ICYMI: Industry News
From May 20–24, 2024
Henry Repeating Arms Salutes America’s Most Decorated Living Veteran
In a special moment during the NRA Foundation Banquet and Auction in Dallas, Texas, Andrew Wickstrom, president of Henry Repeating Arms, presented a limited-edition New Original Silver Deluxe Engraved rifle to retired U.S. Army Maj. Gen. Patrick Brady, America’s most decorated living veteran.
The presentation celebrated the extraordinary service and courage of Texas native General Patrick Brady, one of only two living veterans to hold both the Medal of Honor and the Distinguished Service Cross, the nation’s highest and second-highest military awards.
The 1-of-1,000 New Original Henry Silver Deluxe Engraved rifle, the crown jewel of the Henry Repeating Arms catalog, features exquisite engraving, highly figured genuine American walnut furniture and a period-correct octagonal blued steel barrel polished to a mirror-like finish. Based on the original patent for the world’s first successful repeating rifle, the piece was chosen as a symbol of the company’s gratitude for General Brady’s contributions to the nation.
“It is heroes like General Brady who inspire us to strive for excellence in all pursuits and to commit ourselves to the values we hold dear,” declared Andrew Wickstrom, president of Henry Repeating Arms, during his speech. “He exemplifies courage and the highest level of devotion to his team and the world around him, which should stand as a model for all Americans. In honor of his service and dedication, I am privileged to present this symbol of our appreciation and unending respect — a rifle that embodies the always-reaching spirit of our workforce.”
For more info: henryusa.com
WTTA Raises Over $105K In Mental Health Awareness Month Fundraiser
Walk the Talk America (WTTA), a non-profit organization dedicated to bridging the gap between mental health and responsible firearm ownership, announced the successful completion of its $100K first-of-its-kind fundraiser. Thanks to the generous support of the firearms community and the leadership of Top Shot Season 4 Champion Chris Cheng, WTTA raised an impressive $105,568.44 during the fundraiser held May 1–8, 2024.
Cheng kicked off the fundraiser with a personal donation of $5,000, which was used to match donations of $1,000 or less, inspiring the community to contribute to this vital cause. Walk the Talk America also received large contributions from their corporate partners Armscor, Ruger, Davidson’s, Lipsey’s, Chattanooga Shooting Supplies Inc. and Zephyr Wellness.
The funds raised will be instrumental in enhancing WTTA’s programs, which aim to improve mental health for gun owners and educate mental health practitioners about the unique aspects of gun culture.
“Surpassing our fundraising goal is a testament to the strong belief within the firearms community that mental health is a key component in reducing gun violence,” said Cheng. “The overwhelming support we received underscores the commitment of gun owners to contribute to a safer and healthier America. This accomplishment during Mental Health Awareness Month signifies the positive impact we can achieve when we come together.”
Michael Sodini, founder and CEO of WTTA, expressed his gratitude, “We are deeply moved by the incredible support shown by our community. This fundraiser wasn’t just about raising money; it was about raising awareness and building a bridge between mental health and responsible gun ownership. The funds raised will enable us to continue our mission of fostering understanding and providing essential mental health resources to gun owners.”
For more info: wtta.org
GunBroker Launches Collector’s Elite Auctions
GunBroker introduced its Collector’s Elite Auctions, a new initiative designed specifically for the discerning collector. This premium program offers curated, high-end auctions featuring rare and distinct firearms and collectibles, with a unique, cost-effective structure tailored to enhance both buyer and seller experiences.
Unlike typical auction platforms where excessive buyer’s premiums can rapidly accumulate, Collector’s Elite Auctions sets a buyer’s premium at only 10%. Sellers simply pay standard GunBroker value fees upon selling. This is significantly lower than the premiums charged by many specialty auction houses, where fees can often deter both buyers and sellers.
“Our goal with Collector’s Elite Auctions is to provide an accessible, yet premium experience that caters to serious collectors and sellers,” said Jared Smith, CEO of AMMO Inc., the parent company of GunBroker. “We’re excited to offer a platform where high-end collectors can thrive without the hefty fees typically associated with luxury firearm auctions.”
Collector’s Elite Auctions’ first auction collection is now open for preview, with bidding to begin June 6th. The first Collector’s Elite Auction will close on Thursday, June 20th. High-end firearms dealers and collectors are invited to take advantage of this opportunity to showcase their exemplary pieces to a dedicated and passionate audience powered by GunBroker technology.
For more info: collectorseliteauctions.com
NSSF Reminds Recreational Shooters To Help Prevent Wildfires
NSSF is reminding outdoor recreationists, including target shooters and hunters, to take precautions so they don’t accidentally ignite a wildfire.
NSSF’s “Help Prevent Wildfires” public service announcements campaign provides video and audio PSAs, an 8.5″ x 11″ poster, an infographic and shareable social media posts that remind recreational shooters and other outdoor enthusiasts to be mindful of their surroundings and to take precautions, such as: being aware of official restrictions on shooting and other activities in fire-prone areas; not using tracer rounds, exploding targets or ammunition that is steel-jacketed or contains steel-core components; knowing that a vehicle’s hot exhaust systems can ignite dry vegetation; and making sure all campfires and smoking materials are properly extinguished
There were more than 56,500 wildfires in 2023 that burned more than 2.7 million acres of land throughout the country, according to the National Interagency Fire Center. These fires caused billions of dollars in damage plus hardship for both people and wildlife. Wildfires are tragic in many ways, including that in most cases they can be prevented when people pay attention to their surroundings and follow safe practices. Some 90% of wildland fires in the U.S. are caused by human actions.
“We are all aware of the terrible destruction and human suffering caused by wildfires, and we should do everything possible not to be the cause of one,” said Joe Bartozzi, NSSF president and CEO. “As gun owners, we care about safeguarding our communities and our natural resources, and so we remind everyone to check the fire-danger levels in their area and take precautions before heading outdoors to pursue our warm-weather activities, including recreational shooting.”
NSSF encourages individuals and organizations to share the “Help Prevent Wildfires” public service announcements and infographic on their social media networks and to use the #GunOwnersCare hashtag.
For more info: nssf.org
