ScentLok introduces the upgraded BE:1 Revenant Jacket and Bib, featuring thermal-mapped Primaloft Silver insulation, WindBrake technology, and Carbon Alloy scent control for cold-weather hunting. Both garments are priced at $349.99 and available in Mossy Oak Terra Gila and Realtree XT-3 patterns.

TUO introduces the Solent Jacket and Pant, versatile hunting outerwear featuring a proprietary AeroGuard™ Windproof Membrane and three-layer polyester softshell material. According to TUO Marketing Director Steve Allie, the gear functions across midseason through late season with removable hood technology, multiple pockets, and articulated design for enhanced mobility.

Springfield Armory's Kuna 9mm has won Ballistic's inaugural Best Gun of the Year award, marking the first time this honor has been given to any firearm. Developed in partnership with HS Produkt, the roller-delayed PDW features a monolithic aluminum upper, cold radial hammer forged barrel, and translucent 30-round magazines, with pricing starting at $1,020.

Yamaha Financial Services and Fluid Motion, LLC announced a multi-year exclusive financing agreement beginning February 1, 2026. Yamaha Financial Services will provide dealer inventory and preferred retail financing for Fluid Motion's Ranger Tugs, Cutwater, and Solara boat brands in the U.S.A. and Canada.

Shell Tech, the ammunition branch of Shell Shock Technologies, announced the second annual Legends & Heroes Shootout for March 20-21, 2026, in South Florida. The event now includes the Navy SEAL Foundation as a beneficiary alongside K9 Heroes 4 Heroes, with a $50,000 fundraising goal and participation from MLB legends including Adrian Beltre, Albert Pujols, and Max Scherzer.

Christensen Arms appointed Daniel Vernon as Director of Marketing to lead brand strategy and creative development. Vernon, formerly of Yomping Royal agency, will guide marketing initiatives across Christensen Arms' product lines including the Ridgeline FFT and MPR platforms.

Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. announced the appointment of Bryan Seti as Vice President of the Yamaha Boat Business Unit and Ben Mallett as Vice President of Marine Development. Dean Burnett transitions to President of Yamaha Motorsports U.S. Business Unit as Mike Martinez prepares for retirement.

Charter Arms announced a partnership with BCE Marketing for sales representation across Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota. BCE Marketing will handle commercial sales and support for the American-made revolver manufacturer founded in 1964.

Dasan USA has partnered with Wild West Marketing as their sales representation group for the Alpha Foxtrot pistol line in the western U.S. region. The partnership supports Dasan USA's 2026 product launches and reflects the company's commitment to dealer support and market expansion.

The PW Group announced Richard F. Turner III's appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer of Walther Arms, effective January 1, 2026. Turner, who has led Umarex USA since 2021, brings over 28 years of experience in consumer products and outdoor recreation industries.

Primary Arms announced Matt Fleming's appointment as President, effective January 5th, 2026. Fleming brings 24 years of leadership experience in shooting sports and outdoor industry. He will report to Founder and CEO Marshall Lerner and oversee operations across Primary Arms' divisions.

Janette Palmer has rejoined 1791 Outdoor Lifestyle Group as Vice President of Sales. Palmer brings extensive industry experience from previous roles at Rock Ridge Outdoors, Crimson Trace, HIVIZ Shooting Systems, and Michaels of Oregon. She will lead sales efforts across all channels to meet growing distributor and retailer demand.

Kovix  announced a partnership with Silencer Shop, the nation's largest suppressor distributor. Silencer Shop will distribute Kovix's complete product lineup, including the new Badlands series suppressors debuting at the 2026 SHOT Show.

Range USA is hiring an Associate Buyer at its Blue Ash, Ohio support center. The role involves influencing product assortment and vendor relationships across Range USA's 50-location footprint while working with industry-leading buying professionals led by Director of Buying Caleb Hedrick.

Traditions Performance Firearms, based in Old Saybrook, CT, is hiring a National Sales Manager to oversee nationwide sales strategy and revenue growth. The role requires firearms industry experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of distributor relationships. Interested candidates should submit resumes to jobs@traditionsfirearms.com.

Trijicon unveiled the AccuPoint 1-8x24 riflescope, engineered for dangerous-game hunters with a Hunter Holds MOA reticle enabling confident shot placement from close encounters to extended ranges. The scope features battery-free tritium and fiber-optic illumination, premium optical clarity, and military-grade durability tested from -20°F to 140°F.

Hawke Optics unveils the new 2026 Vantage HD Binoculars, combining high-definition optical quality with exceptional value. Available in six configurations ranging from ultra-compact 8x26mm to full-size 8x42mm models, each features phase-corrected BAK-4 prisms, fully multi-coated optics, and Hawke's Lifetime Warranty.

HeadHunters NW completed an executive search resulting in Dr. Todd Adkins' appointment as Executive Director of the Oregon Hunters Association. Dr. Adkins brings 30 years of hunting and conservation experience, including previous roles at Sportsmen's Alliance and the NRA-ILA, and will lead OHA's transformation and growth.

IHEA-USA released its 2025 Annual Report highlighting expanded partnerships with state agencies, industry manufacturers, NASP, and USAA. The organization launched new technology tools including StateView Dashboards, PUP AI Education Assistant, and PathPerks with Guidefitter, while establishing the EduTech Catalyst Fund to support hunter education and shooting sports instruction nationwide.

The Texas Team Trail, a premier grassroots bass fishing circuit, partnered with Horse Soldier Bourbon, an award-winning whiskey brand founded by U.S. Special Forces veterans, for the 2026 season. Will Summers, Co-Owner of Horse Soldier Bourbon, will fish as part of Team "Live Legendary," competing alongside legendary bass anglers at each event.

Outdoor Action TV announced the addition of Best on Tour Breakdown, a behind-the-scenes bass fishing podcast hosted by industry veterans Dave and Jordan. The podcast offers insider perspectives on tournament storylines, tackle trends, and industry developments, available on the Outdoor Action TV mobile app and website in audio and video formats.

Ol'Man Outdoors introduces the Clamp Down Jaw System and Stabilizer Truss System for ladder stands, enhancing safety and expanding hunting opportunities. These technologies enable secure tree attachment and improved stability across multiple Ol'Man ladder stand models including Big Daddy, Final Shot, and Skyscraper.

Millennium Treestands announces the Dinner Bell 350 Feeder, a 350 lb. capacity wildlife management system featuring a 12-volt motor, programmable timer, solar panel, and heavy-duty varmint cage designed for efficient field management and long-lasting durability.

TriStar Arms unveiled the Upland Hunter Thumbhole Stock, a 20-gauge over/under shotgun weighing approximately six pounds. The shotgun features chrome-lined barrels, a ventilated rib with fiber optic front sight, and dual choke capability for versatile hunting scenarios, with an MSRP of $879.00.

Ol'Man Outdoors launches two new quad pod models: the BaseCamp 7' Quad Pod (OT-702) and Fortress Deluxe 12' Quad Pod (OT-703). Both feature 5'x5' platforms, padded shooting rails, heavy-duty 300D fabric, and Realtree APX camo for hunters seeking stable, spacious elevated hunting platforms.

Knight & Hale Game Calls announces eight new mouth call designs, including the Barber's Cut, Ol' Yeller, Ghost Cut, Batwing, Half Moon Cutter, Half Moon Split V, Ghost Split V, and Small Frame No Cut models, plus a Smokeshow 3-Pack. Designed by championship-level callers and tested in the field, these calls deliver realism and versatility for turkey hunters of all skill levels.

Langdon Tactical Technology announces the LTT 80X Cheetah in .32 ACP, developed in partnership with Beretta. The pistol features reduced recoil compared to .380 ACP while maintaining defensive capability, with optional upgrades including trigger work and optic cuts. Available now starting at $755 MAP.

Federal Ammunition announces over 20 new centerfire rifle ammunition options for 2026, including the new Federal Subsonic line and additions to Terminal Ascent, Berger Elite Hunter, and Fusion Tipped product lines. Products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23.

FALCO Holsters launches three new pocket holsters: the A226 leather wallet holster, A913 Kydex pocket holster, and AX93 carbon fiber pocket holster. Each model offers distinct materials and draw methods designed for minimalism and reliable everyday concealed carry performance.

Wildlife Research Center announces the 35th Anniversary of Special Golden Estrus, its dated fresh super premium estrus scent for deer hunting. Each bottle features a serial number and "Use By" date with lab-tested estrogen levels, available in three sizes from $14.50 to $49.99.

Ol'Man Outdoors unveiled its 2026 ladder stand lineup featuring six models including the OT-200 Comfort Lite, OT-202 Final Shot, OT-203 Deadeye, OT-204 Big Daddy, OT-300 Final Shot Extra-Wide, and OT-402 Marksman 2-Person stands. Each model incorporates patented Clamp Down Jaw and Truss systems designed for stability, comfort, and silent operation.

Ol'Man Outdoors launches two new tripod models: the Tracker Portable 10' Tripod (OT-700) for mobile hunters and the Steward Deluxe 15' Tripod (OT-701) for extended positioning. Both feature 360-degree swivel chairs, steel construction, and integrated concealment options including Realtree Edge camo.

Weatherby introduced the 25 WBY RPM (Rebated Precision Magnum), a new quarter-bore cartridge designed for lightweight, compact rifles. The cartridge delivers 3,000 feet per second with a 133 gr Berger bullet and will be available in multiple Weatherby Mark V and Model 307 rifle configurations.

Taurus Holdings, Inc. launched the TX9, its first duty-grade 9mm striker-fired pistol platform built in the USA. The modular system features the Taurus T.O.R.O.™ optics-ready slide and is offered in Full Size, Compact, and Subcompact configurations with unified controls across all models.

Black Gold announces the launch of Black Gold Premium Accessories, unifying sights, quivers, and arrow rests under one master brand. TightSpot quivers and Ripcord arrow rests join the Black Gold family, strengthening the company's position as a complete accessory solution for bowhunters and competitive archers. The official consumer debut occurs January 7, 2026, at the ATA Show.

Wolfe Publishing Company released Propellant Profiles, Seventh Edition, a comprehensive reference covering more than 650 modern smokeless powders. The guide provides burn-rate categorization, historical context, and practical performance insights for handloaders, ballistic technicians, gunsmiths, and firearms writers, available through wolfeoutdoorsports.com.

Speer Ammunition announces new products for 2026, including Lawman TMJ 9mm Luger 135-grain training loads and Speer Impact component bullets in 243-caliber 95-grain and 264-caliber 156-grain. These products will be displayed at SHOT Show 2026, January 20–23 in Las Vegas at Booth No. 11838.

NSSF announced that South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden will join six fellow governors at the 5th Annual Governors' Forum at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas. The forum, moderated by Shermichael Singleton, will feature governors discussing the firearm industry's importance, Second Amendment rights, and legislative challenges on January 21, 2026.

Insight Media Stream, a digital marketing partner for outdoor and shooting sports industries, will attend SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas from January 20-23 to meet with clients and industry partners. The company will showcase its media solutions and discuss tailored strategies for brands in the shooting, hunting, and outdoor sectors.

Custom and Collectable Firearms will exhibit at the Camfour Wholesale Show on January 10 & 11th at Booths 39 and 50 in Fort Worth, showcasing CNC Firearms' latest series, exclusive finishes, and custom 1911 slides made from reclaimed M1A Garand barrels commemorating the 250th anniversary of the United States.

Beretta will exhibit at the 2026 Wild Sheep Show in Reno, Nevada (January 22-24), celebrating its 500th anniversary with premium firearms including the SO6 Marco Polo. Booth #1021 will feature Beretta, Burris Optics, and Steiner, with a special anniversary shotgun available for auction to support Wild Sheep Foundation conservation initiatives.

Bill Hicks & Co., Ltd. is launching their 2026 Virtual Trade Show from January 8-23, offering dealer-only specials, new product previews, and extended payment terms. The Minneapolis-based sporting goods distributor, in its 57th year, provides 24/7 online access to exclusive E-Show offers.

Parkwest Arms, a custom rifle maker based in Sturgis, South Dakota, will exhibit at Booth 157 during the Texas Trophy Hunters Association Outdoors Extravaganza January 9–11, 2026, at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. The company showcases its hand-crafted rifles including the SD-76, SD-10, and SD-22 models, continuing the legacy established by gunsmiths Don Allen and Pete Grisel in 1986.

Reserve Ranch has been named Cocktail Napkin Sponsor for the 2026 HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention, scheduled for January 23–25, 2026, in The Woodlands, Texas. The Houston Safari Club Foundation event unites outdoor enthusiasts, industry leaders, and global outfitters, with proceeds supporting scholarships, youth education, and conservation initiatives.

TrueTimber became the official camo sponsor of the Greenville Swamp Rabbits and title sponsor of Conservation Night on January 10th. The team will wear SHADOWBARK camo jerseys, with proceeds from the auction benefiting the South Carolina Waterfowl Association.

While we were on our annual hiatus, things slowed, but didn’t stop. Manufacturers took advantage of the time between Christmas and New Years to catch their breath, inventory and perform needed maintenance. The rest of us tried to get ready for the annual January trade show sprints.

During our annual “dearth of deadlines” I took time and did some business and personal maintenance of my own. Before I closed the laptop for my annual “cold turkey break” (I close my computer after the last edition is readied for the next day and don’t open it until the following Monday) I expunged several thousand emails accumulated over the past 12 months, cleaned my to-do list (deleting things I listed, but had no intention of doing), and ruminated over some of the remaining news questions from 2025. 

Over the course of a year, most unanswered news questions answer themselves. 

A late-year visit to Glock’s headquarters in Georgia, for example, answered the question many keyboard commandos were asking, and simultaneously answering, (incorrectly): did Glock create their new Gen6 pistols in response to anti-gun politics?

The answer, explained in typical Glock fashion, was a resounding and irrefutable negative. 

The new pistols were developed after rigorous testing at Glock USA and Glock Austria. Testing had begun even before the legislation being credited with causing a knee-jerk reaction was introduced. 

Ruger’s unexpected announcement of the Red Label III shotgun was a double-barreled answer to a pair of questions. First, confirmation of the imminent return of the third version of their Red Label shotgun. The second barrel answered the question of a possible Beretta collaboration. It will not be a “Etichetta Rossa” collaboration with Beretta. It will be an entirely American collaboration with Connecticut Shotgun Manufacturing Company as their manufacturing partner.

That leaves a third question unanswered: why did Beretta holding buy such a significant chunk of Ruger stock if there was no definitive project(s) in mind?

That question’s still anyone’s guess. 

A holiday conversation with Doug Ritter of Knife Rights brought a(nother) glaring government inconsistency to my attention. The Trump administration has argued for gun rights, going as far as to bring litigation against anti-gun regulations in several blue states. 

But the same Justice Department filed a late-December appellate brief in the Fifth Circuit defending the 1958 Federal Switchblade Act that restricts interstate commerce in automatic knives and bans their possession on some federal and tribal lands. Knife Rights is seeking to overturn the federal ban on switchblades in Knife Rights v. Bondi. The plaintiffs say that switchblades should be protected under the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision.

The Justice Department’s appellate brief disagrees. The reasoning?

The assertion that switchblades are “well-suited to criminal misuse.” 

That, apparently, is solely due to the blade being concealed in the handle until activated. It then quickly springs into action. 

The logic disconnects when the Justice Department says folders, flippers and other one-hand operated knives are apparently fine, despite their blades being concealed -and deployed - in virtually the exact same manner, sans the spring feature. 

The brief also holds the Federal Switchblade Act really isn’t a ban, because the law only regulates the “configuration and mode of a switchblade’s opening” - there are, they argue, plenty of other fixed blade and folding options available. 

And that’s the rub.

As Ritter explains, “it’s like claiming the government hasn’t banned a book because you can still get other books.”

Ordinarily I’d call this just another example of the  “I was for it…until…I was against it” logic used almost daily by politicians to defend their waffling on issues. 

It’s troubling this time because it’s not a politician sticking a finger in the wind, it’s the Justice Department. Justice, I was taught, is always supposed to be blind, but never inconsistent. 

And then there’s the latest chapter in the seemingly never-ending saga of the NRA. The National Rifle Association has now filed suit against the NRA Foundation, alleging the leadership of the 501(c)3 has “deteriorated the relationship with greater NRA” while “refusing to work with and assist the NRA” and continuing “to use our branding and intellectual property to raise money meant to support our operation.”

In a memo to staffers, NRA EVP/CEO Doug Hamlin explained there was “no choice but to take legal action against the NRA Foundation for violating and misusing the intellectual property of our organization” but stressed that the Foundation issue was “a leadership issue, and the bad behavior of a select few does not reflect on the organization as a whole.”

The leadership alluded to in Hamlin’s memo includes names familiar to anyone who followed the New York trial that exposed a myriad of financial abuses under former leader Wayne LaPierre. 

As always, we’ll keep you posted. 

— Jim Shepherd