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. The FNP-45 from FNH USA features traditional double-action/single-action operation on a high-capacity polymer frame. SELF-DEFENSE By John Morrison Has The Wave Peaked? No! It’s Growing. SALES T o a great extent, general firearms sales are subject to the same fickle forces driving markets as varied as highfashion clothes, upscale sports sedans and even personal gadgetry. Last year’s colors are out and subtle changes generate fiery consumer interest. Even major firearms makers have learned if they put a “hot pink camouflage” synthetic stock on an otherwise pedestrian rifle, or add over-bright night sights, a bead-blasted finish and a “ninja” roll engraving on a base-model pistol, they will fly off the shelves while other passé FEBRUARY 2009 products sit and gather dust. In self-defense sales, however, things are not quite the same. In fact, in many cases, especially with inexperienced customers, buyers often equate a pug-ugly, plain-Jane appearance and lack of a hyped model name as evidence that “this is a serious gun that means business” — and that’s good for your business! It’s no mystery that firearm sales are hitting record levels. Data from the FBI’s NICS (National Instant Criminal Back- Sales Are Growing ground Check System) shows that 2008 was a record year in filings of Form 4473s. November background checks established a new monthly record, with 1,529,635 checks conducted, a 42-percent increase over 2007, followed in December with 1,523,426 checks, a 24-percent increase. Overwhelmingly, sales were led by firearms believed most likely to be restricted or prohibited by the Obama administration. In addition, dealers and distributors quickly sold out of all popular high-cap magazines and ammunition. Backorders were described as “mountainous.” 28 Read SI DIGITAL www.shootingindustry.com Joseph Novelozo