ICYMI: Industry News From
June 26–30, 2023
Federal Ammunition Awards 2023 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships
Federal Ammunition recently awarded the 2023 Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarships to two 4-H student ambassadors: Ryer Roberts from Colorado and Colt Shackley from Nevada. The scholarships were presented to the recipients at the National 4H Shooting Sports Invitational held in Grand Island, Neb., June 26–30. During the opening ceremonies on June 26th Jon Zinnel, senior manager of Youth Shooting Programs for Federal Ammunition, announced the winners.
“All these Ambassadors are tremendous citizens, which made the decision challenging,” said Zinnel. “Both Ryer and Colt demonstrated an impressive understanding of how wildlife is managed, plus how hunting and shooting sports programs play a vital role in operating and funding the North American model of wildlife conservation in our country.”
This annual scholarship program was created to honor legendary exhibition shooter Tom Knapp, who passed away April 2013. In 2016, Federal Ammunition and Champion Traps & Targets teamed with the National 4-H Shooting Sports Committee to continue the Tom Knapp Memorial Scholarship program. With the support of Knapp’s wife, Colleen, Champion extended Tom’s licensed products program to fund an endowed scholarship that awards $2,500 each to two National 4-H Ambassadors per year.
For more info: www.federalpremium.com
Bushnell Celebrates 75 Years Of Optics Built For The Pursuit
Bushnell announced its 75th anniversary of developing innovative, affordable and high-quality optics that enhance the pursuit of outdoor enthusiasts and professionals alike.
Known for decades for its dependable riflescopes and binoculars, Bushnell’s success can also be attributed to its patented technologies that reshaped the industry.
“The 75th anniversary is a significant milestone for Bushnell, and we are incredibly proud of our journey so far,” said Jim Bruno, president of Vista Outdoor Hunting and Shooting Accessories. “Our success can be attributed to our loyal customers, dedicated employees and unwavering commitment to delivering superior optics that are built for your pursuit. We are grateful for the trust they have placed in us and look forward to many more years of innovation and excellence.”
To celebrate its 75th anniversary, Bushnell will be launching a variety of contests, social campaigns and retail activations that pay homage to the brand’s rich heritage.
For more info: www.bushnell.com
SAAMI Announces Acceptance Of Two New Cartridges
The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute Inc. (SAAMI) has announced the acceptance of a new shotshell and rimfire cartridge for SAAMI standardization:
28-Gauge 3″ — introduced by Olin Winchester with three loadings: 1⅛ oz. lead shot traveling at a velocity of 1,200 fps, ¾ oz. non-lead shot traveling at a velocity of 1,350 fps, and 1 oz. non-lead shot traveling at a velocity of 1,300 fps, all at a Maximum Average Pressure of 14,000 psi.
21 Sharp — introduced by Olin Winchester with a 25-grain bullet traveling at a velocity of 1,725 fps and a Maximum Average Pressure of 24,000 psi.
SAAMI is the organization at the forefront of promoting firearm safety by creating standards that ensure safety, reliability and interchangeability of firearms, ammunition and components.
For more info: www.saami.org
Colt CZ Group SE Acquires Ammunition Producer swissAA Holding AG
Colt CZ Group SE announced it executed a share purchase agreement (SPA) resulting in the acquisition of a 100% stake in the Swiss ammunition producer swissAA Holding AG (swissAA) on June 28, 2023. The transaction price will not be disclosed.
SwissAA is a producer of ammunition and law enforcement technology and specializes in small-caliber ammunition, specifically 5.56mm, 7.62mm, 9mm, and 12.7mm, as well as 40mm grenade launcher ammunition. The holding consists of several 100% owned subsidiaries located in Switzerland and Hungary and holds several patents for ammunition.
“This acquisition is part of our long-term strategy to grow not only in the small arms segment, but also in related ones, with ammunition being a natural match to our core products. I am certain that the swissAA Holding’s top-notch R&D and production capabilities will strengthen Colt CZ Group’s opportunities in the military and law enforcement market,” commented Jan Drahota, CEO and chairman of the board of directors of Colt CZ Group.
The acquisition was financed from the company’s existing cash resources, including a recent bond issue.
For more info: www.coltczgroup.com
NSSF Salutes Ammunition Depot For Its Support Of First Shots Program
NSSF recognized Ammunition Depot for its continued support of NSSF’s First Shots program.
Ammunition Depot is one of the largest online retailers and nationwide suppliers of ammunition, firearms, firearm accessories and tactical gear in the U.S. For several years, it has served as the ammunition-fulfillment storage center for the First Shots program. In this capacity, Ammunition Depot stores, processes orders and ships all ammunition to First Shots host ranges. The services provided are valued at $20,000 annually in support of First Shots.
“In its support for First Shots and other NSSF range programs, Ammunition Depot has gone the extra mile to not only ensure the programs have the resources they need to be successful, but also to make their operation efficient for host ranges. They bring the term ‘sponsorship’ to a whole new level. We are thankful for their generosity and dedication that assist developing new shooters and keeping experienced ones engaged in our sports,” said Zach Snow, NSSF’s director, member development.
“We’re proud to provide the tools that facilitate safe and enjoyable shooting experiences for new and seasoned participants alike,” said Dan Wolgin, CEO of Ammunition Depot. “At Ammunition Depot, we see our support of the NSSF’s First Shots program as more than a sponsorship; it’s a commitment to uphold the shooting sports traditions and nurture a new generation of enthusiasts.”
NSSF’s First Shots is an introductory and refresher program made available through host target-shooting ranges across the country. By providing educational experiences that are safe, fun and memorable, host ranges are having great success in attracting first-timers, further engaging new gun owners and in reactivating lapsed participants.
For more info: www.nssf.org
