Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. and Beretta Holding S.A. announced a Strategic Cooperation Agreement allowing Beretta Holding to increase its investment to 25% of Ruger's outstanding shares at $44.80 per share. Beretta Holding will nominate up to two independent board members following the 2026 Annual Meeting, while committing to a three-year standstill period.
Kyle Douglas of Team Mathews won first place in the Men's division at the 2026 NFAA Marked 3D National Championships in Redding, California. Team Mathews earned five podium finishes, including victories by Tim Audus in the Senior division and second-place finishes by Beretta McKee and Katelyn Bordwell in the Women's division.
Safariland won the Gold Award for favorite holsters in Shooting Sports Retailer's Reader's Choice Awards for the second consecutive year. The brand's Incog X was recognized in 2025, with the upcoming Incog XS launching in collaboration with Haley Strategic Partners.
NSSF has recognized Range USA with its Five-Star rating for range excellence. The 50-store chain operating across 14 states was founded by Tom Willingham and emphasizes customer experience, safety education, and environmental responsibility through lead mining and brass casing collection.
Dead Air Silencers received the 2025 Shooting Sports Retailer Gold Award in the suppressor category, recognized by readers and retailers nationwide. CEO Ernie Beckwith credited the team's innovation, retail partner support, and customer trust for the honor.
Team Krieghoff's Sheaffer Stanfill shot a perfect 500x500 at the 30th annual Krieghoff Masters Championship at Forest City Gun Club in Savannah, Georgia, claiming HOA and HAA Open Champion titles. Teammates Alessandro Vitale and Katie Fichtner also earned podium finishes across multiple events.
Justin Powell of Papillion-La Vista South won the 56th Cornhusker Trap Shoot on May 2 in Doniphan, Nebraska, breaking 146 of 150 targets. Defending champion Kahne Packer of Wilber 5 Clovers 4-H finished second at 145, while Addison Ridley of Blue River 4-H won the ladies' overall title with 141.
B&P USA Pro Staff members achieved multiple victories and podium finishes at NSCA-sanctioned competitions nationwide, including Gebben Miles and Karen Miles at the Texas State Championship, Macie Page as Ladies National Champion at the Helice National Championship, and strong performances from Joseph Pinchin, Diane Sorantino, and Kaitlyn Koenig across various regional events.
Hornady shooter Lauryl Akenhead achieved the highest performance by any female competitor in NRL Hunter history at the Spears Mountain Safari match, securing Top Lady honors and tying for high score overall using Hornady 6.5 Creedmoor 140 gr. Match ammo.
The Second Amendment Foundation and partners including the National Rifle Association and California Rifle & Pistol Association filed an amicus brief with the U.S. Supreme Court urging review of Patrick Tate Adamiak's case, a Navy veteran sentenced to 20 years for possessing cut-up gun parts and inert training dummies.
The Kids Fishing Day Team celebrates its 33rd anniversary on June 13 at Michigan DNR Pocket Park in Escanaba. The free event for youth ages 16 and younger features bluegill fishing, archery, pellet gun ranges, and activities like minnow races and face painting, with support from Bay de Noc Great Lakes Sports Fishermen, Inc., Michigan DNR, and Hiawatha National Forest.
The NSSF reported April 2026 NICS checks at 1,193,428, up 1.6 percent from April 2025's 1,174,294. NFA checks surged 130.3 percent to 190,086, with Texas, Virginia, and Florida leading in NFA activity. The adjusted data provides market insights while noting that background checks do not directly correlate to firearm sales.
Silencer Central, the country's largest suppressor retailer, announced three key hires to its sales and marketing leadership team: Ryan Houck as Senior Director of Marketing, Daniel Baugher as Director of Sales, and Shawn Porter as Event Sales Manager. The additions support the company's continued growth and innovation in the suppressor industry.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) launched a new 60-second national television ad campaign airing on 26 cable networks, calling Americans to pledge support for Second Amendment rights. SAF founder Alan M. Gottlieb stated the campaign warns against anti-gun extremists pushing bans on common firearms and restrictive carry laws.
CZ-USA announced leadership changes with Petr Pistelak transitioning back to Colt CZ Group in the Czech Republic. Petr Palecek becomes CEO and Head of Operations, while John Dain assumes the role of President and Chief Commercial Officer, with Tom Taylor transitioning to Chief Business Development Officer for Colt CZ Group.
German Precision Optics (GPO USA) is hiring a Dealer Development Specialist in Richmond, Virginia with remote availability. The role involves outbound calling to retail sporting goods stores to promote GPO's premium optical product line, including riflescopes, binoculars, and spotting scopes, at $25 per hour.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) will review 21 final and proposed ATF rules announced by Acting Attorney General Todd Blanche and ATF Director Robert Cekada, including updates to "engaged in the business" definitions and Federal Firearms Licensee record keeping requirements. SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut and founder Alan M. Gottlieb expressed encouragement with the regulatory changes and commitment to participate in the notice and comment process.
Pro motocross racer Garrett Marchbanks, rider of the #36 Monster Energy Kawasaki KX 450SR, appears on The Michael Waddell Podcast to discuss his racing career, hunting passion, and the physical and mental demands of competing at the highest level. Marchbanks shares insights on mastering both Supercross and outdoor motocross, his hunting aspirations including pursuing an elk, and competing against idols like Kenny Roczen and Eli Tomac.
DeSantis Gunhide® introduces the Infiltrator® Air, a breathable hybrid IWB holster designed for the Springfield Hellcat Pro with red dot sight compatibility. Featuring tuckable clips, adjustable cant, and precision-molded Kydex® construction, it offers all-day comfort and security at $113.99.
Zanders, a national distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, announces that Howa M1500 Fence Line Series rifles from Legacy Sports International are in stock and ready to ship. The rifles feature sub-MOA accuracy, hammer-forged barrels, and are available in fifteen calibers and three camouflage patterns.
XTech Tactical announced the LDR2000 B1, a magazine speed loader designed for Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 .380 ACP pistols. Made in the USA with a lifetime warranty, the loader addresses the pain point of stiff single-stack magazines and is available at $15.95 MSRP.
Wilson Combat unveiled the BULWARK, a midsize 9mm service pistol featuring an enclosed internal hammer-fired operating system, 1911-style trigger, and optics-ready design. The pistol offers 15+1 capacity, four independent safety mechanisms, and compatibility with Glock 19-pattern holsters for concealed carry and duty use.
Lynn County Sheriff's Department in Texas has adopted Liberty Ammunition's Pro Series 9mm ammunition. The patent-pending design features a 55-grain weight and 2,000 feet per second velocity, delivering 488 ft-lbs of energy. CEO Gary Ramey expressed pride in supporting the department with duty ammunition.
Sticky Holsters, based in Naples, Florida, announced a limited-time Mother's Day release featuring exclusive pink accents across its signature holster line, including the Belly Band and Guard Her Belt. The products utilize the brand's clip-less concealed carry technology with high-friction, non-slip outer skin designed for active women prioritizing protection.
Davidson's and Bond Arms launched their second exclusive "Dead Man's Hand" two-shot derringer chambered in .45 Colt and .410 bore. The Rough Series-based model features engraved flat sides honoring Wild Bill Hickock folklore, a patented rebounding hammer, interchangeable barrel system, and carved wood grips with a black star medallion, priced at $596.00.
Streamlight Inc. announced its TLR-7 X weapon light was selected for a $39 million CAD contract awarded to Rampart Corporation to supply the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with a new duty pistol system including the Glock 45 MOS 7, red dot sight, and holster.
Chattanooga Shooting Supplies and Smith & Wesson® unveiled an exclusive Performance Center M&P 9 M2.0 Metal Carry Comp pistol featuring advanced Carry Comp system with PowerPort technology for reduced recoil and improved shot recovery. The full-size firearm includes night sights, flat-face trigger, and customizable grip inserts, available exclusively through Chattanooga Shooting Supplies' dealer network.
Bond Arms showcases the Snake Slayer, a compact double-barrel derringer made in Texas and available in .45 Colt/.410 shotshell and .357 Mag/.38 Special. The 22-ounce pistol features stainless steel construction, interchangeable barrels, and advanced safety features designed for outdoor enthusiasts and backup carry.
Q announced the release of the Tall Boy, a .30 caliber silencer designed for maximum suppression of subsonic .300 Blackout ammunition. The all-steel suppressor features extended internal architecture and refined baffle structure to maximize dwell time and reduce exit pressure, delivering exceptional quiet performance while maintaining reliability across various cartridges.
Chiappa Firearms introduces the S.A. 1873 Black Thunder, a modern single-action revolver chambered in .44 Remington Magnum. The revolver features a Picatinny rail for optics, fiber-optic sights, and an oversized Hogue rubber grip, available in 5.5-inch and 7.5-inch barrel configurations.
Galco unveils the Combat Master 2.0 belt holster, a modernized pancake holster designed for 4.25" 1911s with or without red dot sights. The professional-grade holster features hand-molded construction, optic cutaway capability, raised sweat guard, and premium steerhide construction for enhanced durability and concealment.
Arsenal Inc. commemorates the United States' 250th anniversary with a special promotion offering $500 savings on four popular AK models (SAM7UF, SAM7SF, SAM5, SAM7K), with only 250 units available at each commemorative price through K-VAR. Each purchase includes a $50 gift card redeemable at ArsenalInc.com.
Outdoor Sportsman Group promoted Ryan Barnes, an eight-time goose calling champion and experienced journalist, to Editor in Chief of WILDFOWL Magazine. Barnes previously co-founded Split Reed, a digital media company focused on waterfowl hunting content, and brings extensive field expertise and industry knowledge to the role.
Sonicore Suppressors, a Lyman Products brand, will exhibit at CANCON East 2026 on May 8–9 at Clinton House Plantation & Shooting Complex in Clinton, South Carolina. Attendees can experience Sonicore's full suppressor lineup including Skarv 22, Valor 9, Rekkr, and Paradox at the world's largest fully suppressed range day.
Walther Arms will participate in CANCON East 2026 on May 8-9 at Clinton House Plantation & Shooting Complex in South Carolina. The world's largest fully-suppressed range day features over 40 shooting lanes, unlimited ammunition, and attendees can test Walther's premium handguns including the PDP series in suppressed conditions.
Leapers exhibited at HuntEx in Johannesburg in partnership with National Cartridge Company, the exclusive distributor for Integrix optics in South Africa. The company showcased UTG products including the Recon 360 and newly launched Goliath bipods, with customers praising UTG Big Bore bipods for long-range precision shooting.
Gun Owners of America announced that Carl Higbie, a former Navy SEAL and Newsmax host, will speak at the 2026 Gun Owners Advocacy and Leadership Summit (GOALS). The multi-day event will unite grassroots activists, lawmakers, and industry leaders to advance Second Amendment advocacy and constitutional freedoms.
Sarsilmaz will showcase its latest firearms, including the SAR9 SOCOM Family, SAR 7/24 Series, and Bronze Star at CanCon East 2026 on May 8-9 in Clinton, South Carolina. The event features the world's largest fully-suppressed range day with competitions and giveaways.
Maxim Defense, a manufacturer of precision firearms and suppressors, will be a co-sponsor at Spring CANCON 2026 in Clinton, SC on May 8-9, 2026. The company will showcase products including the SDX RFLX, PDX-SD, and Ruger MKIV, with special preview day access for SOF veterans on May 7th.
Mission First Tactical will exhibit at the 2026 Spring CANCON Fully Suppressed Range Day & Gun Show on May 8-9 at Clinton House Plantation in South Carolina. The event features hundreds of suppressed firearms from top manufacturers with free ammunition and unlimited shooting access.
Dead Air Silencers will sponsor the 2026 CANCON East event May 7-9 at The Clinton House Shooting Complex in Clinton, South Carolina, showcasing centerfire and rimfire suppressors including the Ruger RXD910Ti, CT5P, Nomad Ti OTB, Sandman X, and Mojave 45 models.
FastBound announced its sponsorship of the NSSF Marketing & Leadership Summit, taking place May 12–14, 2026, in Hilton Head, South Carolina. VP of Sales & Marketing Jamison Collins stated the sponsorship reflects FastBound's commitment to innovation and leadership in the firearms and outdoor industries, serving over 7,000 active FFLs nationwide.
Staccato 2011 returned as Patriot Sponsor of Second Bend Labs' Guns, Golf & Gills charity event, which raised $200,000 for the Combat Control Foundation. IPSC World Champion Max Michel provided elite shooting instruction at the event, deepening Staccato's commitment to the warfighter community.
CZ announced the addition of competitive shooter Deshaun Jenkins to its professional shooting team. Jenkins, a Grand Master in USPSA, has won multiple championships including the 2023 Atlanta Practical Shooting Championship and 2025 Alabama State Championship, and will compete with the CZ Shadow 2 platform.
Hornady Manufacturing Company announced partnerships with Scouting America, serving as ammunition sponsor for Camp Cedars Rifle and Shotgun programs and the Mid-America Council's annual Sporting Clays Event. The initiative supports youth development in shooting sports through safe, supervised instruction emphasizing discipline, responsibility, and outdoor engagement.
The NRA Competitive Shooting Division hosts a World Shooting Championship featuring comprehensive shooting tests across multiple disciplines. The episode includes a ProTip segment with World and National Champion Justine Williams and a tribute to archery legend Byron Ferguson.
Pursuit Channel announced the launch of Pursuit Plus, a subscription streaming platform for outdoor enthusiasts priced at $4.99 per month. The service features on-demand content, four live 24/7 channels, and exclusive podcasts from personalities including Ted Nugent and Hank Parker, available across all devices.
Sportsman Channel launches "Big Game Wednesday" programming featuring hunting shows including Adrenaline with Kyle Wieter, Whitetail Properties, The Woodsman, Bowhunter TV, Bloodline Hunting with Matt Bullins, MTN Top Outdoors, and MeatEater with Steven Rinella, airing Wednesdays 8-11 p.m. ET.
Scopos' Monthly Virtual Match series are now part of annual tournaments on the Rezults platform, available free to users with active Orion Scoring System licenses. The tournament seasons run August to July across eight disciplines, allowing athletes to compete for top spots throughout the year.
Normally shot on indoor ranges or close range at old carnivals with special ammunition and a chance to win cheap prizes, a gallery course is strictly a marksmanship exercise. I was at the range on another project and took along a fine 22 revolver, the Colt King Cobra Target. The revolver was featured on SHOOTING WIRE here.
The gun has seen some use (bullseye, for example) and is more accurate than I can hold. It’s still new enough, the action is stiff though not terribly heavy.
The Colt website shows various versions not available when this one arrived. There are now two-, three-, six- and eight-inch versions in stainless. The same lineup is available in blue finish as well, according to the website.
The chunky little stainless revolver, “semi-bright” in finish, weighs just under 34 ounces. The adjustable rear sight is mated to a red fiber optic front sight. Stocks are Hogue Overmolded rubber. The cylinder is flat faced on the rear, not enclosing the 22 case heads. I don’t see that as a disadvantage.
In the Colt fashion, the cylinder rotates clockwise (to the right).
I took stages from a gallery course to get a work-out with the KCT. I posted a downloaded/printed target from Sage Dynamics, representing a human head – but, more realistically, a bullseye for my purposes. All the shooting started with gun already in hand – and none of the strings are shot fast enough to cause heartburn on an indoor range.
You might consider getting legit bullseye targets instead of my field expedient targets; the targets I used could cause some concern. Just make sure the scoring circle is five-to-eight inches.
At seven yards, I shot five rounds. The time goal was 15 seconds or less. This was followed by the same thing, fired at fifteen yards. I moved back up to seven yards, for ten rounds in the same 15 seconds. I finished with 10 rounds in 30 seconds at 25 yards.
Shooting it this way, I was able to keep after any variation between point of aim and point of impact. All the strings with a 15 second par were fired in 8 seconds and under.
But I was shooting a 22.
The 25-yard double action 10-round string was fired in just over 29 seconds – either a good use of time or me being slow.
I ended up with one hit at 11 o’clock just off the silhouette. There was a hit in each “ear,” and one in the “jaw,” low right. The remainder were in the circle at the top of the graphic. That was thirty rounds fired with four hits out of the scoring circle but still on paper.
All of it was fired two-handed, double action.
I’ll move this course to B-8s and start working one-handed strings of fire and shooting with the non-dominant hand.
Gallery courses are fun, but you can use them for practice as well.
The Colt King Cobra Target 22 has been here three years. Like any 22 DA revolver, it helps maintain my shooting ability with centerfire handguns without the blast and recoil.
