Swhacker Broadheads introduces the #311 100GR Fixed 3-Blade Broadhead, featuring single-bevel design with replaceable blades for maximum stability and penetration. Engineered by Rick Forrest and manufactured by FL Outdoors, the broadhead is made in the USA for serious bowhunters.

Outdoor Sportsman Group presented Chris Dolnack, Senior Vice President and Chief Customer Officer for the National Shooting Sports Foundation, with its Lifetime Achievement Award at SHOT Show in Las Vegas. The award, presented by Michael Waddell during live filming, recognized Dolnack's three decades of contributions to the shooting sports and firearms industry.

Benelli USA announced its 2025 Sales Representative of the Year Awards honoring outstanding performers across its Benelli, Franchi, Stoeger, and Uberti USA brands. Recipients include Chase Spurgin, Ken Johnson, Tyler Harpster, Dave Lotito, James Tullos, Bentley Scott, Christian Larsen, and Greg Rader, recognized for exceptional sales performance and customer service.

Five individuals including Michigan DNR Conservation Officers Jennifer Lehto and Zach Painter, Michigan State Police Trooper Paul Maxinoski, Great Lakes Indian Fish and Wildlife Commission Capt. Steve Amsler, and Susan Barrette received awards for their heroic rescue of an angler who broke through Lake Gogebic ice in March 2024.

TenPoint Crossbow Technologies won Best Crossbow in the 2026 Bowhunting World Readers' Choice Awards, voted by the magazine's dedicated readership. The company's 2026 lineup features the NEW Ultra Series of Crossbows and Vision™ HD 3-12X Digital Rangefinding Crossbow Scope, designed for superior accuracy and reliability.

Federal received the 2026 Gold Award in the Shotshells category from Predator Xtreme readers, marking their eighth consecutive year winning the honor. Federal Shotshell Product Director Dan Compton highlighted the Federal Premium Buckshot 4B load's copper-plated pellets and tight patterns for predator hunting.

CCI Rimfire Ammunition won the Predator Xtreme 2026 Gold Award for Rimfire Ammunition for the 10th consecutive year. CCI Rimfire Product Manager Steve Monniere announced two new Hunter Series loads featuring Small Game Bullets in 22 LR calibers for 2026.

The Natural Resources Commission approved the dedication of Barnebey Woods in Owen County as a nature preserve, managed by Sycamore Land Trust, and expanded Hoosier Prairie Nature Preserve in Lake County with the addition of Sundew Prairie. Both areas receive Indiana's highest protection level, with funding supported by blue Environmental Plate sales through the President Benjamin Harrison Conservation Trust.

Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed an opening brief with the Fifth Circuit Court of Appeals in Elite Precision Customs v. ATF, challenging federal laws prohibiting licensed firearm dealers from selling handguns to out-of-state buyers. The case is represented by David H. Thompson, Peter A. Patterson, William V. Bergstrom, Cody J. Wisniewski, and R. Brent Cooper.

Gun Owners of America announces Arizona Freedom Festival 2026 on March 28, 2026, at Glendale Civic Center East Parking Lot. The family-friendly event will feature vendors, Second Amendment advocacy organizations, speakers including Mark W. Smith and Andy Biggs, and an Overland Vehicle and Motorcycle Exhibit.

The Gulf Council will hold a virtual Ecosystem Technical Committee Meeting on March 3, 2026, from 1:00-4:00 PM EDT. The committee will receive updates on Inflation Reduction Act Projects and the Gulf Ecosystem Status Report, and review a draft Gulf Fishery Ecosystem Plan.

The Nebraska Game and Parks Commission will certify Youth Fishing Instructors at five locations across Nebraska this spring. Instructors receive training, loaner equipment, and educational materials to conduct youth fishing clinics and can volunteer for Family Fishing Nights and outdoor expos.

Emily Roberts, Statewide Fire Program coordinator for the Arkansas Game and Fish Commission, explains how prescribed fire benefits wildlife habitat and plant communities. The AGFC conducts 18,000 to 30,000 acres of prescribed burns annually on its 380,000-plus acres, partnering with the U.S. Forest Service and The Nature Conservancy to restore habitats like prairies and glades across Arkansas.

Hook & Barrel Magazine is hosting a giveaway sweepstakes for a Dead Air Silencers Nomad Ti OTB .30-caliber suppressor valued at $1,049. The sweepstakes runs through February 28, 2026, with entry available on the Hook & Barrel website.

The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service and National Fish and Wildlife Foundation awarded $12.5 million to 30 partner-led conservation projects in the Delaware River watershed. The grants will generate $17 million in matching contributions for a total $29.3 million investment to restore habitats, improve water quality, and enhance public access across Delaware, Pennsylvania, New Jersey, and New York.

HeadHunters NW President Shaylene Keiner will conduct face-to-face executive recruiting consultations in the Phoenix area from February 10 through March 5, 2026. Organizations can meet directly to discuss 2026 hiring needs, gain market intelligence on talent expectations, and develop customized talent strategies with no obligation required.

Todd Seyfert, President and CEO of Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc., has been elected to the NSSF Board of Governors at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. Seyfert brings extensive industry experience from previous roles at FeraDyne Outdoors, Vista Outdoor, and other manufacturing enterprises.

Korth Group Ltd., a Canadian outdoor distributor, is expanding into the fishing category with a dedicated team and new Ontario warehouse facility launching in Q2 2026 to enhance service across Canada.

Warne announces the MaxLite MSR Scope Mount, a lightweight aluminum optic mounting solution designed for modern sporting rifles. Available in 1-inch and 30mm tube sizes at $109.99 MSRP, the mount offers precision construction and proper MSR height for shooters using LPVOs and other modern optics.

Vortex Optics launched the Triumph™ 2 MOA Red Dot in Barneveld, Wisconsin, designed for new and recreational shooters seeking reliable performance across multiple platforms. The optic features 9 daylight and 2 night-vision illumination settings, motion activation with 10-minute auto-shutoff, and multi-height mount options at $99.99 MAP.

The Congressional Sportsmen's Foundation hosted its annual CSC Leadership Dinner in Washington, D.C., bringing together lawmakers and conservation leaders to recognize bipartisan cooperation. The event highlighted CSC-led legislative achievements including the Wetlands Conservation and Access Improvement Act and the Modernizing Access to Our Public Waters Act.

Winchester introduces Super Suppressed, a comprehensive subsonic ammunition line available in centerfire handgun, rimfire, and centerfire rifle calibers at major outdoor retailers. The ammunition features clean performance with lead encapsulation technology and pairs with suppressors to optimize noise reduction for target and range shooting.

MDT announces expansion of its LSS GEN3 Chassis System with new Ruger American and Ruger 10/22 inlets, plus interchangeable buttstock interface assemblies including XTN, Carbine, and Picatinny options. The modular platform allows shooters to swap components while maintaining optic zero.

Ani-Logics Outdoors launches four new deer products: CRUSH Concoction, Camo CRUSH, Ani-Shield Base Mix, and Mass Maker. These offerings combine deer attraction with nutritional support, featuring protein-based formulas, immune support through Ani-Shield TX4, and minerals designed to enhance herd health and antler growth.

Kinetic Development Group announced the updated 3.25" Stribog Rail is back in stock with extended length and enhanced bridge design for improved strength and mounting space. The refined accessory maintains KDG's lightweight construction and durability while offering greater functionality for shooters.

Blocker Outdoors introduced the Finisher BT (Boss Tom) Strap Vest, a minimalist turkey hunting vest designed for simplicity and comfort. The lightweight vest features adjustable straps, removable magnetic seat cushion, dedicated pockets for calls and accessories, and is available in Mossy Oak Original Bottomland and Mossy Oak Full Foliage patterns at $149.99.

Redding Reloading Equipment launched a new Precision Expanding Mandrel product line featuring six mandrels in .0005" increments for eight popular calibers. The CNC-machined mandrels offer handloaders precise control over case neck tension with available sizes ranging from .0005" to .0030" below nominal bullet diameter.

Browning Trail Cameras introduces the Security Tree Strap, a 6-foot mounting solution featuring heavy-duty nylon webbing and reinforced steel cables designed to securely mount trail cameras in any environment with tamper-resistant protection and field-ready convenience.

GRITR has released its Level 2 Retention Duty Holster designed for Glock 9mm/.40 double-stack pistols, featuring a hood-style retention device, ejection-port lock, and adjustable tensioner. The holster offers a mid-ride OWB belt slide with adjustable cant and is compatible with Safariland QLS mounting systems, backed by GRITR's Unlimited Grit Lifetime Warranty.

Renowned hunting and fishing writer Skip Knowles has been appointed Editor-in-Chief at Sporting Classics Magazine. Publisher Duncan Grant and TV host Chris Dorsey praised Knowles' extensive background leading outdoor publications and media ventures, calling him the ideal fit to guide the 45-year-old premium magazine into the future.

Bear & Son Cutlery, Alabama's largest knife manufacturer, will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show in Harrisburg, Pennsylvania, February 7-15. The company will debut over a dozen new products including Locking Farmhand pocketknives, Executive stainless steel series, and expanded kitchen cutlery at booth #720.

BERSA USA will exhibit at the Nation's Best Sports 2026 Spring Semi-Annual Market in Oklahoma City, February 10-13, showcasing its firearms lineup including new M2XI double-stack 1911 models and striker-fired pistols at booth No. 431.

Target Sports USA will showcase its booth #710 at the Great American Outdoor Show, featuring raffles, exclusive ammunition pricing, a Ford F-250 giveaway truck, and AMMO+ membership promotions with a free $130 gift for new members.

The Mule Deer Foundation and Sportsmen for Fish and Wildlife are hosting the 20th anniversary Western Hunting and Conservation Expo February 12-15 at Salt Palace in Salt Lake City. The event features 589 vendors, 200 limited-entry permit applications, 25 bighorn sheep tags, and celebrates the one-year anniversary of the Blacktail Deer Foundation.

Meprolight will showcase new and proven products at the NBS Show in Oklahoma City, October 10-13, at Booth #1924. New offerings include the Mepro CABS backup sights, Mepro CRIS iron sights for pistol optics, and green reticle options for micro pistol optics. The company will also feature battlefield-tested Variable Optic riflescopes and the Mepro MCO PRO carbine optic.

Patriot Ordnance Factory Inc. (POF-USA) will exhibit at the NBS 2026 Spring Semi-Annual Market February 10-13 in Oklahoma City, showcasing its AR-type rifles and product lineup at booth 218. Vice President of Sales and Marketing Corey Soriano highlighted the event's importance for connecting with retail partners and discussing opportunities for the upcoming year.

Traditions® Performance Firearms will exhibit at the 2026 Great American Outdoor Show, February 7–15 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg. Attendees can visit Booth #693 to explore the company's muzzleloading and hunting firearms innovations. The world's largest consumer outdoor show attracts over 200,000 visitors annually.

CZ will exhibit at the 50th Annual National Wild Turkey Federation Convention & Sport Show on February 12–14, 2026, at the Gaylord Opryland Resort & Convention Center in Nashville, Tennessee. The company will showcase hunting-focused firearms at Booth #1114 and connect with industry leaders and conservation-minded sportsmen.

APEX Ammunition will exhibit at the National Wild Turkey Federation Convention February 12-14 at Gaylord Opryland Resort in Nashville, showcasing their TSS turkey loads in Booth #1445. The company will offer multiple gauges and blends, with the APEX Cigar Box available free with purchase of three or more boxes of turkey ammo.

Nighthawk Custom has joined the Second Amendment Foundation as a Gold-level corporate partner. The Berryville, Arkansas-based precision firearms manufacturer donated a custom pistol build through SAF's sweepstakes program, raising $25,000 for the organization's Second Amendment advocacy work.

Muddy has renewed its sponsorship with Whitetails Unlimited, continuing its support for the organization's conservation and hunting education mission. WTU President Jeff Schinkten praised Muddy's innovative hunting and outdoor equipment, including blinds and cameras, for their quality and commitment to promoting safe, ethical hunting practices.

The Arizona Game and Fish Commission will hold a public meeting on Friday, Feb. 6, at 8 a.m. at the Maricopa Library and Cultural Center. Complete agendas and information on viewing the meeting or speaking to the commission are available at www.azgfd.com/commagenda.

The Michigan Department of Natural Resources will begin livestreaming all Michigan Natural Resources Commission meetings via Zoom starting February 11. The seven-member commission, which regulates game and sport fish in Michigan, holds monthly meetings primarily in the Lansing area with periodic travel to other regions.

Major League Fishing's Tackle Warehouse Pro Circuit Stop 1 streams live on MLFNOW! from Harris Chain of Lakes in Leesburg, Florida, with top pro anglers competing for a $135,000 prize. The three-day tournament, hosted by Discover Lake County Florida, airs February 6-8 on MajorLeagueFishing.com, MyOutdoorTV, and Rumble.

Pursuit Channel highlights its flagship Sportfishing Sunday block airing every Sunday at 10:00 a.m. ET, featuring programs like Vice Versa Saltwater Adventures with Scott Martin, Texas Team Trail, National Walleye Tour, and Bass Pro Shops Collegiate Bass Series. The 2026 lineup reached 158.4 million total viewers across all platforms in 2025.

Earlier this week, news that Big Rock Sports had shuttered kicked off a not-so-cheerful February for the outdoor business.

Fair warning: if you’re looking for something uplifting to give your retail confidence a boost, don’t read any further.

Seems it’s only a matter of time before Eddie Bauer files a third Chapter 11 bankruptcy with retail news outlets Women’s Wear Daily (subscription required) reporting those bankruptcy plans include the closure of the nearly 200 Eddie Bauer retail locations across North America.

Eddie Bauer’s first bankruptcy happened in 2003 when parent company at that time, Spiegel Inc. filed bankruptcy. After a restructuring, Eddie Bauer emerged in June 2005 as a stand-alone company called Eddie Bauer Holdings, Inc.

In June 2009, Eddie Bauer Holdings filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy, citing heavy debt, slumping sales and recession pressures. It secured financing during that bankruptcy while looking for a buyer.

In July 2009, private equity firm Golden Gate Capital purchased the business for $286 million. In 2021, Golden Gate sold Bauer to a partnership with Authentic Brands Group (ABG) and SPARC Group. ABG owns the intellectual property; SPARC manages retail operations and store locations.

Now, the company is preparing to add a third Chapter 11 filing to the growing list of retail failures. Retail analysts don’t just attribute the issues to the burgeoning popularity of online shopping, saying the stores were too-crowded, unappealing and didn’t keep the Eddie Bauer brand relevant.

The chain will exit the United States, but it appears current ownership intends to keep stores in Japan operating. WWD reports the manufacturing, e—commerce and wholesale operations will remain in North America but will transition to another licensee. Meanwhile, The Street is reporting the liquidation of inventory is presenting shoppers with opportunities to score Bauer gear at deep discounts.

According to industry experts, this is another example of repeated failure of the conglomerated brands business model. Actually, they call it the “logical endpoint of the conglomerate business model: financial arbitrage masquerading as brand stewardship.” Eddie Bauer’s e-commerce operation will move to another licensee. In effect allowing current owners to monetize the exit while simultaneously ditching unprofitable physical operations.

That’s not the only ugly retail news we’re hearing, just the latest with confirmation.

Right now I’m working on reports that one major firearms manufacturer, tired of frequent violations of MAP (minimum advertised pricing) has notified a major online retailer that they will be permanently banned from future transactions.

It’s not unusual for companies to put temporary blocks on companies for MAP violations, but it seems this company has essentially thumbed its nose at the manufacturer one time too-often.

In return they’re on the “companies we do not want to do business with” list- and not just for some short timeout. Both are “names” in the industry.

As always, we’ll keep you posted.

—Jim Shepherd