Nebraska Game and Parks partnered with Farm Focused/Stock and Rod of Plattsmouth to offer vintage-inspired outdoor apparel. Designs by graphic designer Ryan Holt feature Nebraska wildlife, parks, fishing, camping, birding, and hunting themes, with all proceeds supporting state conservation efforts.
Gun Owners of America (GOA), Gun Owners Foundation (GOF), Virginia Citizens Defense League (VCDL), and journalist John Crump filed a lawsuit challenging Virginia's SB749 and SB727, which ban "assault weapons" and public carry. The organizations seek declaratory judgment and injunction to prevent the laws from taking effect July 1st, citing violations of the Second Amendment and Virginia Constitution.
The Second Amendment Foundation, National Rifle Association, Firearms Policy Coalition, and two private citizens filed a lawsuit challenging Virginia's new assault weapons and large-capacity magazine bans signed by Gov. Abigail Spanberger. SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut and founder Alan M. Gottlieb argue the banned firearms are commonly owned and constitutionally protected.
Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC), alongside the National Rifle Association and Second Amendment Foundation, filed a federal lawsuit challenging Virginia's ban on semi-automatic firearms and large-capacity magazines. The complaint, McDonald v. Katz, seeks a permanent injunction against enforcement of the bans, arguing they violate Second Amendment protections.
The National Rifle Association filed lawsuits in Virginia state and federal court challenging Governor Abigail Spanberger's assault weapons and magazine bans. NRA-ILA Executive Director John Commerford stated the organization will pursue legal action against legislation (SB749/HB217) that bans semi-automatic firearms and magazines holding more than 15 rounds.
Hi Mountain Seasonings, based in Riverton, Wyoming, offers grilling essentials for Memorial Day including dip mixes, marinades, and burger blends. Owner Hans Hummel highlights how the company's products help grill masters create memorable meals while honoring those who served.
Christopher Allman, 20, of North Vernon, drowned at Crosley Lake after a pickup truck he was backing down the boat ramp entered the water. His passenger escaped safely, but Allman went under and did not resurface. Indiana Conservation Officers recovered his body at 1:12 a.m.
Grayson Mote, 20, of Ellsworth, Maine, who went missing while paddleboarding on Graham Lake on May 5th, was located deceased this evening approximately 2/10 mile from shore. An intensive search involving Maine Warden Service, Ellsworth Police Department, Ellsworth Fire Department, Maine Marine Patrol, Maine State Police, and the Maine Forest Service had been underway.
The Georgia Coastal Management Program, in partnership with Coca-Cola United, invites participants to a Build Your Own Rain Barrel Workshop on June 11th, 2026 at GA DNR Coastal Regional Headquarters in Brunswick. The $45 registration includes a 50-gallon drum, instructions, and all supplies needed to construct a rain barrel that can save homeowners 2,000 gallons of water annually.
Georgia's Department of Natural Resources Coastal Resources Division launched GeorgiaRedSnapper.com to guide anglers through the Georgia Red Snapper Project season running July 1 through August 31, 2026. The website provides participation requirements, VESL reporting platform instructions, and regulations for the expanded two-month red snapper season in federal waters.
Northern Michigan faces high fire danger from the MesoWest Great Lakes Fire & Fuels map. Jeff Vasher, Michigan DNR resource protection manager for the Lower Peninsula, warns that nine out of 10 wildfires are caused by people. The DNR has suspended burning permits for yard debris in northern regions this weekend.
Silencer Central announces the 100 Days of Silencer promotion featuring over $4,000 in prizes including a Heckler & Koch VP9A1 X Tactical pistol, BANISH 9 suppressor, and gear from Crossbreed Holsters, WeKnife, and CIVIVI. Registration opens for a 12-hour window on May 18, 2026, with daily prizes through the campaign hosted on PopularSuppressors.com.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks (FWP) opened applications for its Wildlife Habitat Improvement Program (WHIP) grant cycle, offering approximately $1.8 million in state-funded grants from May 18 to June 19. Projects enhancing wildlife habitats across Montana can receive funding for up to five years, with average grants ranging from $50,000 to $500,000.
The Michigan Natural Resources Commission approved significant deer regulation changes for 2026 and 2027 hunting seasons, including elimination of the antlerless access drawing in the Upper Peninsula, reduction of the muzzleloader season from 10 to 3 days, and implementation of a one-buck limit in the Lower Peninsula starting in 2027.
The Montana Fish & Wildlife Commission has closed Black Bear Management Unit 420 to all black bear hunting effective one-half hour after sunset on Monday, May 18, 2026.
The NSSF is funding a lawsuit against Virginia challenging HB 217/SB 749, which bans Modern Sporting Rifles, standard capacity magazines, and commonly owned handguns and shotguns. The complaint, filed by Erick Black, Britton Condon, Clark's Gun Shop, Inc., Optimus Arms, LLC, and Hexmag USA, LLC, argues the law violates the U.S. and Virginia Constitutions.
Colt's Manufacturing Company LLC appointed Kristin Marlow as Head of Marketing, bringing over 25 years of marketing leadership experience. Marlow previously served as Chief Marketing Officer at Staccato and Fractional Chief Marketing Officer at CCW Safe, leading brand strategy and digital initiatives across the firearms industry.
Kinetic Development Group (KDG) announced it has officially joined the Worldwide Buy Group to strengthen dealer relationships and support independent retailers in the firearms and outdoor industries. The company will showcase its product lineup including Kinect quick attach systems, SideLok optic mounts, and Optic Hub ecosystem at the Fall Market in Reno.
Richard Lendrum has partnered with Hunter Outdoor Communications to provide marketing and PR representation for Afton Safari Lodge, African Dawn Outfitters, African Hunting Gazette, and Taxidermy Trophy Solutions. The collaboration aims to expand awareness and strengthen these premier African hunting and safari brands in international markets.
WOOX, an Italian-American manufacturer of premium gunstocks, axes, and knives, is expanding its Hickory, North Carolina facility with groundbreaking planned for late 2026. The expansion aims to meet growing customer demand while reviving local woodworking craftsmanship traditions in the region.
European American Armory Corp. has begun shipping the Girsan Witness2311 CMXX in .45 ACP to distributors nationwide. The compensated carry model features an 11+1 round capacity, optic-ready slide, and Auto Firing Pin-Block safety, with an MSRP of $1,149.
ATN Corp announced its Generation 6 thermal riflescope lineup featuring the ATN ThOR 6 Elite flagship 640 thermal scope, ATN ThOR 6 Mini budget thermal scope under $1,000, and ATN TICO 6 clip-on thermal scope. The new platform delivers improved image quality, thermal sensitivity, and reliability for hunters and AR-15 shooters.
Mayfly Outdoors CEO Jeff Wagner discusses his fly fishing journey and leadership philosophy on the Fly Fisherman Loop to Loop podcast with editor Ross Purnell. Wagner shares his background from Sidney, Nebraska, his mentorship under figures like Monte Malzahn and Wayne Nelson, and his vision for stewarding historic fly fishing brands including Airflo, Renzetti, Ross, and Abel.
MDT is releasing the CRBN chassis in Rattle Can ODG finish for Remington 700 Short Action and Long Action platforms. The carbon fiber reinforced polymer chassis features a durable matte olive drab finish and accepts AICS-pattern magazines, available May 15, 2026.
Derya Arms has officially named its proprietary in-house trigger the "Second Wind Trigger," which comes standard on all DY9 and DY9Z pistols. The trigger features short pre-travel, a solid wall, and a crisp break designed to provide shooters with superior performance straight from the factory.
Mission First Tactical will exhibit at SOF Week 2026 from May 18-21 at the Hilton Tampa Downtown, showcasing their latest rifle/carbine accessories, holsters, and tactical gear. The annual conference, jointly sponsored by USSOCOM and the Global SOF Foundation, is expected to draw over 15,000 attendees from the international Special Operations community.
Beretta Defense Technologies alliance members including Beretta USA, Benelli, Sako, Steiner, and others will exhibit at SOF Week 2026 in Tampa from May 19-21, showcasing firearms, optics, ammunition, and counter-UAS capabilities including the Benelli M4 Advanced Impact Drone Guardian and Beretta 1301 cUAS shotguns.
Regal Products will exhibit at SOF Week 2026 in Tampa, Florida, May 18–21, showcasing its firearm safety and storage solutions in the Human Performance Zone. The company will recruit participants for Phase 2 of its U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs research study evaluating the SecureMe by Regal movement detection system for suicide prevention and firearm safety strategies.
The Michigan Department of Natural Resources has demobilized emergency equipment at the Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex as water levels dropped below emergency stage. Spillway gates are scheduled for reinstallation early next week, with the safety cable to follow. Lincoln Street and Forks boating access sites remain closed due to emergency operations and high water conditions.
The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission officially opened the Upper Illinois River Water Trail, the first Arkansas Water Trail in Northwest Arkansas and the first to span two states. The 15.5-mile trail runs from Chamber Springs Access near Pedro through Siloam Springs Kayak Park to WOKA Whitewater Park in Oklahoma, featuring consistent water flow ideal for paddling year-round.
Nebraska Game and Parks Commission offers diverse June educational events including the Junior Bluebird Program at Ponca State Park, Stars, Strolls & S'mores at Skyview Lake, virtual webinars on the Platte River science, wildflower workshops at Prairie Pines Nature Preserve, and Bumble Bee Atlas field days at Spring Creek Prairie Audubon Center and Ponca State Park.
Pictograph Cave State Park will offer free ranger-guided tours every Saturday from May 23 through August 29. Rangers will discuss park history, archeology, geology, and Native American occupation during the one-hour walking tours, with group sizes limited to 20 participants.
Nebraska Game and Parks offers camping tips for Memorial Day weekend, including purchasing permits through OutdoorNebraska.gov, checking for campfire bans, practicing campfire safety, wearing life jackets, and observing quiet hours from 10 p.m. to 6 a.m. in state park campgrounds.
The High Road with Keith Warren releases a new episode featuring Keith Warren, co-host Johnny Piazza, and David Howard of Determinator Targets hunting antelope in Wyoming with Blue Rock Outfitters owner Mike Zmek. The episode showcases Shaw custom rifles in action across Wyoming's prairies and airs on the Pursuit Channel.
I’m in the process of getting rid of the various accumulations of the last half-century of my career, finally tossing old TV audition tapes, show reels, newspaper clippings and all the assorted mementos of a life in the media.
It’s not easy.
Despite a memory that can forget half of a four-item grocery list, I still remember pull quotes of interviews from decades ago. Mine’s the type of memory that attaches emotionally to otherwise unremarkable “stuff.” That makes purging problematic.
My “purge” includes my gun safe(s). Not moving guns around; actually sending most of them to new homes. I’m struggling, despite realizing that we never really “own” guns; we’re only caretakers. Properly cared for, they’ll be around long after I’m not. Many of mine have had several prior owners.
My recent trip to Range Ready in Louisiana helped me refocus on guns I really like, not those I “might shoot one day.”
The Louisiana event was “Plinkapalooza” - a celebration of rimfire designed to remind invited media types that rimfire is where the love of shooting originates.
Plinkapalooza delivered.
Thousands of rounds of .22 LR, .22 Magnum and .17HMR were fired at targets reminiscent of the long-gone shooting galleries of my youth.
Ringing steel, popping powder filled balloons, shooting PEZ candies, and exploding targets reminded me of why I started shooting: it was fun. Rimfire was, and still is, affordable.
Dave Nash, a/k/a “22 Plinkster” joined the fun of Plinkapalooza, splitting a playing card and shooting a PEZ candy off the top of a balloon. That’s why he has a massive social media following.
Plinkapalooza was a reminder that gun writers focus too-much on “latest and greatest stuff.”
We don’t pay nearly enough attention to the guns that helped introduce most of us to shooting: rimfires.
Plinkapalooza re-focused me on the fun of shooting. The pure joy of ringing steel or popping balloons or hitting candies with guns that didn’t punish me with recoil, stun me with concussion or impoverish me with the cost of ammunition.
A reminder shooting wasn’t just serious business and I was neither a stealthy ninja killer nor a sheepdog protecting the flock. I was just an older guy reconnecting with the childlike fun of shooting.
Rimfires aren’t as cheap as they were when I was a kid, but gasoline isn’t twenty-three cents per gallon either.
Times have changed.So have the guns, the ammunition and the accessories. But the fun’s still there.
You can see the variety of targets on the 100-yard range. Hitting some of them ignited some pretty impressive pyrotechnics.
The majority of the guns were fitted with Banish suppressors from Silencer Central. Everyone agrees suppression is terrific for heavy calibers.
With rimfires it’s magical.
Shooting a suppressed Smith & Wesson FPC carbine </https://www.smith-wesson.com/product/m-p-fpc-22lr> the loudest sound I heard wasn’t the crack of the round; it was the trigger reset.
Throughout the Plinkapalooza, suppression was so good that unsuppressed S&W .22LR revolvers sounded like heavy calibers.
The ability to actually hear steel react added to the fun of challenge targets like Caldwell’s KYL (Know Your Limits), “flashers” ( Caldwell’s Flash Bang AR500 Steel Target Hit Indicators) added visual stimulus to ringing their steel targets. Seeing a flasher illuminate after a 100-yard it on their 33% deer target - with a handgun I can’t yet talk about yet - wasn’t just gratifying, it was great fun. Fun in shooting is not a bad thing-we sometimes forget that.
The Kinetic Group’s Remington brand has specially-packaged 22 Yellow Jacket ammo commemorating our 250th birthday (top). Thousands of their other varieties (bottom) weren’t spared as souvenirs.
In classroom sessions, The Kinetic Group’s J.J. Reich reminded us that the vast selection of .22 rimfire rounds today don’t mean the diminutive cartridge is only for “plinking.” Like any firearm, it has the ability to do serious damage, despite being fun to shoot.
Seeing what “plinking” round did in ballistic gel brought that fact home. While thousands of rounds reminded me of the joy of shooting, seeing the impact of Federal Premium’s .22 Punch, a 29-grain, nickel plated, flat nosed .22 LR bullet zipping along at 1080fps, reminded me it’s still a weapon.
But it wouldn’t have been a “true” media event if we didn’t get to see -and shoot- guns that either are custom or not-yet-available to the general public. The rifles and pistols from Volquartsen are true hand-fitted, highly smithed guns that are actually affordable -at least when compared to heavier calibers. S&W’s Victory .22s with carbon fiber barrels and high-end accessories are also serious competition contenders.
But a brand normally thought of for affordability also held its own. Rifles from Savage Arms weren’t just affordable; they were dead nuts accurate. Unfortunately, I can’t talk about their newest entries into the .22 rimfire category, but shooters will find them attractive-in more ways than one (we’ll keep you posted).
Everyone had the opportunity to try and copy 22 Plinkster’s card-splitting trick shot. I got lucky - with iron sights (top) We topped off two days of fun with a pyrotechnic finish (bottom).
Plinkapalooza wasn’t just an opportunity to see new products, visit with friends and, more importantly, reconnect with the fun of shooting. It was a reminder for all of us that “plinking” can preserve and improve all-too-perishable shooting skills.
