Colt CZ Group SE successfully closed its acquisition of 51% stakes in Synthesia Nitrocellulose and Synthesia Power for CZK 10.0 billion, strengthening control over key ammunition production materials. Kaprain Chemical Limited became Colt CZ's third largest shareholder with a 9.86% stake.
Hook & Barrel Magazine announced winners of its Second Annual Top Shelf Awards, honoring best-in-class outdoor industry brands and personalities across 21 categories. Editorial Director Nino Bosaz praised the community response, with awards to be presented at SHOT Show 2026.
Hornady has been named the Top Ammunition Brand by Hook & Barrel's Top Shelf Awards, which honors best-in-class outdoor industry brands. Seth Swerczek, Hornady Communications Manager, emphasized the company's commitment to quality and craftsmanship. Winners will be honored at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Swhacker Broadheads revealed three new 2026 models at ATA in Indianapolis: the #307 mechanical 2-blade, #311 fixed 3-blade, and #316 universal practice points. Director of Operations Randy Groff and engineer Rick Forrest highlighted innovations including Blade-Lock Technology and improved durability features designed for precision hunting performance.
Orchid, a leading FFL technology provider, will exhibit at the 2026 Camfour Dealer Show January 10–11 in Fort Worth, Texas. Specialists Toni Hendrickson and Cami Gemini will demonstrate Orchid's integrated POS, eCommerce, compliance, and inventory solutions. Attendees can enter to win up to $5,000 in software credits at Booth #13.
The DSC Convention & Sporting Expo will be held February 6-8, 2026, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Media members can pre-register for credentials and access a dedicated pressroom with amenities. The event features over 600 exhibitors and raises millions for conservation, education, and advocacy initiatives.
Gearfire will showcase archery-focused solutions at the 2026 ATA Show in Indianapolis (January 7-8). The company is expanding capabilities to address long-standing technological gaps for archery retailers, offering turn-key eCommerce, a curated product catalog, and distributor integration services.
European American Armory will showcase its latest firearms at the Camfour 2026 Dealer Show in Fort Worth, Texas on January 10–11. EAA Corp. will feature new Witness2311 Series products and Balikli Firearms at Booth 18, with Chase Duffey, EAA Director of Sales, available to discuss upcoming initiatives.
Safari Club International, Safari Club International Foundation, and Texas Trophy Hunters Association partnered with Outdoor Tomorrow Foundation to present wildlife conservation and hunting education at the Outdoors Extravaganza on January 9th, bringing 200 youth participants to learn about sustainable hunting practices and conservation.
RetailBI released its December 2025 Firearm Sales Index showing a -16.4% decline for the month and -12.1% year-over-year decrease. The index, powered by Gearfire, provides retailers, distributors, and manufacturers with accurate new firearm sales data from over 2,000 U.S. retailers to guide production and inventory decisions.
Silent Steel USA announced that former U.S. Navy SEAL Justin Sheehan has joined as Vice President of Combat Capabilities & Law Enforcement Programs. Sheehan, who served with SEAL Team 2 and SEAL Team 6, brings extensive special operations and combat medicine expertise. He will lead combat capability initiatives and expand partnerships with military and law enforcement professionals.
The NSSF-adjusted NICS figure for December 2025 was 1,587,049, representing a 3.4 percent decrease from December 2024. Annual 2025 NSSF-adjusted NICS checks totaled 14,612,314, down 4.1 percent compared to 2024, with Texas, Florida, and California leading in adjusted checks.
BPI Outdoors and Bergara Rifles unveiled the Cima Pro, a Premier Series rifle featuring advanced carbon technology, a TriggerTech trigger, and the ST2 Muzzle Brake. Available in multiple calibers including 22 Creedmoor and 25 Creedmoor, the rifle weighs 5.7 pounds with an MSRP starting at $3,099.
Primary Arms Optics introduced the SLx Compact 4-16x44mm First Focal Plane Rifle Scope, featuring a compact 10.1-inch profile and three ACSS reticle options. Priced at $349.99, the scope is designed for hunters and marksmen seeking lightweight mid-power precision with a lifetime warranty.
Camp Woodie, the South Carolina Waterfowl Association's flagship youth summer camp, is adding a multi-lane climbing tower, waterslides, and swimming enhancements for 2026. The camp has also expanded staffing with new Camp Care Specialists, Activity Experts, and Lead Facilitators to enhance camper experiences and safety.
Ol'Man Outdoors introduces two steel hang-on treestands: the lightweight Eagle Eye (OT-501) at 17 pounds for mobile hunters, and the feature-rich Top Dog Deluxe (OT-504) with padded armrests and oversized platform for all-day comfort. Both stands feature heavy-duty steel frames and quiet construction designed for strategic hunting placement.
EchoCore Suppressors announced an exclusive distribution agreement with Silencer Shop, making all five EchoCore models available through Silencer Shop's national dealer network. The partnership includes the award-winning Sector 5.56 Full Size and Sector 5.56 Compact suppressors, now in-stock and shipping.
Knight & Hale Game Calls announces expansion of its Run N' Gun® turkey vest line with four new models: the Run N' Gun® 100 Chest Rig in Mossy Oak® Greenleaf, Run N' Gun® 150 Chest Rig in Mossy Oak® Original Bottomland, Run N' Gun® 200 Turkey Vest in Realtree® Legacy, and Run N' Gun® 300 Turkey Vest in Mossy Oak® Full Foliage and Original Bottomland, each designed for mobile hunters with lightweight comfort and smart storage solutions.
KRISS USA announced the release of the KRISS Vector Gen 3 Two-Tone variant featuring a Black upper receiver and Flat Dark Earth lower receiver, available exclusively through Lipsey's. The Two-Tone configuration is offered across Carbine, Pistol, and Short-Barreled Rifle models with MSRPs ranging from $1,499.99 to $1,749.99.
Real Avid has launched four comprehensive Master Pistol Collections designed for pistol shooters and conceal carry users. The kits include the Master Pistol Maintenance Collection, Master Pistol Cleaning Collection, and platform-specific collections for Glock and 1911 pistols, featuring specialized tools like sight pushers and smart mats.
EchoCore Suppressors won first and second place in the 5.56mm category at the 2025 Silencer Summit with its Sector 5.56 Full Size and Sector 5.56 Compact models. Founder Chris Mudgett highlighted the company's XCR technology and precision engineering as key to their debut success in the industry's premier independent suppressor evaluation event.
Franklin Armory will unveil the patent-pending Total Round Control (TRC) bolt action at SHOT Show 2026, featuring its innovative Prevail line of long-range precision hunting rifles. The TRC system combines push feed and controlled round feed design features, offering toolless disassembly, interchangeable bolt heads, and availability in multiple calibers including .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor.
TAG Precision announces the FiberLok SG Pro Shotgun Sight, a U.S.-manufactured front sight featuring patented FiberLok technology for secure fiber retention, interchangeable fiber colors, and precision CNC-machined components. Designed for competition, hunting, and tactical use, the sight offers durability and reliable performance across shotgun platforms.
Beretta introduces the A300 Ultima semi-automatic shotgun in two Mossy Oak camouflage patterns for waterfowl season. Available in 12-gauge and 20-gauge, the shotgun features Kick-Off recoil reduction, enlarged loading ports, and reliable gas-operated cycling, with an MSRP of $1,079.
NEXTORCH North America announced the launch of the TA30D Tactical Flashlight, delivering 2200 lumens with a 448-yard beam distance. Featuring an advanced Ultra Thermal Buffer system and patented One-Step-Strobe capability, the compact tactical light is designed for law enforcement, emergency responders, and tactical professionals, priced at $99.99.
Kinetic Development Group has transitioned its MREX15 rail for the FN SCAR 15P into full-scale production following a successful soft launch. The compact rail, machined from 6061-T6 aluminum and weighing 2.6 ounces, is now available through KDG's distributor partners and authorized dealers, reinforcing the company's commitment to the FN SCAR platform.
Winchester Optics and Winchester Pet announced they will attend the 2026 SHOT Show January 20–23 at the Venetian Expo + Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, joining Winchester Ammunition at booth #11827 to showcase latest products and connect with industry partners.
NSSF invites SHOT Show attendees to register for the 3rd Annual Attorneys General Forum featuring state attorneys general including Tim Griffin, James Uthmeier, Brenna Bird, Kris Kobach, Liz Murrill, Catherine Hanaway, Austin Knudsen, and J.B. McCuskey discussing Second Amendment legal battles and courtroom defense strategies.
Armasight, a leader in professional-grade thermal and night vision technology, will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show January 20–23 in Las Vegas. The company will showcase its latest thermal and night vision solutions at booth #80707 in the Caesars Forum.
Derya Arms, a firearms manufacturer with operations in Türkiye and the United States, will exhibit at SHOT Show 2026 at the Venetian Expo, Booth 13822. The company will highlight its dual factory expansion and unveil new product launches alongside its established lineup including the DY9Z, DY9, DY12, and TM22.
Ocufii has been announced as the official Safety Technology Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2026, taking place January 19 at Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Nevada. The company will showcase its TagMe Assist app and safety products, with over 20 staff members using the platform to demonstrate real-time safety management and operational efficiency.
Rocky Ridge Whitetails, an Amish-owned operation owned by John Ervin Stolzfus, has become the most respected deer breeding farm in the northern United States. The farm specializes in developing genetically CWD-resistant whitetails and is featured on Deer & Wildlife Stories with Keith Warren, airing on the Pursuit Channel in 2026.
Shooting USA features the fastest USPSA guns competing in Open and Limited Optics divisions at the newly redesigned Southern Utah Shooting Sports Park. The episode also covers modifications to enhance 10/22 rifle accuracy and family usability.
Sportsman Channel launches "Sunday Sportsman" lineup Sunday nights 8-11 p.m. ET, featuring shows hosted by the Drury's, Steven Rinella, and Brian "Pigman" Quaca. The programming includes Realtree's Monster Bucks, Pigman: The Series, MeatEater, Dropped: Project Origin, The Gamekeepers of Mossy Oak, and Winchester & Drury's Natural Born.
Once the domain of early adopters and DIY tinkerers, electric propulsion has become a real and growing segment of the marine market. Today, well over 20 companies worldwide are building electric outboards or related electric propulsion systems, ranging from portable motors for tenders to serious powerplants aimed at larger recreational and commercial boats.
Quiet, clean, and increasingly capable, these motors are no longer just curiosities. They are becoming legitimate alternatives for jon boats, skiffs, tenders, pontoons, and some workboats—especially in places where noise, emissions, or fuel storage are concerns.
Electric outboards are still relatively expensive compared to comparable gas motors, and batteries remain heavier and offer less range than a full tank of gasoline. But that gap is shrinking quickly. For certain applications—short runs, quiet-water fisheries, regulated lakes, and boats that rarely travel far—electric marine power already makes sense, both practically and economically.
Here’s a look at some of the major players and what each brings to the water.
Torqeedo: The German Pioneer
Torqeedo, based in Germany, was among the first companies to approach electric outboards with a serious business model and global distribution. The company has been building electric propulsion systems since the early 2000s and remains one of the most established names in the category.
Its lineup spans from lightweight, portable motors for tenders and small fishing boats to integrated systems equivalent to roughly 20–25 horsepower and beyond. The Cruise series combines motor, battery, and control electronics into compact, water-ready packages known for efficiency and reliability. At the upper end, Torqeedo has produced larger electric outboards capable of pushing heavier craft, underscoring that electric propulsion is no longer confined to small boats.
For anglers fishing quiet lakes or eco-sensitive waters, Torqeedo’s Travel and Cruise models offer near-silent operation, minimal vibration, and digital displays that make monitoring speed and remaining range straightforward.
In 2024, Torqeedo was acquired by Yamaha Marine—perhaps the strongest signal yet that major gas-engine manufacturers see electric propulsion as more than a passing trend.
Mercury Marine Enters the Game
Mercury Marine, the world’s largest outboard manufacturer, entered the electric market several years ago with its Avator series. The move brought instant credibility and a massive dealer-support network to electric propulsion.
Avator motors use modular lithium-ion battery systems designed for portability and ease of use, with a focus on durability that aligns with Mercury’s long-standing reputation. Early offerings targeted the lower end of the power spectrum, roughly equivalent to 3.5–7 horsepower, but the lineup has expanded to include 20e and 35e models suitable for more serious recreational applications.
For anglers and boaters already invested in Mercury service and parts infrastructure, the Avator series offers a familiar pathway into electric power without stepping into an unknown support ecosystem.
ePropulsion: Tech-Forward and User-Friendly
ePropulsion Technology, based in China, has rapidly become a major force in the electric outboard market, particularly for small boats, tenders, and fishing craft. Its Spirit series covers roughly the 3–10 horsepower equivalent range and is known for clean design and intuitive operation.
Many models feature app-based controls and modular battery systems that appeal to tech-savvy boaters. Batteries are designed to be easily removed and swapped, simplifying charging and storage. Competitive pricing compared to some European brands has helped ePropulsion gain a strong international foothold.
For anglers running jon boats, inflatables, or small skiffs, ePropulsion has become one of the most commonly considered electric alternatives.
Vision Marine: Pushing the Power Envelope
Vision Marine Technologies, based in Canada, is focused on the high-power end of electric outboards. In 2023, the company set a world speed record for electric-powered boats using twin e-Motion 180 outboards on a 32-foot catamaran.
That performance comes with tradeoffs. Battery weight remains significant, making electric propulsion better suited to steady cruising than sustained high-speed running. Recognizing that reality, Vision Marine has expanded into factory-rigged pontoon boats up to 30 feet long, pairing hulls optimized for efficiency with their electric outboards.
The company reports ranges of 60 to 90 miles between charges—far more than most pontoon boats cover in a typical day—making electric power a realistic option for many inland lake users.
Yamaha’s Different Approach
Yamaha’s Harmo system occupies a middle ground between traditional outboards and stern drives. Rated at 9.9 horsepower, Harmo uses a rim-drive design with no vertical shaft or conventional gears, reducing mechanical complexity and potentially lowering maintenance demands.
The system includes integrated digital electric steering and is well suited for pond boats, small pontoons, and displacement-style hulls operating on waters where planing speeds aren’t necessary. While not designed to replace high-horsepower outboards, Harmo highlights Yamaha’s willingness to explore alternative electric architectures.
What This Means for Anglers and Boaters
Electric outboards are still a niche compared to gas engines, but the rapid growth in manufacturers and models shows how quickly the market is maturing. For freshwater anglers fishing quiet lakes or regulated waters, electric motors offer silent operation, instant torque, reduced maintenance, and freedom from gasoline handling.
Battery technology continues to improve, with longer runtimes and more robust marine-grade packs becoming standard. As competition increases, prices are likely to continue edging downward.
Charging infrastructure remains a limiting factor at the high-power end. While most small electric outboards can be recharged overnight using standard 110-volt household power, larger systems often require 240-volt service—still rare at inland marinas. The slow rollout of electric vehicle charging in the U.S. offers a cautionary parallel.
For smaller boats, however, that limitation barely matters. If you can charge in your garage, shed, or driveway, electric outboards already fit neatly into the way many anglers actually use their boats.
Whether electric propulsion replaces gas on a broad scale remains to be seen. But for a growing number of anglers and boaters, the future has already arrived—and it’s remarkably quiet.
