Firearms News

Presidents' Guns Sell for Big Bucks at Rock Island Auction

A significant and rare pair of revolvers presented to Civil War general and 18th President Ulysses S. Grant sold Friday at Rock Island Auction Company for a record $5.17 million on the opening day of the company’s three-day May Premier Auction. Grant’s revolvers led the way in the $28.2 million auction, the second largest in the company’s history. The magnificent, cased set of Remington New Model Army revolvers was estimated to sell for $1 million to $3 million. Bidding started at $800,000. Grant’s Remingtons soared past RIAC’s previous top seller, a garniture of six arms presented to Napoleon Bonaparte that realized $2.875 million in the company’s December 2021 Premier Auction.

“We are seeing remarkable prices in the collectible firearms market, and this is a tremendous example,” RIAC President Kevin Hogan said. “It’s an honor to be the company that people come to with their elite and historic firearms. Just last year we sold Napoleon’s garniture, Alexander Hamilton’s Revolutionary War flintlock pistols and John Wayne’s Colt Single Action Army.”

Grant's Remingtons, numbered 1 and 2, are arguably the most significant firearms discovered from the Civil War. The set is covered with the artistry of L. D. Nimschke, one of the most renowned master engravers of the 19th century, and features grips carved with Grant's portrait. They come nestled in their original rosewood case with full complement of accessories. The pair of revolvers only came to light just recently at the 2018 Las Vegas Antique Arms Show.

The Remington revolvers are being called an American treasure and drawing comparisons to President Abraham Lincoln's gilt and engraved Henry rifle or President George Washington's flintlock pistols. They were likely presented to Grant after he captured Vicksburg on the Fourth of July in 1863 and thus secured the length of the Mississippi River for the Union. RIAC’s May Premier Auction also included arms from well-known figures such as Wild Bill Hickok, Frank Sinatra, J. Edgar Hoover and a Colt Single Action Army revolver documented as a battlefield pickup at the Little Bighorn.

A firearms auction house in Illinois has sold President Theodore Roosevelt’s Colt revolver for $1.4 million. The sale came on the second day of Rock Island Auction Company’s three day December event dubbed “The Sale of the Century.” The Colt Single Action Army revolver was ordered as a gift for Roosevelt’s 54th birthday. Factory engraved and silver plated, it was shipped four days before his birthday, just over a week prior to the election of 1912, and ten days prior to his assassination attempt in Milwaukee, WI.

Roosevelt’s Colt was one of several firearms belonging to famous figures from history. Others included Elvis Presley, Annie Oakley, the “Father of Montana” Granville Stuart, Emperor Franz Joseph, General John “Black Jack” Pershing, and Tom Selleck.

Despite the hardships 2020 has brought, it proved to be another record year for RIAC, who again broke their own industry record by reaching $91.7 million in annual sales, with one auction still remaining this year. This was aided by the December auction, now the largest firearms auction ever held, which brought just over $22 million.

“What we’re seeing is the growing realization of the history and investment potential of these objects,” said RIAC President Kevin Hogan. “Year after year these numbers increase and it’s no coincidence. People love holding history in their hands, and have always wanted to possess what is beautiful. Collecting fine arms satisfies both.” These results are in tune with an American upsurge in firearms ownership during a year filled with civil unrest and election concerns.

By Rock Island Auction Company Press Release

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November 2022 NICS Checks Up, Firearm Sales Steady

U.S.A. –-(AmmoLand.com)- November of 2022 had the second-highest number of National Instant background Check System checks for November. Only November of 2020 had a higher number. The number of gun sales for November was the fourth highest on record, with about 1.49 million gun sales. Last year, 2021, edged out this year with 1.51 million sales, while 2020 had 1.92 million sales and 2016 had 1.62 million sales, as estimated using the FBI figures for gun sales from the NICS system.

In NICS, there are categories for long guns, handguns, other guns, and multiple gun sales. The estimate of sales for the month is arrived at by adding the long gun, handgun, and other sales with 2.5 x the multiple sales figures. The estimate is consistent, and does not include NICS checks for permits or permit re-checks, which have come to dominate NICS in recent years. Of about 2.75 million checks total for November of 2022, Illinois permit checks and Kentucky permit rechecks to total .717 million, over 25% of the total checks done! The permit checks and rechecks are not charged for by the federal government. The permit and permit rechecks are what are fueling the increases in overall NICS checks. Thus, the raw NICS numbers are not a reliable indicator of firearm sales.

The November sales figures bring the NICS gun sales to about 15.51 million so far in 2022. December is usually a good month for gun sales. This correspondent predicts 1.8 million firearms will be sold through the NICS system in December. If that happens, the total for 2022 will be 17.3 million firearms.

Credible assertions of Twitter, Google, and Facebook placing their thumbs on the election scales in 2020 and 2022 fuel domestic uncertainty. Domestic chaos in the United States is a likely goal for our most dangerous, self-proclaimed opponent, the Chinese Communist Party. Through TicToc and hundreds of thousands of influencers in the United States, they have considerable ability to sway domestic public opinion and control events.

Firearms prices may rise due to inflationary pressures. However, firearms are durable goods. The vast majority of modern firearms are very well made, and will last for several lifetimes given any reasonable care.

The potential life of a stainless steel firearm with a composite stock may be hundreds of years. Firearms chambered in .22LR suffer very little wear and can fire tens or hundreds of thousands of rounds before needing replacement parts.

Thus, a firearm is an heirloom purchase, which tends to keep pace and value with increasing inflation.
Similarly, modern ammunition has a shelf life measured in decades, perhaps a hundred years and more, if stored in a cool, dry environment. Storage can be facilitated by keeping the cartridges in sealed containers. Military ammunition cans are made for the purpose and are usually available for a reasonable price.

In difficult times, cartridges are a valuable trade commodity, which may be more valued than gold or silver.

If 1.8 million firearms are sold in December of 2022, the total private stock will be estimated at 489 million firearms in the United States, rounded off to the nearest million.


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THE U.S. SUPREME COURT BRUEN DECISION GARNERS AMERICANS’ APPROVAL

Americans are showing they approve of the U.S. Supreme Court’s ruling in favor of more individual rights for law-abiding Americans in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen, instead of siding with more restrictions.

U.S. Supreme Court Justices aren’t elected. They don’t face approval or rejection by voters at the ballot box. They are insulated from facing political pressure to rule a certain way on the cases they hear. But the Highest Court in the Land has garnered the approval of a large majority of Americans following their landmark decision last summer expanding Second Amendment protections.

As law-abiding Americans continue purchasing firearms in historic numbers and experience firsthand what the lawful process of buying a gun entails, they’re rejecting calls for more gun control and giving the Supreme Court good marks.

High Marks for Gun Rights
A poll from Marquette University School of Law asked Americans about their opinions on the Supreme Court’s decision to strike down New York’s restrictive and subjective “may issue” concealed carry gun control laws in New York State Rifle & Pistol Association v. Bruen. The 6-3 decision affirmed that the Second Amendment is an individual right that may be exercised both in the home and in public. Americans, by large numbers, support the Court’s decision nearly six months after

The Reload reported the poll showed 64 percent of respondents favor the Court’s decision to expand Second Amendment rights by striking down New York’s law with 36 percent strongly in favor. Conversely, just 35 percent noted they were opposed to the decision with 16 percent strongly opposed.

The poll suggested Americans remain happy with expanded gun rights. That notion is supported by firearm industry data showing historic levels of firearm purchases – roughly 40 million National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) verifications between 2020-2021 – and a greatly diversifying gun-owning community, including large numbers of women, African Americans, Hispanic Americans and Asian Americans.

The public’s high regard for gun rights is also reflected by the continued drops in public opinion towards stricter gun laws. According to The Hill, the percentage of Americans who support stricter gun laws has fallen nine points since June, the same month the Supreme Court handed down its Bruen decision. The latest Gallup poll shows 57 percent of U.S. adults “desire stricter gun laws,” compared to 66 percent in June. When Gallup first began tracking Americans’ feelings on gun control 30 years ago, support for stricter laws registered nearly 80 percent.

States Acted Fast
Supreme Court Associate Justice Clarence Thomas wrote in the Bruen majority opinion, “When the Second Amendment’s plain text covers an individual’s conduct, the Constitution presumptively protects that conduct.” Justice Thomas continued, writing, “The constitutional right to bear arms in public for self-defense is not a second-class right, subject to an entirely different body of rules than the other Bill of Rights guarantees. We know of no other constitutional right that an individual may exercise only after demonstrating to government officers some special need.”

States with strict gun control laws that could be struck down following Bruen took notice. The ruling was a catalyst for other lawsuits in states and forced others to proactively re-examine their laws, or risk being struck down as well by the High Court.

All told there were eight states with “may issue” laws similar to New York’s prior to the Supreme Court’s Bruen decision. In California, Attorney General Rob Bonta released a directive telling state law enforcement to immediately “cease all ‘good cause’ requirements” for concealed carry applicants. Maryland dropped their concealed carry “good and substantial” reason requirements last summer and Massachusetts released new guidance telling permit issuing authorities they “should no longer deny or impose restrictions on licenses to carry a gun just because the applicant doesn’t have a ‘good reason’ to carry.” Legislators in Hawaii, Connecticut, Rhode Island and Delaware have considered changes.

All the while, Americans have continued taking up their Second Amendment rights to purchase and possess a firearm. November marked the 39th month in a row of at least 1 million NICS verifications processed for the purchase of a gun. In fact, in the states mentioned above, more than 705,000 law-abiding Americans have purchased a firearm since the Bruen decision was handed down, according to NSSF-adjusted NICS verification data.

More Rights, Less Restrictions
If there were any other indicators needed to show Americans are becoming more likely to support gun rights and reject stricter gun control, they need not look any further than President Joe Biden’s inability to get Congress to pass his ban on so-called “assault weapons,” the semiautomatic rifles known as Modern Sporting Rifles (MSRs). There are more than 24.4 million of these commonly-owned and popular rifles in circulation since 1990 and are purchased by Americans for self-defense, recreation and hunting.

With Democratic lawmakers in the majority in the U.S. House of Representatives and Senate, support for the president’s so-called “assault weapons ban” couldn’t even muster the support of all Democrats in the Senate and hasn’t received a vote.

What is clear is that five months after the Supreme Court ruled in favor of more individual rights for law-abiding Americans in Bruen instead of siding with more restrictions, Americans are showing they approve.

By Larry Keane

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Gun Groups Call for Members to Help Sway 'Assault Weapon' Ban Vote

With a vote set for this week in the U.S. House of Representatives on a federal ban on so-called “assault weapons,” some groups on the pro-gun side of the debate are urging their members to contact their Congressmen and insist that the vote against the measure.

While sponsors of the legislation claim it would outlaw “weapons of war,” in reality it would ban the sale of commonly owned rifles, shotguns, handguns and standard capacity magazines, according to the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). Plus, the House also passed a measure that would repeal the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act.

“It is unclear if Speaker Pelosi has the votes needed to pass the bills at this moment,” NSSF said in an industry alert, “so it is critical that you call your U.S. Representative today and urge a ‘No’ vote on H.R. 1808, the so-called ‘Assault Weapons Ban’ of 2022, and H.R. 2814, the so-called ‘Equal Access to Justice for Victims of Gun Violence Act.’”

In the alert, NSSF also provided a link where interested gun owners could find the correct contact information for their specific member of Congress, along with a direct link to email their representative.

Gun Owners of America (GOA) are also rallying their members to fight the bad legislation, saying it is important to get as many “No” votes for the measure in the House as possible.


“The more Representatives who vote against it in the House, the greater the chances this bill quickly DIES in the Senate,” Erich Pratt, GOA executive vice president, said in an action alert. “But if this bill gets strong bipartisan support in the House, Mitch McConnell and John Cornyn could give it serious consideration in the Senate.

“That’s why I’m urging you to tell your representative to vote no on banning some of the most commonly owned firearms in America.”

Pratt said that the House has been holding televised, emotion-fueled hearings to instill fear in the American people and justify their crackdown on commonly owned firearms.

“We shouldn’t be surprised to learn that a bunch of people who use the term ‘assault weapons’ turn out to know virtually nothing about guns,” he said. “Rep. (David) Cicilline, the congressman who called the Constitution ‘bulls**t,’ claimed that a stabilizing brace is a bump stock that turns a gun into a machine gun.


“Rep. (Lucy) McBath doubled down on Cicilline’s absurdity. She stated that gun owners with disabilities like to claim that a stabilizing brace helps provide them with stability, but that they actually want to use the brace to turn their firearm into a machine gun!”

In the alert, GOA provided a link to members to sign on to a letter to Congress to stop the ban.

While many believe the legislation has no chance of passing, anytime such a far-reaching, poorly thought out measure actually comes to a floor vote it is cause for plenty of concern.


“NSSF has been sending action alerts to our members to ensure their voice is heard by their members of Congress,” said Mark Oliva, managing director of public affairs for NSSF, said in an exclusive interview with Firearms News. “It is unclear, however, if the votes are there. It will be the narrowest of margins whether a vote on this legislation moves it to the Senate or if it fails.”

We’ll keep an eye on the measure and bring you an update when the floor vote has been tallied.

Freelance writer and editor Mark Chesnut is the owner/editorial director at Red Setter Communications LLC. An avid hunter, shooter and political observer, he has been covering Second Amendment issues and politics on a near-daily basis for the past 20 years.

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Kel-Tec Expands Production Capacity with New Wyoming Plant

Kel-Tec CNC Industries is expanding its production capacity with the acquisition of a 33,000 square foot facility in Rock Springs, Wyoming, augmenting its 125,000 square foot industrial space in Cocoa, Florida.

“I am thrilled to be a part of this new adventure in our story,” stated Adrian Kellgren, Director of Industrial Production. “Wyoming has a rich history as part of the American frontier and it’s fitting for our brand, being that we constantly explore the limits of performance and design, to expand out here.”

Kel-Tec firearms are known for innovation and performance, so the new facility will focus on cutting-edge manufacturing technology, next-generation research and development and of course, production of the newest trend-setting firearms available.

“This is a milestone for Kel-Tec CNC Industries,” said Director of Sales and Marketing, Derek Kellgren. “While steady expansion isn’t anything new to us, this is our first expansion into another state, and we couldn’t be more excited about advancing our innovative designs and production processes in Wyoming.”


While the company’s initial start-up will be small, the facility is designed to grow up to 250-plus employees across multiple industrial disciplines.

“In Wyoming, we value our open spaces, recreation and hunting and proudly defend our Second Amendment rights,” stated Governor Mark Gordon. “Because of those values and our business-friendly environment I am pleased to welcome Kel-Tec firearms to Wyoming.”

Rock Springs Mayor Timothy A. Kaumo, echoing added support from Sweetwater County officials and the Wyoming Business Council, added “The City of Rock Springs is beyond excited and proud to have KelTec firearms locating here.”

“The future of our company is tied to the future of the American free spirit,” concluded George Kellgren, Founder, Chairman and CEO. “Wyoming has been a leading example of liberty and freedom for America, and it is right that we become part of it.”

By Kel-Tec CNC Industries

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Smith & Wesson Shatters $1 Billion Sales Barrier for the First Time

Smith & Wesson sales for a 12-month period exceeded $1 billion for the first time in company history, according to figures released last week in the firm’s “Fourth Quarter and Full Year 2021 Financial Results” report. Part of the profit is going to employees, who rose above the pandemic’s variety of challenges and raw material slowdowns to make the record possible.

“And earlier today, we announced to our employees that this year, we will be distributing over $14 million to eligible employees, which will be 15 percent of each employee's annual wages,” Mark Smith, Smith & Wesson president and CEO said during a June 17 earnings call with investors and stock analysts.

“In addition, the company achieved a very significant milestone in fiscal 2021, surpassing $1 billion in sales for the first time in our 169-year history. As I said, this would not have been possible without all of our employees. And so, in recognition of this milestone, we will also be awarding every employee who is not eligible for our management bonus program a special bonus of $1,200 for a full-time employee and $600 for temporary workers, prorated for the month of service during the fiscal year and to be paid next Thursday, June 24.”

The company’s official fiscal year 2021 ended April 30, 2021, and, according to the report net sales for the period came in at $1.1 billion. That represents an increase of 100 percent when compared to the same period the previous reporting year—when net sales came in at $529.6 million.

“The results of the past year, in spite of the unthinkable challenges that we faced as a nation and as a company, are a tremendous testament to the resolve of our dedicated employees, the power of the Smith & Wesson brand, and the strength of the partnerships we have with our customers,” Smith said.

“Our employees more than doubled the prior year sales, passed a milestone of $1 billion in revenue, and by every financial and operating metric, have delivered the most successful year in the 169-year history of the company. But most importantly, we have set a rock-solid foundation for the long-term success of the company, with astounding market share growth.

by Guy J. Sagi - Tuesday, June 22, 2021

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Iowa Becomes 19th State To Establish Constitutional Carry For Firearms

The state of Iowa has just passed legislation that will make it the 19th state to enact Constitutional Carry, also known as Permitless Carry. Governor Kim Reynolds signed House File 756 on April 2, but the law won’t go into effect until July 1, 2021. Iowa becomes the third state just this year to legalize Constitutional Carry, following Utah and Montana. Governor Reynolds’ public comment on the bill follows:

“Today I signed legislation that protects the 2nd Amendment rights of Iowa’s law-abiding citizens while still preventing the sale of firearms to criminals and other dangerous individuals. This law also takes greater steps to inform law enforcement about an individual’s mental illness helping ensure firearms don’t end up in the wrong hands. We will never be able to outlaw or prevent every single bad actor from getting a gun, but what we can do is ensure law-abiding citizens have full access to their constitutional rights while keeping Iowans safe.”

IOWA CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY
There seems to be some confusion when it comes to the issue of Constitutional and Permitless Carry, in the sense that people tend to think that the permit to carry system or process goes away altogether. I can’t speak for the other 18 states, but in Iowa’s case the carry permitting process is still alive and may be required for Iowans that carry in reciprocating states. The following excerpt is from the current Iowa Code 724.5, which is being replaced by the text from HF756 below it.

OLD TEXT
724.5 Duty to carry permit to carry weapons.
1. A person armed with a revolver, pistol, or pocket billy concealed upon the person shall
have in the person’s immediate possession the permit provided for in section 724.4, subsection
4, paragraph “i”, and shall produce the permit for inspection at the request of a peace officer.
Failure to so produce a permit is a simple misdemeanor.

NEW TEXT
Sec.13. Section 724.5, Code 2021, is amended by striking the section and inserting in lieu thereof the following:

724.5 Availability of permit not to be construed as prohibition on unlicensed carrying of weapons. The availability of a professional or nonprofessional permit to carry weapons under this chapter shall not be construed to impose a general prohibition on the otherwise lawful unlicensed carrying or transport, whether openly or concealed, of a dangerous weapon, including a loaded firearm.

This is good news for people that can’t afford the permitting process, as well as for those of us that don’t agree with having to ask permission to be able to exercise our 2nd Amendment rights. Iowa’s new law as written in HF756 also clarifies a number of other firearm-related issues, such as landlord and tenant laws, emergency medical personnel, preemption, and strengthening notification to enforcement databases following disqualifying court judgments.

The new bill eliminates the requirement to obtain a permit to purchase pistols or revolvers as long as the person is able to pass a National Instant Criminal Background Check (NICS). It would appear that a permit to acquire handguns privately would still require the permit to acquire (not carry), or complete the transaction at a local gun store for the NICS check.

If your state has already passed Constitutional Carry, how smooth was the transition? If your state has yet to pass Constitutional Carry legislation, how long do you think it’ll be before such laws are enacted?

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INDUSTRY COMPANIES INVEST IN THE FUTURE

Demonstrating a bullish outlook on the prospects of future growth, several industry companies have laid the groundwork for expanding or relocating manufacturing facilities to create jobs and meet elevated demand.

In December, Ruger announced a three-year plan to grow its Mayodan, N.C., production facility — investing approximately $10 million, which will create roughly 60 jobs. Ruger established its $26 million production facility in Mayodan in 2013, and its workforce there currently totals 490.

“This expansion will help us to grow our business and further expand our diverse lineup of rugged, reliable firearms, while at the same time expanding our presence in Rockingham County,” said Mickey Wilson, Ruger VP of Mayodan operations.

Dec. 21, Wilson Combat announced a major facility expansion for 2021, adding 16,000 sq. ft. of manufacturing space at its Berryville, Ark., campus. The company estimates this expansion will increase the size of its team by 20%.

“This new space is destined to house new automated machining and grinding centers to enhance parts production, increase overall quality and improve delivery times,” according to a company press release.

Meprolight U.S., maker of electro-optics and self-illuminating day/night sights, recently increased its production and expanded its warehouse capacity in the U.S. to meet demand.

“Our dealers can’t sell it if they don’t have it,” said Bill Yerby, Meprolight U.S. GM and VP of sales.

January, Aero Precision announced it would be leaving Tacoma County (where a tax increase on all firearms and ammunition is due to take effect this year), relocating to nearby Lakewood, Wash. With 800 employees, Aero Precision will be Lakewood’s largest private employer. It began relocating into its 268,000 sq. ft. facility in February, taking a phased approach that will be complete by the end of this year.


Aero Precision made the bold step of relocating to nearby Lakewood, Wash., after Tacoma’s
proposed tax increase on all firearms and ammunition was due to take effect in 2021. Its
268,000 sq. ft. facility will bring Aero’s operations under one roof. “Expanding our footprint
is important for the continued growth of our company,” said Founder and CEO Scott Dover.

“The substantial growth our business has achieved over the past several years has tested the limits of our current facilities. This move will allow a full company consolidation, bringing all Aero Precision operations under one roof,” said Scott Dover, Aero CEO and founder. “Expanding our footprint is important for the continued growth of our company.”

February, Sellmark Corp. announced plans to add a 50,000 sq. ft. building to its international headquarters in Mansfield, Texas. Scheduled to open Dec. 2021, the two-story building will provide extra warehouse capacity, expanded internal production facilities and a product development floor to support Sellmark’s future growth — as well as other amenities for employees, such as a basketball court, two weight rooms, café, nature trails and a wellness center.

“Mansfield has been a fantastic community to grow our business. This city has been wonderful for our employees and their families and we can’t wait for this next phase of development,” said James Sellers, Sellmark CEO.

First announced Nov. 2019, Stag Arms completed its relocation from New Britain, Conn., to Cheyenne, Wyo. The company released its first “Cheyenne, Wyoming”-marked receivers in January, complete with a new logo and branding.

“With the closing of our Connecticut facility in 2020 we ended a chapter in our company’s story. The move to Wyoming has allowed us to write a new chapter and refocus our efforts on building high-quality, American-made rifles that will serve our customers for life,” said Chad Larsen, Stag Arms president.

Other companies to embark on recent expansion efforts — previously covered in Shooting Industry — include SIG SAUER, Kimber and Riton Optics. CrossBreed is also expanding its Springfield, Mo., business footprint (see on p. 14 for additional coverage).

While product, by and large, is still difficult to come by, these moves will help facilitate the flow of products into the retail channel.

WRITTEN BY JADE MOLDAE

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Concealed Carry Corner: Flying With A Firearm For Concealment

In the world of carrying a concealed handgun, having to travel on a plane can be a big deterrent for taking your firearm with you. Often times if I am going on a quick weekend trip, I will have the debate to fly with a handgun or just leave it at home for the sake of easy traveling. There are a few different obstacles and extra steps but in the grand scheme of things, it’s fairly easy to travel with firearms to carry. If you don’t want to take a firearm when you fly, there are still a few options out there for carrying when you decide to travel without your vehicle. Let’s dive into flying with a firearm and tips to make it easy.


What To Transport Your Firearms Inside
Probably one of the most important things to keep in mind is what you will transport a firearm in when going to the airport. First and most importantly, the case needs to be a hard case that is lockable. This can either be something like a small VaultTek lockbox or a larger Pelican with space for ammunition or extra magazines. I know plenty of people who will pack an AR pistol along with a handgun when they go on trips, but that seems a fair bit excessive to me. If you do that, typically it will take a little longer to get through security than something smaller like a handgun.

When you decide to travel, I can’t stress how important it is to check the local and state laws of your destination before packing a handgun to carry concealed. It’s not worth getting arrested because you violated local firearm laws or don’t have reciprocity in that state. Various states have magazine restrictions and different carry laws so it’s a smart move to review all the state laws before traveling with your firearms to the destination. The TSA website makes it pretty easy to see what’s acceptable and what’s against the law making it pretty clear-cut what you need to do.

How To Pack Your Firearm and Ammunition
Some people start to get into trouble when they pack ammunition with their firearms. I shouldn’t have to say this, but it’s paramount to have your firearm unloaded without a magazine inside it when you pack the handgun. Typically I will unload my magazines and keep them empty next to my firearm with the ammunition in its original factory box. If you don’t have the original box, a plastic container that reloaders use is a decent alternative but life is generally easier through security when you just use the factory box. I know some of you like to carry a spare magazine, but TSA starts to get real grumpy when you have multiple boxes of carry ammo in your container. Just make sure to put the handgun container in your Check bag and not you’re carry-on bag, for obvious reasons.

I will put my unloaded handgun inside the holster with the magazine out of the gun.

Typically I will take one magazine and one box of ammunition. For me, I will either take a Glock 19 or SIG P226 when I travel so the double-stack magazines will hold 15-18 rounds of ammo in a single magazine. Now in the case of something like a Glock 43X or Smith & Wesson Shield where the round count is 8-10 rounds, it may make more sense to pack two extra magazines since they are single stack. You can fill both up from a single box of self-defense ammo so that makes more sense but with normal 15 round handguns, I will typically only take one magazine.


How To Transport It And What Locks To Use
Handguns and firearms in general are a bit different when it comes to TSA locks. Since it is a firearm, you are not required to use a TSA-approved lock and can use whatever lock you want. Once you get to the airport you will have to declare you have a firearm along with ammunition. TSA will take it and check it before locking it up in front of you and putting it back in your check baggage. The outer check bag lock should be a TSA-approved lock but the actual handgun case you use to transport the firearm inside should have whatever lock you want on it.


Alternatives To Taking A Firearm On The Plane
One of the best ways to conceal carry when you travel on the plane is to stay with someone who also is into firearms. Oftentimes I will stay with friends or family who are also shooting enthusiasts. If you have a good relationship with them and they trust you, a great alternative is to use a firearm from them for the time you are visiting so you don’t have to go through the trouble of packing your personal firearm. This shouldn’t be expected but if you have individuals in your life who are open to this, it’s way easier to travel than packing your own firearm.


Overall Thoughts
In the grand scheme of things, it’s relatively easy to transport a carry gun in a checked bag when you are traveling. It may take a few extra minutes to check in at the airport but having the peace of mind that you’ll have a firearm is well worth the extra time at the airport in my opinion. If you have family members who can loan you a handgun to carry that’s always an easier option than transporting one, but that’s not super common for the majority of individuals. The best advice I can give you guys is to check local and state laws before traveling as well as the TSA Guidelines for transporting a firearm while traveling.

by Matt E

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AMMO, INC. TO BUY GUNBROKER.COM

AMMO, Inc. (AMMO), an Arizona-based munition company best known for its STREAK Visual Ammunition line, has announced its intent to acquire online firearm marketplace GunBroker.com from IA Tech LLC. The transaction is reportedly worth $240 million.

Founded in 1999 by entrepreneur Steve Urvan, GunBroker.com changed how firearms, ammunition and accessories were sold online. In 2010, the company was ranked #1362 on Inc.’s Annual 5000 Rankings of the fastest-growing private companies in the country — finishing #4806 most recently in 2016. Today, GunBroker.com has become one of the world’s leading online marketplaces for guns and gear with 6 million registered users.

Striving to be a technology leader itself, AMMO and GunBroker.com share a similar desire to innovate and change the firearms industry.

“We founded AMMO to be a disruptive technology-based company that could serve the shooting community with cutting-edge ammunition offerings,” said AMMO Chairman and CEO Fred Wagenhals. “Steve Urvan had the foresight and entrepreneurial drive to start GunBroker.com more than 20 years ago with the same spirit and vision.”


Generating billions of dollars in cumulative sales in its 21-year history, GunBroker.com reported $60 million in revenue, including $40 million of EBITDA, in 2020. Paying four-times sales, AMMO sees the transaction as part of its vertical integration strategy.

In a separate corporate update, AMMO revealed that strategy includes a new ammunition and brass case factory in Wisconsin intended to triple manufacturing output and decrease operational costs. Capable of producing 750 million rounds of ammunition annually, AMMO recently reported a backlog of booked orders worth $180 million.

A publicly-traded company (Nasdaq: POWW), AMMO stock is up 17% since the GunBroker.com news was made public.

The completion of the transaction is subject to a number of conditions but is expected to close by March 31, 2021. AMMO will hold a Fiscal Third Quarter Earnings Call on February 16, 2021.

For more info: ammoinc.com, gunbroker.com

WRITTEN BY JOE KRIZ

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Roundhill Group LLC Purchases Remington Firearms

The story about America’s oldest gunmaker continues. In our article published a few days ago about the Remington assets being divided Roundhill Group, LLC was mentioned as one of the successful bidders. Today it was made official that they have purchased Remington Firearms, and that the purchase includes “all long guns, shotguns, pistols, the firearms manufacturing facilities, museum and giftshop.” So the question everyone is asking themselves is who are the people behind Roundhill Group? The Press Release gives some information and, probably most importantly, their intentions with Remington seems real and genuine. Hopefully they have the knowledge and skills to take Remington into the future.

Below is the Press Release in full:

Thursday, October 1, 2020
Roundhill Group LLC Purchases Remington Firearms
Lancaster, PA — Roundhill Group, LLC, an investment company with headquarters in Pennsylvania and Florida announced that it is purchasing Remington Firearms. The purchase includes all long guns, shotguns, pistols, the firearms manufacturing facilities, museum and giftshop.
With this acquisition have come many industry questions and rumors. Roundhill Group LLC partner and spokesman, Jeff Edwards addresses these issues:
“As is known, Roundhill Group LLC and a group of experienced firearms manufacturing and hunting industry professionals is in the process of purchasing Remington Firearms. Our intent with this acquisition is to return the company to its traditional place as an iconic American hunting brand. We intend to maintain, care for and nurture the brand and all of the dedicated employees who have crafted these products over the years for outdoors men and women both here in the USA and abroad. More than anything we want to make Remington a household name that is spoken with pride.”
The Roundhill Group is comprised of a group of individuals all of whom have years of experience in engineering, manufacturing and marketing both in and outside of the firearms space. They are all life-long hunting advocates and staunch Remington brand loyalists. They will work tirelessly to ensure that this company takes its rightful place as the iconic American brand that it was and still is.


About Jeff Edwards

With more than 26 years of industry experience, Jeff currently is managing partner at Stryk Group, an impact consulting company for the world’s leading hunting, camping, fishing and firearms brands. He has held positions with leading outdoor companies such as GunBroker.com, Hoyt Archery, Defiance Machine and others. He has hunted all over the US and abroad.

His reason for purchasing Remington Firearms: “Remington, to me, represents the Harley Davidsons of the hunting firearms industry. It is one of the oldest firearms companies and to have this opportunity to invest my time and energy to revitalize the brand that I love and truly believe in is a dream come true. I can’t wait for the day when it has the loyalty, prestige and following it once had. It won’t be long. Just wait and see.”


For more information please check https://www.remington.com/

What do you think of the new development with Remington Firearms and the potential future for the new company?

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Long Live The Lever Gun! Ruger Announces Plans for Marlin Firearms

Long Live the Lever Gun! Earlier this week we covered how the Remington firearms company was being divided up amongst various bidders in massive asset liquidation. Chief of interest among those potential acquisitions was the sale of the Marlin brand to Sturm Ruger. Ruger has now had its offer accepted and the acceptance of that order comes with some good news for lovers of the Marlin brand of products.

Ruger Successfully Acquires Marlin Firearms From Remington
In a press release on September 30th Ruger president and CEO Chris Killoy said in regards to the acquisition of Marlin: “The brand aligns perfectly with ours and the Marlin product portfolio will help us widen our already diverse product offerings.”

Many of you were wondering what would come of the long-lived brand of popular firearms like the model 60 rifle as well as some of Marlin’s bigger centerfire lever-action rifles. Well, you’ll be happy to know that despite any concerns that Ruger plans on maintaining the Marlin Brand and its existing products. Chris Killoy put it best in the press release when he said:


Personally, I think this is great news because now I can sleep soundly that we aren’t losing nearly 150 years of legacy that the Marlin firearms company had built up. Instead what I do think we will see is an increase in quality control that Ruger is well known for. In addition, I also speculate that we should see some limited improvements or additions to the line as Ruger begins to integrate Marlin into its repertoire of firearms presentations.

The press release further went on to detail that the transaction between Remington and Ruger was exclusively for the Marlin Firearms assets and not any of the buildings or real estate that the company-owned. This might mean that things like machinery, blueprints, designs, stock materials, and possibly personnel will be relocated to already existing Ruger facilities – perhaps Ruger might need to plan an expansion for these new assets.


The assets were acquired for a price of $30 million USD for a cash-in-hand purchase price that is set to take place sometime in October. We can probably expect that there will be further announcements about this as Ruger begins to shift assets from the Marlin Firearms facilities.

So what do you all think about this new acquisition and the great news that Marlin really isn’t dying. Is this a breath of new life for the venerated firearms brand? Your thoughts and comments are welcome below. We’ll keep a close eye on this developing process and keep you abreast of any new developments.

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. to Acquire Marlin Firearms Assets
Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR) announced today that its offer to purchase substantially all of the Marlin Firearms assets was accepted by Remington Outdoor Company, Inc. and approved by the United States Bankruptcy Court for the Northern District of Alabama. The Company will pay the $30 million purchase price from cash on hand at the time of closing, which is expected to occur in October.

“The value of Marlin and its 150-year legacy was too great of an opportunity for us to pass up,” said Ruger President and CEO Chris Killoy. “The brand aligns perfectly with ours and the Marlin product portfolio will help us widen our already diverse product offerings.”

The transaction is exclusively for the Marlin Firearms assets. Remington firearms, ammunition, other Remington Outdoor brands, and all facilities and real estate are excluded from the Ruger purchase. Once the purchase is completed, the Company will begin the process of relocating the Marlin Firearms assets to existing Ruger manufacturing facilities.

“The important thing for consumers, retailers and distributors to know at this point in time,” continued Killoy, “is that the Marlin brand and its great products will live on. Long Live the Lever Gun.”

Additional information will be released when available. To stay up to date, please sign up for our contact list at Ruger.com/Marlin.

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Trijicon VCOG 1-8x28 Selected as Marine Corps SCO

Trijicon, Inc. has announced the selection of the Trijicon VCOG (Variable Combat Optical Gunsight) 1-8x28 riflescope as the U.S. Marine Corps' Squad Common Optic (SCO).

The $64,000,000 contract award will begin with delivery of units in 2020. Trijicon will manufacture the SCO at its Wixom, Michigan factory.

“Our warfighters deserve the very best equipment in defense of our nation. The Marine Corps’ SCO evaluation process was extremely rigorous, and we are honored that the VCOG was selected to continue the tradition of battle-proven riflescopes that the Trijicon ACOG began in 2004 as the Marine Corps’ first Rifle Combat Optic,” said Stephen Bindon, Trijicon President & CEO.

Specifically designed for Close Quarter Battle and long distance marksmanship, the Trijicon VCOG 1-8x28 is forged from a nearly indestructible 7075-T6 aluminum housing and is waterproof to 66 feet. The first focal plane reticle allows subtensions and drops to remain true at any magnification. Featuring ruggedized electronics, the VCOG includes eleven user-selectable brightness settings, including two night vision settings. An integrated dial fin allows easy rotation through the magnification range, and a near-constant eye relief means no head or stock position adjustments are needed. An integrated mounting adapter eliminates the need for conventional ring mounts, allowing users to quickly and easily mount the VCOG to any rail system.

“We introduced the VCOG 1-8x28 to the commercial market in early 2019, but its design was inspired by requests from our warfighters. During design, development, and testing, we constantly challenged ourselves to produce a scope that would deliver the performance necessary in the most punishing of conditions,” said Chuck Wahr, Trijicon’s Global Vice-President of Sales & Marketing.

Guns & Ammo Digital Staff - February 25, 2020

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Spin Off: American Outdoors To Separate From Smith & Wesson

American Outdoor Brands Corporation have announced a plan to spin off Smith & Wesson from their non-firearm brands. In a press release timed with the release of the company’s financial report for the first quarter of 2020, American Outdoors announced that “its Board of Directors has unanimously approved proceeding with a plan to spin-off its outdoor products and accessories business as a tax-free stock dividend to its stockholders.”

The splitting of the company into Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (which will encompass the firearm business) and American Outdoor Brands, Inc. (which will include all the outdoor products and accessories businesses) will take place during the second half of 2020.

In their press release Barry M. Monheit, Chairman of the Board, said:

There have been significant changes in the political climate as well as the economic, investing, and insurance markets since we embarked upon what we believe have been our very successful diversification efforts. We believe that separating into two independent public companies will allow each company to better align its strategic objectives with its capital allocation priorities. We also believe that this action will give the investment community clearer insight into the value creation potential in each of these independent companies, ultimately driving enhanced stockholder value. From the standpoint of our stockholders, at the time of the spin-off, the AOBC stockholders will own 100% of each company, thereby maintaining their pre-spin interest in both companies, and will thereafter have the ability to make distinct investment decisions tailored to their particular investment profile.

The press release outlines the American Outdoors belief that the companies will benefit from ‘distinct focus’ and “compelling investment opportunities based on its particular operating and financial model.” James Debney, the company’s current President and CEO, continued “I believe the Board’s decision to spin-off our outdoor products and accessories business will allow each company and its leadership to focus on its unique business characteristics and opportunities and to better drive long-term value for its stakeholders.” Debney has chosen to lead American Outdoor Brands, Inc. half of the company.

American Outdoors also announced that following the spin off Mark Smith to serve as CEO of Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. Smith is currently President of American Outdoor Brands Corporation’s Manufacturing Services Division. The spin off of Smith & Wesson is expected to take 8 to 10 months and when completed the company is estimated “to generate revenue between $450 million and $500 million and adjusted EBITDAS between $90 million and $105 million in its first 12 months as an independent company.”

American Outdoors originally formed in 2002, and was known as the Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation until 2016.

American Outdoors also released their Q1 2020 financial report:
First Quarter Fiscal 2020 Financial Highlights

Quarterly net sales were $123.7 million compared with $138.8 million for the first quarter last year, a decrease of 10.9%.
Gross margin for the quarter was 38.7% compared with 37.8% for the comparable quarter last year.
Quarterly GAAP net loss was $2.1 million, or $(0.04) per diluted share, compared with net income of $7.6 million, or $0.14 per diluted share, for the comparable quarter last year.
Quarterly non-GAAP net income was $1.7 million, or $0.03 per diluted share, compared with $11.7 million, or $0.21 per diluted share, for the comparable quarter last year. GAAP to non-GAAP adjustments to net income exclude a number of acquisition-related costs and other costs. For a detailed reconciliation, see the schedules that follow in this release.
Quarterly non-GAAP Adjusted EBITDAS was $17.5 million, or 14.1% of net sales, compared with $28.4 million, or 20.4% of net sales, for the comparable quarter last year.

by Matthew Moss

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Dick’s Ed Stack Flirts With Third Party Presidential Spoiler

Read more: https://www.nssf.org/dicks-ed-stack-flirts-with-third-party-presidential-spoiler/#ixzz63g0bzD2d
Under Creative Commons License: Attribution
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USA – -(AmmoLand.com)- Dick’s Sporting Goods CEO Ed Stack is being coy, if not predictable, about a third-party presidential run.

The businessman who recently announced he (possibly illegally) destroyed $5 million worth of modern sporting rifles and cost his publicly-traded company a quarter billion dollars, is reportedly working with focus groups to wade into presidential political pool. It’s exactly what you do when you’re peddling a book to make up for those financial losses.

Stack, author of “It’s How We Play the Game,” is reportedly testing the temperature to see if he’s hot enough – or cool enough – to play spoiler between the Democratic nominee and President Donald Trump for 2020. Presumably, Stack would attempt to co-opt the gun control message after it’s already failed for U.S. Rep. Eric Swalwell (D-Calif.) and former Congressman Robert Francis “Beto” O’Rourke (D-Texas) who both used the debate stage to voice a plan to forcibly confiscate lawfully owned semiautomatic rifles.

Dick’s History

In full disclosure, Dick’s Sporting Goods was a member of NSSF. The Board of Governors unanimously voted to expel the sporting goods store in 2018, not because Stack decided they didn’t want to sell modern sporting rifles, but because his company hired a Washington D.C.-based government affairs firm, for “[l]obbying related to gun control.” He wasn’t content to simply make decisions for his own company, which is his prerogative. He wanted to force his decisions on the entire industry. NSSF has largely left Stack and Dick’s Sporting Goods out of gun control conversations since. However, Stack’s move to push himself into the political arena changes the calculus.

According to Politico, a focus group message-tested themes involving Stack and “showing leadership,” by halting modern sporting rifle sales following the tragic murders in Parkland, Fla. Stack, a billionaire, has been ramping up his media profile, recently calling on U.S. Senate Majority Leader Mitch McConnell to bring up misguided gun control legislation for a vote and going on CBS News to promote his new book. It seems like writing a book has become a constitutional requirement for running for president.

The focus group reportedly didn’t offer high praise for Stack, questioning his age (he’s 64), and his lack of charisma.

Limiting Rights is Bad Business

We’ve got our own concerns and they’re drawn directly from Stack’s record of business decisions. These should give every American a good idea of what Stack thinks of their rights, whether it’s related to guns or otherwise. Stack is entitled to make business decisions for his company, regardless of how misguided they might be. But turning those poor business decisions into public policy that would deny Americans their rights is an entirely different conversation.

As CEO, Stack made the following anti-gun decisions:

Ended the sale of all semiautomatic modern sporting rifles at Dick’s Sporting Goods following the tragic Sandy Hook murders.
Extended that ban on AR-15s to include Field & Stream Stores following the Parkland murders.
Barred the sale of standard-capacity magazines at all stores.
Unilaterally imposed age-based gun bans on law-abiding Americans under the age of 21, regardless of state and federal age-discrimination laws.
Removed firearms and hunting items altogether from 125 locations.
Hired a Washington D.C. lobbyist to impose strict gun control and ban an entire class of firearms.
Supports “No-Fly, No Buy” watchlists that deny gun rights without recourse and would serve as an “early warning terrorist notification system.”
Billionaire Hubris

Stack is quick to assign blame for the horrendous criminal actions of individuals to the firearms industry. Worse, he embraces policies that clearly tell the law-abiding American public he doesn’t trust them to exercise their God-given rights. Much like fellow billionaire and perennial presidential pretender Michael Bloomberg, he’s in favor of government nanny-state oversight and corporate overlords to make daily decisions.

One Libertarian Party advisor said Stack’s name has come up as a possible candidate, but that hardly jibes with the party’s platform of severely limiting government intrusion. Stack’s flirting with a presidential foray isn’t serious. It’s not even about enacting gun control. It’s worse.

Stack is only serious about boosting book sales to recoup the crushing debt from his anti-gun campaign.

Opinion By Larry Keane


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Springfield SAINT 5.56 Pistol Announced

Due to the popularity of the SAINT Victor and SAINT Edge pistols, Springfield Armory has announced the new SAINT Pistol chambered in 5.56mm NATO.
The new Springfield SAINT 5.56mm Pistol is designed to offer shooters the quality and performance they expect, but at an even more affordable introductory price point ($849 MSRP). The pistol has many upgraded features, ensuring it delivers value and making it an ideal firearm for personal defense and home protection.

The Springfield SAINT 5.56 Pistol features a balanced 9.6-inch chrome moly-vanadium barrel that maximizes ballistic performance while still offering compact dimensions. The adjustable premium Trinity Force Breach Brace provides enhanced stability and meets ATF requirements for pistol classification.

Hard-use durability and rock-solid reliability are hallmarks of the SAINT Pistol. The barrel is fully Melonite coated for both durability and corrosion resistance, and the forged 7075 T6 upper and lower receiver ensure never-fail strength for the lifetime of the gun. Additionally, its M16 bolt carrier group, machined from Carpenter 158 steel, is shot peened and magnetic particle inspected for long-term durability.

The upper receiver has an optics-ready, flat-top design ready to receive your optic of choice. In addition, the pistol features a pinned Picatinny rail-topped steel gas block that will stand up to a lifetime of use, and allows the SAINT Pistol to accept the iron sights of your choice. Springfield Armory’s noteworthy Accu-Tite tension system ensures a tight lock-up between the upper and lower receiver.

An exclusive BCMGunfighter PMCR two-piece handguard with M-LOK-compatible attachment points features aluminum heat shields and a built-in handstop for comfort and safety. This pairs up with a BCMGunfighter Mod. 3 pistol grip for exceptional handling. The Springfield SAINT Pistol 5.56mm weighs in at only 5½ pounds, unloaded, and measures 25.75 - 28.25 inches long.

Springfield SAINT Pistol Specs:
Caliber/Cartridge: 5.56x45mm NATO (.223 REM)
Magazines: (x1) 30-Round Magpul PMAG Gen M3
Barrel: 9.6-inch CMV, Melonite, 1:8 twist
Sights: NIA
Muzzle Device: A2 Flash Hider
Trigger: Enhanced Nickel Boron Coated Single Slide GI
Upper Reciever: Forged 7075 T6 Aluminum, Type III Hardcoat Anodized, Forward Assist, M4 Feed Ramps
Lower Receiver: Forged 7075 T6 Aluminum, Type III Hardcoat Anodized, Accu-Tite Tension System
Handguard: BCM Gunfighter PCMR, Forward Handstop, M-Lok
Gas System: Direct Impingement Carbine-Length, Picatinny Pinned Gas Block
Receiver Ext: SA Pistol T6 Type III Hard Coat Anodized Aluminum
Bolt Carrier Group: M16 w/ Carpenter 158 Steel Bolt, HPT/MPI, Melonite
Buffer Assembly: Carbine "H" Heavy Tungsten Buffer
Charging Handle: GI Style
Pistol Brace: Trinity Force Breach Brace 1.0 Std. Pistol
Safety Switch: Single Side
Trigger Guard: BCM Gunfighter
Pistol Grip: BCM Gunfighter Mod. 3
Length: Extended 28.5 inches / Collapsed 24.6 inches
Weight: 5 pounds, 8 ounces
Item#: ST9096556BM

Firearms News Digital Staff - October 14, 2019

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The Real Truth About Being a Gunsmith or Manufacturer

If you have an FFL license Type 01 or 02 and are wondering about where you draw the line between performing gunsmithing versus manufacturing, we have answers for you.

Before we delve into the explanation, keep in mind that there are many requirements for firearms manufacturers (FFL Type 07), such as marking standards, reporting requirements and payment of federal firearms excise taxes, that go beyond those for gunsmiths. If you fit the manufacturing criteria as explained below, you should certainly apply for and obtain the type of license for the business you are performing.

Know What You Are
The regulations at 27 CFR 478.11define a “Manufacturer” as “any person engaged in the business of manufacturing firearms or ammunition. The term shall include any person who engages in such business on a part-time basis.”

The regulations define “engaged in the business” as a “Manufacturer of firearms, a person who devotes time, attention and labor to manufacturing firearms as a regular course of trade or business with the principal objective of livelihood and profit through the sale or distribution of the firearms manufactured.” A “gunsmith,” on the other hand, is any person licensed as a dealer, which includes a gunsmith, who is engaged in the business of repairing firearms or making or fitting special barrels, stocks, or trigger mechanisms to firearms. A “gunsmith” may also repair, modify, embellish, refurbish or install parts in or on firearms (frames, receivers or otherwise) for or on behalf of a licensed importer or licensed manufacturer with only his or her dealer’s license, provided he or she meets the three specific conditions stated in both ATF Ruling 2010-10 and ATF Ruling 2015-1.

ATF Ruling 2015-1further clarifies this issue by stating, “Any person (including any corporation or other legal entity) engaged in the business of performing machining, molding, casting, forging, printing (additive manufacturing) or other manufacturing process to create a firearm frame or receiver suitable for use as part of a ‘weapon … which will or is designed to or may readily be converted to expel a projectile by the action of an explosive,’ i.e., a ‘firearm,’ must be licensed as a manufacturer under the Gun Control Act of 1968 (GCA); identify (mark) any such firearm, and maintain the required manufacturer’s records.”


When You Need A Manufacturer’s License
Generally, a person should obtain a license as a manufacturer of firearms if the person:

Is performing operations that create firearms or alter firearms; in the case of alterations, the work is not being performed at the request of customers, rather the person who is altering the firearms is purchasing them, making the changes, and then reselling them
Is performing the operations as a regular course of business or trade and
Is performing the operations for the purpose of sale or distribution of the firearms
Manufacturing activities include:

Forging receivers
Assembly of firearms
Making modifications or alterations to firearms that change performance and durability
Building or assembling a firearm from parts and entering it into commerce (to sell)
Modifying or altering a firearm by replacing parts with enhancements or modifications to alter the functionality or durability of the firearm from its original specifications (generally to improve the performance)
Forging or building completed receivers that are considered firearms by ATF standards (you are then required to follow all firearm marking and reporting requirements)
Disassembling firearms and rebuilding/reconstructing firearms for resale
Purchasing used or new guns and making modifications such as bluing or Cerakoting and then reselling the firearm
Regularly purchasing surplus military rifles and sporterizing them with modifications such as bending the bolts to accept a scope and drilling the receiver for a scope base, then offering them for sale to the public.
Threading barrels or attaching custom muzzle breaks to company-owned firearms and making them available for sale to the general public
It’s Different For Gunsmiths

The following are examples of gunsmithing when a firearm is received from a customer, repaired or serviced and returned to that same customer:

Engraving or camouflaging a firearm for a customer and hence later returning the firearm
Repairing or adjusting a trigger assembly for a customer, completing “drop-in” repairs
Drilling for and attaching a scope mount, attaching a scope
Replacing or repairing a stock or a grip
Replacing or upgrading sights
Receiving firearm frames from individual customers, attaching stocks and barrels and returning the firearms to the customers for the customers’ personal use (i.e., since the operations performed on the firearms were not for sale or distribution, the company should be licensed as a dealer-gunsmith, not as a manufacturer of firearms)
Threading barrels or attaching custom muzzle breaks

This covers the basics of being a manufacturer versus a gunsmith. In Part II, we’ll examine some of more specific scenarios in which questions may come up, those gray areas you’ll want to consider. In all cases, the information and examples portrayed here are not all-inclusive and should not be interpreted as law or ATF guidelines. It is always our best recommendation to contact your local ATF Office or the ATF Firearms Technology Division with questions. Remember, your ATF partners are always willing to help guide you to do things right and safeguard your FFL. NSSF’s Compliance and Store Security Audit teams are also standing by to assist you with any compliance, security or operational issues.

By John Bocker, John Clark, Wally Nelson and Harry McCabe, NSSF Compliance Consultant Team Members

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COLT REPORTEDLY TO STOP MAKING RIFLES FOR CONSUMER MARKET

Connecticut-based Colt Firearms last week reportedly signaled they are exiting the consumer rifle market in coming days.

The company, originally founded in 1855 by inventor Samuel Colt to make handguns, will stop making rifles for retail sales channels. The news came from The Truth About Guns who confirmed it with Paul Spitale, senior VP of Colt’s commercial business line and was verified by Shooting Illustrated.

“We’re going to focus on the products that our consumers are asking for. We’ve expanded our 1911s and our revolver line, and that market has been very positive for us,” Spitale said. Shooting Illustrated reported that Colt’s rifle line production is occupied, at least for the time being, with outstanding contracts which include orders through police and defense channels.

According to records from the ATF for 2017, the most current available, Colt produced some 31,987 pistols and 7,342 revolvers at their West Hartford, Connecticut factory that year. This compares with 13,942 rifles, of which 2,097 were exported. Since 2017, the company has been aggressively expanding its long-dormant revolver line, introducing several Cobra and King Cobra wheel guns, to an eager audience.

Historically, Colt has been perhaps best known for handguns, but rifles have never been absent from their catalog for long. At the same time, their famous black powder revolvers were making the company a household name, Colt was also producing Ring Lever and Revolving carbines and muskets.

By the end of the 19th Century, their Lightning series of pump-action rifles were extremely popular among shooting galleries and in the hands of sportsmen across the world. Fast forward to the 1950s and the company began marketing bolt-action hunting rifles such as their Alaskan series as well as a line of semi-auto rimfires like the Stagecoach.

Finally, Colt became a huge driving force in modern sporting rifles with the AR-15, a design acquired from then California-based Armalite in 1959. Colt went on to produce the rifle in select-fire models for military and LE contracts as well as semi-auto consumer versions over the past 70 years.

Current new semi-auto Colt ARs still available as of Monday include the M4 Carbine, Modular Carbine, and retro XM177E2.

09/16/19 12:44 AM | by Chris Eger

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KEL-TEC ANNOUNCES P17, NEW AFFORDABLE SUB-$200 PISTOL

Kel-Tec launched a new pistol Friday at the National Rifle Association’s Personal Protection Expo, introducing attendees to the .22 Long Rifle chambered P17.

The polymer-framed pistol features a lightweight design, tipping scales at 0.8-ounces loaded and a mere 14-ounces loaded. Offering 16+1 capacity, the P17 delivers a barrel length of 3.93-inches with an overall length of 6.65-inches. The barrel comes with the added benefit of 1/2×28 threads to accommodate suppressors and other muzzle devices.

Kel-Tec tricked out the P17 with a few other features like an aluminum Picatinny rail, ambidextrous lever-style magazine release and manual safety as well as fiber optic sights. Kris Hammerstrom of Kel-Tec told Guns.com at the NRA’s Personal Protection Expo that the P17 is a welcomed addition to the Kel-Tec brand.

“The P17 is a nice, lightweight package. We kept the manufacturing costs cheap on it, so it’s a nice, affordable, viable option for a .22 LR pistol,” Hammerstrom explained. “It’s great for training purposes. It’s a lot easier to train with .22 LR than 9mm because of costs. Of course, it’s great for concealed carry too since it’s so lightweight.”

Kel-Tec unveiled the P17 to attendees of the NRA Personal Protection Expo, offering the first glimpse at the new pistol. Hammerstrom said the initial reception to the P17 has been positive. “It’s been fantastic. Everyone’s been a big fan of it. Everyone’s looking forward to it.”

The P17 is not yet available for purchase, but Hammerstrom said the company is eyeing a December 2019 ship date. The P17 features an affordable MSRP, retailing for $199.

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OKLAHOMA: DRIVE BY GUN CONTROL GROUP TO HALT CONSTITUTIONAL CARRY STALLS

A move by Democrats allied with Bloomberg-backed anti-gun groups to delay constitutional carry from going into effect across Oklahoma came up short.

The move, a statewide initiative petition that needed 59,320 signatures from registered voters, did not garner enough respondents by the required deadline. If it had been successful, it would have set the stage to put HB 2597 in front of voters for review before it came into law. The new law, signed by Republican Gov. Kevin Stitt in February, leaves the state’s current concealed carry licensing program intact while recognizing that an adult aged 21 and up and is lawfully able to possess a gun can carry one concealed without such a permit. Without the petition drive’s success or further action from courts, Oklahoma will see legal permitless carry beginning in November.

State pro-gun groups see it as a win.

“It’s a victory for Oklahoma and for liberty-loving people and that November the first people will be able to carry a pistol, rifle, or shotgun, loaded or unloaded, without permission from the government to do so,” said Don Spencer, president of the Oklahoma Second Amendment Association, as reported by local media.

The petition drive was backed by Moms Demand Action, a gun control group that, like Mayors Against Illegal Guns, is under the larger Everytown umbrella, the latter formed with $50 million from Michael Bloomberg in 2014. The Oklahoma set back doesn’t mean that Everytown is backing away from state-level politics, however, as last week they announced a $2.5 million effort to flip control of the Virginia state legislature this fall to what they call a “gun sense majority.”

09/9/19 5:00 AM | by Chris Eger

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DEMS PUSH MANDATORY PERMITS FOR HANDGUN PURCHASES

Democrats on Capitol Hill have debuted a proposal to help mandate that those who want a handgun first be approved for a permit.

The legislation, backed by Dems in both the House and Senate, would encourage more states to adopt licensing schemes like Connecticut’s handgun purchasing law, which requires a special renewable permit to purchase any revolver or pistol. Dubbed the Handgun Purchaser Licensing Act, the bill was introduced by U.S. Sen. Chris Van Hollen of Maryland and Senators Richard Blumenthal and Chris Murphy of Connecticut along with U.S. Reps. Jahana Hayes, D-Conn and Jamie Raskin, D-Md.

“States require licenses to drive a car in order to protect public safety – requiring a license to buy a handgun should be a no-brainer,” said Raskin.

The proposed legislation would authorize the Department of Justice to establish a grant program to help states develop and implement permit-to-purchase requirements for all handguns including those rented, bought or transferred in private sales or at gun shows. The grant program proposed would require that a state’s PTP law require applicants to be fingerprinted and photographed then subjected to a background check by law enforcement before receiving their permit to buy a handgun. The permit would have to be renewed every five years, or sooner.

The sponsors of the bill point to Connecticut’s pistol permit which requires a $70 fee, completion of a training course from an approved instructor that includes live fire and a background check that can take as long as eight weeks. Under the Connecticut law, applicants convicted of a felony, or any one of 11 misdemeanor offenses, are ineligible to receive a permit.

Only nine states and the District of Columbia currently require would-be gun owners to first apply for and be issued a permit to purchase a firearm. In recent years, Missouri has ditched their PTP program while Republicans and pro-gun groups in North Carolina have attempted to repeal a similar Jim Crow-era law in the Tar Heel State.

The Handgun Purchaser Licensing Act was announced at the same time the Johns Hopkins Center for Gun Policy and Research at the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health debuted a white paper to support the concept. The proposal has strong backing from national gun control organizations.

06/17/19 8:00 AM | by Chris Eger

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ILLINOIS GUN SHOP QUITS STATE DUE TO NEW REGULATIONS

Given a short window by state regulators to comply with controversial new mandates, one local gun shop is calling Illinois quits after nearly 15 years.

Lost Creek Trading Post in Marshall, Illinois late last month said they had been told by local officials they had until June 17 to apply for a newly-mandated state-issued license and be certified by July 17. The requirements include a $1,500 fee and a host of new training and regulatory guidelines. Rather than try to jump through the hoops, Lost Creek is pulling stumps for a location across the state lines in Indiana.

“The Illinois Legislature’s Gun Dealer Licensing Act is unreasonable and cost prohibitive for us at this time,” said the store in an announcement on social media. “As of July 14th, we will be unable to sell firearms to you in Illinois. After this date, we may remain open a short time for sales of gun-related items, but no firearms.”

Anti-gun advocates and Chicago-area Democrats fought for the state’s new Gun Dealers Licensing Act only to see it vetoed by Republican Gov. Bruce Rauner as being “largely duplicative” with little likely impact on crime. However, once Rauner left office, the measure was swiftly rebooted and signed by newly-installed Gov. J.B. Pritzker, a Democrat. The move, as reported earlier this year, put some historic small town gun shops on the endangered list as owners chose to shutter their businesses rather than fork over hard-won dollars to comply with new regulations.

“The requirements to receive a license from Illinois and burdensome not to mention expensive,” said Lost Creek. “We already meet the Federal requirements but these are additional items.”

06/4/19 6:00 AM | by Chris Eger

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ILLINOIS FOID COST INCREASE BILL TANKS, FOR NOW

An Illinois bill that would have required fingerprinting gun owners and raising the costs associated with mandatory Firearm Owners Identification (FOID) cards failed to pass the legislature at the last minute. The measure, SB 1966 passed the Democrat-controlled state House on a narrow 62-52 vote last week but did not make the cut in the state Senate before the spring legislative session ended on Friday.

The bill aimed to revamp the state’s FOID card, which is issued by the Illinois State Police, by upping the cost from $10 to $20, while decreasing the card’s lifespan from 10 to five years. It would have also added a $30 mandatory fingerprinting process to the mix and installed universal background checks.

The proposal’s Senate sponsor, Democrat Julie Morrison, intends to redouble her efforts to pass the bill, saying, “In the months ahead, I will be working with Senators both formally through subject-matter hearings and informally through conversations to ensure that there is no question that we must act to close this loophole.”

While the move was backed by anti-gun groups of all stripes, pro-gun opponents of the measure thanked their supporters for their efforts in halting the FOID bill. “This legislation is an affront to every gun owner in this state,” said Richard Pearson, executive director of the Illinois State Rifle Association. “You should not have to pay money to exercise your Constitutional rights.”

06/3/19 7:30 AM | by Chris Eger

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Biden meets with gun ‘stakeholders’ as ‘civil’ sell-outs begin

January 10, 2013
By: David Codrea

Joe Biden is meeting throughout the day “with advocates for sportsmen and women and wildlife interest groups as part of the Administration’s effort to develop policy proposals in response to the tragedy in Newtown, the Vice President’s schedule announced today. Among groups known in advance to be attending one of today’s meetings are the National Rifle Association and the National Shooting Sports Foundation.

Today’s series of meetings include a different set of what the administration calls “stakeholders.” Yesterday, the Vice President and Attorney General Eric Holder met with what they referred to as “gun safety groups” (even though the organizations in question are not qualified and do not teach gun safety, but rather, are committed gun prohibitionists) and “victims and survivors.”

Likewise, today’s meeting will raise concerns about more than terminology. What gun rights activists will find especially troubling is the premise of the meeting, noting the Second Amendment has nothing to do with sports or wildlife, and particularly noting the disturbing origins of the premise that it does. A true meeting of “stakeholders” would include representatives for those who believe in the unbending of the Founders’ intent for the Second Amendment, who know that it is necessary for the security of a free state, that it shall not be infringed, and who won’t stand for being scapegoated or for citizen disarmament edicts imposed by those who would try.

Meetings and attendees for today, including representatives for retailers and the entertainment industry, were conveyed by a White House official through Michael Scherer of TIME, acting on behalf of the press pool, and include:

11:45 AM: Sportsmen and Women and Wildlife Interest Groups:

Association of Fish and Wildlife Agencies

Blue Water Strategies

Bull Moose Sportsmen's Alliance Action Fund

Ducks Unlimited

Outdoor Industry Association

Pheasants Forever

Teddy Roosevelt Conservation Partnership

Wildlife Management Institute

1:45 PM: Gun Owners’ Groups:

Defense Small Arms Advisory Council (DSAAC.)

Firearms Import/Export Roundtable

Independent Firearm Owners Association (IFoA)

National Rifle Association of America

National Shooting Sports Foundation

National Association of Arms Shows

6:00 PM: Representatives from the Entertainment Industry:

Branded Entertainment

Comcast Corporation

Directors Guild of America

Film & Television Alliance

Motion Picture Association of America

National Association of Broadcasters

National Association of Theatre Owners

National Cable and Telecommunications Association

Supplied by the Justice Department:

Today, at 3:15 the Attorney General will meet with retailers as part of the ongoing gun violence sessions being held at the White House by Vice President Biden.

Below is a list of the retailers who will be attendance.

Academy Sports + Outdoors

Bass Pro Shops

Big 5 Sporting Goods

Cabela's

Dick's Sporting Goods

Dunham's Sports

Gander Mountain

Sportsman's Warehouse

Wal-Mart

National Retail Federation – (awaiting confirmation)

There are many concerns this list raises, including what else a company like Dick’s is willing to preemptively surrender to further alienate customers who don’t go there for the sport of it.

Also of concern: The attendance of the Independent Firearm Owners Association, headed by Richard Feldman, once a lawyer representing the gun industry who spearheaded the last industry surrender to the White House, and went on to author an expose of his former allies. Who and exactly how many they purport to represent is somewhat of a mystery, but we do know they portray themselves as "moderates," include "a number of retired law enforcement officers" on their board, and boast "There are 15 million self-identified liberals that own guns -- that's four times the size of the NRA."

Last night, Gun Rights Examiner obtained a “boycotted” copy of an IFoA press statement, not authorized for release until 1 p.m., that is, exactly as this is being typed. The complete statement has now been posted on the organization’s website. Aside from calling for “a return to public civility,” it includes a series of measures presented as needed to fight crime, with dangerous concessions made on two fronts.

“Let’s agree that we are united in opposition to the misuse of firearms, especially the access of guns to criminals and mentally unstable individuals,” it recommends, making no mention of how due process will be ensured for the “unstable” so that innocence is presumed as opposed to having to be proven. As Gun Rights Examiner pointed out on Monday, “reforms” in this area could create a blanket dragnet for gun rights disabilities.

“Let’s agree to require the National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) at gun shows,” the release further advocates. “NRA’s Wayne LaPierre supported this to Congress back in May 1999. Our proposal is called the Gun Show Preservation and Protection Act of 2013.”

In other words, end the practice of allowing private sellers to attend gun shows.

The IFOA does not explain what it believes ending private sales at gun shows will accomplish, and why, if they think it will reduce violent crime, they have not also called for ending private sales everywhere, and if that will be a concession they intend to make at some later point once this beachhead has been secured. Nor do they explain how this “agreement” squares with delegated enumerated powers of either Congress or the Executive branch under the Constitution, nor if either the Second or Tenth Amendments should be consulted before agreeing to anything.

Nor do they indicate how, with anti-gunners snarling for viscera, civilly throwing them a scrap and giving them a taste of flesh will do anything but encourage the ravenous pack to close in for more.

If NRA and NSSF join in with this divide-and-conquer preemptive surrender, and show anything but strength, gun owners will have an internal problem to resolve when they should instead be working together toward the victory it is within their power to achieve.

UPDATE: The following information just came in from the reporting pool immediately after this article was published and is quoted below:

The VP said he would give POTUS recommendations by Tuesday. "I have committed to him that I will have the recommendations to him by Tuesday."

He mentioned several recommendations to deal with guns that he said he had heard repeatedly from stakeholders. This included what he called "universal background checks, not just closing the gumshoe* loophole." He also mentioned a call do deal with high capacity magazines. And he said, "The last area is the whole subject of the ability of any federal agency to do research on gun violence."

He compared the current limits on federal data gathering with the 1970s restrictions on federal research over the cause of traffic fatalities. He said there was a need to gather information on "what kind of weapons are used most to kill people" and "what kind of weapons are trafficked weapons."

He described his own personal relationship with guns as "an owner of shotguns--I'm no great hunter, it's mostly skeet shooting for me."

He said he was still hoping to have a conference call with gun manufacturers. "There has got to be some common ground, to not solve every problem but diminish the probability" of future mass shootings. "That's what this is all about. There are no conclusions I have reached."

He referred to Newtown, saying, "there is nothing that has pricked the consciousness of the American people" as the image of "little six-year-olds riddled ... with bullet holes in their class."

* "Gumshoe loophole" is a perfect example of "Authorized Journalists" acting as subject matter authorities. Maybe Biden really said it, though. A transcript is said to be forthcoming.

UPDATE: Dave Workman says "The ‘fix’ was in; NRA ‘disappointed’ at meeting."

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