Click here to download the catalog as a PDF file. To view this site you need Adobe Flash Player and your browser must allow javaScripts. Go here to get the latest Flash Player. Story & Photos: Ray Oeltjen Award Photos: Bear Enthusiast Marketing Group dees. We all have a much better understanding of how important NRA membership is to this industry and the important role each of us play,” Smith said. New Information System Of significant interest to NASGW members at the show was “ItemHQ,” a new information system introduced by the association. “ItemHQ represents a major advancement for product information management systems within the shooting sports,” said Michael Brown, NASGW chairman. “We now have the ability to identify, develop and launch the kind of industry tools that will contribute to a better business environment for the entire shooting sports market.” The new communication tool benefits everyone in the industry, according to Brown. “ItemHQ is essentially a comprehensive online Product Information Management System (PIMS) to expedite and streamline the transfer of item information between manufacturers and the wholesaler. This technology will also greatly benefit the retail network,” Brown said. Laurie Aronson, president of Lipseys Inc., urged manufacturers to review ItemHQ and its benefits. “We really appreciate the NASGW taking such strides to get better information from the manufacturers to the distributors, and certainly we value the manufacturers who will be participating. This is yet another powerful tool that will strengthen relations within the two-step distribution system,” Aronson said. Visit www.itemhq.com for a complete review of the new system. Kim Graham (right), Grovtec U.S. sales manager, points out product features. “Grovtec U.S. is a new company offering the largest selection of swivel sets made in the U.S. We also produce high-quality nylon slings with a patented all-nylon stretch web material,” Graham said. Honoring Manufacturers Each year, NASGW recognizes significant manufacturer contributions to the shooting sports market. At the Expo’s industry breakfast, NASGW presented the Chairman’s Award for Industry Leadership, and awards honoring the Firearms Manufacturer of the Year, Ammunition Manufacturer of the Year and Accessory Manufacturer of the Year. The association’s wholesale members, who cast one vote in each category, selected the awards’ recipients. “The winners are sterling examples of dedication to both continuous product line innovation and to the two-tiered distribution system,” Brown said. WWW.SHOOTINGINDUSTRY.COM Erik Leslie (center), president of Magtech Ammunition Co., reviews purchasing options. “There were many outstanding candidates for the awards this year and we depend upon them all to help grow our businesses and our industry. We applaud them for their ongoing hard work and commitment to excellence.” The 2007 Chairman’s Award for Industry Leadership was presented to Savage Arms. “This is a spectacular honor,” said FEBRUARY 2008 37