Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. and Beretta Holding S.A. announced a Strategic Cooperation Agreement allowing Beretta Holding to increase its investment to 25% of Ruger's outstanding shares at $44.80 per share. Beretta Holding will nominate up to two independent board members following the 2026 Annual Meeting, while committing to a three-year standstill period.

Kyle Douglas of Team Mathews won first place in the Men's division at the 2026 NFAA Marked 3D National Championships in Redding, California. Team Mathews earned five podium finishes, including victories by Tim Audus in the Senior division and second-place finishes by Beretta McKee and Katelyn Bordwell in the Women's division.

Pro archer James "Jimmy" Lutz set a new world record at the 2026 Gator Cup with a score of 719 in the 50-meter, 72-arrow round using Carbon Express Nano PRO RZ 350 arrows, surpassing the previous record of 718 that stood for over a decade.

NSSF has recognized Range USA with its Five-Star rating for range excellence. The 50-store chain operating across 14 states was founded by Tom Willingham and emphasizes customer experience, safety education, and environmental responsibility through lead mining and brass casing collection.

Justin Powell of Papillion-La Vista South won the 56th Cornhusker Trap Shoot on May 2 in Doniphan, Nebraska, breaking 146 of 150 targets. Defending champion Kahne Packer of Wilber 5 Clovers 4-H finished second at 145, while Addison Ridley of Blue River 4-H won the ladies' overall title with 141.

Hornady shooter Lauryl Akenhead achieved the highest performance by any female competitor in NRL Hunter history at the Spears Mountain Safari match, securing Top Lady honors and tying for high score overall using Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 gr. Match ammo.

The Indiana Department of Natural Resources Division of Historic Preservation & Archaeology announced winners of its annual Historic Preservation Month photo contest. Winners include Cindi Myers, Kyle Hooker, Carla Hall, George Overpeck, and Jennifer Minnis across categories including Altered, Black and White, Color, Kids, and National Road themes.

The Second Amendment Foundation and partners including the National Rifle Association and California Rifle & Pistol Association filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court urging review of Patrick Tate Adamiak's case, a Navy veteran sentenced to 20 years for possessing cut-up gun parts and inert training dummies.

Project ChildSafe will exhibit at Celerant Technology's 22nd Annual FFL Client Conference in Dallas, May 4–5. The firearm safety education program of NSSF will strengthen partnerships with retailers and industry leaders including SIG SAUER, RSR Group, and Silencer Shop.

The National Marine Fisheries Service approved exempted fishing permits for red snapper in the South Atlantic from Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, and North Carolina. The Sportsmen's Alliance Foundation supported the approval, which will expand recreational red snapper seasons from days to months in federal waters and advance conservation and fisheries management.

NOAA Fisheries announces federal waters 9 to 200 nautical miles off Texas will close to shrimp trawling on May 15, 2026, aligning with Texas state waters closure. The annual closure allows brown shrimp to reach larger, more valuable sizes and prevents waste from discarding undersized shrimp.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission is seeking public input on a proposed renovation of Lake Atkins, which has experienced declining productivity in recent years. Fisheries supervisor Frank Leone explains the drawdown would remove undesirable yellow bass, improve habitat, and restock the lake with Florida bass, crappie, and other species. Survey responses are being collected through May 15.

Montana paddlefish anglers now have new tagging options including paper tags and e-tags, mirroring big game tag requirements. Mandatory reporting varies by tag area with specific timeframes and methods through phone hotline, myfwp.mt.gov, or onsite check stations.

Vermont's spring catch-and-release bass fishing season is underway through June 13, featuring excellent angling opportunities as largemouth and smallmouth bass feed in warming waters. State fisheries biologists Bernie Pientka and Shawn Good highlight that pre-spawn bass fishing provides outstanding opportunities with minimal impact on spawning success, with anglers required to use only artificial lures.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks closed vehicle access to the Fort Peck Dredge Cuts Fishing Access Site due to unsafe road conditions from dike sloughing. Walk-in access remains available, with the closure effective April 30 and expected to lift in a few weeks pending repairs.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources is accepting applications for approximately $1 million in wildlife habitat improvement grants through June 25. The program, funded by hunting and fishing license sales, prioritizes grassland and savanna habitat restoration projects. Eligible applicants include local, state, federal, and tribal governments, as well as for-profit and nonprofit organizations.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks announces new elk harvest regulations for Region 1, effective this hunting season. Changes include restricting Elk B Licenses to private land only, eliminating antlerless elk opportunities for Permission to Hunt from a Vehicle and archery hunters to reduce harvest pressure on public lands and manage population growth.

The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has closed Black Bear Management Unit 520 to all black bear hunting effective one-half hour after sunset on May 6, 2026.

CZ-USA announced leadership changes with Petr Pistelak transitioning back to Colt CZ Group in the Czech Republic. Petr Palecek becomes CEO and Head of Operations, while John Dain assumes the role of President and Chief Commercial Officer, with Tom Taylor transitioning to Chief Business Development Officer for Colt CZ Group.

The NSSF reported April 2026 NICS checks at 1,193,428, up 1.6 percent from April 2025's 1,174,294. NFA checks surged 130.3 percent to 190,086, with Texas, Virginia, and Florida leading in NFA activity. The adjusted data provides market insights while noting that background checks do not directly correlate to firearm sales.

Silencer Central, the country's largest suppressor retailer, announced three key hires to its sales and marketing leadership team: Ryan Houck as Senior Director of Marketing, Daniel Baugher as Director of Sales, and Shawn Porter as Event Sales Manager. The additions support the company's continued growth and innovation in the suppressor industry.

Insight Media Stream released an analysis arguing that view-based ad metrics overstate effectiveness compared to last-click attribution. The company contends that ad platforms inflate success rates by 40-60% by crediting sales to impressions rather than actual clicks, and recommends brands prioritize sales data and last-click metrics for accurate ROI measurement.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department, North Dakota Department of Water Resources, and North Dakota Parks and Recreation Department are promoting Aquatic Nuisance Species Awareness Week (May 3–9) to encourage responsible recreation and prevent the spread of invasive species. ANS coordinator Ben Holen emphasizes that preventing aquatic invasive species protects North Dakota's waters for all residents.

German Precision Optics (GPO USA) is hiring a Dealer Development Specialist in Richmond, Virginia with remote availability. The role involves outbound calling to retail sporting goods stores to promote GPO's premium optical product line, including riflescopes, binoculars, and spotting scopes, at $25 per hour.

Silencer Shop, the largest silencer distributor in the United States, has renewed its Platinum level corporate partnership with the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF). The company also sponsors SAF's sweepstakes program and the Gun Rights Policy Conference reception in Dallas, supporting SAF's legal efforts defending Second Amendment rights.

Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) announced the renewal of its partnership with Capital Farm Credit through 2029. Capital Farm Credit will continue corporate sponsorship supporting wildlife conservation, youth education, scholarships, and hunting heritage preservation across Texas.

Spartan Precision Equipment launches the Kestros Sling System, an innovative carry solution designed for hunters and shooters. Developed in collaboration with a Finnish sniper and manufactured in Finland, the system features three adaptive carry configurations and integrates seamlessly with the Javelin Pro Hunt Tac bipod, priced at $80.00.

Steelhead Outdoors has launched the Drifter 2 pistol lock box, a TSA-compliant storage solution measuring 8.5" x 11" x 3" and weighing 6.5 pounds. Priced at $109 USD, the Drifter 2 accommodates two handguns or larger optics and features 16-gauge steel construction with high-security anti-pick locks, expanding Steelhead's affordable lock box line.

Davidson's and Bond Arms launched their second version of the "Dead Man's Hand" two-shot derringer, chambered for 45 Colt and .410 bore shotshells. The exclusive model features engraved flat sides honoring the American West and Wild Bill Hickock folklore, with a suggested retail price of $596.00.

Chattanooga Shooting Supplies and Smith & Wesson® unveiled an exclusive Performance Center M&P 9 M2.0 Metal Carry Comp pistol featuring advanced Carry Comp system with PowerPort technology for reduced recoil and improved shot recovery. The full-size firearm includes night sights, flat-face trigger, and customizable grip inserts, available exclusively through Chattanooga Shooting Supplies' dealer network.

Sticky Holsters, based in Naples, Florida, announced a limited-time Mother's Day release featuring exclusive pink accents across its signature holster line, including the Belly Band and Guard Her Belt. The products utilize the brand's clip-less concealed carry technology with high-friction, non-slip outer skin designed for active women prioritizing protection.

Chiappa Firearms introduces the S.A. 1873 Black Thunder, a modern single-action revolver chambered in .44 Remington Magnum. The revolver features a Picatinny rail for optics, fiber-optic sights, and an oversized Hogue rubber grip, available in 5.5-inch and 7.5-inch barrel configurations.

Lynn County Sheriff's Department in Texas has adopted Liberty Ammunition's Pro Series 9mm ammunition. The patent-pending design features a 55-grain weight and 2,000 feet per second velocity, delivering 488 ft-lbs of energy. CEO Gary Ramey expressed pride in supporting the department with duty ammunition.

Galco unveils the Combat Master 2.0 belt holster, a modernized pancake holster designed for 4.25" 1911s with or without red dot sights. The professional-grade holster features hand-molded construction, optic cutaway capability, raised sweat guard, and premium steerhide construction for enhanced durability and concealment.

Zanders, a national distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, announces that Howa M1500 Fence Line Series rifles from Legacy Sports International are in stock and ready to ship. The rifles feature sub-MOA accuracy, hammer-forged barrels, and are available in fifteen calibers and three camouflage patterns.

Outdoor Sportsman Group promoted Ryan Barnes, an eight-time goose calling champion and experienced journalist, to Editor in Chief of WILDFOWL Magazine. Barnes previously co-founded Split Reed, a digital media company focused on waterfowl hunting content, and brings extensive field expertise and industry knowledge to the role.

Gun Owners of America announced that Carl Higbie, a former Navy SEAL and Newsmax host, will speak at the 2026 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS). The multi-day event will unite grassroots activists, lawmakers, and industry leaders to advance Second Amendment advocacy and constitutional freedoms.

EchoCore Suppressors will showcase its premium suppressor lineup at CANCON 2026 East in Clinton, South Carolina. The company will feature award-winning products including the Sector 5.56 Full Size and Compact, plus the recently released Radius 360 multi-caliber modular suppressor and Topo 22, in partnership with Silencer Shop.

Maxim Defense, a manufacturer of precision firearms and suppressors, will be a co-sponsor at Spring CANCON 2026 in Clinton, SC on May 8-9, 2026. The company will showcase products including the SDX RFLX, PDX-SD, and Ruger MKIV, with special preview day access for SOF veterans on May 7th.

Walther Arms will participate in CANCON East 2026 on May 8-9 at Clinton House Plantation & Shooting Complex in South Carolina. The world's largest fully-suppressed range day features over 40 shooting lanes, unlimited ammunition, and attendees can test Walther's premium handguns including the PDP series in suppressed conditions.

Dead Air Silencers will sponsor the 2026 CANCON East event May 7-9 at The Clinton House Shooting Complex in Clinton, South Carolina, showcasing centerfire and rimfire suppressors including the Ruger RXD910Ti, CT5P, Nomad Ti OTB, Sandman X, and Mojave 45 models.

Sonicore Suppressors, a Lyman Products brand, will exhibit at CANCON East 2026 on May 8–9 at Clinton House Plantation & Shooting Complex in Clinton, South Carolina. Attendees can experience Sonicore's full suppressor lineup including Skarv 22, Valor 9, Rekkr, and Paradox at the world's largest fully suppressed range day.

Mission First Tactical will exhibit at the 2026 Spring CANCON Fully Suppressed Range Day & Gun Show on May 8-9 at Clinton House Plantation in South Carolina. The event features hundreds of suppressed firearms from top manufacturers with free ammunition and unlimited shooting access.

Wise Arms LLC will continue as a National Sponsor of Whitetails Unlimited, according to WTU President Jeff Schinkten. The Louisiana-based firearms manufacturer, founded in 2014, specializes in custom AR builds and high-performing firearms produced with top-of-the-line equipment.

Murray Road Agency will attend and sponsor the 2026 Professional Outdoor Media Association Summit May 26-28 in Hugo, Minnesota. The agency will participate in the Affiliate Marketing Panel, host an educational session on media strategy, and sponsor the turkey hunt experience alongside the National Wild Turkey Federation and onX Hunt.

Houston Safari Club Foundation announced a new corporate partnership with Record Rack, a nutritional products company for deer and exotics, committing to sponsor HSCF from 2026 through 2029. The partnership supports HSCF's youth education programs, scholarship funding, conservation grants, and the Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention.

FastBound announced its sponsorship of the NSSF Marketing & Leadership Summit, taking place May 12–14, 2026, in Hilton Head, South Carolina. VP of Sales & Marketing Jamison Collins stated the sponsorship reflects FastBound's commitment to innovation and leadership in the firearms and outdoor industries, serving over 7,000 active FFLs nationwide.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public input on 41 preliminary fishing regulation proposals for the 2027–2028 fishing regulations. FWP will host a public meeting on May 6 at 6:00 p.m. at the Region 6 office in Glasgow, with a statewide virtual meeting option on May 26.

Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public input on 41 preliminary fishing regulation proposals for 2027–2028. A public meeting will be held in Miles City on May 7 at FWP regional headquarters, with virtual meetings available May 26.

Pursuit Channel announced the launch of Pursuit Plus, a subscription streaming platform for outdoor enthusiasts priced at $4.99 per month. The service features on-demand content, four live 24/7 channels, and exclusive podcasts from personalities including Ted Nugent and Hank Parker, available across all devices.

RS Deer Ranch, owned by Roy and Shirley Malonson in Hempstead, Texas, is featured in a new episode of Deer & Wildlife Stories with Keith Warren. The operation manages over 500 whitetail deer and specializes in CWD-resistant breeding genetics to enhance trophy deer across Texas.

Sportsman Channel launches "Big Game Wednesday" programming featuring hunting shows including Adrenaline with Kyle Wieter, Whitetail Properties, The Woodsman, Bowhunter TV, Bloodline Hunting with Matt Bullins, MTN Top Outdoors, and MeatEater with Steven Rinella, airing Wednesdays 8-11 p.m. ET.

The Utah Division of Wildlife Resources provides safety guidance for encountering cougars while hiking or trail running. Game Mammals Coordinator Chad Wilson advises hiking in groups, making noise, and avoiding dawn and dusk when cougars typically hunt. If encountered, maintain eye contact, stand tall, and back away slowly rather than running.

You’d think, listening to the loudest voices in the outdoor community lately, that the Boundary Waters had just been handed over to a mining company with a bow on top. Fundraising emails, social posts, and urgent alerts have painted a picture of imminent, irreversible damage. But that version of events collapses under even modest scrutiny.

What actually happened is far less dramatic—and far more procedural.

At the center of the controversy is the recent vote to repeal the 20-year mineral withdrawal put in place during the Biden Administration. That withdrawal effectively shut down the possibility of mineral leasing in the area, and it did so through executive action rather than through Congress. That distinction matters. Lawmakers from both parties took issue not necessarily with the outcome, but with the process—arguing that a sweeping land-use decision of that magnitude should go through the legislative branch and be grounded in a transparent, science-driven review.

That context has been almost entirely absent from the current wave of outrage.

Instead, many advocacy groups have characterized the vote as a green light for mining to begin. That is simply not true. The repeal reopens the possibility of leasing—it does not approve a mine. It doesn’t fast-track development. It doesn’t bypass environmental safeguards. It doesn’t even guarantee that a viable project will emerge.

Any mining proposal in the Boundary Waters watershed would face years of environmental review at the federal level. Those reviews are exhaustive, highly technical, and almost always subject to legal challenges. Projects far less controversial than this one routinely spend a decade in regulatory limbo.

And even that’s only half the story.

Minnesota retains its own permitting authority, a fact that has been conspicuously downplayed in the current discourse. The state has the power to approve or deny key permits regardless of federal posture. Given the political makeup of Minnesota’s current leadership—and likely its near-term future—it is difficult to imagine a scenario in which a large-scale mining project in this region clears that hurdle.

In other words, even in a hypothetical world where federal agencies sign off tomorrow, the state can still shut the door.

None of this is to argue that vigilance isn’t warranted. The Boundary Waters is a national treasure, and scrutiny over any potential industrial activity near it is justified. But there’s a difference between vigilance and exaggeration. When organizations default to alarmism—framing incremental procedural changes as existential threats—they risk eroding their own credibility.

More importantly, they distort the public’s understanding of how these decisions actually get made.

This is a complicated issue involving federal authority, state rights, environmental law, and long timelines. Reducing it to “the mine has been approved” may be effective for fundraising, but it does a disservice to anyone trying to engage with the issue in good faith.

The recent vote does remove a significant barrier to mining development. That much is true. But to suggest it marks the beginning of bulldozers rolling into the Boundary Waters is not just premature—it’s misleading.

The reality is far more measured: the door has been cracked open, not thrown wide. And between that crack and any actual development lies a gauntlet of legal, scientific, and political hurdles that are anything but trivial.

– Chris Dorsey

Chris Dorsey is a 30-year media veteran and conservation thought leader who is the founding partner of Dorsey Pictures, a Global 100 Production Studio, and Mission Partners Entertainment Group, a leading IMAX/giant screen natural history producer.