger, three-position safety, and a Hogue overmolded stock. Three Kryptek camo patterns will be available: Typhon, Highlander, and Raid. The new models will be available in Howas short-action, long-action, and magnum calibers. A No. 2 contour hunting barrel or a No. 6 contour heavy barrel are available as options. Scope packages featuring the Nikko Stirling Gameking scope are also available as full-camo-dip packages that include matching camo rings and one-piece scope bases. The new Howa/Zeiss Combo package features the Howa bolt-action rifle with HACT two-stage trigger, three-position safety, and Hogue overmolded stock (the Hunter walnut stock is also available as an option), mated with a Zeiss Terra 3x 39x42 scope. It fea-tures a 1-inch tube, anti-reflec-tion coating, the No. 20 Z-Plex second-focal-plane reticle, -MOA adjustments, hunting tur-rets, and a DNX one-piece base.

The new Citadel M1 carbine could emerge as one of the true fun guns for 2014. Chambered for 9mm, it uses a blowback action and Beretta M92 steel magazines. Two magazines are supplied with each carbine, in either 10- or 17-round capacity. The front and rear sights are steel, as are the trigger and barrel band spring. (800-553-4229; legacysports.com)

MARLIN FIREARMS

In the process of revamping

production facilities, Marlin has added new barrel and receiver production equipment. For 2014, that means that some previously suspended product offerings will be making a wel-come reappearance. According to Marlin, production efforts will now heavily focus on the 39A and 1894 product lines.Among the planned reintroduc-tions are the Model 1895 CB in .45-70 Govt (SRP: $839.74), the Model 444 Marlin (SRP: $668.91), the Model 338 MX in .338 Marlin Express (SRP: $682.51), and the Model 338 MXLR in .338 Marlin Express (SRP: $900).

In addition, a Marlin 336C Limited Edition is planned, and it is projected to be the first rifle of a multi-year high-end series. It features the Marlin horse-and-rider logo engraved on the left side of the receiver in 24-carat gold, with scroll-work on the right side. The trigger is gold-plated, and the stock is Grade B walnut. As a finishing touch, the words Limited Edition are stamped onto the barrel. (800-54-8892; marlinfirearms.com)

MOSSBERG

Significant additions to Mossbergs MVP Patrol bolt-action line and a couple of fun rimfires in the new Duck Commander series comprise Mossbergs new rifle products for 2014. The basic MVP Patrol is a bolt-action chambered for 5.56mm NATO and features a 16.25-inch 1:9 twist medium bull barrel. It is available as a straight barrel or threaded for a supplied A2-style flash sup-pressor. Fed from a detachable magazine, a 10-round maga-zine is supplied but the gun also accepts standard MSR-

style magazines. A Picatinny rail rides atop the receiver, and there is an adjustable rear sight with a fiber-optic front. The LBA trigger is user-adjustable for pull weights of 2 to 7 pounds. The synthetic stock is finished in flat black. Added to that basic MVP Patrol 5.56mm line is the new Model 27709, which is available in a textured tan stock instead of matte black. This version includes the A2 flash suppressor.

The big news, however, is the addition of the 7.62 NATO/.308 Win. and the .300 ACC Blackout to the MVP line. Offering all of the standard specifications of the MVP line (synthetic stock, 16.25-inch bar-rel, A2-style flash suppressor, 10-round magazine), the new Model 27718 is chambered for .300 ACC Blackout. It has a 1:7-twist barrel fitted with the A2 flash hider and a textured black-matte stock. The new Model 27738 is chambered for 7.62 NATO/.308 Win. It features a 1:10-twist barrel with a fitted A2 flash suppressor and a tex-tured black stock. The new Model 27742 is the same gun, but with a textured tan stock.

The new Model 27739 is the Patrol Scoped Combo in 7.62 NATO/.308 Win. It differs from the standard MVP Patrol in that the stock features a neoprene comb-raising kit to achieve the proper comb height for use with the mount-ed 39x32mm scope with a lighted reticle. All of the new .30-caliber models are supplied with 10-round magazines, but they accept M1A/M14- and AR-10-style magazines that allow a capacity increase.

The Mossberg FLEX TLS system allows a wide range of interchangeability within stock components, letting shooters


Mossberg The MVP Patrol in 7.62 NATO is just one of several new models that will launch in 2014. The rifle is fed from a detachable 10-round magazine.

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change length of pull, stock type, and recoil pads quickly and without tools. This year Mossberg extends the FLEX TLS system to the MVP bolt-action rifle line, with barrel lengths that go beyond the 16.25-inch length of the stan-dard MVP Patrol line. The same FLEX components are interchangeable with Mossbergs FLEX TLS-equipped hunting rifles and tactical shot-guns, while including all the fea-tures of the MVP Patrol line. Six models will be available.

Two new fun rimfire rifles join Mossbergs new Duck Commander series. The International 702 Plinkster (Model 37022) is a semi-auto chambered for .22LR with a 18-inch blued barrel with a 1:16 twist. The synthetic stock is covered in Realtree Max-5 camo with Duck Commander engraving. It features adjustable iron sights and feeds from a 10-round detachable magazine.

The International 715T Flat Top Duck Commander (Model 37230) is a MSR-style semi-auto chambered for .22LR. It fea-tures a 16.25-inch barrel (in a 1:16 twist) with a A2 flash sup-pressor, a quad-rail forearm, upper Picatinny rail with an adjustable rear sight and a A2-style front sight, and a six-position C

Documents

SHOT Business -- January 2014