Gun Trade World - April 2024

over 11,000 

copies every 

month in 

more than 

120 countries 

April 2024 

Dedicated to growing your business 

SAVE THE DATE! 

27.2.–2.3.2025 

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C O V E R I N G T H E S H O O T I N G B U S I N E S S G L O B A L L Y 

The ANME Winter ‘24 

Trade Show was held in 

Las Vegas and buyers came 

to do business, writing 

wholesale orders with 

exhibitors throughout the 

event. PAGE 22 

The ATF is showing the 

public that the “zerotolerance” 

policy they apply 

to firearm retailers doesn’t 

seem to apply inside the 

bureau, says the NSSF’s Joe 

Bartozzi. PAGE 30 

BREDA LOOKS 

TO AMERICA 

Banshee Brands Inc. 

has partnered with 

Italian firearms 

manufacturer 

Breda to import, market, and 

provide sales support into the 

US market for its portfolio 

of hunting, competition, 

sport, and defensive shooting 

products. 

Banshee Brands Inc., the 

importer of world-class 

brands for the outdoor 

industry, including RETAY 

USA® and Thomas Ferney & 

Co., has joined forces with 

Breda Italy to form the Breda 

America Group. 

The iconic brand was 

founded in the late 19th 

century and is based 

in the historic firearms 

manufacturing area of Val 

Trompia, Brescia, Italy. 

For over 120 years, Breda 

has combined the latest 

techniques and technologies 

in firearms manufacturing 

with refined hand 

craftsmanship and meticulous 

finishing by Italy’s master 

artisan gunmakers. 

“We are excited and 

honoured to bring this 

renowned Italian luxury 

brand to the US market,” 

Christian Handy, CEO of 

Banshee Brands, said. “Breda 

has an incredibly strong 

international following and 

combined with our deep sales 

experience and established 

distribution, we are confident 

the brand will resonate with 

US hunters and competitive 

shooters, as well as pros 

in the military and law 

enforcement.” 

Founded in Milan in 

1861 by Ernesto Breda, 

the company began as a 

locomotive manufacturer 

with strategical assets such 

as foundry production plants. 

By the turn of the century, it 

had grown into the leading 

armaments supplier to the 

Italian military, producing 

everything from small arms 

to artillery systems and 

aircraft. Numerous iconic 

firearms have been OEM 

manufactured under contract 

by Breda over the years. 

Since the beginning of 2000s 

the company employed 

innovative engineers like 

Bruno Civolani, considered 

the father of the modern 

inertia shotgun. 

Through mergers and 

acquisitions, many of Breda’s 

• Continued on page 8 

SENT TO MORE THAN 30,000 SHOOTING INDUSTRY 

PROFESSIONALS IN OVER 120 COUNTRIES EVERY MONTH

APRIL 2024 

ROB SMITH 

Editor 

rob.smith@dhpub.co.uk 

Rob has a wealth of knowledge of the international 

trade sector, having worked in B2B publishing since 

2008. A keen outdoorsman, Rob will bring you the 

important news and leads from across the global 

hunting, shooting and tactical sectors. 

JUSTIN FOX 

Publisher 

justin.fox@dhpub.co.uk 

Justin is hugely experienced in publishing and 

oversees the entire David Hall Publishing portfolio 

which, as well as B2B titles, also includes some 

enthusiast consumer brands. Justin’s organisational 

and sales skills are invaluable to the business. 

BART MANGANIELLO 

Business Development Manager – North America 

bartalm@optonline.net 

For more than 35 years Bart has worked with 

international B2B magazines. He specialises in 

providing the best communication programs to 

companies, helping them connect with current and 

prospective trade partners around the world. 

WILLEM BONNEUX 

Business and Content Development 

willem.bonneux@dhpub.co.uk 

Always at the intersection of sales and marketing, 

Willem has served in several roles in the 

international shooting and hunting industry. 

Involved with GTW from the start, his content-first 

approach helps brands go the extra mile. 

PAUL EVANS 

Art Editor 

paul.evans@dhpub.co.uk 

A vital cog in the GTW machine, Paul has worked 

with our publisher since 2008 across all areas 

of Production, Design and Marketing. He makes 

everything we make look even better. 

JON IVERSON 

Web Designer 

jiverson@avtechmediausa.com 

Jon is our wizard of the web – he helped create our 

website and ensures the smooth running of it. 

He’ll make sure our digital content is seen by key 

industry personnel across the globe. 

FOR THE 

RECORD… 

Let’s look back on an impressive, 

record-breaking SHOT Show 

in Las Vegas where the signs are 

there that business is back to ‘normal’ 

after a few years of Covid-inspired 

disruption. Our team walked the show 

floor and the vast majority of feedback 

received was thankfully positive, which 

is great to hear. In terms of booth 

space, SHOT is growing every year. 

Over 55,000 visitors packed the show 

floor, a few thousand more than at 

last year’s event, and they walked the 

staggering 13.9 miles of aisles, across 

four bustling days of B2B-inspired 

discussions. 

Why is SHOT Show busy? Well, 

there are many reasons but from an 

international perspective the US 

market, in general, is far more relaxed 

in terms of its gun laws compared 

to say, most EU countries, meaning 

manufacturers from Europe and the 

rest of the world have the potential 

to build huge profits if they can 

‘break’ into the US market and the 

huge pool of potential consumers the 

country has to offer them. SHOT is 

one of the main vehicles that allows a 

manufacturer to display its products 

in front of key US decision makers. 

Strike a deal with a US retail chain 

and you could see your profits soar. Of 

course, it’s never as easy as this, but 

that golden carrot being dangled in 

front of a business is a major reason 

we see so many rest-of-the-world 

companies giving the US market a 

good go. Still, the majority of visitors 

are from the US. This is because the 

US is a huge country in terms of both 

size and population. They all speak 

the same language and Las Vegas 

offers convenient international flights 

to and from all four corners of North 

America. No language barrier, cheap 

international flights, relaxed gun laws, 

huge retail and consumer numbers and 

all the key players under one roof. 

It’s easy to see why SHOT is as busy 

as it is and long may this continue. 

Have a great trading month. 

Rob Smith 

Editor 

/guntradeworld 

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april 2024 

contents 

Contents 

03 News 

The latest, breaking news stories from around the global industry, 

including Banshee Brands Inc. partnering with Italian firearms 

manufacturer Breda to import, market, and provide sales support 

into the US market. 

22 ANME enjoys positive show 

The ANME Winter ‘24 Trade Show was held at the Westgate Resort 

& Casino in Las Vegas on January 21st to 23rd, 2024, which marked 

the show’s 17th year and 31st instalment. As usual, the buyers 

came to do business and wrote wholesale orders with exhibitors 

throughout the event. 

26 It’s a record breaker 

The recent SHOT Show, held amongst the bright lights of Las 

Vegas, was busy… and busy breaking records, as Gun Trade World 

discovers. 

30 ATF ‘Zero-Tolerance’ Policy Doesn’t Apply In-House 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is 

showing the public that the “zero-tolerance” policy they apply to 

firearm retailers doesn’t seem to apply inside the bureau, says the 

NSSF’s Joe Bartozzi. 

32 Great Gear – Lead-Free Ammo for Airguns 

As we delve into the world of lead-free airgun ammunition, it 

becomes clear that this is not just a fleeting trend but a significant 

step towards a more sustainable and health-conscious approach 

in our industry. 

34 Spotlight on… Ammunition 

In the dynamic world of firearms, ammunition stands as the 

indispensable fuel powering the industry. Its pivotal role cannot 

be overstated – it is the very lifeblood that ensures the vitality of 

the gun trade, forging an essential link between retailers and the 

end-users. 

38 Doing Business with… Baltic States 

This month we look at the Baltic region of Europe, encompassing 

the three countries of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania. All three offer 

the avid hunter superb sport, whilst the intrepid businessperson 

will be encouraged by what each country has to offer them. 

Making Contact 

44 pulsar 46 sauer 47 vortex optics 

48 streamlight 50 kahr firearms 

26 

38 

32 

34 

06 www.guntradeworld.com

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NEWS 

Breda looks to America 

• Continued from page 3 

divisions now operate under 

different names, while the 

private, family owned arms 

and munitions manufacturing 

business retains the Breda 

designation. This division 

continues supplying 

military components and 

manufacturing both civilian 

and military firearms. 

Today, by drawing on 

over 150 years of firearms 

expertise, Breda’s designers, 

engineers, and craftsmen 

set the standard for Italian 

luxury brands. Meticulous 

hand-assembly and 

superior materials have 

long distinguished Breda 

craftsmanship. The B12i-T4 

and 930i shotguns are trusted 

by security professionals 

and champion shooters 

worldwide. The legendary 

durability of the B3.5SM 

shotgun, which revolutionised 

semi-automatics over 30 years 

ago, retains a loyal following 

among waterfowl hunters 

today. 

As Breda passionately 

pursues its goal of producing 

the finest firearms for sport 

shooters and enthusiasts 

across the globe, Breda’s 

future promises to bring even 

more innovative and desirable 

firearms to market. 

Distributors and dealers 

interested in carrying the 

Breda line of shotguns may 

contact Jesse Highling, 

Banshee Brands vice 

president of business 

development. 

j_highling@bansheebrands.com 

www.bansheebrands.com 

About 

Banshee Brands Inc. is a 

privately held corporation 

that establishes strategic 

partnerships with 

select international and 

domestic manufacturers. 

Banshee Brands Inc. 

provides oversight 

and management for 

the US operations 

of its manufacturing 

partners encompassing 

logistics, marketing, 

sales, distribution, and 

customer service. 

Celerant helps drive changing trends 

in retail technology at SHOT Show 2024 

Celerant Technology, a preferred retail 

software provider for the National 

Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) 

for nearly two decades, exhibited at 

SHOT Show 2024 with three booths in 

Las Vegas. Celerant announced exciting 

POS system and software features, met 

with customers and industry partners 

alike, and had the opportunity to learn 

more about the challenges that firearm 

retailers face. With the knowledge 

gained, Celerant is embracing the 

opportunity to be a part of shifting 

trends in the firearms retail industry for 

the future to come. 

Changing Shopping Trends and 

Business Ownership 

At the event, diverse attendees, 

including younger generations and 

women, as demonstrated by ‘Women 

of the Gun,’ discussed technology’s 

increasing influence as a driving force 

in the firearm retail industry. Younger 

generations are adopting digital 

strategies such as social media, digital 

marketing, and mobile apps, while 

older owners are adjusting their 

approaches, signaling a transformative 

trend in business operations. 

Additionally, there’s a notable shift 

towards electronic bound books, cloud 

storage of 4473s, and integrations with 

distributors among dealers. 

“Having the opportunity to reflect 

on our 20 years of participation 

at SHOT Show is an incredible 

experience,” remarked Michele Salerno, 

director of marketing and asst. VP of 

Celerant. “Our dealers really are the 

driving force in our endeavours, inspiring 

us to strengthen our dedication with 

each passing year. Empowering them 

with forward-thinking retail software 

and integrations enables them to 

compete more effectively, both in-store 

and online. Being able to see how our 

solutions transform business promotion 

strategies, foster loyalty, engage 

customers, and ultimately drive sales is 

simply beyond gratitude.” 

Deploying Competitive Digital 

Marketing Strategies 

In the firearm industry, dealers are 

leveraging technology to remain 

competitive. Through strategies 

like comprehensive website content, 

SEO optimisation, automated email 

marketing, and branded mobile apps 

with push notifications, dealers 

enhance visibility and drive repeat 

business. Informative website 

content educates visitors, while SEO 

optimisation boosts website ranking. 

Automated email marketing delivers 

personalised offers, and branded 

mobile apps keep dealers connected 

with customers through push 

notifications. 

New Distributor Integrations for 

Dealers and Type 07 FFL Manufacturers 

Celerant showcased its all-in-one FFL 

point of sale, eCommerce and digital 

bound book software, new support 

for Type 07 FFLs and its distributor 

integrations at the show as well. This 

past year, Celerant expanded its available 

distributor catalogue by adding suppliers 

such as Crow Shooting Supply, MGE, 

Gunarama, TGD and coming later 

this month, Orion Wholesale. Dealers 

learned how they can save time and 

sell more products by leaning on their 

distributors to help automate processes. 

Also, this past year, Celerant has 

expanded its offering to now support 

firearms manufacturers within its retail 

software, as well as within its integration 

to FastBound’s A&D solution. 

www.celerant.com/firearms 

About 

Celerant has supported the archery 

and outdoor sports industries since 

1999 with innovative retail software, 

enabling dealers to expand their 

business in-store and online. As a 

preferred software provider for the 

ATA, NSSF, NRA and NASGW, Celerant 

provides point of sale, eCommerce, 

distributor integrations, A&D/e4473, 

range and membership management, 

marketplace integrations, and more. 


NEWS 

NSSF FILES AMICUS BRIEF IN GARLAND V. CARGILL 

NSSF, The Firearm Industry Trade 

Association, filed an amicus brief with 

the US Supreme Court in support of the 

challenge by Michael Cargill in Garland 

v. Cargill. Cargill challenges that the 

Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms 

and Explosives (ATF) overstepped its 

authority when officials there published 

a Final Rule that criminalised the 

possession of “bump stocks” by classifying 

them as “machineguns.” 

“No matter what their intent is, 

ATF does not have the authority to 

supersede Congress by writing their 

own criminal law,” said Lawrence G. 

Keane, NSSF senior vice president & 

general counsel. “Drafting criminal 

law through the rule-making process 

has become a dangerous habit of the 

Executive Branch that threatens the 

separation of powers and threatens to 

relegate the rights guaranteed by the 

US Constitution as secondary to the 

whims of bureaucratic authorities. This 

dangerous precedent must be challenged, 

or we risk surrendering our rights to the 

administrative state.” 

NSSF’s amicus brief argues that the 

ATF’s bump stock rule exemplifies 

a troubling trend of ATF regulatory 

overreach. That has resulted in 

destabilising consequences for both the 

firearm industry and the people whose 

rights it enables. The ATF initially told 

the public of bump stocks, “that they 

were not machineguns” according to 

the definition approved by Congress 

and maintained this position for over a 

decade, including in interpretation letters 

to the public. That meant possession 

of the firearm accessory was legal and 

didn’t fall into the restrictions under the 

1934 National Firearms Act that governs 

possession of automatic firearms. 

The ATF’s position on bump stocks 

changed following the 2017 tragedy in 

Las Vegas when an individual criminally 

misused firearms, equipped with bump 

stocks, to attack concertgoers. President 

Donald Trump vowed to eliminate 

bump stocks regardless of Congress. 

The ATF carried out this order with 

the Final Rule that bypassed Congress 

and its sole authority to write criminal 

law by reclassifying bump stocks as 

“machineguns” and subjecting owners to 

criminal penalties. 

Cargill challenged the ATF’s authority 

to unilaterally change criminal law 

through the rule-making process and was 

unsuccessful at a US District Court and a 

panel for the US Court of Appeals for the 

Fifth Circuit affirmed the district court’s 

ruling. However, an en banc rehearing 

by the full US Court of Appeals for the 

Fifth Circuit reversed (13-2) the panel’s 

decision. The Department of Justice 

(DOJ) petitioned to the US Supreme 

Court which granted review. 

www.nssf.org 

Smith & Wesson 

announces 2023 

Ambassador Dealers 

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc., a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, 

has revealed that 10 of its top retailers across the US have been recognised as 

Ambassador Dealers for their outstanding performance in 2023. 

The Smith & Wesson Ambassador Dealer program recognises retailers who 

serve as strong advocates for the Smith & Wesson brand and who continually 

support the growth of its brand and products. 

“Ambassador Dealers play a key role in our success, and we want to convey our 

deep appreciation for their partnerships. Their ongoing support for our products, 

our promotions, and our presence in their retail stores are in lockstep with Smith 

& Wesson’s vision for the future. We eagerly look forward to many more years 

of continued success with our dedicated Ambassador Dealers,” said Sue Cupero, 

vice president of sales. 

To be selected as a Smith & Wesson Ambassador Dealer, retailers are 

required to meet specific criteria related to outstanding sales performance, 

retailer training, custom marketing strategies, and more. In recognition of their 

exceptional performance, each of the Ambassador Dealers was presented with 

an awards package and is now recognised as an Ambassador Dealer on Smith & 

Wesson’s Dealer Locator. New Ambassador Dealer retailers are selected annually. 

www.smith-wesson.com 

About 

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. is a US-based leader in firearm manufacturing 

and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality handgun, long gun, and 

suppressor products to the global consumer and professional markets under 

the iconic Smith & Wesson® and Gemtech® brands. The company also 

provides manufacturing services including forging, machining, and precision 

plastic injection molding services. 

SPORTSMATCH 

HAS 

SAKO 90 

USERS 

COVERED 

Shoot a Sako 90? British scope mount 

manufacturer, Sportsmatch, has a brand-new 

model of scope mount that has been designed 

from scratch to suit the receiver of the Hunter 

and Bavarian versions. The TO95 is the 30mm 

medium height version and a high model will 

follow. Like all Sportsmatch products this new 

model is British made with a lifetime guarantee. 

Available from quality Sportmatch dealers. 

www.sportsmatch-uk.com 

About 

Sportsmatch quickly became an established 

brand in the United Kingdom and production 

has now grown to supply distributors of rifle 

scopes and firearms in over 40 countries. The 

range has been extended to include over 80 

models and now includes accessories such as 

adapter rails, torch mounts and spirit level kits. 

Such is the confidence that Sportsmatch has in 

its products, it now offers a ‘lifetime guarantee’ 

on every scope mount produced. Such 

confidence comes from using the latest state 

of the art CNC machinery but retaining a crucial 

‘hands on’ approach by its quality assurance 

staff which inspect every single product prior 

to dispatch. 

10 WWW.GUNTRADEWORLD.COM

JANUARY 21–24 | 2025 

LAS VEGAS, NEVADA 

At the 2025 SHOT Show®, look for new displays, product 

categories, manufacturers, performers, networking events 

and education topics. Things can change a lot in one year, 

and the SHOT Show is your time to stay ahead and keep your 

business thriving. 

Plan now to discover new products, meet with 

partners and get business deals in place for 2025. 

SHOTShow.org/gtw 

MARK YOUR 

CALENDARS NOW! 

THE VENETIAN EXPO + CAESARS FORUM 

The SHOT Show is a trade-only event. Professional affiliation required.

NEWS 

MATT CAMPBELL JOINS SIG SAUER AS 

VP OF FIELD SALES AND OPERATIONS 

Sig Sauer has announced Matt Campbell 

as vice president, field sales and 

operations. In this position Campbell 

will be responsible for managing all field 

sales operations and staff supporting 

local retailers and distribution. 

“Sig Sauer is the leader in the 

shooting, defence, and hunting markets 

and drives the industry with innovative 

products and programs that fulfil the 

needs of our consumers,” said Matt 

Campbell. 

“I look forward to leading the Sig 

Sauer field team and reinforcing 

the relationships I’ve developed in 

this industry over the past 25 years 

and building new ones. Together we 

will continue the expansion of the 

commercial field sales team to respond 

to demand in the market and grow our 

commercial footprint.” 

Campbell comes to Sig Sauer after 

serving in various roles at Winchester 

Ammunition over the past 25 years 

including experience overseeing global 

sales to commercial, law enforcement, 

and military customers. Most recently 

Matt served as the vice president of 

sales & marketing. Matt successfully 

managed a billion-dollar portfolio 

across the major Winchester brands by 

leveraging partnerships and developing 

teams to expand market share resulting 

in exponential revenue growth. Prior to 

Winchester, Matt worked in national 

sales roles for Anheuser-Busch. 

“Sig Sauer is experiencing tremendous 

growth due to the demand for our 

innovative products and programs across 

all business units. Matt’s experience 

with retail customers and distribution, 

coupled with his proven track record 

of developing long term strategic 

partnerships will be an asset to our 

organisation as we grow and our global 

footprint expands,” said Tom Taylor, 

C&H Precision family of companies 

names Patrick Kisgen president 

C&H Precision, a leading provider of pistolmounted 

red dots, precision-made red dot 

pistol adapters and slide milling, proudly 

announces the appointment of Patrick Kisgen 

as the president of the company. Formerly 

the vice president of sales at Daniel Defense, 

Kisgen brings a wealth of experience and a 

proven track record of success in the firearms 

industry. 

As the newly appointed president, Patrick 

Kisgen will play a key role in steering the 

strategic direction of C&H Precision and 

overseeing its operations in Richmond Hill, 

GA. With a strong background in sales, 

business development, and leadership, Kisgen is 

well-positioned to drive growth and innovation 

within the organisation. 

Buck Holly, CEO of C&H Precision Family 

of Companies, expressed confidence in Kisgen’s 

ability to lead the company to new heights. 

“We are thrilled to welcome Patrick Kisgen 

to the C&H Precision family. His extensive 

experience and leadership skills make him the 

ideal candidate to guide our company through 

its next phase of expansion and development. 

We believe his strategic vision and industry 

knowledge will contribute significantly to our 

continued success.” 

Patrick Kisgen’s career in the firearms 

industry spans several decades, during which 

he has built 

a reputation 

for fostering 

strong 

relationships 

with 

clients and 

stakeholders. 

His tenure 

as the vice 

president of sales at Daniel Defense showcased 

his ability to drive revenue growth and 

implement effective sales strategies. 

“I am honoured to join C&H Precision 

and lead this dynamic team,” said Patrick 

Kisgen. “C&H Precision has a well-established 

reputation for excellence in manufacturing 

precision components and firearms. I look 

forward to collaborating with the talented 

individuals within the organisation to continue 

delivering high-quality products and expanding 

our market presence.” 

C&H Precision is known for its 

commitment to quality, innovation, and 

customer satisfaction. The appointment of 

Patrick Kisgen as president marks a significant 

milestone in the company’s journey to reinforce 

its position as an industry leader. 

www.chpws.com 

chief marketing officer and executive vice 

president, commercial sales, Sig Sauer, 

Inc. 

Campbell will split time at the Sig 

Sauer Headquarters in Newington, New 

Hampshire and in St. Louis, MO where 

he will have good access to travel to all 

customers across the US He will report 

to Jack Barnes, senior vice president, 

commercial sales at Sig Sauer. 

www.sigsauer.com 

JIM EASTON 

REMEMBERED 

BY THOUSANDS 

IN VEGAS 

Archery icon Jim Easton, who 

passed away in December of 2023, 

was honoured and remembered 

at the culmination of the world’s 

largest archery event – the 2024 

Vegas Shoot Shootdown – on 

Sunday, February 4th. 

A standing room only crowd 

of over 6,500 spectators put aside 

brand rivalries and came together 

to express their appreciation and 

respect for a man who has done 

more to advance the modern 

state of the sport than any other, 

with a moment of silence, and a 

celebration of Jim’s life. 

With nearly 4,500 participants, 

the 2023 Vegas Shoot set an 

all-time record for attendance, 

and Team Easton shooters took 

the vast majority of podiums, 

including the showcase Open 

shootdown for $58,000 dollars, 

taken by Denmark Team Easton 

archer Matthias Fullerton. It 

also saw Brady Ellison take his 

10th Vegas Shoot title in Men’s 

Recurve. 


VOLUME 

EXPANDABLE TO 

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TT BASE PACK 75 

The robust, lightweight TT Base Pack 75 can be 

individually configured depending on the application. 

It offers a volume of 75 liters and can be expanded to 

90 liters by adjusting the lid. The lid can be removed, 

in which case the backpack is only closed with the rolltop 

snow guard. The TT Base Pack 75 features MOLLE 

loops on the front, sides, lid and hip belt. This enables 

a wide range of additional pockets to be added. 

HEIGHT-ADJUSTABLE 

V2 CARRYING SYSTEM 

ROBUST 

CORDURA 700 DEN 

MATERIAL

NEWS 

AMMO, INC. REPORTS THIRD 

QUARTER 2024 FINANCIAL RESULTS 

AMMO, Inc., the owner of 

GunBroker.com, the largest 

online marketplace serving 

the firearms and shooting 

sports industries, and a 

leading vertically integrated 

producer of high-performance 

ammunition and components, 

recently reported results for 

its third quarter of fiscal 2024, 

ended December 31, 2024. 

Jared Smith, AMMO’s 

CEO, commented: “Despite 

the challenges we faced in 

calendar 2023 for our industry, 

Ammo Inc. continues to 

transition its business to a 

stronger and leaner operating 

model. We have emerged 

from this time with an 

impeccable balance sheet and 

remain encouraged about 

the significant opportunities 

we have before us here in 

the fourth quarter and going 

forward. 

“We continue to see 

increasing demand as the 

ammunition and firearms 

market recovers from 2022 and 

2023’s post pandemic slump. 

As we look at opportunities 

going into fiscal 2025, we will 

focus on the transformation of 

our marketplace platform. We 

will also continue to transition 

our manufacturing model to 

one of pursuing higher margin, 

premium rifle and pistol 

ammunition opportunities as 

well as embracing the growing 

OEM brass business.” 

Third Quarter Fiscal 2024 

vs. Third Quarter Fiscal 2023 

-Net Revenues of $36 million 

- Gross profit margin of 

approximately 30.3 per cent, 

compared to 32.4 per cent 

- Adjusted EBITDA of $5.4 

million, compared to $6.2 

million 

-Net loss of ($1.6) million, 

compared to a net loss of 

($4.1) million 

- Diluted EPS of ($0.02), 

compared to ($0.04) 

- Adjusted EPS of $0.04, 

compared to $0.04 

GunBroker.com “Marketplace” 

Metrics – Third Quarter 2024 

- Marketplace revenue of 

approximately $14 million 

- New user growth averaged 

approximately 37,000 per 

month 

- Average take rate increased 

to 5.9 per cent compared to 

5.7 per cent in fiscal 2023. 

www.ammo-inc.com 

www.gunbroker.com 

About AMMO, Inc. 

With its corporate offices headquartered in Scottsdale, Arizona, AMMO designs and manufactures products for a variety of aptitudes, 

including law enforcement, military, sport shooting and self-defence. The Company was founded in 2016 with a vision to change, 

innovate and invigorate the complacent munitions industry. AMMO promotes branded munitions as well as its patented STREAK 

Visual Ammunition, /stelTH/ subsonic munitions, and specialty rounds for military use via government programs. 

About GunBroker.com 

GunBroker.com is the largest online marketplace dedicated to firearms, hunting, shooting and related products. Aside from 

merchandise bearing its logo, GunBroker.com currently sells none of the items listed on its website. Third-party sellers list items on 

the site and Federal and state laws govern the sale of firearms and other restricted items. Ownership policies and regulations are 

followed using licensed firearms dealers as transfer agents. Launched in 1999, GunBroker.com is an informative, secure, and safe way 

to buy and sell firearms, ammunition, air guns, archery equipment, knives and swords, firearms accessories and hunting/shooting 

gear online. GunBroker.com promotes responsible ownership of guns and firearms. 

Quality for 

professionals 

www.triebel-guntools.de

NEWS 

NSSF ADDS ANDREW GRAHAM AS COMPLIANCE CONSULTANT 

NSSF, The Firearm Industry Trade 

Association, welcomes Andrew Graham, 

recently retired ATF deputy assistant 

director, and expert in federal regulatory 

compliance, to its compliance consultants’ 

team. 

Graham held a variety of positions 

within ATF in his 37 years of service. 

Since establishing Graham Industry 

Advisor, LLC., in January 2023, Andrew 

has been committed to upholding 

industry member firearm rights and 

compliance with the Gun Control Act 

and Safe Explosives Act. Andrew’s 

federal experience and tenure as a 

consultant includes operational aspects 

impacted by current ATF Rulings, 

Executive Orders, regulatory oversight to 

optimise regulatory compliance. 

“We recognise our members’ desire to 

have a comprehensive team of experts 

available to assist them with their federal 

regulatory concerns, and I am confident 

that Andrew can help with this process,” 

said John McNamara, managing director, 

member services with NSSF. “In today’s 

fast-paced firearms market our members 

need to ensure they are always operating 

within the rules outlined in the Gun 

Control Act as even the slightest mistake 

can be costly. NSSF is committed to 

ensuring our members have the resources 

they need to not only follow these 

regulations but understand them and 

apply them to the real-world situations 

that occur within their businesses.” 

Andrew Graham will be available to 

NSSF members by phone and email for 

consultation over regulatory compliance 

matters. He will also be accessible via 

NSSF’s Premium Retail Membership for 

on-site mock audits and consultations. 

“Comprehensive 

projects and 

recurring 

advisement can 

be arranged at 

a reasonable 

rate between 

Andrew 

and NSSF 

members,” said 

McNamara. 

For further information on NSSF 

consultant services, contact Tammy 

McIntyre, manager, member services 

or Zach Snow, Director, member 

development. 

tmcintyre@nssf.org 

zsnow@nssf.org 

www.nssf.org 

Bad news for biodiversity on farmland 

Following massive 

demonstrations by farmers 

in several member states, 

which reached Brussels, 

the European Commission 

(EC) decided to propose 

extending the GAEC 8 

derogation for 2024. GAEC 

8 requires farmers to leave 

4 per cent of their land for 

biodiversity. 

With more than 1,000 

tractors outside the EU 

headquarters, farmers from 

Belgium, Germany, France, 

the Netherlands, and other 

member states protested 

to make their voices heard. 

Some of main complaints 

concerned over-regulation, 

administrative burdens, and 

unfair competition from 

cheaper imports. 

On February 5th, member 

states will discuss and 

vote on the EC proposal. 

In the summer of 2022, 

an identical regulation 

was adopted. Back 

then, all member state 

representatives voted in 

favour, except for Germany, 

which abstained. 

Commenting on the EC 

proposal and the resulting 

problems for biodiversity, 

Torbjörn Larsson, FACE 

president, stated: 

“Farmers are facing real 

challenges and need to be 

better supported, however, 

removing GAEC 8 will 

not solve these problems. 

We need a more resilient 

farming policy to better 

support the needs of farmers 

and biodiversity.” 

www.face.eu 

About 

FACE is the European Federation for Hunting and Conservation. Established in 1977, FACE represents the interests of 

Europe’s 7 million hunters as an international non-profit-making nongovernmental organisation. FACE is made up of 

national hunters’ associations from 37 European countries including the EU-28. FACE is supported by 7 associate members 

and is based in Brussels. FACE upholds the principle of sustainable use and has been a member of the International Union 

for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) since 1987. FACE works with its partners on a range of hunting-related matters from 

international conservation agreements to local implementation issues with the aim of sustaining hunting across Europe. 


NEWS 

PWS AND LONE WOLF ARMS WELCOME 

JUSTIN RANEY AS NEW DIRECTOR OF SALES 

Justin Raney joins Primary 

Weapons Systems as its new 

director of sales, bringing 

years of industry experience 

and passion for the brand. 

Vigilant Gear Holdings 

is proud to welcome Justin 

Raney as new director of 

sales for both Primary 

Weapons Systems (PWS) 

and Lone Wolf Arms. 

Justin brings with him 16 

years of experience within 

the firearms industry, with 

a primary focus on the 

tactical side of the market. 

Justin has been involved in 

sales, manufacturing and 

purchasing throughout 

his years of experience, 

bringing with him a diverse 

background of skills. After 

spending six years with 

Vertx as both a territory 

sales representative and 

regional sales manager, 

Justin went on to join Big 

Daddy Unlimited as its 

director of purchasing. 

From there, he joined Zev 

Technologies as its director 

of sales before joining 

the Vigilant Gear team. 

His extreme passion for 

hunting, shooting and the 

outdoor industry make 

him a perfect fit for this 

position. “I am thrilled to 

be part of such a dynamic 

and innovative company,” 

says Justin. “PWS and 

Lone Wolf have always 

been renowned for pushing 

the limits of innovation 

in our industry and I look 

forward to playing a part in 

what will be an extremely 

promising future.” 

www.primaryweapons.com 

About 

Primary Weapons Systems (PWS) was formed in 2008 as a rifle component company and has since grown to be one of the largest 

firearms manufacturers in the Northwest. The PWS Long-Stroke Piston System which takes the operating system from Kalashnikov’s 

AK design and merges it with Stoner’s AR platform, gives a hybrid rifle to shooters looking for a low-maintenance yet reliable and 

accurate firearm. PWS manufactures AR-15s in .223 Wylde, .300BLK and 7.62×39- all with the long-stroke piston operating system. 

NSSF-adjusted NICS Background 

Checks for January 2024 

The January 2024 NSSF-adjusted US 

National Instant Criminal Background 

Check System (NICS) figure of 

1,197,294 is a decrease of 5.6 per cent 

compared to the January 2023 NSSFadjusted 

NICS figure of 1,268,236. For 

comparison, the unadjusted January 

2024 FBI NICS figure 2,180,262 

reflects a 16.6 per cent decrease from 

the unadjusted FBI NICS figure of 

2,612,736 in January 2023. January 

2024 marks the 54th month in a row 

that has exceeded 1 million adjusted 

background checks in a single month. 

Please note: Twenty-four states 

currently have at least one qualified 

alternative permit, which under the 

Brady Act allows the permit-holder, 

who has undergone a background check 

to obtain the permit, to purchase a 

firearm from a licensed dealer without 

a separate additional background check 

for that transfer. The number of NICS 

checks in these states does not include 

these legal transfers based on qualifying 

permits and NSSF does not adjust for 

these transfers. 

The adjusted NICS data were derived 

by subtracting out NICS purpose code 

permit checks and permit rechecks used 

by states for CCW permit application 

checks as well as checks on active 

CCW permit databases. NSSF started 

subtracting permit rechecks in February 

2016. 

Though not a direct correlation to 

firearms sales, the NSSF-adjusted 

NICS data provide an additional 

picture of current market conditions. 

In addition to other purposes, NICS is 

used to check transactions for sales or 

transfers of new or used firearms. 

It should be noted that these 

statistics represent the number of 

firearm background checks initiated 

through the NICS. They do not 

represent the number of firearms sold 

or sales dollars. Based on varying 

state laws, local market conditions 

and purchase scenarios, a one-to-one 

correlation cannot be made between a 

firearm background check and a firearm 

sale. 

Questions concerning NSSF-adjusted 

NICS data should be directed to NSSF. 

research@nssf.org 

www.nssf.org 

COUNTRYWIDE SPORTS 

HIRES CHRISTOPHER 

MEANS AS PRESIDENT 

David Gregory, owner and CEO of USbased 

Countrywide Sports, is pleased to 

announce that Chris Means has assumed the 

role of president where he will be responsible 

for development and growth of the wholesale 

division. 

Chris has 37 years of experience in the 

shooting sports industry with expertise in 

purchasing, sales management and P&L 

responsibility. His experience in distribution 

ranges from small family-owned businesses 

to equity-owned and publicly traded 

companies. An NRA life member and with 

roots in outdoor retail, he understands the 

needs of the brick and mortar retailer. He 

spends most time outside of work with his 

family and enjoys golf, fishing, hunting and 

fitness. 

Countrywide Sports is a family-owned 

business that focuses on customer satisfaction 

and fast delivery times. CWS offers same 

day shipment from its 65,000 sq/ft firearm 

facility. The company has a 55,000 sq/ft 

ammo facility to ensure it meets all of its 

customers’ needs within the shooting sports 

world. Its sales team takes pride in working 

for a family business and treats all its 

customers as part of the family. 

www.cwsguns.com 

www.countrywidesports.com 


THE EVOLUTION OF ELCAN 

SpecterDR 1x/4x and SpecterDR 1.5x/6x NEW for 2024 

New for 2024 the ELCAN SpecterDR 1x/4x and 1.5x/6x Dual Role Optical Sights, the world’s first truly dual field of view combat optics, 

come equipped with Integrated Picatinny Rails, Ambidextrous Magnification Throw Levers, Improved Battery Covers and hard wearing 

CERAKOTE ® performance finishes in Black or Flat Dark Earth. See the Evolution of ELCAN at your Dealer or online at Armament.com 

For dealer opportunites contact: sales@armament.com

NEWS 

WATCHTOWER FIREARMS APPOINTS 

JORDAN DAVIS AS CHIEF GROWTH OFFICER 

Watchtower Firearms, a 

veteran-owned firearm 

manufacturing company 

expands its executive 

leadership team by 

appointing Jordan Davis 

as chief growth officer to 

help manage and drive the 

company’s growth initiatives. 

Davis is a seasoned crossfunctional 

management 

leader with nearly 20 years 

of experience in the sporting 

goods industry, a history 

of effective leadership, and 

a deep understanding of 

business functions, whether 

marketing, operations, or 

finance. 

Davis most recently 

held the position of chief 

executive officer for Volcon, 

Inc., a publicly traded, allelectric 

off-road Powersports 

vehicle company. During his 

tenure with the company, 

Davis led sales and business 

development in creating 

an international dealer and 

distributor network, resulting 

in over $100 million in open 

order demand. He has also 

held the position of president 

for O. Mustad & Son, Inc. 

and VP of marketing & 

business development for 

Remington Outdoor Co. 

“I am honoured to join the 

Watchtower team as chief 

growth officer, embarking 

on a journey to create the 

‘Next Great American 

Liberty Ammunition announces 

in-store material program 

Liberty 

Ammunition 

is proud to 

announce a new 

in-store program 

to support 

retailers. 

Gary Ramey, 

from the 

company, commented: “There are over 1,800 Type 06 

FFL’s in the USA. Most make commodity products and 

have nothing to talk about other than price. While they 

race to the bottom with price, we keep pace by making the 

most effective self-defence ammunition. Better retailers 

know that the majority (72 per cent) of gun owners own 

a firearm for self-defence. They need to carry self-defence 

ammo and retailer margins are better than commodity 

ammo. We are going to support our retailers and tell the 

story to consumers. 

“We will provide retail partners with signs, counter 

displays, hats, shirts, in-store videos, gel blocks and other 

items. As others race to the bottom in price, we continue 

to improve product quality and provide retailers with a 

great margin.” 

www.libertyammo.com 

About 

Liberty Ammunition is a leading USA manufacturer 

of self-defence ammunition for the consumer, law 

enforcement and government sectors. Liberty carries 

the most kinetic energy of any consumer self-defence 

ammo and dumps all the energy into the threat. This 

creates a hydrostatic shock that eliminates the threat. 

Firearms Company,” says 

Davis. “Watchtower’s 

commitment to innovation 

and excellence aligns perfectly 

with my passion for this 

industry. I am enthusiastic 

about collaborating with the 

talented team at Watchtower 

to amplify our impact in the 

industry and lead our way 

in shaping and fulfilling our 

vision.” 

Jason Colosky, Watchtower 

CEO, commented: “I look 

forward to leveraging Jordan’s 

tremendous sales and business 

development expertise as we 

seek to enhance the overall 

growth strategy for our 

Company. In this key role, 

he will partner closely with 

me and our team as we set 

the road map for sales and 

product strategies firmly 

synched to market demands 

and the achievement of our 

business goals.” 

www.watchtowerfirearms.com 

HENRY REPEATING ARMS NAMED 

ONE OF GUNBROKER.COM’S 

TOP-SELLING BRANDS 

Henry Repeating Arms, one 

of America’s leading firearms 

manufacturers and a world leader 

in the lever action category, has 

been named as the fifth bestselling 

brand on Gunbroker.com 

in 2023. 

The company also produces 

two of the top three bestselling 

rifles on the platform. 

The achievement is a testament 

to Henry Repeating Arms’ 

commitment to quality, 

innovation, and its customers. 

Gunbroker.com, the world’s 

largest online marketplace for 

firearms, ammunition, and 

accessories, has become a key 

barometer of industry trends and 

consumer preferences. 

“We are privileged to count 

ourselves among Gunbroker. 

com’s best-selling brands, and 

we owe it to a lot of hard work,” 

said Anthony Imperato, founder 

and CEO of Henry Repeating 

Arms. “To our more than 800 

employees in Wisconsin and 

New Jersey, our stellar customer 

service team, and every one 

of our dealers and customers, 

we thank you. None of this is 

possible without their dedication 

and continued support.” 

www.henryusa.com 

About 

Since Henry Repeating Arms introduced its first offering in 1996, the 

Classic Lever Action .22, the company has become synonymous with 

American craftsmanship, exemplary customer service, and a deep 

appreciation for America’s shooting sports and hunting heritage. The 

company’s diverse product line, including shotguns and revolvers, is 

known for its reliability, accuracy, iconic designs, and smooth action. 

As the firearms industry continues to evolve, Henry Repeating Arms 

remains committed to pushing the boundaries of innovation while 

staying true to its roots, and it looks forward to building on its success 

for years to come by delivering products that exemplify its core values. 


est. 1976 

® 

Starline’s new line 

of high quality 

rifle brass hits the 

mark, every time, 

so you can too. 

Superior quality 

brass at the best 

possible price— 

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brass is a Value 

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100% AMERICAN MADE & OWNED STARLINEBRASS.COM | 1 (800) 280-6660

news 

ANME enjoys positive show 

The ANME Winter ’24 Trade Show was held at the Westgate Resort & Casino 

in Las Vegas on January 21st to 23rd, 2024, which marked the show’s 17th year 

and 31st installment. As usual, the buyers came to do business and wrote 

wholesale orders with exhibitors throughout the event. 

The ANME Trade Show is a businessto-business, 

order-writing show. It has 

been held twice a year in Las Vegas 

since 2007. Buyers worldwide attend 

every year to find products for their 

stores. From the early years, ANME 

has always had a solid international 

following. This year, buyers registered 

from 44 countries, making international 

buyers 19 per cent of the total 

attendance. These buyers visit every 

January and August to find authentic 

US Military Surplus and the latest 

tactical gear. 

This year, the show added the Game 

Zone, which T-Mobile presented on 

the show floor. Here, buyers could enjoy 

the NFL playoff games between visiting 

exhibitors on Sunday. During the show, 

a strolling dinner and drinks were 

provided to all on Sunday evening. On 

Monday and Tuesday, ANME provided 

buyers with a complimentary breakfast. 

At the same time, exhibitors came up on 

stage to offer special discounted deals 

during the ANME Hot Shows. The Hot 

Shows have continued to be an excellent 

way for exhibitors to pick up new 

dealers. Hot Shows have also been an 

excellent way for dealers to save money 

on products and find new vendors of 

products they may not have considered 

carrying in-store previously. Dealers 

who could not attend the Trade Show 

in Las Vegas could still log on through 

Zoom to watch the Hot Shows Live and 

place wholesale orders during the event 

from anywhere in the world. 

The Summer show is moving to the 

Strip! The ANME Summer ’24 Trade 

Show will be held August 18th to 20th 

at the LINQ Hotel & Experience. It 

returns to its regular Sunday to Tuesday 

schedule during Fashion Week in Las 

Vegas. Group rates start at only $89 

with No Resort Fees. 

Booth space is still available for the 

Summer Show. 

Join the ANME Summer 2024 

Trade Show in Las Vegas to find the 

best wholesale deals and discounts on 

tactical gear, military surplus, outdoor 

clothing/equipment, uniforms, patriotic 

apparel, self-defence, survival products 

and more! Meet with the wholesalers 

and manufacturers and write orders at 

discounted Show Special Prices during 

the show. 

The next ANME Winter 2025 will be 

back at the Westgate Resort & Casino 

in Las Vegas on Wednesday, January 

15th, through Friday, January 17th. 

info@anmetradeshow.com 

www.ANMETradeshow.com 


.50AE, .44MAG, .429 DE & .357MAG 

LIGHT-WEIGHT ALUMINUM FRAME 

BLACK L6 

WWW.MAGNUMRESEARCH.COM 

Join us: @magnumresearchinc 

European Distributor: Ferkinghoff International GmbH & Co. KG 

Phone: 0049 9384 882 12-00 | Fax: 0049 9384 882 12-19 | www.waffen-ferkinghoff.com 

Postbox, Inbox… 

or both? 

GTW prints and mails thousands 

of copies across the globe every month. 

We also publish the magazine digitally, 

giving subscribers instant access to the latest 

issue wherever they are. 

Whether you’re in the office, working from 

home or travelling on business, GTW is at 

your fingertips, whenever you need it. 

Sign up to our digital database today – 

simply visit the GTW website and click on 

the ‘subscribe’ tab. 

www.guntradeworld.com 

Ranchproducts 

Quality Firearm 

accessories 

Manufacturer of: 

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10MM MOON CLIPS FOR THE 

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email: stevenacrawford@msn.com 

phone: 1-419-966-2881

LAW ENFORCEMENT & MILITARY NEWS 

TOP SECURITY 

KEY SAFE 

A brand-new, police-preferred, key safe 

has been launched by Defender Security 

Products. The Defender Pro-TEC Key 

Safe combines top level security with 

greater capacity and ease of use. 

British inventor, John Fearnall, set 

out to improve on existing products, 

creating a compact yet spacious key 

safe at a more affordable price. With 

robust construction and high security 

fundamental to its design, the Pro-TEC 

key safe has passed stringent attack 

testing to LPS 1175 Issue 8, resulting 

in it achieving the UK Police-accredited 

Secured by Design standard. It also has 

over 4,000 possible code combinations 

for the complete peace of mind of the 

UNITED STATES 

SPECIAL OPERATIONS 

CHOOSES SPEER 

GOLD DOT G2 

The United States Special Operations 

Command (USSOCOM) has awarded 

Speer Ammunition with a three-year 

contract that continues supplying 

SOCOM with Speer Gold Dot G2 

duty ammunition. The contract has a 

maximum of 8.5 million rounds. 

“When it comes to dependability 

and terminal ballistics, Speer is the 

gold standard. That’s why Speer is a top 

choice of law enforcement and military 

professionals,” said vice president of 

government sales David Leis. “Speer 

continues to supply our US DOD and 

unified forces with superior products 

for their efforts in protecting US global 

interests.” 

Speer Gold Dot G2 offers the 

ultimate performance in duty 

ammunition, thanks to an exclusive 

nose design. Instead of a large hollowpoint 

cavity, Gold Dot G2 has a shallow 

dish filled with a high-performance 

elastomer. On impact, the material is 

forced into engineered internal fissures 

to start the expansion process. The 

result is extremely uniform expansion, 

better separation of the petals, and more 

consistent penetration across barrier 

types through duty handguns. 

www.speer.com 

end user. 

The Pro-TEC is the first police 

preferred key safe to incorporate the 

locking mechanism within the key safe 

door, freeing up internal space and 

creating increased capacity for 10 keys 

on the built-in hook. As such it is the 

most spacious high security key safe on 

the market. It is also the lightest of its 

kind, with a drill template engraved on 

its TPU cover, making it quick and easy 

to install. 

In addition, several features combine 

to make this the simplest of key safes to 

use. A handy ‘open’ dial, hinge-assisted 

easy-open door plus 12 easy-press 

buttons make the safe swift and 

straightforward to open and close. Plus, 

the angled door and no auto-lock mean 

that incomplete or accidental closing is 

a thing of the past. 

“The challenge was to come up with 

a new design that was better,” says John 

Fearnall. “I’m really happy that we’ve 

done that, and at a more affordable 

price.” 

www.defendersecurityproducts.co.uk 

Heckler & Koch announces NIJ 

Compliance for the VP9 Pistol 

Heckler & Koch (HK) 

has announced that 

the National Institute 

of Justice (NIJ) has 

completed its rigorous 

evaluation of the VP9 

against the NIJ Standard 

0112.03 (Revision A) for 

Autoloading Pistols for 

Police Officers. The results 

are clear: the VP9 meets 

the highest standards set 

by the NIJ Compliance 

Testing Program. 

The VP9 pistol 

underwent thorough 

scrutiny, including 

documentation review and 

comprehensive testing. 

The NIJ has determined 

that the VP9 complies 

with all applicable 

requirements, 

making it a 

reliable and 

effective 

choice for law 

enforcement 

professionals. 

“We’re thrilled 

to share that the 

VP9 pistol aced 

the NIJ evaluation 

process. Our 

commitment to quality, 

safety, and performance 

remains our core focus. 

The VP9 is here to back 

those who protect and 

serve,” said Jason Whitten, 

law enforcement sales 

manager. 

Heckler & Koch 

encourages law 

enforcement agencies and 

officers to consider the 

VP9 as a trusted sidearm. 

For more information, 

contact Jason Whitten at: 

jason.whitten@hecklerkoch-us.com 

www.hk-usa.com 

www.heckler-koch.com 

About 

Heckler & Koch is the world’s premier small arms systems company and a major supplier 

to global military, law enforcement agencies, and civilian shooters. An innovative leader 

in design and manufacturing, Heckler & Koch provides technologically advanced firearms, 

logistical support, training, and specialised services with the highest standards of innovation 

and reliability to its customer base. Heckler & Koch’s well-known range of products include 

the USP series pistols, MP5 submachine gun, the MP7 Personal Defense Weapon, the G36 

weapon system, the HK416 enhanced carbine, HK45, P30, and most recently VP series pistols. 


PENNSYLVANIA 

STATE POLICE 

SELECTS WALTHER 

PDP AS OFFICIAL 

DUTY HANDGUN 

Otis Technology 

announces Sales 

Representative Awards 

at SHOT Show 

Otis Technology presented its 2023 Sporting Goods, 

Government, and Law Enforcement Sales Awards in 

its booth at the recent Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor 

Tradeshow (SHOT). 

Every year Otis Technology presents awards to the sales 

representatives who have shown initiative, sales growth, 

outstanding effort and customer service over the course of 

the last year. Otis Technology has recognised Kevin Wegner, 

of Sokol Associates, as the 2023 Sales Representative of 

the Year, and Chris Gaskin, of Keystone Manufacturer’s 

Representatives, as the 2023 Law Enforcement Sales 

Representative of the Year. 

“We’re excited to announce our 2023 Sales Representative 

of the Year is Kevin Wegner. Kevin has stepped up his game 

and achieved great success in an uncertain market,” said Jeff 

Otteson, Central Region Sales Manager. He further added, 

“Kevin’s decades of experience with his key accounts have 

ensured solid partnerships that equal growth and success. 

With folks like Kevin on our team, we’re able to look forward 

to a bright and prosperous future.” 

“Chris’s salesmanship and deep understanding of our 

law enforcement products has driven revenue growth and 

solidified our position as a trusted partner in the industry. 

He has not only excelled but surpassed expectations in 

his territory this year,” explained Greg Essenlohr, law 

enforcement and government sales manager. He continued, 

“Chris Gaskin’s commitment to excellence makes him truly 

deserving of this award, and we extend our congratulations for 

his achievement.” 

www.otistec.com 

About 

Otis Technology is known for manufacturing the most 

advanced gun cleaning systems and accessories available. The 

superior Breech-to-Muzzle® design combined with unmatched 

quality has positioned Otis as the gun care system of choice 

with the US Military. 

Walther Arms, Inc., in 

conjunction with its law 

enforcement and sales partners, 

Eagle Point Guns and Keystone 

Manufacturer’s Representatives, 

is proud to announce the Walther 

PDP as the official duty weapon of 

the Pennsylvania State Police. 

After rigorous testing alongside 

Walther’s major competitors, the 

PDP Compact and PDP F-Series 

were selected due to the capabilities, 

features, and increased proficiency this customised 

firearm brings to those carrying it. Every handgun will be 

direct milled with the Aimpoint ACRO P-2 to ensure each 

law enforcement officer is confident and comfortable with 

their duty pistol. 

“As one of the largest law enforcement agencies in the 

country, we are honoured to have the Pennsylvania State 

Police select the Walther PDP as their new duty handgun,” 

said Rick DeMilt, director of law enforcement and military 

sales for Walther Arms, Inc. “Providing their officers with 

the PDP’s unmatched versatility and dependability ensures 

they have the ideal weapon to focus on the situation at hand, 

when timing and responsiveness are everything.” 

The partnership between the Pennsylvania State Police 

and Walther Arms means effective, precise, and capable 

protection throughout the state. With revolutionary 

ergonomics, SuperTerrain Slide Serrations, Performance 

Duty Trigger, and the Aimpoint ACRO direct milled to the 

slide, the PDP compact and F-Series models are world-class 

ingenuity for pistols. 

www.waltherarms.com 

WWW.GUNTRADEWORLD.COM 25

feature 

BREAKS RECORDS 

The recent SHOT Show, held amongst the bright lights 

of Las Vegas, was busy… and busy breaking records, 

as Gun Trade World discovers. 


2024 represented the 46th 

showing of the Shooting, 

Hunting and Outdoor 

Trade Show (SHOT 

Show), owned and operated by 

The Firearm Industry Trade 

Association (NSSF). 

Gun Trade World walked the 

vast halls of the show for four 

days, soaking in the mood of 

the trade that had made the trip 

from all four corners of the globe. 

SHOT Show executives described 

the show as “… a resounding 

success, setting new benchmarks 

for industry innovation, 

collaboration and engagement.” 

We’d tend to agree with them. 

This was the first show post 

Covid-19 that felt ‘back to 

normal’. The tsunami-like effects 

of a global pandemic cannot be 

underestimated, a few years have 

been needed to have visitors 

walking halls with confidence and 

minds back on business. It’s true 

that the show has been growing 

in size, even with the grey clouds 

of the pandemic still visible, but 

this year the ‘vibe’ that we all 

know and love was truly back 

amongst eager the punters. 

With an expanded show floor, a 

record-high number of exhibitors, 

and an array of new features 

and networking opportunities, 

the 2024 SHOT Show was the 

largest to date. 

More than 55,400 industry 

professionals packed the 13.9 

miles of aisles over four days at 

The Venetian Expo and Caesars 

Forum, eager to view new, 

innovative products used for 

target shooting, hunting, outdoor 

recreation and law enforcement. 

“The energy on the SHOT 

Show floor this year was off the 

charts,” said Chris Dolnack, 

NSSF senior vice president and 

chief customer officer. “The 

feedback we’ve received from our 

exhibitors and attendees has been 

amazing, and we can’t thank them 

all enough for helping us make 

the show what it is: the greatest 

trade show in the world.” 

This was the largest SHOT 

Show ever, marking the third 

year of expanded exhibit space 

at Caesars Forum, in addition 

to The Venetian Expo. More 

than 2,600 companies displayed 

products and services in booths 

covering more than 821,000 

net square feet and attracting 

attendees from 117 countries and 

all 50 states. 

Show Floor Opinions 

The SHOT Show team found 

many business professionals on 

the show floor that were positive 

about their experiences over the 

four-day show. This was also 

the findings of our team as we 

travelled from meeting to meeting. 

“When we’re here, we’re able to 

network with our customers, we’re 

able to see all of our dealers. There 

really is no better place for us to 

be during this time,” said Shaundi 

Campbell of Browning. 

“SHOT Show 2024 was filled 

with tremendous excitement that 

our industry needs,” stated Kevin 

Paulson, founder of Huntinglife. 

com. “When talking with 

companies and individuals on the 

floor the energy was palpable from 

the moment the show opened all 

the way through Friday afternoon. 

As the publisher for Hunting Life 

Magazine, it is great to see new 

companies coming into the show 

floor and the industry growing 

together.” 

“It’s been a great show with a 

great return for us,” said Aaron 

Deckert of Infiray Outdoor. 

“We keep coming back for the 

connections and great attendance 

at SHOT Show.” 

“I can’t tell you how many 

people I’ve seen that are 

familiar, but I hadn’t had the 

chance to connect with yet. So, 

getting numbers, making those 

acquaintances, and just driving my 

business forward, that wouldn’t 

be there without this venue,” 

said Risky Chrisky of Leviathan 

Group. 

“This was my first SHOT 

Show,” said Jordan Zwart, 

president of RubLine. “It was 

absolutely awesome, absolutely 

overwhelming, but in the best 

way possible. Everything that you 

can think of you are going to find 

here.” 

“SHOT is really beneficial 

to law enforcement. Every 

year I come back there is new 

equipment, new optics, new gear 

to try out,” said Kevin Boyd of 

C&G Holsters. “It’s great for 

networking, providing us the 

opportunity to meet with multiple 

different departments and 

agencies.” 

shot show 2024 

www.guntradeworld.com 27

feature 

“I could not even recap all the 

amazing people I saw, conversations 

I had, and relationships that were 

built. A very productive week for me, 

and just feeling really motivated and 

hungry for this next year,” said Marissa 

LaRen, Staccato brand ambassador. 

Government Officials and the Outdoor 

Industry 

The 2024 SHOT Show facilitated 

dialogue and collaboration between 

government officials and outdoor 

industry professionals at both the 

State Attorneys General Forum and 

3rd Annual Governors’ Forum. The 

first-ever Attorneys General Forum 

was a resounding success. One of 

the most well-attended special events, 

the 3rd annual Governors’ Forum 

was standing-room only, where seven 

governors discussed the importance of 

firearm businesses to their economies 

and their efforts to attract firearmand 

ammunition-related companies to 

relocate to their state. Across America, 

the $80.7 billion firearm industry 

supports more than 393,000 jobs. 

All-new Archery Pavilion 

This year, the SHOT Show introduced 

the all-new Archery Business 

Pavilion, featuring exhibits from 

leading manufacturers and suppliers 

in the archery industry. The new 

area of the show provided a focused 

environment for archery retailers and 

industry professionals to explore the 

latest trends, products, and business 

opportunities in the archery sector. 

“This is our first year here; the 

floor traffic has been great,” said Eric 

Griggs, owner and president of GAS 

Bowstrings. “It’s been great to see a 

lot of crossover folks who are thinking 

about adding an archery department or 

already have one. Everybody comes to 

SHOT, so having an archery-specific 

section provides a level of convenience. 

I imagine this section will really take 

off in years to come.” 

Honouring Industry’s Leaders 

NSSF announced its 2024 Hall of 

Fame inductees, honouring three 

industry leaders who left indelible 

marks on the industry and the shooting 

sports. The NSSF Hall of Fame was 

launched at the 2020 SHOT Show 

to honour industry leaders for their 

contributions to NSSF, SHOT Show 

and the heritage of target shooting 

and hunting in America. This year’s 

inductees were Don Gobel, Grits 

Gresham and Bob Morrison. 

NSSF presented its highest 

honour – the Ken Sedlecky Lifetime 

Achievement Award – to Steve 

Hornady, president of Hornady 

Manufacturing Company, for his 

long-term commitment to the success 

of the industry and his support of 

NSSF’s mission to promote, protect 

and preserve hunting and the shooting 

sports. 

SHOT Week Supplier Showcase 

The SHOT Week Supplier Showcase, a 

two-day event and a key component of 

the SHOT Show, garnered widespread 

acclaim for its success in connecting 

suppliers with manufacturers, fostering 

collaboration, and driving efficiency 

across the supply chain. This year 

featured over 560 OEM third-party 

suppliers meeting with exhibiting 

manufacturers and exploring their needs 

for extrusions, fabrication, fabrics, 

machinery, metal, plastics, software, 

logistical support and tools. 

“Having suppliers available is a big 

deal because I have different options 

for product now that I didn’t have 

yesterday,” said James Mark BusBee of 

CSAT Tactical Shooting Supply. 

“You need to come to SHOT Show to 

see the latest and greatest technology, 

new designs and what people’s needs are 

so you can provide them a nice solution 

to get their product launched,” said Ron 

Natale, Precision Laser Technology. 

“We came to find potential new 

suppliers, meet up with all our current 

suppliers and get new ideas and insights 

into industry trends. It’s one of the 

most important shows for us,” said 

Petra Polson of Benchmade Knife Co. 

Education Sessions 

Education sessions for firearm retailers, 

shooting range operators, exporters 

and law enforcement professionals 

continue to be an important segment 

of the SHOT Show. With SHOT 

University, Law Enforcement 

Education Program (LEEP) – in 

partnership with American Cop – and 

Export Training Sessions offering 

in-person classes on compliance, 

marketing, training, exports, operations 

and much more. 

Dedication to Firearm Safety 

The topic of suicide prevention had 

high visibility at this year’s show, with 

NSSF’s Have a Brave Conversation 

booth and the announcement of the 

all-new BraveConversation.org website. 

NSSF’s Project ChildSafe® also 

exhibited, along with NSSF’s partners, 

the US Dept. of Veterans Affairs and 

the American Foundation for Suicide 

Prevention. 

Off-Site SHOT Week Highlights 

Many official show events cluster 

around the four days of the SHOT 

Show, creating SHOT Week. Among 

them was the NSSF/Honored American 

Veterans Afield (HAVA) Golf Classic 

in support of HAVA, a firearm 

industry-run charitable organisation 

that helps the healing of disabled 

combat veterans through participation 

in hunting and the shooting sports. 

Also, Industry Day at the Range 

on the day before the SHOT Show 

gives invited media members and 

buyers a truly exclusive opportunity to 

preview and test the latest guns, gear, 

and gadgets before anyone else in the 

industry. This year featured over 120 

exhibitors and over 2,300 media and 

buyers, a record-high attendance. 

Expanded Networking Opportunities 

Networking took centre stage at 

the show, with the return of the 

popular SHOT After Dark, All-Star 

Jam Concert and nightly industry 

networking receptions. This expanded 

line-up of events and opportunities 

facilitated meaningful connections 

and collaborations among industry 

stakeholders. 

“We are thrilled to see the 

tremendous success of the All-Star Jam 

Concert at SHOT Show. The energy 

and enthusiasm from all who attended 

was phenomenal, and we’re proud 

to have been a part of this fantastic 

experience alongside NSSF,” said Matt 

Hutchings, president and CEO of 

Outdoor Sportsman Group. 

Preparations have already begun for 

next year’s 47th SHOT Show, which is 

slated for January 21st to 24th, 2025 in 

Las Vegas. 

About 

NSSF is the trade association for the 

firearm industry. Its mission is to 

promote, protect and preserve hunting 

and the shooting sports. Formed 

in 1961, NSSF has a membership 

of thousands of manufacturers, 

distributors, firearm retailers, shooting 

ranges, sportsmen’s organisations and 

publishers nationwide. 

www.nssf.org 


shot show 2024 


ATF ‘ZERO-TOLERANCE’ 

POLICY DOESN’T 

APPLY IN-HOUSE 

By Joe Bartozzi 

The Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF) is showing 

the public that the “zero-tolerance” policy it applies to firearm retailers 

doesn’t seem to apply inside the bureau. When it comes to the administrative 

oversight of federal laws, there appear to be serious issues within ATF. 


At least two US 

senators are 

demanding answers. 

There are disturbing 

reports that ATF officials have 

been misclassifying non-law 

enforcement positions within 

the bureau as law enforcement 

– including for some positions 

in leadership. If true, that’s 

a violation of federal law 

and it appears to have been 

happening for decades. On 

top of breaking federal 

law, those violations have 

potentially cost American 

taxpayers nearly $88 million. 

that went out of business or 

surrendered their licenses. 

The ATF inspections in FY 

2020 resulted in 306 Warning 

Conferences and another 

804 warning letters. Warning 

letters were routinely issued for 

minor clerical errors in record 

keeping, like misspelled names, 

dates recorded incorrectly or 

other administrative errors. 

Data incorrectly logged 

been conducted to ensure that 

all the employees in these 

positions are performing law 

enforcement duties and not 

unlawfully receiving enhanced 

benefits and pay at the cost to 

taxpayers.” 

But Wait, There’s More 

“Therefore, while OSC found 

that ATF’s misconduct led to 

overpaying employees up to 

Steven Dettelbach told ATF 

employees that OPM restored 

authority to classify jobs. 

Demanding Accountability 

The senators laid out in 

their letter several instances 

of headquarters roles being 

misclassified. The time for 

answers, they said, is overdue. 

“The American public must 

know ATF will not revert 

NSSF 

One-Way Zero-Tolerance 

That’s not just an oversight. 

This misclassification was 

brought to ATF leadership’s 

attention by whistle-blowers as 

early as 2018 but was ignored. 

Contrast that with ATF’s 

“zero-tolerance” policy. That 

crackdown by the ATF on 

firearm retailers – many of 

which have been over minor 

clerical errors – has cost 

many mom-and-pop shops 

their licenses and livelihoods. 

Businesses have been lost. 

Cases that were previously 

addressed and closed were reopened 

and licenses revoked. 

NSSF reported in July 2023 

that ATF has conducted 6,609 

inspections of Federal Firearms 

Licensees (FFLs) – starting 

on Oct. 1, 2022, which is 

when the federal government’s 

fiscal calendar begins. ATF 

inspectors conducted an 

average of 647.33 inspections 

across the nation per month, 

topping 2022’s monthly 

average of 587.66. 

Warning Conferences, or 

results of an inspection that 

warrant a meeting with ATF’s 

Industry Operations Inspectors 

(IOIs), were at 111 for the first 

nine months. There were 136 

for the entirety of FY 2022. 

Revocations of federal firearms 

licenses topped 122 by July 

2023. They were just 92 for all 

of FY 2022. 

To add context, in fiscal 

year 2020 (ending on Sept. 

30), the year President Joe 

Biden was elected, there were 

5,823 ATF inspections of FFL 

holders. That year, there were 

just 40 license revocations, 

with another 96 FFL holders 

into records cost some shop 

owners their business licenses. 

When ATF misclassifies their 

records – and doesn’t correct 

it even when it is brought to 

their attention – accountability 

is an afterthought. No one’s 

job is lost. No one is held 

accountable for breaking a 

federal law. It certainly appears 

that a double standard exists, 

depending upon which side of 

the regulator/regulated fence 

one is on. 

ATF Broke The Law 

What’s more is that the 

whistle-blowers who tried to 

correct this think they might 

be just scratching the surface. 

That’s why Iowa’s Republican 

US Sens. Chuck Grassley and 

Joni Ernst are demanding 

answers from ATF Director 

Steven Dettelbach and his boss, 

US Attorney General Merrick 

Garland. 

“The whistle-blowers also 

allege the 91 misclassified 

positions OPM identified may 

not represent the full scope of 

ATF’s illegally misclassified 

positions,” Sens. Grassley and 

Ernst wrote. “It is alleged that 

hundreds of ATF employees 

from across the country were 

hired under individual position 

descriptions OPM identified 

as misclassified; however, a 

full audit or review has not 

$20 million from 2016-2021, 

the true cost to taxpayers 

could be substantially more,” 

the senators continued in 

their letter. “For example, 

it is alleged that up to 800 

employees across ATF 

Divisions and Field Offices 

still occupy positions OPM 

identified as misclassified. 

Even if half of these positions 

are misclassified, during the 

five-year period reviewed by 

OPM, ATF would have wasted 

close to $88 million in taxpayer 

dollars, more than four times 

the figure OSC identified.” 

According to the senators’ 

letter, the violation was serious 

enough that the Office of 

Personnel Management 

(OPM) suspended ATF’s 

authority to classify positions 

as law enforcement in 2020. 

However, on May 2, 2023, 

the Office of Special Counsel 

(OSC) reported that a 

subsequent investigation 

confirmed the whistle-blowers’ 

accounts and ATF said it 

would work with OPM and 

the Justice Management 

Division at the Department 

of Justice (DOJ) to fix the 

problems. ATF couldn’t 

provide any records to support 

reasons why they classified 

headquarters jobs as law 

enforcement roles. However, 

on Nov. 8, 2023, ATF Director 

to its previous impropriety 

after the restoration of its 

classification authority,” Sens. 

Grassley and Ernst wrote. 

Sadly, there’s more to these 

allegations. We understand 

that the senators “have 

received credible allegations 

that ATF engaged in 

retaliation against the whistleblowers 

who exposed ATF’s 

substantial waste, fraud, and 

abuse.” 

Sens. Grassley and Ernst 

reminded ATF that, “Whistleblower 

retaliation is the enemy 

of a transparent government 

and corrective action must be 

taken against all those engaged 

in reprisal.” 

Ironically, this is happening 

under an administration 

that President Joe Biden 

promised would be the “most 

transparent” in history. 

“Zero-tolerance” has been a 

divisive policy that the Biden 

administration is using to 

shutter firearm businesses 

in small towns and cities 

across America. The ATF 

has vigorously carried out 

this policy. However, when 

it comes to applying that 

same vigour to investigate 

serious allegations within the 

bureau, it appears they are left 

wanting. 

www.nssf.org 


GREAT GEAR 

SHIFTING TO 

LEAD-FREE AMMO 

FOR AIRGUNS 

Choosing the path of 

sustainability 

In the evolving landscape of the gun industry, a notable shift toward sustainability and 

environmental consciousness is under way. Among the myriad of changes, the transition to 

lead-free ammunition for airguns is a subject of growing interest and importance. 

This not only addresses environmental concerns but also aligns with the increasing regulatory 

pressures and consumer demand for greener alternatives. As we delve into the world of leadfree 

airgun ammunition, it becomes clear that this is not just a fleeting trend but a significant 

step towards a more sustainable and health-conscious approach in our industry. 

The Problem With Lead 

Traditionally, lead has been the material 

of choice for airgun pellets due to its 

high density, which allows for greater 

momentum and stability in flight. 

However, lead is a toxic metal that poses 

significant environmental and health 

risks. When lead pellets are discharged in 

the environment, they can contaminate 

soil and water bodies, posing a threat to 

wildlife and, indirectly, to human health 

through the food chain. Furthermore, the 

handling of lead-based ammunition can 

expose users to lead dust, a known health 

hazard. 

Enter Lead-Free Ammunition 

Lead-free ammunition for airguns is 

made from alternative materials such 

as tin, bismuth, or steel composites. 

These materials are chosen for their 

non-toxic properties and their ability 

to mimic the ballistic characteristics 

of lead. The development of leadfree 

pellets and BBs represents a 

significant technological advancement 

in ammunition manufacturing, focusing 

on materials science and aerodynamic 

design to ensure that performance 

does not suffer in the absence of lead. 

Transitioning to lead-free ammunition 

does bring its set of challenges. The main 

concerns revolve around performance, 

including the weight, density, and 

ballistic characteristics of alternative 

materials compared to traditional 

lead. Manufacturers are continually 

innovating to overcome these hurdles, 

employing advanced materials science 

and engineering to develop lead-free 

pellets that offer comparable or even 

superior performance. This includes 

refining the shape, weight distribution, 

and composition of pellets to achieve the 

desired flight stability and impact energy. 

Lead-Free Alternatives 

Manufacturers of lead-free airgun pellets 

are continually experimenting with 

materials, shapes, and manufacturing 

techniques to enhance performance. 

Advanced aerodynamic designs, such as 

diabolo-shaped pellets, which feature 

a waisted shape and hollow tail, help 

stabilise flight and increase accuracy. The 

material selection and pellet design are 

optimised to ensure that these leadfree 

alternatives provide satisfactory 

performance for both recreational 

shooters and competitive marksmen. 

Tin is one of the most popular 

materials used in the manufacture of 

lead-free airgun pellets. Its non-toxic 

nature makes it an excellent alternative 

to lead. Tin pellets offer good ballistic 

properties, although they are generally 

lighter than their lead counterparts. 

This difference in weight can affect 


the pellet’s trajectory and energy upon 

impact, but advanced aerodynamic 

designs have helped mitigate these issues. 

Manufacturers often use tin to produce 

pellets that closely mimic the shape and 

performance of traditional lead pellets, 

making them suitable for a wide range of 

shooting disciplines. Tin is also used in 

alloys with zinc and iron among others to 

create an even more suitable material for 

airgun pellets. 

Bismuth is another material used 

for lead-free airgun ammunition. 

It is denser than tin, providing a 

closer approximation to the heft and 

momentum of lead pellets. Bismuth’s 

non-toxic and environmentally friendly 

characteristics, combined with its ballistic 

performance, make it an appealing choice 

for shooters looking for an alternative 

to lead without sacrificing too much in 

terms of performance. However, bismuth 

pellets can be more expensive than both 

lead and tin options, which may limit 

their appeal to some shooters. 

Steel, particularly when used in steel 

composites, offers a viable alternative 

for lead-free airgun pellets. Steel pellets 

are harder and retain their shape better 

upon impact, which can be advantageous 

in certain types of shooting. However, 

their increased hardness can also lead to 

more wear on airgun barrels over time. 

To counteract this, some steel pellets are 

coated with materials like copper or zinc 

to reduce barrel wear while still providing 

excellent penetration and impact 

characteristics. Steel composites may also 

include other non-toxic metals to adjust 

the density and ballistic properties of the 

pellets. 

Innovations in materials science 

have led to the development of hybrid 

airgun pellets, combining polymers with 

metal powders to create lightweight 

yet high-performance ammunition. 

These hybrids often feature a metal core 

encapsulated in a polymer shell, offering 

a balance between weight, aerodynamic 

efficiency, and impact energy. The use of 

polymers can also reduce wear on airgun 

barrels compared to harder metal pellets. 

Hybrid pellets can be engineered to 

achieve specific flight characteristics and 

are particularly suited for competitive 

shooting and hunting applications 

where precision and performance are 

paramount. 

Environmental And Health Benefits 

The primary advantage of switching to 

lead-free ammunition is environmental 

protection. By eliminating lead from the 

equation, we reduce the contamination of 

natural habitats and protect wildlife from 

lead poisoning. This change is crucial 

in areas where airgun use is prevalent 

for pest control, target shooting, and 

recreational activities, ensuring that these 

practices do not contribute to long-term 

environmental degradation. Leadfree 

ammunition also addresses health 

concerns associated with lead exposure. 

Users, especially those who engage 

in indoor shooting or 

handle ammunition 

regularly, stand 

to benefit from 

reduced lead 

exposure, 

minimising 

the risk 

of lead 

poisoning and 

its associated 

health issues. 

This aspect 

is particularly 

important for younger 

shooters, who are more 

susceptible to the harmful effects of lead. 

Regulations And Market Demand 

The shift towards lead-free airgun 

ammunition is partly driven by 

tightening regulations on lead use 

in consumer products, including 

ammunition. In various jurisdictions, 

legislation aimed at reducing 

environmental lead exposure is pushing 

manufacturers and consumers towards 

safer alternatives. Additionally, there 

is a growing market demand for 

environmentally friendly and healthconscious 

products, with consumers 

increasingly favouring brands that 

prioritise sustainability and safety. 

Future Prospects 

The adoption of lead-free airgun pellets 

is on the rise, driven by environmental 

regulations, health concerns, and the 

increasing awareness among shooters of 

the benefits of non-toxic ammunition. 

While the initial cost of lead-free pellets 

can be higher than traditional lead 

pellets, the long-term benefits to health 

and the environment are compelling 

arguments for their use. As the 

technology behind lead-free ammunition 

continues to evolve, we can expect 

further improvements in performance, 

making these alternatives even more 

attractive to the shooting community. 

In conclusion, the market for lead-free 

airgun pellets is diverse, with several 

materials offering viable alternatives to 

lead. Innovations in pellet design and 

manufacturing are helping to close the 

performance gap between lead and nontoxic 

materials, ensuring that shooters 

do not have to compromise on quality 

or performance when making the switch 

to environmentally friendly and safer 

ammunition options. GTW 

LEAD-FREE AIRGUN AMM0 


spotlight 

THE CATALYST 

FOR A THRIVING 

GUN TRADE 

In the dynamic world of firearms, ammunition stands as the indispensable fuel powering the industry. Its pivotal 

role cannot be overstated – it is the very lifeblood that ensures the vitality of the gun trade, forging an essential 

link between retailers and the end-users. For gun shops, the strategic stocking of the right types of ammunition 

is not just about inventory management; it’s about fulfilling customer expectations and fostering loyalty, turning 

one-time buyers into repeat visitors. Both retail outlets and shooting ranges find that ammunition sales are 

among the most effective strategies to secure repeat business, underscoring the profound importance of 

ammunition in sustaining the health of the gun trade ecosystem. 

diveRSe AmmUnition tyPeS 

Our feature delves into the world of 

metallic rifle and handgun ammunition 

alongside shotgun cartridges, exploring the 

intricacies of these essential components. 

Ammunition, in its fundamental form, 

combines a projectile (bullet or shot) with 

a propellant (gunpowder) within a case 

(metal, plastic, or paper) designed to fit 

precisely within a firearm’s chamber. This 

section categorises metallic ammunition 

into two primary types – rimfire and 

centrefire – based on their primer types, 

while also examining the uniform 

construction of shotgun shells across 

various gauges. 

centRefiRe: the bAckbone of 

veRSAtility 

Centrefire ammunition, characterised 

by a primer located at the centre of the 

cartridge base, stands out for its robustness 

and reliability. This design supports the 

production of larger rounds, thanks to the 

durability of the casing, and allows for the 

reuse of metallic cartridge casings after 

firing. With a wide variety of calibres, loads, 

and bullet types, centrefire ammunition 

caters predominantly to the hunting 

market, while also serving recreational 

shooters and competitive marksmen. 

And of course, centrefire ammunition 

is also the bread-and-butter ammo type 

for military and law enforcement small 

arms. Its reliability and versatility make 

centrefire ammo a cornerstone product for 

gun shops, significantly influencing overall 

sales. Contrary to rimfire ammunition, 

hunting accounts for the majority of sales 

in the centrefire ammunition category. Just 

a limited part of sales goes to plinking and 

recreational shooting while competition 

and target shooting accounts for only 

a small part of sales as well. This divide 

remains largely stable throughout the 

years. It goes without saying that centrefire 

rifle and handgun ammunition have a big 

impact on overall sales in the gun shops we 

questioned. 


Ammunition Survey Results 

ARE YOUR 

AMMUNITION SALES 

UP OR DOWN? 

OVER THE LAST 12 MONTHS… 

WHAT PERCENTAGE 

OF OVERALL SALES 

ARE THROUGH AMMO? 

HOW IMPORTANT 

ARE AMMO SALES? 

ammunition 

Up 30% 

Down 10% 

Same 60% 

0-20% 20% 

21-40% 60% 

41-60% - 

61-80% 20% 

81-100% - 

Very 70% 

Quite 20% 

Not very 10% 

MAIN FACTORS IN 

BUYER’S CHOICE 

OF AMMO? 

multiple choice question 

Price 50% 

Performance 40% 

Availability 50% 

Brand/make 10% 

AVERAGE SIZE OF 

AMMUNITION ORDER 

IN YOUR SHOP? 

< 50 10% 

51-500 70% 

501-2,500 - 

> 2,500 20% 

RimfiRe cARtRidGeS: 

the PoPUlAR choice 

Rimfire ammunition, with 

its distinctive design where 

the firing pin strikes the 

cartridge’s rim, remains a 

popular choice worldwide, 

especially in .17 and 

.22 calibres. Despite its 

limitations, such as the 

inability to reload due to 

casing deformation, rimfire’s 

cost-effectiveness makes 

it highly sought after for 

plinking and recreational 

shooting. Despite its 

construction limitations, 

rimfire ammunition does 

remain the most used 

ammo type across the globe. 

Which is why the ongoing 

importance of rimfire sales 

for gun shops should not 

be underestimated. As the 

majority of rimfire sales is 

destined for classic plinking 

WHAT KIND OF 

AMMUNITION DO 

YOU SELL MOST? 

SALES OF 

CENTREFIRE 

HANDGUN AMMO 

Up 22.5% 

Down 22.5% 

Same 55% 

SALES OF 

SHOTGUN 

AMMO 

Up 40% 

Down 40% 

Same 20% 


Handgun 30% 

Shotgun 20% 

Rifle 60% 

WHAT DO YOUR CUSTOMERS USE 

THEIR AMMO FOR? 

SALES OF 

CENTREFIRE RIFLE 

AMMO 

Up 40% 

Down 40% 

Same 20% 

SALES OF 

AIRGUN 

PELLETS 

Up 40% 

Down 20% 

Same 40% 

Hunting 70% 

Pest Control 50% 

Target/Clay Shooting 60% 

Plinking 30% 

SALES OF 

RIMFIRE 

AMMO 

Up 20% 

Down 20% 

Same 60% 

SALES OF 

LEAD-FREE/ 

ECO-FRIENDLY 

AMMO 

Up 62.5% 

Down 12.5% 

Same 25% 



spotlight 

Matrix Of Suppliers AMMO 

BOSNIA & HERZEGOVINA 

KM Trade d.o.o. 

km_trade@bih.net.ba 

www.kmtrade.ba 

Pobjeda 

info@ptg.ba 

www.pobjeda-technology.com 

BRAZIL 

CBC/Magtech 

export@cbc.com.br 

magtechammunition.com 

CANADA 

Kent Cartridge 

kentc@kentcartridge.com 

www.kentcartridge.com 

Simunition 

info@simunition.com 

www.simunition.com 

CYPRUS 

Avci Cartridges 

salih.zeki@avci-cartridges.com 

www.avci-cartridges.com 

G&L Calibres 

victory@spidernet.com.cy 

www.victorycartridges.com 

Olympia Cartridge 

olympia@spidernet.com.cy 

www.olympia.com.cy 

CZECH republic 

Sellier & Bellot 

info@sellier-bellot.cz 

www.sellier-bellot.cz 

FINLAND 

Lapua/Nammo 

info@nammo.com 

www.lapua.com 

Sako 

export@sako.it 

www.sako.fi 

FRANCE 

Cartouches Sologne 

info@cartouches-sologne.fr 

www.cartouches-sologne.fr 

FIER Ammunition 

info@fier-ammunition.com 

www.fier-ammunition.com 

Sauvestre 

via website 

www.sauvestre.com 

GERMANY 

Blaser 

info@blaser.de 

www.blaser.de 

Brenneke GmbH 

wildgrube@brenneke.com 

www.brenneke-ammunition.de 

GECO 

See RUAG Ammotech 

Haendler & Natermann 

joerg.siemens@hn-sport.de 

www.hn-sport.de 

MEN 

info@men-defencetec.de 

www.men-defencetec.de 

ruag/RWS 

info@ruag.com 

www.ruag.com 

sax munitions 

via website 

www.sax-munition.de 

ITALY 

bornaghi 

www.bornaghi.it 

info@bornaghi.it 

Fiocchi 

info@fiocchi.com 

www.fiocchi.com 

Nobel Sport Italia 

web@nobelsport.it 

www.nobelsport.it 

LITHUANIA 

Zala Arms 

nerijus.ridikas@zalaarms.lt 

www.zalaarms.lt 

MEXICO 

Aguila 

via website 

aguilaammo.com.mx 

PHILIPPINES 

Armscor Precision 

via website 

www.armscor.com.ph 

SERBIA 

Prvi Partizan (PPU) 

ppmarketing@neobee.net 

www.prvipartizan.com 

SLOVENIA 

COS d.o.o. 

joze.cofek@coal.si 

www.coal.si 

SOUTH KOREA 

PMC 

via website 

www.pmcammo.com 

SPAIN 

Armas Y Cartuchos Delsur 

delsur@delsur.es 

www.delsur.es 

bioammo 

via website 

www.bioammo.es 

Gamo Outdoor SL 

gamo@gamo.com 

www.gamo.com 

green cycles 

via website 

www.green-cycles.com 

Maxam 

mmiranda@maxam.net 

www.maxam.net 

SWEDEN 

Norma 

via website 

www.norma.cc 

TURKEY 

Gurel Hunting Cartridges 

info@zuber.com.tr 

www.zuberammo.com 

oZKursan 

celil.ozdemir@ozkursan.com.tr 

www.ozkursan.com 

turaÇ 

info@turac.com.tr 

www.turac.com.tr 

UK 

Eley Ltd 

info@eley.co.uk 

www.eleyammunition.com 

Eley Hawk 

sales@eleyhawkltd.com 

www.eleyhawkltd.com 

gamebore 

via website 

www.gamebore.com 

Hull Cartridge Company 

+44 1482 342756 

www.hullcartridge.co.uk 

John Rothery Wholesale 

lesley@bisley-uk.com 

www.bisley-uk.com 

Kynamco 

info@kynamco.co.uk 

www.kynochammunition.co.uk 

Purbeck Shooting Supplies 

info@purbeckshootingschool.com 

www.purbeckshootingschool.com 

USA 

ADI World Class 

sales@globalordnance.com 

www.globalordnance.com/adi-world-class 

Allegiance Ammunition 

dealers@airventuri.com 

www.allegianceammunition.com 

American Reserve Munitions 

sales@americanreservemunitions.com 

www.americanreservemunitions.com 

Apex Ammunition 

info@apexmunition.com 

www.apexammunition.com 

and recreational shooting, hunting ammo 

still accounts for about one third of sales 

while competition and target shooting 

amount to a more modest part of sales. 

Its ongoing popularity – both in rifles 

as well as handguns – underscores the 

importance of including rimfire options 

in a retailer’s inventory to meet diverse 

customer needs. 

Shotgun Shells: tRAdition and 

Innovation 

Shotgun shells have evolved from paper 

to predominantly plastic – and now 

even biodegradable – casings, offering 

enhanced resistance to elements and 

improved reliability. Innovations in 

wad design and the introduction of 

environmentally friendly alternatives 

highlight the industry’s commitment to 

sustainability. With lead and non-lead 

shot options catering to various shooting 

disciplines, shotgun ammunition remains 

a staple, accounting for a significant 

portion of sales and reflecting the 

changing preferences and regulatory 

landscapes. Throughout the years, as 

society is rethinking ways to decrease 

plastic pollution, many companies have 

come up with viable alternatives for 

non-degradable plastic wads. These 

biodegradable wads tend to be either 

water soluble or photodegradable. The 

shot in a shotgun shell is traditionally 

made of lead, but other metals such as 

steel, copper, tungsten, and bismuth are 

also used due to restrictions on the use 

of lead in some areas. Next to shot, a 

shotshell can also contain a single, large 

solid projectile, known as a slug. Shotgun 

ammo accounts for 33 per cent of sales as 

quoted by the retailers in our survey. 

The Paramountcy of 

Availability 

In the ammunition market, availability 

reigns supreme. The majority of retailers 

acknowledge that the ability to provide 

what customers need when they need it 

is a decisive factor in consumer choice, 

overshadowing price, performance, 

and brand considerations. This trend 

highlights the critical nature of inventory 

management in ensuring customer 


ammunition 

Armscor Precision 

International 

support@armscor.com 

www.armscor.com 

barrett 

+1 615 896 2938 

www.barrett.net 

Berger Bullets 

sales@bergerbullets.com 

www.bergerbullets.com 

Black Hills 

+1 605 348 9827 

www.black-hills.com 

Black Hole Ammo 

via website 

www.blackholeammo.com 

Browning Ammunition 

via website 

www.browningammo.com 

Buffalo Cartridge Co. 

info@buffalocartridge.com 

www.buffalocartridge.com 

CCI/Speer 

via website 

www.cci-ammunition.com 

CorBon/Glaser 

info@corbon.com 

www.corbon.com 

Cutting Edge Bullets 

info@cuttingedgebullets.com 

www.cuttingedgebullets.com 

D&M Ammunition Mfg Solutions 

via website 

www.dmholding.com 

D. Dupleks Ltd 

info@ddupleks-usa.com 

www.ddupleks.com 

Doubletap Ammunition 

+1 866 357 1066 

www.doubletapammo.com 

Federal 

premiumpartners@atk.com 

www.federalpremium.com 

Fort Scott Munitions 

info@fortscottmunitions.com 

www.fortscottmunitions.com 

Freedom Munitions 

sales@freedommunitions.com 

www.freedommunitions.com 

Grizzly Cartridge 

+1 503-556-3006 

www.grizzlycartridge.com 

Hornady 

via website 

www.hornady.com 

hevi-shot 

+1 541 367 3522 

www.hevishot.com 

ICC Ammo 

contact@iccammo.com 

www.iccammo.com 

International Cartridge Crp 

via website 

www.iccammo.com 

Lazzeroni Arms Co 

arms@lazzeroni.com 

www.lazzeroni.com 

Liberty Ammunition 

sales@libertyammo.com 

www.libertyammo.com 

Kent Cartridge 

kentwv@kentcartridge.com 

www.kentcartridge.com 

Magnum research 

+1 508-795-3919 

www.shopkahrfirearmsgroup.com 

Magtech Ammunition Co. 

info@magtechammunition.com 

www.magtechammunition.com 

MAXXTech Ammunition 

+1 888 317 5810 

www.maxxtechammo.com 

Nexus Ammo 

info@nexusammo.com 

www.nexusammo.com 

Northern precision custom 

bullets 

via website 

www.npcustombullets.com 

Nosler 

via website 

www.nosler.com 

PCP Ammunition 

via website 

www.pcpammo.com 

Pierce Munitions 

info@piercemunitions.com 

www.piercemunitions.com 

PMC Ammunition 

via website 

www.pmcammo.com 

Polycase 

info@polycaseammo.com 

www.polycaseammunition.com 

PPU Ammunition 

info@ppu-usa.com 

www.ppu-usa.com 

ProGrade Ammo 

info@progradeammo.com 

www.progradeammo.com 

Quality Cartridge 

via website 

www.qual-cart.com 

Rainier Ballistics 

+1 253 922 7589 

www.rainierballistics.com 

Remington 

info@remington.com 

www.remington.com 

RIO Outdoors, Corp 

admin@rioammo.com 

www.rioammo.com 

SBR Ammunition 

info@SBR-USA.com 

www.sbrammunition.com 

Seismic Ammunition 

via website 

www.seismicammo.com 

Sierra Bullets 

sierra@sierrabullets.com 

www.sierrabullets.com 

SinterFire 

jkugler@sinterfire.com 

www.sinterfire.com 

Spark Munnitions 

sales@sparkmunitions.com 

www.sparkmunitions.com 

Speer Ammunition 

+1 800 379 1732 

www.speer-ammo.com 

Super Vel Ammunition 

via website 

www.supervelammunition.com 

Swift Bullet Co. 

contact@swiftbullets.com 

www.swiftbullets.com 

Ten-X Ammunition 

via website 

www.tenxammo.com 

Trajectories Technologies 

sales@trajetech.com 

www.trajetech.com 

Tulammo USA Inc. 

via website 

www.tulammousa.com 

uLTramax Ammunition 

ultramax@amerion.com 

www.ultramaxammunition.com 

Winchester 

via website 

www.winchester.com 

Wolf Performance Ammo 

via website 

www.wolfammo.com 

X-Treme Bullets 

info@xtremebullets.com 

www.xtremebullets.com 

satisfaction and loyalty. Inventory 

management at home, yet also availability 

higher up in the value chain, where 

brands and distributors also play their 

roles. 

Embracing a Lead-Free Future 

The shift towards non-toxic, ecofriendly 

ammunition alternatives is 

gaining momentum as awareness of 

health and environmental impacts of 

lead ammunition grows. Manufacturers 

are innovating with materials like 

copper, tin, and steel to offer leadfree 

bullets and shot that meet the 

needs of modern hunters and shooters 

without compromising on performance. 

This evolution reflects the industry’s 

adaptability and commitment to 

environmental stewardship. The fact 

the industry and shooters alike are 

embracing a lead-free future shows in 

the fact 62,50% of the retailers in our 

survey claim their lead-free ammo sales 

have increased in the last twelve months. 

Impressive Market Dynamics 

Reflecting on the past year, one 

third of retailers report an increase 

in ammunition sales, while the large 

majority states ammo sales have 

maintained at last year’s level. And this 

with a substantial portion attributing a 

major part (20 to 40 per cent) of their 

business to these ammo sales. This 

underscores the critical importance of 

ammunition to the gun industry, not 

just in terms of revenue but in fostering 

ongoing relationships between retailers 

and their customers. 

Conclusion: Fuelling Progress 

and Connection 

Ammunition remains the vital link that 

powers the gun trade, driving innovation, 

ensuring retailer success, and satisfying 

the diverse needs of the shooting 

community. As the industry continues 

to evolve, the focus on sustainability, 

performance, and customer satisfaction 

will ensure that ammunition remains 

at the heart of the gun trade, fuelling 

progress and strengthening connections 

within this dynamic market. GTW 


usiness 

BALTIC 

STATES 

D O I N G B U S I N E S S W I T H . . . 

This month we look at the Baltic region of Europe, encompassing 

the three countries of Latvia, Estonia, and Lithuania. All three 

offerthe avid hunter superb sport, whilst the intrepid businessperson 

will be encouraged by what each country has to offer them. 

The Baltic states 

or the Baltic 

countries is a 

geopolitical term 

encompassing Estonia, Latvia, 

and Lithuania. All three 

countries are members of 

NATO, the European Union, 

the Eurozone, and the OECD. 

The three sovereign states on 

the eastern coast of the Baltic 

Sea are sometimes referred 

to as the “Baltic nations”, 

less often and in historical 

circumstances also as the 

“Baltic republics”, the “Baltic 

lands”, or simply the Baltics. 

estonia 

Moose and lynx are the major 

draws for hunters, although 

Estonia boasts a wide variety 

of wildlife (brown bear, roe 

deer, red deer, etc.). Estonia is 

a beautiful country, very rich 

in natural landscapes and with 

an interesting history. Prices 

are low, which makes it great 

value for hunters. The main 

tourist attraction is Tallinn, 

capital of Estonia, a beautiful 

old town worth exploring. 

Estonian Hunters’ Society 

commented: “Estonia is a 

unique hunting land. Huge 

forest massifs have preserved 

here. The forest covers about a 

half of our territory. Our game 

fauna is versatile and rich. A 

lot of game that are allowed to 

be hunted here are forbidden 

or extinct in Europe, for 

example the bear, wolf, lynx, 

beaver, and elk. The Estonians 

may also be called a wildfowl 

nation because half of the 

border is the sea and there are 

thousands of lakes as well. 

“The hunting here is 

based on the collective hunt 

principle. Hunting clubs 

have the right to hunt. The 


eautiful view of the old town 

and the steeple of the Dome 

cathedral near the Daugava 

River in Riga, Latvia 

bALTic sTATes 

minimal hunting district 

according to the law has to be 

at least 5,000 hectares. The 

average hunting territory is 

about 10,000 hectares. The 

big game is hunted on the 

principle: one licence – one 

game. The owner of the 

hunting territory has the 

right to validate the prices of 

the licences. The average age 

of the hunters is relatively 

high like in other European 

countries, over 50 years. 

“There is no doubt that 

every hunter, who visits 

Estonia, finds something 

interesting both in the 

hunting and culture.” 

Latvia 

Hunting In Latvia, Hunting 

Outfitters, commented: 

“Latvia has a great deal of 

forest and although a small 

country, there is a small 

population, the majority of 

which is concentrated in Riga 

in the west. In the east, in 

Vidzeme, near to Aluksne, 

where we invite you to hunt, 

there is hectare after hectare 

of quiet woodland and forest 

glades full of wildlife. We have 

elk, wild boar, roebuck, wolf, 

lynx, marten and beaver. We 

value our wildlife and make 

sure that the animals are taken 

care of. 

“Hunting Law and the 

related regulatory acts, 

conforming with EU norms, 

were implemented in 2003, 

and make up the legal 

framework for hunting and 

game management. The 

State Forest Service (SFS) is 

the major hunting authority 

in Latvia. The Hunting 

Department of the SFS 

Central Office coordinates 

the activities of the SFS 


usiness 

“Every year there are more 

and more people who want to 

come to Lithuania for hunting 

from foreign countries.” 

DOING BUSINESS WITH... baltic states 

Red Deer 

Estonia is the northern 

boundary for the red 

deer population. The 

population here has its 

origins in the introduced 

individuals. Today there 

is a strong population on 

the west coast and on 

the islands of Saaremaa 

and Hiiumaa. On the 

mainland, the population 

is growing fast. The deer 

are strongly moving into 

Estonia from the south, 

across the Latvian border. 

The mating season begins 

in September and usually 

lasts about a month. The 

gestation period lasts 

for about eight months. 

Fawns are born in late 

May or early June. One 

to two fawns are usually 

born. Adult males weigh 

on average 200kg and 

females about 120kg. 

territorial units, regarding 

the supervision and control 

of hunting: The Ministry of 

Environment and the Latvian 

State Police. 

“In Latvia prohibited 

hunting methods, permitted 

firearms, and gear are mostly 

the same as elsewhere in the 

EU. For example, poisonous 

substances, sound recordings, 

explosives, non-selective 

hunting methods and gear, 

etc., are forbidden. However, 

Latvian hunting legislation 

imposes a number of standards 

and restrictions of its own: 

arbalests and bows are banned; 

wildlife escaping from natural 

disasters must be allowed to 

go free; a hunter is allowed 

to use only those weapons, 

which are specified by the 

Latvian laws. Hunting Law 

and the related regulatory acts 

approximate to EU norms, 

implemented in 2003, and 

make up the legal framework 

for hunting and game 

management. The State Forest 

Service (SFS) is the major 

hunting authority in Latvia. 

The Hunting Department 

of the SFS Central Office 

coordinates the activities.” 

Lithuania 

Cervus Aureus Hunting, 

a Lithuanian Outfitter 

commented: “Dating back 

to the Grand Duchy of 

Lithuania hunting was not 

only for delicious hearty 

meal, but also for passion 

and hobby. Having hunted a 

forest beast down, Lithuanian 

hunters used to blow horns 

in respect of it. These and 

other hunting traditions 

have survived to the present 

day. Hunts of large animals 

(European bison, deer, and 


Wild Boar 

Wild boar are one of, if not the most 

popular species to hunt in the Baltics. 

The wild boar, also known as the wild 

swine, common wild pig, Eurasian 

wild pig, or simply wild pig, is a suid 

native to much of Eurasia and North 

Africa, and has been introduced 

to the Americas and Oceania. The 

species is now one of the widestranging 

mammals in the world, as 

well as the most widespread suiform. 

Wild boar are hunted. Driven hunts 

and hunts with dogs usually take 

place mid-season, in September- 

December, and in the early and late 

part of the season most hunting 

is done from high seats. Most wild 

boar hunts are done either from high 

seats, or by driving. European driven 

hunts are a world in themselves, 

and there are many variations from 

country to country, and even within 

the country. 

bALTic states 

Woodcock 

Woodcock arrive back to the 

Baltic region, particularly Estonia, 

from wintering areas in early 

spring. Their favourite habitat 

during breeding and migration 

is in forest areas near water 

bodies. The best time to hunt is in 

late autumn. Woodcock may be 

hunted from early August to mid- 

November, however the best times 

for hunting are October to mid- 

November, when woodcock that 

having been raised in Estonia are 

also gathering with the migration. 

The hunting of woodcock is 

done with dogs, which usually 

are brought to Estonia by air 

transport. 

moose) were primarily the 

privilege and entertainment 

of the social elite: the first 

residences and castles for 

hunting were constructed in 

the lands of Vilnius, Trakai, 

Kernavė and Nemenčinė. 

This shows that the hunting 

traditions in Lithuania 

are long-standing and 

honourable. 

“Culture and ethics of 

contemporary hunting have 

been greatly influenced by 

hunting celebrations that were 

organised centuries ago: these 

festivities involved not only 

entertainment and eating, but 

also cherishing humanism 

in hunting and fostering 

love for animals. Therefore, 

such celebrations led to 

development of beautiful and 

lasting traditions and also the 

code of honour of hunters. 

All over the world the culture 

of hunting was and is created 

by people who observe and 

respect hunting regulations 

and special procedures. 

“Every year there are more 

and more people who want to 

come to Lithuania for hunting 

from foreign countries: 

Latvia, Estonia, Poland, 

Czechia, Belarus, Denmark, 

Germany etc. They hunt 

here for trophies: tusks and 

horns of animals. Commercial 

hunting (hunting tourism) 

in Lithuania is offered by 

private and state companies 

that carefully plan the visits 

of incoming hunters and 

aim for ensuring adherence 

to hunting regulation. A 

foreign national seeking 

hunting in Lithuania must 

hold an international hunting 

permit and international gun 

carrying licence. There is an 

option to rent a gun, too.” 


usiness 

sHOW business 

OUTDOOR RIGA 

WHERE: RIGA, KIPSALA, LATVIA WHEN: APRIL 5-7 2024 LEARN MORE: WWW.BT1.LV/OUTDOOR/ENG 

What they say: 

“The Outdoor Riga 2024 tradeshow 

promotes outdoor adventure and 

recreational activities combining the 

International Trade Fair for Boats 

and Yachts ‘Baltic Boat Show’, the 

International Fair for Hunting and 

Fishing Gear and Accessories ‘Hunting 

& Fishing’ and the Trade Fair for 

Motorcycle and Bicycle Lifestyle ‘Moto & 

Velo’ under a single brand name. 

“Hunting and fishing enthusiasts 

will find a broad range of apparel and 

accessories and discover the latest 

models of equipment. Those interested 

in fishing will be able to expand their 

toolkits and get valuable tips from 

seasoned experts. Meanwhile, hunters 

will enjoy a great opportunity to discover 

the latest innovations in hunting tools 

and learn about the latest developments 

in the field. Once you are done buying 

new gear, it will be a good idea to visit 

the Open Stage, which will take place for 

the third year in a row, hosting various 

presentations, master classes, and 

demonstrations by experts.” 

MAnuFAcTuReR FOcus 

PULSAR 

ATEITIES G. 21C, LT-06326, VILNIUS, LITHUANIA 

+358 10 423 8810 SUPPORT@PULSAR-VISION.COM 

WWW.PULSAR-NV.COM 

What they say: 

“Pulsar is part of Yukon 

Advanced Optics Worldwide, 

a high-tech European 

company group with its 

head office located in 

Lithuania. Based in the 

North-Eastern part of 

Europe, we are constantly 

inspired by the surrounding 

nature, green woods, 

endless meadows, and 

calming rivers of this 

land. Yet we are driven by 

the passion to see what 

is beyond the visible, to 

reach for the invisible, 

and to make a sight an 

unforgettable moment. 

“Our history dates back 

to 1991. It was started by 

a group of friends who 

shared the same passion for 

expanding human abilities. 

This group of enthusiasts 

used to assemble the first 

few wooden observation 

tubes in the basement of 

an unfinished residential 

building. 

“Three decades later 

PULSAR proves to be the 

top worldwide brand of 

thermal and digital day & 

night vision imaging devices, 

becoming a trend-setter 

and innovation leader in the 

sector. One thing that has 

not changed over time, is 

the same passion that drove 

the founders in the very 

beginning and which we 

now share with more than 

1200 colleagues around the 

globe. Our company has 

come a long way and this 

journey grows more exciting 

every day. 

“We proudly carry the 

Made in Europe flag. All 

PULSAR products are 

developed, designed, 

manufactured, packed, and 

sent out to our worldwide 

distributors from our 

factories in Europe.” 


Latvia 

GDP (usD, nominal) $46.668 billion 

GDP per capita (usD) $24,929 

GDP growth rate 2.4% (2024 forecast) 

unemployment rate 6.57% (2024 forecast) 

ECONOMY FOCUS 

& FAcT FiLe 

Estonia 



GDP growth rate 0.3% (2024 forecast); 

3.1% (2025) 


Lithuania 



GDP growth rate 1.8% (2024 forecast) 


bALTic sTATes 

Top trade partners: 

Lithuania, Estonia, Germany, Poland, Russia 


Finland, Sweden, Germany, Russia, Latvia 


Poland, Germany, Latvia, USA, Sweden 

Capital: Riga 

Dialling code: +371 

Population: 1,842,226 

Currency: Euro 

Prime Minister: Evika Siliņa 

Official language: latvian 

Time zone: UTc +2 

Capital: Tallinn 




Prime Minister: Kaja Kallas 

Official language: Estonian 


Capital: Vilnius 




Prime Minister: Ingrida Šimonytė 

Official language: lithuanian 


In 2024 GDP growth in the 

Baltic countries is expected 

to resume, but at a relatively 

moderate pace of 2.3-2.6 per 

cent. In manufacturing we 

see signs that destocking 

cycle is nearing the end, and 

manufacturing is likely to 

return to growth in the first 

half of 2024, although the 

strength of the recovery is 

probably going to be modest. 

Inflation in 2024 is expected 

to average near 2.5 per cent 

while we expect wage growth 

to slow from more than 10 

per cent in 2023 to 6.4-7.5 per 

cent range in 2024. Thus, real 

incomes will grow again and 

useFuL cOnTAcTs 

this will support consumption 

growth. In addition, loans in 

the Baltics are mostly issued 

with variable rates, and as a 

result the Baltic region has 

already felt the impact of 

monetary policy faster than 

other countries. Interest 

rates cuts that are expected 

to begin by mid-2024 and 

will then start to support 

economic recovery. Finally, 

weak private sector demand 

in construction in 2024 will 

be partially offset by EU 

funded increased public 

sector investments and fiscal 

policy in general remains 

accommodative as countries 

continue to run budget 

deficits. 

The war in Ukraine 

continues and geopolitical 

tensions remain high and 

have increased even further 

due to the Israel-Palestinian 

conflict. China’s economy 

continues to struggle with 

problems in the property 

sector, in the Euro area shortterm 

indicators and economic 

sentiment have deteriorated 

despite falling inflation and 

natural gas prices remain 

elevated despite almost 

full natural gas storage. 

New supply disruptions or 

unexpectedly strong demand 

due to cold winter could lead 

to new energy price spikes. 

In addition, long and variable 

lags in the rapid rate of 

monetary policy tightening 

could cause a more significant 

economic slowdown than 

currently expected. And rapid 

rise in long-term rates could 

cause financial stability risks 

in Euro area or globally due 

to high debt levels. Growth 

in the Euro area is hampered 

not only by cyclical factors, 

but also by structural factors 

such as high energy prices 

and increased competition 

in critical sectors such as 

automotive manufacturing. 

LATVIAN HUNTERS ASSOCIATION 

NOLIKTAVU IELA 2, DREILIŅI, 

STOPIŅU PAGASTS, ROPAŽU 

NOVADS, LV-2130 

+371 29 41 99 96 

LATMA@LATMA.LV 

WWW.LATMA.LV 

ESTONIAN HUNTERS SOCIETY 

KURISTIKU 7, 10127 TALLINN 

+372 602 5970 

EJS@EJS.EE 

WWW.EJS.EE 

LITHUANIAN HUNTERS AND ANGLERS 

ASSOCIATION 

M. SLEŽEVIČIAUS G. 15 

LT-06326 VILNIUS, LITHUANIA 

+370 85 26 26 735 

LIETUVOSMZD@YAHOO.COM 

WWW.LMZD.LT GTW 


MaKING CONTaCT 

Pulsar announces 

firmware updates 

for Trail and Axion 

units 

Pulsar, a leading innovator in advanced optical and thermal imaging 

solutions, has introduced Firmware Updates 5.0 and 2.3 for the 

Trail 2 LRF XQ50 series and Axion 2 LRF XG35 series, respectively. 

These updates will enable new features and capabilities for some of 

Pulsar’s most popular thermal optics. 

Firmware Update 5.0 for Trail 2 LRF 

XQ50 and Trail 2 LRF XQ50A Thermal 

Riflescopes 

Firmware Update 5.0 brings a host 

of enhancements to the Trail 2 LRF 

XQ50 and Trail 2 LRF XQ50A thermal 

riflescopes, elevating their performance 

to new heights. The key features 

include: 

- Additional Distance Visualisation 

Options: Update 5.0 introduces three 

new distance visualisation options, 

providing users with greater flexibility 

and customisation in their shooting 

experience. 

- Extended Display Time of 

Rangef inder’s Widget: The update 

increases the display time of the 

rangefinder’s widget in the top right 

corner of the menu, ensuring users 

have ample time to gather crucial 

information. 

- Ballistic Calculations in SCAN Mode: 

Update 5.0 enables ballistic calculations 

operations in SCAN mode, enhancing 

functionality and convenience. 

- Autocalibration Indication Changes: 

The autocalibration indication has been 

refined, offering a more user-friendly 

experience. 

- Ballistic Calculations through Stream 

Vision Ballistics App: Users will now be 

able to perform ballistic calculations by 

using their Trail 2 in conjunction with 

the Stream Vision Ballistics mobile app, 

allowing for precise and accurate shot 

placement. 

Users are encouraged to follow simple 

steps to enable ballistic calculations on 

their Trail riflescope: 

1. Download the newest updated version 

of the Stream Vision Ballistics mobile 

app. 

2. Create a ballistic profile following the 

instructions in the app. 

3. Connect the scope to the Stream 

Vision Ballistics app via Bluetooth. 

4. Upload the ballistic profiles to the 

riflescope using the app. 

5. Measure the distance with the 

laser rangefinder for accurate ballistic 

calculations. 

6. The suggested point of aim will 

appear on the riflescope’s screen. 


pulsar 

Firmware Update 2.3 for Axion 2 LRF XG35 Thermal 

Monoculars 

Pulsar’s Firmware Update 2.3 for the Axion 2 LRF 

XG35 series introduces significant improvements in 

image quality and user interface. Key enhancements 

include: 

- Improved Image Quality: Reduction of noise in 

observation modes, resulting in sharper and clearer 

images. 

- Smoother Animated Zoom: Variable zoom is now 

more fluid and congruent with digital zoom, delivering 

a seamless and immersive viewing experience. 

- PiP GUI Improvement: The Picture-in-Picture box is 

highlighted with a green square for improved visibility. 

- Red Calibration Indication: A red calibration 

indication is added to the status bar, providing users 

with clear feedback on the device’s status. 

These firmware updates reinforce Pulsar’s commitment 

to delivering cutting-edge technology to its customers 

while continuously improving the performance and 

user experience of their products. Users are encouraged 

to update their devices through the Stream Vision 

2 App to unlock the full potential of their Trail and 

Axion devices. 

About 

Every Pulsar device is designed, manufactured, and 

tested to ensure demanding professionals receive 

the most reliable, most advanced thermal and digital 

night vision performance the industry has to offer. 

The result of Pulsar’s commitment to industryleading 

excellence is consistent world-class quality, 

precision engineering, seamless device operation and 

cutting-edge proprietary software. Pulsar produces 

an array of advanced optical devices designed for law 

enforcement, security, home defence and hunting 

applications, including thermal imaging and digital 

night vision monoculars, binoculars and riflescopes, 

IR illuminators and related accessories. 

www.pulsarnv.com 


MAKING CONTACT 

Sauer 505 Elegance 

BLASER GROUP 

Sauer 505 Synchro XT 

Introducing the new 

Sauer 505 bolt-action 

rifle 

J.P. Sauer and Sohn, Germany’s oldest manufacturer of hunting firearms, has introduced 

the new Sauer 505. This bolt-action rifle is an engineering masterpiece, delivering timeless 

elegance, absolute accuracy, and exceptional versatility. 

Hallmarks of this latest Sauer rifle 

include a robust, newly designed 

steel chassis, silky-smooth bolt 

cycling, and interchangeable, cold 

hammer forged precision barrels that 

allow for quick and easy calibre changes. 

Hunters can select between four pre-set 

trigger weights from 0.77lb to 2.75lb. 

The ergonomically perfected manual 

cocking system is safe, lightweight, quiet, 

and easy on the thumb. Once ready to 

shoot, simply apply slight pressure with 

your thumb to cock the rifle. Uncocking 

and unloading in the uncocked position is 

just as easy. 

Sauer has adopted the proven Blaser 

saddle mount technology for easy and 

accurate optics mounting. This quick 

detach mount is designed to ensure the 

unit can be taken off the Sauer 505 and 

put back on while maintaining the precise 

point of aim without having to re-zero 

the scope. This is a significant advantage 

for those who travel frequently. 

“The Sauer 505 represents the finest in 

German craftsmanship and engineering, 

and its precision, beauty, and timeless 

elegance ensures it will be cherished by 

generations to come,” said Jason Evans, 

CEO, Blaser Group. “This German rifle 

is a meticulously designed platform with 

the smoothest, 60-degree action available, 

and Sauer offers various stocks for 

specific purposes from lightweight carbon 

fibre options for mountain hunting to 

heavier stocks and barrels for dangerous 

game hunts in the African savanna.” 

Available in four stock options – 

walnut (from wood grades 2 to 10), 

synthetic, synthetic thumbhole, or carbon 

fibre. The flush mounted detachable 

magazine features an integrated 

MagLock safety which prevents 

unwanted triggering of the magazine 

button. Rifle weights range from around 

6lb with the ultralight carbon fibre stock 

to heavier weight field options with 

magnum barrels. 

Available in summer 2024 in multiple 

calibres. 

About 

The Blaser Group is the official US 

importer for iconic German firearms 

brands Blaser, Mauser and J.P. Sauer; 

English gunmaker John Rigby & Co.; 

Minox optics and Liemke Thermal 

Optics. Established in 2006, the company 

which is based in San Antonio, Texas 

works with distributors, wholesalers, and 

over 200 authorised Blaser Group dealers 

across all North American states, with 

this figure continually growing. Today 

the Blaser Group’s industry-leading 

product portfolio includes bolt-action, 

combination rifles and over-and-under 

shotguns designed specifically for 

game hunters and competitive target 

shooters. Its custom shop offers exclusive 

engravings, design work and custom 

finishing for bespoke guns. With recent 

innovations, Blaser Group has gone on to 

expand its product portfolio into cuttingedge 

optics and accessory lines. 

www.blaser-group.com 



VORTEX OPTICS 

TAKE A CLOSER 

LOOK HERE >> 

Vortex introduces 

the Defender-St Micro 

red dot 

The all-purpose red dot for recreational tactical shooters, law enforcement, and hunters. 

Struggling to find a red dot that works great on all your 

customers’ guns? Vortex hears you. That’s why the American 

optic expert is excited to introduce the new Defender-ST. 

It’s the new all-purpose micro red dot designed for everything 

from your handgun to your shotgun, paired up with a carbine, or 

piggybacked on an AR’s LPVO. 

Whether running drills at the range or meeting the demands of 

duty use, the Defender-ST is ready when and wherever you and 

your customers are. Rugged and reliable? It’s a given. Large sight 

window? Absolutely. Motion-activation and a dot with adjustable 

brightness deliver superior target acquisition, adaptability in all 

lighting conditions, and faster follow-up shots. 

Other design benefits include: 

7075 Aluminium Sight Housing for added strength and corrosion 

resistance 

Large Aspherical Lens for distortion-free sight picture and truer 

colours 

Advanced Shockshield Polymer Insert to protect against hard, 

daily abuse 

Fast-Rack Textured Front Face that adds grip for racking slide 

Adjustable Brightness for customisable illumination settings 

10-Minute Auto-Shutoff to preserve battery life 

Motion Activated for instant readiness when you need it 

Deltapoint® Pro Footprint for versatile mounting on pistols, ARs, 

and shotguns 

3 or 6 MOA red dot reticles available. 

Experience what shooters mean when they discuss the ideal, 

all-round red dot. With the Defender-ST, you’re not just rangeready, 

but armoured for the toughness and adaptability your 

world demands. 

About 

American owned, veteran-owned, Wisconsin-based Vortex Optics 

designs, engineers, produces, and distributes a complete line of 

premium sport optics, accessories, and apparel. Dedicated to 

providing unrivalled customer service and exceptional quality, 

Vortex backs its products with the unconditional, transferable, 

lifetime VIP Warranty. Built on over 30 years of experience in 

the optics industry, Vortex has emerged as a leader in the optics 

market. 

www.vortexoptics.com 



STRION ® 2020 Rechargeable Flashlight 

TLR-7 ® X USB Multi-Fuel Rechargeable 

SHOT success for 

Streamlight 

At the recent SHOT Show, Gun Trade World caught up with Streamlight ® president and chief 

executive officer Ray Sharrah to get his view on the show itself, and Streamlight’s fresh 

products hitting the shelves through 2024. 

“SHOT Show 2024 was a major success 

for Streamlight. The show was very well 

attended, and our booth was busy. We 

had the opportunity to speak with longtime 

dealers and friends and to meet 

with new potential customers,” says Ray 

Sharrah. 

“SHOT is a time for us to show our 

newest products to those in multiple 

markets for use in various applications. 

We highlighted our new rechargeable 

tactical lights which were enthusiastically 

received, especially our multi-fuel 

weapon-mounted lights.” 

At the show, Streamlight launched a 

variety of new tactical lighting devices to 

market. The following high-performance 

lighting devices for the sporting goods, 

law enforcement, and military industries 

display Streamlight’s constant innovation. 

STRION ® 2020 Rechargeable Flashlight 

“Streamlight developed the super-bright 

Strion 2020 handheld flashlight to 

provide first responders with a powerful 

tactical tool for use during search, 

investigative and emergency situations. 

“Law enforcement, tactical 

professionals, military personnel and 

others can choose between two switches, 

depending on need or personal preference. 

We’ve also added convenient features such 

as a mode select switch so you don’t have 

to cycle between modes, and an indicator 

light to check battery status at a glance.” 

TLR-7 ® X USB Multi-Fuel Rechargeable 

“Like other models in the TLR line, the 

new TLR-7 X USB/TLR-7 X is designed 

to maximise visibility and targeting 

capability in a variety of home defence 

and tactical applications. 

“These new models are ‘multifuel’, 

giving users the choice of using 

either a cost-saving SL-B9 USB-C 

rechargeable battery pack or a 3-volt 

CR123A lithium battery, depending on 

availability or user preference.” 


TLR-6 HL ® High-Lumen Rechargeable 

STREAMLIGHT 

Enhanced TLR ® RM Series 

RO54 

TLR-6 HL ® High-Lumen Rechargeable 

“The TLR-6 HL, the newest 

addition to our best-selling line of 

TLR-6 weapon lights, use high-lumen 

technology to provide full situational 

awareness in law enforcement, concealed 

carry, and home defence applications. 

“Models are available with either a 

red or green integrated colour aiming 

laser to enable users to readily identify 

a potential threat before taking any 

action. These models use the new 

SL-B2 USB rechargeable battery 

that provides on-the-go convenient 

charging coupled with the cost savings 

of rechargeability.” 

Enhanced TLR ® RM Series 

Streamlight has also introduced 

upgraded models of its TLR® 

RM 1 and TLR® RM 2 series of 

lights, each now featuring an HPL 

(High Performance, High Lumen) 

face cap for a super-bright beam of 

up to 1,000 lumens and an extended 

reach of up to 22,000 candela. 

About 

Based in Eagleville, PA, Streamlight®, 

Inc. is marking 50 years of 

manufacturing high-quality, durable 

flashlights designed to serve the 

specialised needs of professionals and 

consumers alike. 

Since 1973, the company has 

designed, manufactured, and marketed 

high-performance flashlight products, 

and today offers a broad array of 

lights, lanterns, weapon light/laser 

sighting devices, and scene lighting 

solutions for professional law 

enforcement, military, firefighting, 

industrial, automotive, and outdoor 

applications. Streamlight® is an ISO 

9001:2015 certified company. 

www.streamlight.com 

facebook.com/streamlight 

x.com/Streamlight 

instagram.com/streamlightinc 

youtube.com/streamlighttv 

High precision competition 

sport pistols 

Designed for champions 

„Made in Germany“ 

In-house manufactured 

parts made of finest 

materials for the high 

quality standards of STP 

Reliable CNC parts only 

Check out our 1911 and 

2011 handguns on 

www.stpgun.de 

A shot of passion

KAHR FIREARMS 

The new 

lightweight 

Magnum 

Magnum Research introduces the new L6 Desert Eagle with muzzle brake! 

Magnum Research, the worldrenowned 

manufacturer of highperformance 

firearms, is proud to 

introduce the new L6 Desert Eagle with 

integral muzzle brake in a durable all black 

finish. This new series of mighty Desert 

Eagle pistols incorporates the weight 

savings of the alloy L6 frame, with the 

integral muzzle brake upper that is very 

popular with shooters. Models will be 

available in all four magnum calibres, .50 

AE, .44, .429DE, and .357. The Desert 

Eagle features a 6in barrel and integral 

muzzle brake, which help to reduce recoil. 

It measures 10.75in in overall length, 

and weighs approximately 10oz less than 

steel framed models. Each gun comes 

standard with combat sights, dust cover 

accessory rail, black wraparound finger 

groove rubber grips, a picatinny optics 

rail, and one magazine. The construction 

of the Mark XIX Desert Eagle utilises 

the latest CNC machine technology, 

providing exacting specifications and tight 

tolerances. The result is a work of art in a 

precision firearm. 

MODEL: DE50L6IMB, DE44L6IMB, 

DE429L6IMB, DE357L6IMB. 

About 

Kahr Firearms Group, formed in 2012, 

includes Kahr Arms, Auto-Ordnance and 

Magnum Research. KFG Headquarters 

reside in Greeley, Pennsylvania. Kahr 

Arms produces small concealable 

handguns in .380, 9mm, .40 and .45ACP. 

Auto-Ordnance is the maker of the 

famous “Tommy Gun”, M1 Carbine and 

WW2 GI Model 1911. Magnum Research 

Inc., designer and producer of the worldrenowned 

Desert Eagle Pistol, Baby Eagle, 

MLR .22LR and .22Mag Rifles and BFR 

Revolvers. All three companies are proudly 

located in the USA. 

www.kahr.com 

IT'S TIME FOR A 

BRAND-NEW 

Hunting 

BARREL 

GUN BARRELS 

AND MORE Hunting 

available in: 

- different calibers, contours and barrel lengths 

- normal steel or stainless 

www.lothar-walther.com

Gun Trade World - April 2024

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