http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/RSS.ashxShooting Industry June 2008 PagesTue, 23 Sep 2008 16:30:03 +0200http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=1http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=1ACADEMY OF EXCELLENCE SELECTS FINAL NOMINEES JUNE 2008 OPTICS The Fast-Focused Displays WHERE’S HANDGUN ACCESSORIES MONEY? OPTICS MUZZLELOADING Sell Non-Gun Self-Defense www.shootingindustry.com Circle No. 225 on Inquiry Card Lethal Force2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=2http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=2WORTH EVERY PENNY Our full line of rimfires ranges from youth and entry-level rifles to competition-worthy models — each delivering legendary Savage accuracy you can bank on. savage-rimfire.com Circle No. 222 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=3http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=3Circle No. 229 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=4http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=4JUNE 2008 • VOLUME 53 • NUMBER 06 Features 24 Page 24 Fast-Focused Displays Optimize Your Optic Presentations For Sharp Sales! Carolee Anita Boyles 29 41 Handgun Accessory Sales In a Galaxy of Gizmos, Where’s The Money? John Morrison Selling Today’s Muzzleloading For Success, Know The Trends, Your Hunting Seasons. Mark Kayser Industry News 8 Academy Of Excellence Selects Final Nominees 10 Remington Announces Consolidation Plan 11 Industry Shooters Ready For Masters 14 Newsmakers Page 29 Columns 16 18 20 22 Page 41 Lethal Force Selling Non-Gun Self-Defense Products. Massad Ayoob Outdoor Marketplace Foundation Takes A STAND For Hunter Safety. Greg Staunton Arms And The Woman Hosting Events Draws Women Into Your Store. Lisa Parsons-Wraith Back Blast & Other Hot Gases Net-Bangers Tell Cops To “Come Get It!” Commander Gilmore 46 Industry Watch The Magic Of www.shootingindustry.com. Russ Thurman Departments 6 Letters 40 Reader Service 44 45 New Products Classifieds Page 16 4 JUNE 2008 SHOOTING INDUSTRY® (ISSN 0037-4148) is published monthly by Publishers’ Development Corporation at 12345 World Trade Dr, San Diego, CA 92128. Periodical Class Postage paid at San Diego, CA 92128, and at additional mailing offices. Subscription $25 yearly in U.S.A. Single copies $3 (except for the December SHOT SHOW issue, $25). Change of address: Four weeks notice required on all changes. Send old address as well as new. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to: SHOOTING INDUSTRY® 12345 World Trade Dr, San Diego, CA 92128. PRINTING SERVICES/PREPRESS: Democrat Printing Company. CONTRIBUTORS submitting manuscripts, photographs or drawings, do so at their own risk. Material cannot be returned unless accompanied by sufficient postage. PAYMENT will be made at rates current at time of publication and will cover reproduction in any or all of the editions of SHOOTING INDUSTRY®. OPINIONS expressed in bylined articles or columns are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the magazine or its staff. Copyright© 2008 by Publishers' Development Corporation. All rights reserved. Reproduction or use of any portion of this magazine without written permission is prohibited. www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=5http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=5SINCE 1955 — THE INDUSTRY’S BUSINESS MAGAZINE PUBLISHER TM Thomas von Rosen EDITOR Russ Thurman EDITORIAL ASSISTANT Roxanne Smith ART DIRECTOR Eric Tse ART ASSISTANT Andy Loy PRODUCTION MANAGER Kimberly Thorne Stellar Strobe! We’ve engineered the XTI Procyon TM Anita Carson ADVERTISING ACCOUNT EXECUTIVES Steve Evatt, Jeff Morey, Delano Amaguin, Scott McGregor PROMOTIONS DIRECTOR Randy Moldé PROMOTIONS COORDINATOR Lorinda Massey ADVERTISING ACCOUNT MANAGER (PRO-see-on) and named it after one of the brightest pulsating stars in the night sky. Its high-tech LED light source produces an industry leading 125 lumens of brilliant light, while the innovative strobe mode can be used to disorient a would-be assailant, giving you the advantage of life-saving seconds. CONTRIBUTING EDITORS Massad Ayoob Shari LeGate John Morrison Carolee Anita Boyles Ray Oeltjen Lisa Parsons-Wraith FMG Publications Editor: Dave Douglas Advertising: Delano Amaguin americancopmagazine.com Editor: Roy Huntington Advertising: Steve Evatt americanhandgunner.com Editor: Jeff John Advertising: Jeff Morey gunsmagazine.com Special Editions Editor: Sammy Reese Advertising: Scott McGregor fmgpublications.com Run time: 90 minutes Ambidextrous Multi-Function Switch Water resistant to 10 m/30 ft Adjustable Slide-Lock® Rail Multiple modes: constant, momentary and strobe High output 125 lumen LED, never-change bulb Exceptionally strong anodized aluminum construction Precision focused -machined aluminum reflector Two, 3-v (123) batteries included CUSTOMER SERVICE www.shootingindustry.com SUBSCRIPTION SERVICES . . . . . . 858.605.0250 EXPRESS SERVICE . . . . . www.shootingindustry.com General Assistance . . . . . . . . . . . . . Click: Contact Us EDITORIAL . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 858.605.0243 PRODUCTION Toll Free: 877-744-4802 Circle No. 211 on Inquiry Card . . . . . . . . . . . . . . russ@shootingindustry.com . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 858.605.0202 . . . . . . . . . production@shootingindustry.com National Advertising: 12345 World Trade Dr., San Diego, CA 92128 858•605•0209 866•972•4545 FAX: 858•605•0211 Glock / Kel-Tec Dealers Fax FFL for catalog Fingertip Extensions also fits many other small pistols in .22, .25, .32, and .380 calibers. Kel-Tec / Bersa PRODUCED IN THE U.S.A. cherer upplies Inc 205 Four Mile Creek Rd. Taxewell Tn, 37879 M-1 Garand One Shot FAX 423-733-2073 Adapter Circle No. 223 on Inquiry Card S Slug Plug #5 for The New Glock® Model 21SF www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 52008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=6http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=6I am writing in hopes that you can provide some information on the Academy of Excellence, specifically regarding past Knives of the Year. I have recently seen pictures of a special set of knives, consisting of one each of the 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001 Knives of the Year. All are Benchmades and all are individually numbered “___ out of 100.” On the other side of the blade, all have the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence logo, along with the year, the award won and the model number. They are packaged in what looks to be a gray-felt roll with both the academy and Benchmade logos on the front, along with the words “Special Collection.” I am trying to find out if this is a set issued in conjunction with Benchmade, or if it was done by a third party. Any information you have would be helpful. Wes Thompson Via: russ@shootingindustry.com The Special Collection was manufac- Benchmade Collection tured and issued by Benchmade. Greg Mooney, Benchmade’s president, said, “One of the deterrents to selling them was the set cost about $1,000 retail. The good news is that if one is found in the market, they should be worth quite a bit because of the limited number.” Wes, if you’d like more information, call Benchmade at 1-800-800-7427 or email: info@benchmade.com. Benchmade has been honored eight times in the 10 years the academy has presented the Knife of the Year award. The company is nominated for the 2008 award for the 950 SBK Rift Folding Knife. For more information on the academy, visit www.shootingindustry.com and click on the academy’s logo. I just read “Accelerated Business” (February 2008). Gee, Ruger is actually going to have a gun or two in some of the dealers’ hands before they announce a new product? What a concept! Wonder how much money they spent hiring some marketing specialist to tell them that it would make sense to actually have a gun or two on hand to sell before you start spending thousands of dollars advertising it, when any Joe off the street with a second-grade education could have told then the same thing for free. Of course, just because some of the “top” dealers get a few of them doesn’t mean that the rest of us “normal” dealers still won’t have to wait two years. Donald Lehman, owner Don’s Snowmobile and ATV Repair We agree, it would seem obvious that the concept “would make sense.” To Ruger’s credit, they are the first major firearm manufacturer to break the long-held tradition of announcing and advertising firearms that aren’t ready for delivery. Are they doing it perfectly? No, but they deserve a salute for starting — and being committed to — what we all hope will become the norm. 9 E-mail the Editor russ@shootingindustry.com What A Concept 6 JUNE 2008 Circle No. 209 on Inquiry Card www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=7http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=7www.shootingindustry.com Circle No. 224 on Inquiry Card JUNE 2008 72008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=8http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=8Selling Non-Gun Self-Defense — page 16 Academy Of Excellence Selects Final Nominees he Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence has announced the final nominations for its 2008 awards. The academy considered 150 entries in 14 categories before selecting 43 for the final ballot. The 500 members of the academy are now considering the nominees for the prestigious awards, which will be announced during a reception on July 25 in Windsor, Conn. This year, a number of companies have a high number of nominations, academy officials noted. “It’s not unusual for a company to be nominated in more than one category, but this year, we have two companies, Leupold and Smith & Wesson, with three nominations, and an impressive four nominations for SureFire,” said Randy Moldé, academy director. “In addition, there is a significant increase in T the quality of products in all categories. That’s good for the industry. It does, however, make it more challenging for the voting members of the academy. They have some tough choices to make.” This is the second year the final nominees were selected using stricter screening guide- “This year, we have two companies, Leupold and Smith & Wesson, with three nominations, and an impressive four nominations for SureFire.” lines. After the academy members selected the top entries in each product category, during the first round of voting, manufacturers had 10 days to submit their products for verification to ensure they are “in production.” “The objective is not to burden compa- nies with another requirement, but to reinforce the already strong integrity of the academy,” Moldé said. “And it works. The new requirement has eliminated the entry of ‘vaporware’ products.” Established in 1992, the academy is sponsored by FMG Publications, publisher of Shooting Industry, GUNS, American Handgunner and American COP magazines. However, no one at the publisher is permitted to vote. The voting power is held exclusively by the academy, which includes 500 industry executives, gun dealers and outdoor writers. The awards presentation and reception will be held in conjunction with the Shooting Industry Masters. For more information, visit www.shootingindustry.com. The 2008 final nominees are: Handgun of the Year • Ruger: LCP .380 • Smith & Wesson: Model 327 Night Guard Revolver .357 Mag. • Taurus International: The Judge .45 Colt/.410 Magnum • Browning: X-Bolt Rifle • Sig Sauer: Sig 556 SWAT • Winchester: Model 70 Reintroduction • Benelli USA: Ultra Light 20 Gauge • Browning: Citori 625 Over/Under • Remington Arms: Model 870 SPS ShurShot Synthetic Turkey • Smith & Wesson: Elite Silver Over/Under • Brownells: Professional Magna Tip Tool Set • RCBS: RASS Portable Shooting Bench • SureFire: X300 WeaponLight • Birchwood Casey: Dirty Bird Multi-Color Splattering Targets • Leupold: MX Modular Flashlight System • SureFire: E1B Backup Flashlight • Crimson Trace: Model LG-660 Lasergrips • Hodgdon Powder: Reloading Data Center Web-Site • Leupold: RX-IV Boone & Crockett Edition Digital Rangefinder • Federal: Black Cloud FS Steel Shotshell • Hornady: Ruger Compact Magnum Cartridge (RCMs) • Winchester: E-Tip Lead-Free Bullet • Aimpoint: Micro H-1 Red-Dot Sight JUNE 2008 Knife of the Year • Leupold: Prismatic Shotgun/Muzzleloader/Rifle Scope • Trijicon: AccuPoint 3-9x40 Riflescope Rifle of the Year Safety Product of the Year • Benchmade: 950 SBK Rift Folding Knife • Leatherman: Skeletool Multi-Tool • SureFire: EW08 LEO Law Enforcement Utility Knife • BLACKHAWK!: Hawkhook Rescue Tool • SureFire: EP400 SWAT Ears Hearing Protection • Waffentechnik Borkott & Eickhorn: SARD (Search and Rescue Device) (The nomination details for the following service awards appeared in Shooting Industry’s May issue. They may also be viewed at www.shootingindustry.com.) • F. Hewitt Grant, Ellett Brothers • Bob Hodgdon, Hodgdon Powder • Tom Taylor, Smith & Wesson • BLACKHAWK! Products Group • Ruger • Smith & Wesson • AcuSport • Ellett Brothers • RSR Group Shotgun of the2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=9http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=9Big Rock Names Top Vendor, Rep ig Rock Sports has announced its 2007 Vendor and Rep Agency of the Year Awards. The Vendor Awards recognize operational excellence, marketing support, product innovation, top-line sales and operational achievements. Companies in the firearm industry honored with Vendor Awards were: Winchester Ammunition: 2007 National Shooting Sports Vendor of the Year. Springfield Armory: 2007 Western Region Vendor of the Year. The Rep Agency of the Year Award honors excellence in two-step distribution, field sales-force excellence, excellence in vendor partnering and professional excellence. Awards were presented to: Wild West Marketing: 2007 Western Region Rep Award. Sokol Associates: 2007 Central Region Rep Award. RDO Marketing: 2007 Eastern Region Rep Award. For more information, visit www.bigrocksports.com. B Rick Pappendick (second from left), Winchester Ammunition director of wholesale distribution, and Brett Flaugher (second from right), Winchester’s vice president of sales and marketing, accept the 2007 National Shooting Sports Vendor of the Year award from Dennis Spindler (left), Big Rock Sports senior vice president of purchasing, and Ed Small (right), Big Rock Sports CEO. Sign On. Click The Magic! A REAL DEAL ! MINOX DCM Digital eyepiece for MINOX, Leica, Zeiss, Swarovski and Kowa Spotting Scopes. Shoot images and movies ! • Unique product • Attractive pricing • Great margin • German engineering • 2.4“ Monitor • Up to 40x magnification • Water-Resistant • Including Remote-Control ! W E N Circle No. 219 on Inquiry Card www.minox.com usa@minox.com • Phone (866) 469 - 30802008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=10http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=10R Remington Announces Consolidation Plan emington Arms Company announced in April a strategic manufacturing consolidation move that will close its Gardner, Mass., facility. In the announcement, Remington officials noted, “This integration will be seamless and will not affect our customers or our product offerings.” “While it was a difficult decision to close Gardner, we believe this consolidation will enhance our ability to more efficiently provide quality products at competitive prices in an increasingly demanding global marketplace,” said Tommy Millner, Remington’s CEO. The closure, which Remington says is expected to be completed by the end of the year, will result in “centralized sales and marketing, streamlined operations, standardized information technology infrastructure and common financial functionality while vigorously maintaining and promoting individual brand identity and products.” Circle No. 208 on Inquiry Card S Sightron Offers Buyers Free NRA Membership ightron has joined forces with the NRA to help the organization with its major membership drive. Consumers who purchase any Sightron scope (excluding SI models) will receive a free one-year membership to the NRA. Current NRA members will receive a one-year renewal with a purchase. “With 2008 being a critical election year, all of us at Sightron are concerned about attacks against our right to bear arms and about future generations having the same rights we have enjoyed,” said Sightron’s president, Scott Helmer. “We are proud to do our part to help the NRA defend our Second Amendment rights.” For more information on Sightron, visit www.sightron.com. For more information on the NRA, visit www.nra.org. 10 JUNE 2008 Circle No. 212 on Inquiry Card www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=11http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=11Industry Shooters Ready For Masters challenge is being sent to companies throughout the industry: “Join us at the 2008 Shooting Industry Masters.” A number of companies that signed up early to compete in this year’s event are featured in “challenge ads” in this issue, beginning on page 34. Sponsored and produced by FMG Publications, the three-gun competition raises awareness of NSSF’s Step Outside program, along with money to expand the program’s introduction of newcomers to shooting. This year, the event will be held at the Hartford Gun Club in East Granby, Conn., on July 26. A masters reception will be held July 25 in conjunction with the presentation of the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence awards. “The Shooting Industry Masters is a great way to have fun and support Step Outside,” said Steve Sanetti, NSSF president and CEO. “The event offers friendly competition, friendly kidding and fantastic raffle prizes that raise money for a great cause. It’s just an unbeatable combination. I urge everyone in the industry to come out to the Shooting Industry Masters. I look forward to seeing you there.” Sanetti, who become head of NSSF on May 1, has competed in every Shooting Industry Masters as the president of Ruger and has been a strong supporter of the event. “This is something companies should support. We need to be visible and show the shooters of America that shooters populate gun companies. That benefits all the companies in the industry,” Sanetti said. This year’s match sponsors are Aimpoint, Benchmade, BLACKHAWK!, Black Hills Ammunition, Brownells, Cor-Bon, Gunsite, Howard Leight, Lansky, Midland, Remington, Ruger and Smith & Wesson. To raise money for Step Outside, a raffle is held during the event’s awards banquet. To donate products for the raffle, enter a team or for additional information, call 1-800-537-3006, ext. 279. Hotel, airport and additional information is available on Shooting Industry’s Web site, www.shootingindustry.com. www.shootingindustry.com A Selling crossbows is an easy transition for a firearms-only dealer. If you are not selling them, you are missing out on one of the fastest growing categories in the hunting industry. people don’t know that my competitive firearms shooting “ Most career developed out of my passion for hunting. I hunt all seasons with all weapons, including compound bows and, yes, crossbows. Like all of my equipment, I chose TenPoint because of its quality, durability, and accuracy. TenPoint is the best. ” Doug Koenig World Champion Professional Shooter To find out how to get started, Call Randy Wood, TenPoint’s National Sales Manager. TenPoint Crossbow Technologies 1325 Waterloo Road Suffield, OH 44260-9608 330.628.9245 800.548.6837 Circle No. 227 on Inquiry Card We’re Calling You Out! Gun Valley Showdown. Page 33 JUNE 2008 112008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=12http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=12Pachmayr_Slip-On_4C_Ad_3rd_2 4/19/07 11:40 AM Page 1 “America’s Choice for Recoil Reduction” The Most Advanced A Lyman Brand Ultra-Soft Slip-On Pads, Ever! Pachmayr ® Combining the advanced recoil control of the Decelerator® internal design and ultra-soft material with Pachmayr’s patented insert, this great looking slip-on pad is unmatched. In addition, the pad’s exclusive, extra soft material makes installation easier than ever. No other slip-on pad can match Pachmayr’s new Decelerator® Slip-On at any price. Available in Black & Brown Models (Sm. Med, Lg.) Sizes for all Shotgun/ Rifle Types No Other Slip-On Pad Has the Patented, Pachmayr SpeedMount® Insert. A Pachmayr original design, the SpeedMount insert delivers smooth, snag-free mounting when quick shooting is as important as recoil reduction. For a new Lyman catalog: www.lymanproducts.com or 800-22-LYMAN 475 Smith St., Middletown, CT 06457 Dept 868 Circle No. 216 on Inquiry Card Swivel Stud Clears With No Problem! Lyman eretta USA has announced its 2007 Customer of the Year awards, which are based on overall program support, innovation and creativity in representing Beretta products and the overall growth of the Beretta product lines. The 2007 Beretta USA winners are: Chain Store of the Year: Cabela’s, Sidney, Neb. Distributor of the Year: Sports South, Inc., Shreveport, La. Dealer of the Year: Shoot Straight, Apopka, Fla. Retailer of the Year: The Orvis Company, Manchester, Vt. “We congratulate each of our award recipients for their increased focus on Beretta products and the professionalism they display in representing the Beretta lifestyle to all of our end users,” said Patrick McDonald, vice president, sales and marketing. For additional information, visit www. berettausa.com. Beretta USA Announces Customer Awards B Quit wasting your time or even jeopardizing your life searching by “trial and error method” for a magazine to feed today’s semi-auto pistols. MEC-GAR exclusively manufactures magazines recognized for guaranteed fit, finish and totally reliable functionality by the majority of firearm manufacturers since 1965! • We are the largest supplier to military, government and law enforcement agencies worldwide. magazines come standard with the firearms of more than 50 prominent manufacturers like: Smith & Wesson • Sigarms Springfield Armory • NAA Browning • Kel-Tec • Taurus Kimber • Walther • CZ Styer • Remington BUL • Charles Daly NSSF Honored By USSA he National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has received a Lifetime Giving Award from the U.S. Sportsmen’s Alliance (USSA) for contributing more than $700,000 toward efforts to protect hunting and shooting in America. Bud Pidgeon, president of the USSA, presented the award to NSSF at the SHOT Show. “The NSSF has been a stalwart defender of our hunting and shooting heritage for our entire existence,” Pidgeon said. “We see them as an invaluable partner today and in the years to come.” The NSSF has been a sponsor of the USSA since 1989, helping programs like the Families Afield initiative, Trailblazer Adventure Program and U.S. Sportsmen’s Legal Defense Fund. For more information about the USSA, call (614) 888-4868 or visit www.ussportsmen.org. www.shootingindustry.com T • Our World’s Finest Magazines For a free catalog call toll-free or write to: Mec-Gar USA, Inc., 905 Middle Street, Dept. SI, Middletown, CT 06457 Tel: (800) 632-4271 Fax: (860) 635-1712 www.mec-gar.com 12 JUNE 2008 Circle No. 217 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=13http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=13Bushmaster, Magpul Develop Combat Rifle ushmaster Firearms has announced it has signed an exclusive licensing agreement with Magpul Industries Corp. for the production, future development and sales of Magpul’s prototype MASADA weapon system. The Bushmaster ACR (Adaptive Combat Rifle) will initially be offered in 5.56 NATO, available for law enforcement and civilian purchase in the second quarter of 2008. The release will be followed by military ACR versions in the third quarter of 2008. “The opportunity to partner with such an innovative company as Magpul is a very exciting step in the growth and evolution of Bushmaster’s product line,” said Chad Brooks, CEO of Bushmaster Firearms. For more information, contact Bushmaster Firearms at (207) 892-3594 or www.bushmaster.com. B Ellett Brothers Named Top Distributor llett Brothers, which marks its 75th anniversary this year, is also celebrating being named the top distributor by five companies. Ellett Brothers was named Distributor of the Year for 2007 by BLACKHAWK!, Bulldog Cases, Dednutz Products, Leupold & Stevens and Carl Zeiss Sports Optics. The manufacturers honored Ellett Brothers for “outstanding sales contributions and support of products received.” For more information, visit www.ellettbrothers.com. Circle No. 205 on Inquiry Card E uck Knives has honored its top sales reps for 2007. ICOBA, which manages international distribution, was named Sales Rep Group of the Year. ICOBA principals are Tom Ritter and Mike Silverberg. Rep of the Year was awarded to Jimmy Newman of the Newman Agency. The agency, which covers Alabama, Tennessee and Mississippi, has expanded its Buck Knives territory to Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Virginia, West Virginia and Kentucky. For more information, visit www.buckknives.com. www.shootingindustry.com B Buck Knives Honors Sales Reps Jimmy Newman (center), of the Newman Agency, is Buck Knives’ 2007 Rep of the Year. Presenting the award are Dave Duggin (left), Buck’s vice president of sales, and John Weaver, Buck’s vice president of business development. JUNE 2008 132008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=14http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=14Callis & Associates has added graphic artist Adrianne Fillinger to its staff to provide graphic design for the agency’s shooting sports clients. Fillinger most A. Fillinger Callis & Associates Hires Designer recently was an advertising specialist at MidwayUSA. She has a bachelor’s degree in fine arts with an emphasis in illustration from the University of Central Missouri. Hunter’s Specialties has named Brian Thomas director of marketing. Thomas previously owned and operated Thomas Consulting, a firm providing business, financial and consumer product marketing services. Prior to that, Thomas was with Pure Fishing for 26 years. Hunter’s Specialties Hires Marketing Director “Brian brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the position, and we feel he is the right person to help build recognition and sales throughout the Hunter’s Specialties product line,” said company co-owners Dave and Carman Forbes. B. Thomas Brian H. Turk has been named president and CEO of Blaser USA. Turk was formerly global account manager for BASF Group and achieved record sales numbers with Akzo-Nobel and Dow Chemical. He graduated with a degree in chemical engineering in Istanbul, Turkey, before moving to North America in 1979. Turk is tasked with dividing North America into smaller territories to establish an in-depth service network for Blaser. “Outstanding customer service will play a vital part in Mr. Turk’s strategy and we look forward to his international and marketing expertise to play a key role in growing the Blaser brand in the United States,” said Bernhard Knöbel, CEO of Blaser Germany. “Blaser account managers will never hide behind desks, but become active members of the hunting and shooting communities,” Turk said. “The message will remain as strong as ever: Safety is the number-one quality feature of any of Blaser’s products.” B. Turk Blaser USA Names President, CEO The National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) has appointed Jack Baumler, president and CEO of W.L. Baumler Co., to its board of directors. “This is my first time serving on the board. I’m very happy to be able to donate my time to help out the industry and wholesalers alike,” Baumler said. “We (W.L. Baumler Co.) probably would not be here if not for the NASGW, as it’s played such an important role over the years in keeping the wholesale industry going.” Baumler brings decades of experience in the wholesaling industry. His father founded W.L. Baumler Co. after World War II, and since its early days, Baumler helped the company transform from a “mom and pop” shop to a large business. 9 Circle No. 206 on Inquiry Card NASGW Appoints Director 14 JUNE 2008 www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=15http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=15Traditions makes it as easy as 1, 2, 3! NO TOOLS NEEDED! Easily removed by hand Introducing the Pursuit II XLT. With its 28” Fluted/Ported barrel and its ability to shoot magnum loads, the Pursuit II XLT boasts extreme accuracy at 200 yards. Couple this with Traditions™ revolutionary new Accelerator Breech Plug, and you get a muzzleloader like no other in its price range. Projectile Alignment System (PAS) 360° Barrel Porting for reduced recoil Quick Relief Recoil Pad DSS Dual Safety System Soft Touch Stock LT–1 Lightweight Alloy Frame 28” Fluted/Ported Barrel with Nickel Guard coating TRUGLO™ Fiber Optic Sights For more information, visit your local Traditions™ dealer or check us out online. ™ www.traditionsfirearms.com 860.388.4656 Circle No. 228 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=16http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=16Massad Ayoob Selling Non-Gun Self-Defense Products G uns aren’t the be-all, end-all of defensive equipment. If they were, police duty belts would be considerably lighter. It has been my experience over the last three and a half decades that cop and citizen are more likely to have to restrain a criminal or fend him off than to shoot one. Many of your customers have all the guns they need (though, hopefully, for the sake of your business and their contentment, not all the guns they want). However, when they’re on that business trip to California or a family reunion in Chicago, they won’t be able to carry firearms. That’s when some sort of “lesslethal” option needs to be their next purchase. In addition, there are customers who are new to the whole self-defense thing and are taking it in baby steps. They are not ready to recognize that they might have to end a human life to stop a particularly violent attack. That’s why it’s impor- tant to know what level of self-defense the customer is ready to put into action. If, when customers enter your store, you come across as a “gun shop commando” and attempt to sell them a higher-force level than Kimber’s Guardian Angel contains two cylinders of concentrated, near pharmaceutical-grade OC (oleoresin capsicum). they’re ready for, you’re likely to not only lose them as customers for today, but also never see them again. If, on the other hand, customers leave with some means of self-defense, something that makes them feel safer, more secure and more confident with a “weapon” of some sort, you’ve developed a new regular customer. You are the one who purveyed the instrument of their newfound confidence. You are the one who proved you understood their needs, and therefore you are the one they’ll come back to when they’re ready for the next step, and the next. To encourage this sort of customer, be sure to have books or DVDs on selfdefense, weapons safety and things of that nature readily accessible and on display. The price will be small enough to make it a natural impulse sale. Books and DVDs aren’t just sales in themselves; they help draw the customer back for more of what you have to sell. Explaining The Less-Lethal Concept elf-defense sprays or ASRs (Aerosol Suspect Restraint) and stun guns, or ERDs (Electronic Restraining Devices) and the like, used to be called “non-lethal.” That went by the board when attorneys began suing cops on behalf of folks who were killed or crippled after such force levels were applied. Just as X-number of people die from being punched or kicked (or falling on their head) in a fistfight, X-number of people are going to die after inhaling substances to which they’re particularly sensitive, or after having been shocked — or just from falling on their head at the end of the fight. However, in legal arenas, when someone dies from something that shouldn’t have killed them, the argument arises, “If it’s nonlethal, then you, the one who applied it, must have used it excessively or negligently to cause death!” That’s enough for a bigbucks, wrongful-death verdict in civil court, and enough to even sustain a possible manslaughter conviction in criminal court. With this development, cops and the industry moved away from the term “non-lethal” and adopted the current term, “less-lethal.” Now, you’re going to have customers who scoff, “What the hell is ‘less-lethal’? Isn’t that kind of like ‘less-pregnant’ or ‘less dead’?” Be able to explain the terminology. Basically, “less-lethal,” as used for these products, is a term that means “It’s less likely to be lethal” than, say, a per se deadly weapon, which is what a gun or an aggressively wielded knife is seen as in the eyes of the law. 16 JUNE 2008 S Modern Sprays, Electronic Restraints Prove Effective T ear gas sprays go back to the mid-20th century and they’ve always had a very spotty record. Sometimes they worked, sometimes they didn’t. Pepper spray has worked much better. Oleoresin capsicum, or OC, is basically the active in2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=17http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=173067 shooting industry JA_08 12/12/07 11:45 AM Page 1 PELICAN customers to choose from. Fogger is more likely to get into the attacker’s eyes in a fast-breaking situation because of its wide dispersal, but it has a short range and doesn’t work well in high winds. Streamer is more accurate and has longer range, but needs to be aimed. Foam is the least likely to cross-contaminate the user, and sticks to the suspect’s skin for what seem to be longer-lasting effects. Kimber offers two OC devices. Your firearms customers will feel right at home with the pistol-like JPX, which delivers two “shots” of OC as far as seven paces. The other Kimber OC product, the Guardian Angel, clips to the belt like a big pager, and has little more than half the range of the JPX, but may be more palatable to nervous, “non-gun people” customers. ™ POWER COMBO Pelican 1750 CASE shown with a Barrett M82A1/M107 BARRETT CHOOSES PELICAN PROTECTOR™ CASES. SHOULDN’T YOU? Taser offers a wide range of colors in its C1 Personal Protector, including the new leopard print. Among the electronic restraint devices, there’s only one I could personally recommend in good conscience: the Taser. Taser International has been selling a compact, short-range “civilian model” for some time. Many gun shops have taken advantage of good manufacturer support with displays and report the units are selling well. When you go to Taser’s Web site, www.taser.com, click on the “Consumer” link and then the “Legality — State & Local Laws” link. There you’ll find valuable information concerning how your state views Taser as a carry weapon. Less-lethal weapons help your bottom line. Be able to point your customer to competent training for the device you sell them. If you don’t know an instructor nearby, your local police department or sheriff’s office can probably refer you to one. Training builds confidence that will lead to more sales. It also leads to more satisfactory outcomes in lifethreatening situations. It’s ethical profitmaking at its finest. 9 TOUGH POLYMER CONSTRUCTION CRUSHPROOF AND TOTALLY WATERTIGHT EASY OPEN DOUBLE-THROW LATCHES STEEL REINFORCED PADLOCK PROTECTORS 38 SIZES For more info, go to www.pelican.com/si 23215 EARLY AVENUE, TORRANCE, CA 90505 • 866.838.9160 (TOLL FREE) 310.326.4700 • FAX 310.326.3311 • WWW.PELICAN.COM/SI 3067 All trademarks and logos displayed herein are registered and unregistered trademarks of Pelican Products, Inc. and others. Circle No. 220 on Inquiry Card LOOKING TO THE FUTURE! • SPECIAL: The Firearm Industry Today • Clean Up With Gun Care • The Universe’s Greatest Buyer’s Guide BONUS: Web Site Showcase www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 172008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=18http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=18Greg Staunton Foundation Takes A STAND For Hunter Safety ealers who offer bowhunting products are already fine-tuning their inventory orders and planning their fall promotions and displays. The National Bowhunter Education Foundation (NBEF) is urging dealers and others in the industry to also present a strong message concerning the use of tree stands: “Hunt Smart — Hunt Safe.” To help deliver this message, NBEF has launched Project STAND (Stop Tree Stand Accidents ’n Deaths). The program is designed to raise tree-stand safety awareness and significantly reduce the number of deaths and injuries caused by tree-stand accidents. “Even though most hunter and bowhunter education courses emphasize treestand safety, the problem persists,” said Marilyn Bentz, NBEF executive director. “Studies suggest that 10 to 30 percent of all tree-stand users will have an incident.” New hunters and customers who purchase tree stands are receiving safety information through hunter education courses and safety materials, “but, obviously, many are not,” Bentz said. “We are going to get out there with a hard-hitting safety message that addresses this problem. The bottom line is there are millions of experienced hunters using tree stands incorrectly. They are at risk and they need to know it. It’s our job at the NBEF to lead this charge,” Bentz said. Many injuries and deaths result from hunters not wearing the safety equipment supplied with their tree stands or because they are using the wrong kind D of safety equipment. Or, hunters are making mental mistakes. “It’s not enough to wear any old ‘safety strap.’ We’ve learned a great deal about tree-stand safety in the past five years, which, for the most part, the public is not aware of. Obsolete fall-restraint systems are ticking time bombs,” Bentz said. Visit NBEF’s Web site, www.nbef.org, for details on Project STAND. Tree-stand safety, however, is more complicated than reminding hunters to wear safety gear, Bentz emphasized. “We need to get to the root of the entire problem and make tree-stand safety more than an afterthought. We have done a wonderful job of addressing firearms accidents; tree-stand safety deserves the same attention,” Bentz said. Project STAND will deliver its safety message via mass media, magazines and Web sites. The NBEF is seeking the sup- port of the outdoor community with this effort, including groups not necessarily focused on hunting, such as youth organizations and emergency responders. “We are taking the lead with this initiative because hunter education is our responsibility. But, we can’t do it alone. We need the help of the hunting industry and safety community,” said Joel Klammer, NBEF board president. “It takes money to research the problem and develop solutions. It takes money to deliver the message. The NBEF is a nonprofit organization with limited resources. The more financial support we get from the hunting community, the more effective we will be in attacking the problem.” Klammer says the response NBEF has received for Project STAND from the hunting community has been highly encouraging. “Virtually everyone we have talked to has offered support of some kind. It seems as though everyone knows of someone injured in a tree-stand incident. It’s a very real issue, which strikes very close to home. The entire industry appears to be rallying behind Project STAND,” Klammer said. For more information, contact Marilyn Bentz at (479) 649-9036, e-mail: mbentz@ nbef.org or visit www.nbef.org. C M Y CM MY CY CMY K G Be Safe, Not Seen orilla Treestands’ 2008 Deluxe Full Body Vest Harness in Mossy Oak Treestand is reflective of the new generation of products that enhance hunter safety. The mating buckle system, made of high-strength steel, features secure male/female locking for easy attachment and removal. “The mating buckle system really makes this vest unique. It’s simple for hunters to use and provides ultimate safety for an enjoyable day in the field. The vest also features M2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=19http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=19Circle No. 210 on Inquiry Card www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 192008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=20http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=20Lisa Parsons-Wraith Hosting Events Draws Women Into Your Store nventive ways to bring new customers Lace president. “We get them there and “Supporting women will hopefully into your store can really help boost then — hopefully — get them to take an help that segment grow,” Campeau said. your bottom line. You need to bring interest in the outdoors.” “The more we get women involved, the new customers in to get your cash registers more likely they are to buy. It definitely ringing, and where women are concerned, Community Support brings new people into hunting and shootCamo & Lace is able to put together such ing, and that can do nothing but good for food and fun are serious draws. Hosting or sponsoring events that intro- an incredible event at a low cost because the whole industry.” duce women to the outdoors and outdoor the community supports them — especially Campeau said supporting Camo & gear gets a dealer’s name out into the com- Williams Gun Sight and Outfitters. Lace events has been a very low-cost munity and increases a store’s way to introduce women to customer base. One gun shop the store and range. and range in Michigan has had “It doesn’t cost us more than great success in increasing their opening the facility and providprofile with women by partnering a few donations,” Campeau ing with the women’s outdoor said. “From our standpoint, group Camo & Lace. they do a lot for us. They repCamo & Lace is a nonprofit resent us in a positive manner group whose motto is “Putting and do a lot of volunteer work. the mother back in nature.” We help each other out.” They accomplish their goal by As a result, Campeau has introducing women to the outseen a lot of new shooters come doors through hunter education to the range. courses designed for women and “They bring new people and taught by women. The courses new customers to us and those include important hunter safety people are buying guns and information, but to keep it fun, accessories,” Campeau said. Camo & Lace always tries to “Women are a segment of the incorporate door prizes, raffles market with buying power.” and refreshments. The organiza- With Camo & Lace, women teach women, adding to ladies’ comfort level. The Expo is also a chance tion also offers classes in handfor manufacturers to reach a gun shooting, shotgun shooting, target audience. Charles said “Tom Wright, the owner of Williams, representatives from scope, ATV and birding, camping, fishing, hiking, archery is always supportive of women,” Charles trailer companies have all taught classes and wild game cooking. For the past six years, Camo & Lace said. “He donates his facility and really at the Expo and have had a chance to has teamed up with Williams Gun Sight helps us out.” share their products with female attendDan Campeau, chief operating officer ees. Bringing in a representative from and Outfitters in Davison, Mich., to conduct a Spring Expo for women. The event at Williams Gun Sight, said supporting one of the big firearm manufacturers can includes four classes, a one-year Camo & the Expo and working with Camo & Lace really provide great feedback as to what Lace membership, a continental breakfast is good business. women want from their guns. and a wild game lunch and prizes — all for just $40 per person. as a shooting expo or as simple as a fashThis event is unique in that the Expo ion show or gear demonstration. By workdoesn’t focus solely on shooting — the eaming up with a local shooting club ing with a local shooting club, you share organizers try to offer a little something to hold a fashion show is sure to gen- some of the responsibilities and guarantee for everyone. Traditional outdoor seminars like Beginning Handgun, Shotgun erate interest in the line and bring more a motivated base of attendees. It’s a great and Archery; Fly Casting; Tanning and women into your store. Dealers have a way to test interest in new products and Skinning; and Clay Shooting share the greater advantage over the Internet b2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=21http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=21Próis Hunting Apparel For Serious Hunters f your store isn’t equipped to handle a full-scale firearms expo, consider hosting a women’s hunting-wear fashion show. Several companies are testing the waters in women’s hunting clothes, and while most of the offerings are found online, some companies offer dealer and wholesale pricing. I Circle No. 201 on Inquiry Card Your Source For Everything 1911! Próis apparel is for serious female hunters. One newcomer in the women’s hunting clothing market is Próis Hunting Apparel. This line of clothing is for the serious female hunter who has been looking for the perfect combination of technical hunting components and functional fabrics engineered to fit the female form. Founder Kirstie Pike said the line consists of eight functional pieces that are “pretty tricked out and technical.” Pike put a lot of thought into what women really need in the field and her clothing line has a lot of unique details women want. “This is high-performance technical gear,” Pike said. “We want to separate ourselves from entry-level products. Those are out there. Our product is for the serious hunter.” Pike said she searched for just the right fabric for her clothing. The fabric had to provide strength, warmth and be breathable and low bulk. Pike went with a triple-bonded fabric so she could incorporate fleece, Windstopper fabric and polywicking fabrics. All of the clothing is designed to fit a woman’s body, which is its greatest selling point. When she showed her line at SHOT www.shootingindustry.com Our New 1911 Catalog #3 includes just what you need for building, maintaining and shooting the most popular pistol in history. No rifle, shotgun, or "other pistol" stuff. Packed with barrels, frames, slides, safeties, triggers, springs, grips, and more, plus all the tools you need to install them. The highest quality products from today’s most respected, custom 1911 suppliers. And, all the sights and scope mounts you’ll need for these fine pistols and the gear you need when you head to the range or field. The Brands you know and trust: Ajax, Briley, Brown, Brownells, Caspian, Clark, Cominolli, Cylinder & Slide, EGW, Essex, Hi-Viz, Heinie, Kart, Les Baer, McCormick, Nowlin, Navidrex, Novak, Millett, MGW, Pachmayr, Rescomp, Trijicon, Safariland, Schuemann, Sprinco, Smith & Alexander, Storm Lake, STI, Truglo, Wilson Combat, Weigand, Wolff, XS and lots more. 800-741-0308 • brownells.com Source Code: BP2 Circle No. 207 on Inquiry Card Show, Pike said women were constantly coming up to her saying, “Do you know how long we’ve waited for this?” Women at the show were “excited to have something built for their form. I had women hugging me they were so happy,” Pike said. Since the Próis line was just recently launched, Pike said most of their sales have been through the Internet. She does have a two-tiered dealer pricing plan and the minimum order for Level One pricing is $500. This low minimum makes it very easy for gun dealers to test the waters and see if their female customers are ready for serious hunting gear. For more information, call (970) 641-3355 or visit www.proishunting.com. 9 JUNE 2008 212008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=22http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=22Commander Gilmore Net-Bangers Tell Cops To “Come Get It!” nexpensive, simple-to-operate digital video cameras are plentiful, and posting your own videos on Web sites like YouTube is so easy that even three-times-convicted gangsters can make their own cinematic masterpieces — and then go to prison for being idiots. “Net-banging” is a new pastime for criminal gangs — posting videos essentially braggin’ about what bad boys they are. Rudy Villanueva, the reputed leader of the Bird Road Boys and his sidekick, Tony Logan, really enjoyed their 15 minutes of fame on YouTube, where they danced and postured with a variety of firearms while making death threats against Miami PD’s Metro Dade Gang Unit. “Here I am, baby,” Rudy challenged the cops. “Come get it!” he leered, pulling the trigger on an AK-47. The Gang Unit saw it, all right — and then they went and got it. Somebody should have reminded Villanueva that as a thrice-convicted felon on parole, he is prohibited from even touching guns, or hangin’ out with fellow felons like Tony. The Dangerous Duo were prob’ly hitting “replay” on their video when the doors and windows of their hideout came crashing in, filling the place with black ninja- I uniforms and guys with big guns. We don’t think they’ll be getting any awards for cinematography — or for brains, either. Illustration by Nick Petrosino Seventy-two year old Long Island resident Reinaldo Herrera was plumb tuckered out last December when he finally finished putting up his outdoor Christmas lights and shuffled into his house. He was so tired he didn’t notice he was being followed — by wannabe crook Santos Zelaya, 21. Suddenly Herrera was confronted in his living room by an angry, violent, threatening young man brandishing what turned out to be a pellet pistol, which Herrera thought was quite real. Zelaya blustered, demanding jewelry and money, and Herrera was inclined to give in. Then Zelaya gratuitously kicked over Herrera’s Christmas tree and nativity scene — and the fight was on! “Jesus, Mary and the wise men all fell to the ground,” Herrera later explained to officers. That’s when Zelaya went down under a barrage of punches. “I don’t know where I got the power. I punched him many, many times, and he got afraid,” said the five-foot six-inch supermarket worker. Zelaya finally fought his way out of 22 JUNE 2008 Now You’ve Done It! Herrera’s house, but police picked him up quickly. In the chill December night, he was the only idiot running around without a coat on. Zelaya’s coat was still clenched in one of Herrera’s fists. Smokey Taylor, an 80-year old retired U.S. Army Special Forces sergeant, is the oldest member of Chapter XXXIII of the Special Forces Association. Widely respected by all, he never dreamed he would be brought up on charges in a special tribunal of that organization. Following an incident with a knife-wielding burglar, his fellow association members charged him with “failing to use a weapon of sufficient caliber” to get the job done right, as he had been trained to do. Smokey’s “trial” was all in fun. He had been awakened by an intruder breaking into his Brevard, N.C., home. Smokey grabbed the closest weapon at hand — a .22-caliber pistol — and investigated. He found himself face to face with a knife-wielding thug. When the burglar refused to submit or back One Hard Head off, Smokey popped him with one round right in the forehead — and was almost hit by the slug as it bounced off! “That boy had the hardest head I’ve ever seen,” Taylor said after his “trial.” The burglar sorta stumbled and fell, recovered enough to crawl, and then ran out Taylor’s door and into the street, where he was arrested a short time later suffering from a bad bruise, a splitting headache and “aromatic trousers.” He had involuntarily — and explosively — evacuated his bowels during the incident. Witnesses against Smokey complained that he could have saved the county and taxpayers the expense of a trial, postulating that he should have used a2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=23http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=23MODEL 870™ TAC-2 w/Knoxx ® SpecOps™ Stock THE REMINGTON TACTICAL FIREARMS LINEUP. Dependability. Accuracy. Technology. Just a few of the attributes that make Remington the top choice of those whose lives may someday depend on their firearms. Now, the confidence that comes with shouldering the best can be yours as well. The models shown here are just the tip of the iceberg. Remington offers a wide selection of tactical firearms ready for any situation – and ready for you to check out. See the entire Remington Tactical lineup and download a brochure today at www.remington.com/Tactical MODEL 700™ XCR TACTICAL LONG RANGE RIFLE MODEL 1100™ TAC-2 w/SpeedFeed ® IV Stock MODEL 7615™ TACTICAL RIFLE w/Knoxx ® SpecOps™ Stock ©2008 REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY, INC. www. rem ing ton. com /Tactical Circle No. 221 on Inquiry Card www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 232008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=24http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=24FASTFOCUSED DISPLAYS Carolee Anita Boyles Optimize Your Optic Presentations For Sharp Sales! O ptics sales are icing on a cake. Firearms form the foundation of your business, but the sweet profits are spread on top. And, manufacturers offer a vast number of riflescopes, spotting scopes and binoculars for hunters — and anglers and birdwatchers. “You don’t make money on guns,” said Ron Wright, owner of Wright’s Sport Shop in Newport, Vt. “But you can make money on optics.” You can’t sell optics if your custom- ers don’t know you have them. And they won’t know you have them if you don’t display them in a way that makes them say, “Come pick me up and see what I can do for you!” “There are some dealers who do a very good job of presenting and selling optics,” said Arnd Abraham, director of sales and marketing for Minox USA. “But at most stores, there’s room to improve. If optics aren’t displayed in the right place and the right way, they won’t get customers’ attention, and they won’t be sold in the quantity they could be sold.” At his shop in Vermont, Wright said the most important part of selling optics is to have them where customers can’t miss seeing them. “That’s 99 percent of selling them,” he said. “I display my optics where customers walk in the door. I have nice glass and mahogany showcases with curved glass. All the optics sit on glass shelves and are laid out so you can see them well.” And Wright keeps them absolutely spotless. Carson’s packaging offers award-winning graphics that attract customers’ attention and increase sales. 24 JUNE 2008 www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=25http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=25Ron Wright, owner of Wright’s Sport Shop, says displaying optics properly is 99 percent of the sale. “Everything is cleaned and dusted every day,” he said. Abraham suggests placing some optics at eye level. “Display optics in a place where the customer can comfortably have a look at them,” Abraham said. “A very common, but not perfect place, for example, is under the counter. Then the customer has to kneel down to have a look at them, or the items are only put on the counter on request. This doesn’t create additional sales.” Abraham says dealers should have at least one well-placed showcase where they really present the merchandise to their customers. “Even better is having an open display so the customer can touch and test the optics. Place that display in a good location near a window, and people will start trying the items. This will create additional sales,” Abraham said. www.shootingindustry.com Reduce Customer Confusion ne thing customers can find very confusing, said Pat Mundy, marketing communications supervisor at Leupold, is the number of products in a given display. “Many bigger stores have a lot of products,” Mundy said. “It’s easy to get those products mixed together so the customer gets overwhelmed at the counter. Because smaller stores often have less to display, they sometimes do a better job of both displaying optics and of explaining one-on-one to the customer what a particular product does.” One role of a good display, Mundy said, is to separate products into categories and brands so customers can see very clearly what you have available for them. “If you don’t have a good display, or a display that stands out, you run the risk of your store losing ground to retailers who do good displays,” Mundy said. “A good display really separates your products out, and is particularly helpful when a customer comes in with a preconceived idea of what he wants to buy — it’s much easier for him to find what he’s looking for.” To improve optics displays, Mundy said, one of the best things you can do is utilize manufacturers’ point-of-sale displays. “All optics manufacturers try to supply good displays to help retailers do their jobs,” Mundy said. “But sometimes that’s hard to do because some of the displays are large and take up too much room.” If you don’t have room for some of those larger displays, Mundy said, finding a way to keep the brands separated in a smaller display area can reduce the customer’s confusion and make it easier for him to find what he wants. JUNE 2008 25 O2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=26http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=26Knowledge Is Power I ncreasing your optic sales goes beyond good displays. Selling optics effectively also means qualifying your customer and going through the sales process. “The first thing I ask every customer is what kind of money he wants to put into his purchase,” Wright said. He also makes sure his frontliners are educated. “Education is a big thing in optics,” Wright said. “My whole crew knows what they’re selling, and are very familiar with the details of the products.” Abraham agrees that education is vital. “Good training of salespeople is just as important as good displays,” Abraham said. “This not only will improve sales on sport optics, it also gives the customer better service because the salesperson can analyze what the customer is going to use the item for and can sell him the right product. The customer will enjoy the product much more because it perfectly fits his needs.” Being sure frontliners are well trained is not only in the retailer’s interest, Abraham said, but in the manufacturer’s interest as well; as a result, many manufacturers provide information and training for retailers. “Education is huge,” Mundy said. “Our sales reps are excellent at educating retail- Among a variety of in-store displays offered by Minox to its dealers, the tall, vertical display is the most popular. ers, and as a company we back that up with training initiatives. We have someone who provides training to retail sales force people, and he also provides training to our sales reps to help them do a better job. All of that allows the sales force at the point of purchase to be better informed, and to do a better job of separating features and benefits between brands and between lines within a brand.” Knowledge is power, Mundy said. “That’s never more true than at the point of sale, no matter what you’re selling,” Mundy said. “The more the salesperson knows, the better job he or she will be able to do explaining the product to the customer, and making customers feel more comfortable.” Wright makes a point of letting his customers handle optics, and encourages them to take optics outside and see how they perform in “real-light” situations. “It’s hard to look through binoculars or a scope inside the store and see how they’re going to perform,” he said. Wright always goes outside with the customer and takes that opportunity to discuss the features and benefits of the particular item the customer is holding. Don’t Forget Add-Ons f you’re selling optics, you also need to stock all the bases, mounts and rings that go with them. “Dealers should take every opportunity to sell add-on products, such as mounts for riflescopes and products such as cleaning accessories for optics,” Abraham said. Wright makes sure he has whatever the customer needs when he purchases a gun/ scope combination. “I have every mount for every rifle,” I Wright said. “I have probably $7,000 to $8,000 just in mounts on display.” Mundy agrees that a good selection of these smaller items is important. “There are myriad firearms out there and often one firearm can take a number of rings and bases,” Mundy said. “Knowing the best application of mounts and rings for the caliber and the type of firearm, and for the type of shooting the person is doing, is just as important as picking the right type of scope.” You can take this concept a little further, Mundy said, and include other scope accessories, such as flip-up covers to protect lenses, retractable ballistics charts that can be attached to the tube of the scope and lenscleaning equipment. “And mounting tools are really great for the guy who wants to mount his own scope,” Mundy said. Leupold’s display presents its riflescopes in an inviting manner. 26 JUNE 2008 www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=27http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=27Get Results ood displays and attentive customer service get results. “I sell a scope with every gun I sell,” Wright said. “I sell binoculars to bird watchers. I sell everything.” Displays take you only so far to help increase sales, Mundy said, and then it’s up to the salesperson’s expertise. “When you have a well-trained salesperson, that helps reinforce everything that’s on a good display,” he said. To learn what displays your optics manufacturers offer, contact your distributors or sales reps. 9 G With Millett Precision Hunting Optics and Mounting System Millett windage adjustable scope mount systems are the most significant improvement to the traditional Weaver-Style mount in many years. All components are made of heat treated nickel steel for rock solid durability. When compared to others, 3 - 12 X 44 AO Millett scopes & scope mounts can’t be beat! Vortex Optics offers a variety of sales tools, including a Binocular Riser and counter mats that highlight product features. Turn-In Mounts OPTICS SALES ADCO . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .248 Aimpoint . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 249 Alpen Outdoors Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . .250 Barska . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .251 Brunton . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .252 BSA Optics Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .253 B-Square Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .254 Burris Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .255 Bushnell Outdoor Products . . . . . . . .256 Butler Creek Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .257 Canon USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .258 Carson Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .259 CenterPoint Precision Optics . . . . . . .260 Conetrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .261 Dynamit Nobel RWS . . . . . . . . . . . .262 Elcan Optical Technologies . . . . . . . .263 Fujinon Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .264 Horus Vision . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .265 Kahles N .A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .266 Kowa Optimed . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .267 Kruger Optical . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .268 Leica USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .269 Leupold & Stevens . . . . . . . . . . . . .270 Meopta Sports Optics . . . . . . . . . . . .271 Meprolight . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .272 www.shootingindustry.com Millett New Generation Side Focus Scope Series Angle-Loc Mounts 4 - 16 X 56 Side Focus Available in three reticles 1 (800) 645-5388 16131 Gothard Street • Huntington Beach, CA 92647 (714) 842-5575 • FAX (714) 843-5707 • www.millettsights.com Circle No. 218 on Inquiry Card Millett Sights . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .273 Minox USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .274 Nikon Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .275 Pentax Corp . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .276 Quake Industries . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .277 Redfield Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .278 Schmidt & Bender . . . . . . . . . . . . . .279 Sightron . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .280 Simmons Outdoor . . . . . . . . . . . . . .281 Smith Abrasives . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .282 Springfield Armory . . . . . . . . . . . . .283 Steiner . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .284 Swarovski Optik . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .285 Swift Instruments Inc . . . . . . . . . . . .286 Tasco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .410 Thompson/Center Arms . . . . . . . . . .287 Trijicon Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .288 U .S . Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .289 Vortex Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .290 Warne Manufacturing . . . . . . . . . . .291 Weaver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .292 Winchester Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .293 Yukon Advanced Optics . . . . . . . . . .294 Zeiss Sports Optics . . . . . . . . . . . . . .295 JUNE 2008 272008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=28http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=28©2008 Shooters Ridge® SR151 Send your customers into the field with the latest in portable shooting benches. . . the Voyager Shooting System from Shooters Ridge®. This fully-functional handcart hauls gear and game with ease and converts into a shooting bench in just seconds. Best of all, shooters can quickly and quietly pull up stakes and reposition for non-stop shooting action. Portable. Stable. Versatile. The Voyager from Shooters Ridge. And remember, any customer purchasing $30 or more of Shooters Ridge® products receives a FREE multi-tool (a $24.99 value)! TM To learn more about the Voyager Shooting System, call (800) 635-7566 Circle No. 203 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=29http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=29HANDGUN ACCESSORY SALES John Morrison In a a Galaxy Galaxy of of Gizmos, Gizmos, Where’s Where’s The The Money? Money? In J ust keeping track of all the new handgun models is tough enough for a busy retailer, but along with every new gun brochure seems to come an encyclopedia of accessories. Individual items can be dazzling, but the sheer num- bers can be dizzying. To find out what’s hot, what’s not and which stars shine in a galaxy of gizmos, Shooting Industry asked several industry experts and savvy dealers for input. Their advice? Focus on the carefully chosen few rather than the confusing many, look for high-visibility products with broad appeal and specific advantages for buyers — and, of course, look for the best margins to increase your profits. Ed Santos (left), owner of Center Target Sports, doesn’t let a handgun purchase go out the door without an accessory sale — in this case, an appropriate holster. www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 292008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=30http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=30Get a Grip, And Keep Sights In Sight! “H andgun grips are by far the most popular add-on accessory,” said Raj Singh, owner of Eagle Grips. “And they can also be your easiest accessory sale.” Singh is the second-generation owner of family-operated Eagle Grips, with 35 years of retail and wholesale experience. “Grips enhance both the appearance and ergonomics of a handgun, and they’re one of the few accessories a buyer can install at home with a screwdriver in two minutes. But they won’t sell themselves,” Singh warned. “Grips have great visual appeal, especially the exotics like sambar stag, buffalo horn and mother of pearl. To maximize that appeal, display them right alongside your handguns where buyers can easily visualize them on their own guns,” Singh said. Eagle Grips’ Buffalo Horn grips are “Also, knowing your customers is key. popular with single-action customers. Cowboy-action shooters are very enthusiastic grip buyers, sometimes owning multiple sets of grips for the same gun. They’ll change them to complement their colorful period costumes. That’s why we offer our CASS- and CMSA-approved gunfighter and cowboy-action grips in so many materials and colors,” Singh said. “When a handgunner comes in wearing a cap or other garment indicating they’re a veteran, a patriotic citizen or a Second Amendment supporter, all it may take is saying, ‘Let me show you these Patriot grips,’ to pick up a quick sale,” Singh said. Steve Hines, president of Ergo Grips, says grips can help you move used guns. “Tactical and defensive pistols tend New sights, such as these from Advantage Tactical, to have flat, non-reflective finishes — are best sold when mounted on a handgun. not very eye-catching. With hard use, they’re even less attractive, and cracked or worn original grips almost guarantee a gun will gather dust, not make you money,” Hines said. “Put a new set of contrasting Ergo XTRs and a GRIPITS frontstrap in coyote brown or foliage green on that veteran Beretta, and you’ve renewed about 50 percent of the pistol, given it a great new feel, and increased its perceived value far beyond your investment.” Hines recommends another add-on. “About the only thing you could add to make it look even better is a new set of sights,” Hines said. “That’s true,” said Richard Nasef, president of WrenTech Industries and the inventor of Advantage Tactical Sights. “Dingy, banged-up sights are a major turn-off for buyers. Highly visible new sights coupled with new grips make for terrific appeal.” Nasef says that one of the best things a dealer can do to sell sights is to create a small area dedicated to aftermarket sights. “Call it ‘Sight Central’ or whatever you like, but clearly state ‘Competition — Tactical — Self-Defense: We Have Your Sights!’ or something similar,” Nasef said. “On four handguns, you could mount one set of quality microadjustable target sights, like LPAs from Precision Sights International, two guns with popular tritium-lit sights like Trijicon or Meprolight, and how about a set of my Advantage Tactical Sights?” Nasef has one final sales tip. “The best sights won’t sell just sitting in a box. Invite customers to pick up those guns and sight in! Nothing beats having a customer actually sighting down them,” Nasef said. Accessorizing Glocks I t’s almost unbelievable that Lone Wolf Distributors, the world’s largest source of Glock aftermarket parts and accessories, carries over 1,500 SKUs for a pistol with only 32 parts. Lone Wolf’s founder, J.R. Shepard, surveyed his dealer sales sheets and told us what the top performers are. “Sights are always strong,” Shepard said, naming AmeriGlo and XS 24/7 sights as frontrunners, with Advantage Tactical Sights coming on fast. “Stainless steel replacements for OEM plastic guide rods and our drop-in improved trigger and spring systems are hot. But the real sizzlers — and best moneymakers — are our drop-in caliber conversion sets!” JUNE 2008 Shepard emphasized that these are true drop-ins. “No gunsmithin2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=31http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=31Ranges Rule When Selling Lights, Lasers amily Indoor Shooting Range in Indianapolis, Ind., is a full-spectrum gun shop as well as a booming recreational shooting and training facility. Mike Hilton says having a range is a great aid to accessory sales. “When conducting basic or advanced handgun training, students get to see and use lots of the products we carry, and that really boosts sales,” Hilton said. “For example, we’ve carried LaserMax laser sights for years. We keep several lasers on range guns and use them when teaching trigger control. Not only can students clearly see the effects F The Holsters Plus Sure-Lock 3-10 is a hot seller at Center Target Sports. An innovative retention feature makes it both fast and secure. of jerking the trigger, they’re immediately impressed with the value of a laser in rapid target acquisition.” Of course, Hilton offers the sights and other accessories in the retail section of his operation. “In displays in the shop, we’ll place a LaserMax box next to a Glock,” Hilton said. “We also have a monitor showing a video of LaserMax lasers in use, and keep laser-equipped blue guns on the counter. They’re a visually oriented product, so you have to keep them visible.” Ed Santos, owner of Center Target Sports, in Post Falls, Idaho, also capitalizes on his range and extensive training programs to expose shooters to available accessories. “Our students frequently purchase the same holsters, lights and other accessories we use in training,” Santos said. “The real practical value of these products is demonstrated by our instructors and then underscored by personal use on the range.” Santos named First Light’s Liberator and Tomahawk tactical lights as top sellers, as well as SureFire’s L-7 and E-Gear PDL-2. Fast movers in holsters at Center Target Sports include the Holsters Plus Sure-Lock 3-10 retention holster and the cost-effective Master line from JBP Holsters. “Your staff should be skilled and smooth at using and explaining the features of these accessories and guiding buyers in trying them out. That,” Santos emphasized, “is your fast track to sales.” “The value of blue guns simply can’t be overstated,” said Lane Tobiassen, director of marketing for Crimson Trace. “Our LaserGrips are far more easily demonstrated than explained. The basics — use of the master on/off and activation switches, windage and elevation adjustment and battery replacement — can be quickly followed by a demonstration of using the laser to shoot from awkward or concealed positions, and speed of target acquisition. When the user feels the intuitive activation — and sees how much it adds in speed and accuracy — the product sells itself.” Tobiassen pointed out that blue guns No Range? Try Blue Guns! DARK, SLEEK, AND CURVY SEEKS LIFE LONG RELATIONSHIP I ENJOY LONG DAYS AT THE RANGE I’M TRUSTWORTHY, I’M RELIABLE, AND I’LL BE FAITHFUL TO THE END. AND I LOVE TO BE HELD. THE AR-24. FALL IN LOVE. www.shootingindustry.com Circle No. 202 on Inquiry Card JUNE 2008 312008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=32http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=32Lone Wolf Knives makes cutting anything “Look Good!” Paul Executive with Cocobolo Handle LM23410 Paul® Executive, 2.5 inch blade, Patented Paul lock system locks blade open and closed, marble Cocobolo handles, 1.6 oz. LM23410. Also available with 3-D Carbon Fiber handles LM23415. also provide a “comfort defense or home-defense factor” for novice shootneeds, like specialized ammunition, lights, lessers and are irresistible to lethal products? These browsers who may not clues tell you the customhave been in the market er’s interests and willingfor a laser sight. “Since it’s not an acness to buy.” tual firearm, many customers will be more The bottom line? Train comfortable handling yourself and your staff to it, pointing it and tryalways keep accessory ing out the controls,” sales in mind, no matter what the customer is in Tobiassen said. “Too, your shop for. simply having a laserBlue guns help sell accessories, like Crimson Trace’s LaserGrips. • Watch and listen for equipped blue gun disclues that will tip you to play on your counter show off specific products appealing to draws curious customers like a magnet. “Our displays are user-friendly and in- the customer’s individual tastes, affiliaviting,” he said. “They say ‘Try Me!’ and tions and interests. ‘Aim Here!’ And, it’s fun for the customers, • Be smooth and practiced in demonas well as a great introduction for a sale.” strating operating features and advantages. Echoing the advice of others, Tobias• Place the most visually appealing sen said training your staff is important, products in your customers’ line of sight not just in a product’s features and use, but and eagerly offer “hands-on” experience in determining who is a likely buyer. with grips, sights, lights, lasers and more. “Have they purchased a handgun for • Remember, a low price-point doesn’t concealed carry?” Tobaissen said. “Have mean a low margin — a pile of fast nickels they purchased or asked about other self- beats a slow dime every time! 9 Diablo-DA Micarta® LD23153 Scale release automatic or manual one-handed-opening. 3.3 inch CPM-S30V blade, locking-liner, green/black layered Micarta®, 4.1 oz LD23153. Also available in one-handed-opening’ Non-automatic version LC23156. HANDGUN ACCESSORIES Ajax Custom Grips . . . . . . . . . . . . . 296 AmeriGlo . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 297 Beretta USA . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 298 Bianchi International . . . . . . . . . . . 299 Birchwood Casey . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 300 BLACKHAWK! . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 301 Blade-Tech . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 302 Break-Free . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 303 Brownells . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 304 Browning . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 305 B-Square Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 306 Butler Creek . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 307 Chip McCormick Corp . . . . . . . . . . . 308 Crimson Trace . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 309 Decal Grip . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 310 DeSantis Holsters . . . . . . . . . . . . . 311 Eagle Grips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 312 Ed Brown Products . . . . . . . . . . . . 313 ERGO Grips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 314 First Light . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 315 Fobus U .S .A . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 316 Galco International . . . . . . . . . . . . 317 Glock . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 318 Gould & Goodrich . . . . . . . . . . . . . 319 Gunslick . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 320 HiViz . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 321 HKS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 322 Hogue Grips . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 323 Holsters Plus . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 324 Hoppe’s . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 325 Insight Technology . . . . . . . . . . . . 326 Laser Devices . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 327 9373 SW Barber Street, Ste A. Wilsonville, OR 97070 Dealer Locator At www.lonewolfknives.com Circle No. 215 on Inquiry Card LaserLyte . . . . . 2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=33http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=33SHOWDOWN IN GUN VALLEY We’re Calling You Out! TIME TO STEP OUTSIDE AND SHOOT! Limber up your trigger finger, practice your steely eyed stare and plan to join teams from inside the industry for the Sixth Annual Shooting Industry Masters. 2008 Sponsors: Hartford Gun Club • East Granby, Conn. This three-gun shooting match features handgun, rifle and skeet/trap events. Shooters will be able to shoot in one of two classes: the Open Class for those who want to compete against professional shooters, and the Industry Class for everyday shooters who just want to have fun without the stress. A raffle of incredible items donated by companies throughout the shooting industry will be held during the event to raise funds for the NSSF’s Step Outside® Program. July 25-26, 2008 SIGN UP YOUR TEAM TODAY! EVENT SCHEDULE: Masters Team Check-In at the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Awards presentation Handgun, Rifle & Trap/Skeet team events & lunch Masters Awards Banquet with Raffle to benefit the National Shooting Sports Foundation’s Step Outside® Program For additional information, including donating raffle prizes, raffle tickets, area airport and hotel information, please visit www.shootingindustry.com or contact Elizabeth Jarrell at (800) 537-3006 ext. 279. E-mail: elizabeth@shootingindustry.com BENEFITTING: Friday, July 25, 2008 Saturday, July 26, 2008 Saturday Evening National Shooting Sports Foundation’s To download team entry form, go to: http://shootingindustry.com/08SIMstrs.html SPONSORED BY: Mail or FAX with payment to: FMG Publications 12345 World Trade Dr. San Diego, CA 92128 FAX (858) 605-0247 Open Class Champions ’07: Team Smith & Wesson No Gun? No Excuse. Loaner guns will be available for each event. Match Ammunition, Shooter’s Goody Bag, Match Lunch and Awards Dinner www.shootingindustry.com ALL Included with your Entry Fee! JUNE 2008 332008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=34http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=34Quality time with family and friends doesn’t just happen around the dinner table. Introduce newcomers to the shooting activities you love and win yourself $1,000. ® win one of five $1,000 prizes. Steve Sanetti, president, NSSF HuntandShoot.org/StepOutside Circle No. 244 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=35http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=35Shooting Industry Masters Industry Challenge FMG Publications Salutes Our 2008 Shooting Industry Masters Sponsors Ellett Brothers proudly supports and participates in the Shooting Industry Masters Join us at the Sixth Annual Three-Gun Match Set For July 25-26 Thank You For Stepping Up To Help The Step Outside Program! Hartford Gun Club East Granby, CT Circle No. 237 on Inquiry Card Check Out Our Product Selection Contact Your Local Service Professional Making a Di erence for Retailers Every Day New York 800.458.4867 Florida 800.541.4867 Nevada 800.634.4867 Texas 800.752.4867 Wisconsin 800.832.4867 » Diverse product selection » Competitive prices » Same-day shipping » Exclusive products » Knowledgeable sales sta » Five sales centers across the US Circle No. 246 on Inquiry Card www.RSRGROUP.com Circle No. 234 on Inquiry Card RSRGroup_SIM-Ad.indd 1 For more information on the Shooting Industry Masters, call 1-800-537-3006 ext. 279, or visit www.shootingindustry.com www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 35 5/2/08 5:03:29 PM2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=36http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=36Shooting Industry Masters Industry Challenge www.dpmsinc.com Circle No. 243 on Inquiry Card Circle No. 236 on Inquiry Card Circle No. 230 on Inquiry Card For more information on the Shooting Industry Masters, call 1-800-537-3006 ext. 279, or visit www.shootingindustry.com 36 JUNE 2008 www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=37http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=37Circle No. 238 on Inquiry Card Circle No. 233 on Inquiry Card ONE Goal. Ruger is Proud to Sponsor ® Three Teams, SHOOTING INDUSTRY MASTERS 2008 W W W . R U G E R . C O M Circle No. 247 on Inquiry Card For more information on the Shooting Industry Masters, call 1-800-537-3006 ext. 279, or visit www.shootingindustry.com www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 372008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=38http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=38Shooting Industry Masters Industry Challenge SHOOTING INDUSTRY MASTERS PROUD TO BE A SPONSOR OF AN INDUSTRY LEADER SINCE 1939 PROUD TO SHOOT WITH OTHER INDUSTRY LEADERS Source Code: BS8 800-741-0015 brownells.com Circle No. 235 on Inquiry Card Circle No. 232 on Inquiry Card CONSISTENTLY THE WINNER’S CHOICE. Produced with extremely tight tolerances, every round is the same crushing blend of pattern uniformity and light recoil. Lose yourself in the moment with Remington® STS, and find yourself alone at the top in no time. ©2008 REMINGTON ARMS COMPANY, INC. Circle No. 231 on Inquiry Card 08REM3790_STSad_QtrPg_SI.indd 1 Circle No. 245 on Inquiry Card 5/15/08 10:42:13 AM For more information on the Shooting Industry Masters, call 1-800-537-3006 ext. 279, or visit www.shootingindustry.com 38 JUNE 2008 www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=39http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=39ImpactSport_1-4pg_SI_0408:2008 3/25/08 2:07 PM Page 1 Amplifies Sound While Automatically Blocking Hazardous Noise • Directionally placed stereo microphones enhance sound for more natural hearing while blocking harmful impact noise • Comfortable, contemporary, low profile earcup design for all-day comfort • External audio jack, allows you to connect to any audio source • Compact, folding design • Auto shut-off extends battery life Impact Sport ™ SOUND AMPLIFICATION EARMUFF For more information contact your local distributor or call: 866-786-2353. Visit us at: www.howardleightshootingsports.com Circle No. 240 on Inquiry Card Circle No. 241 on Inquiry Card Model 336SC ammunition, you can enjoy the performance, and style of the classic Marlin Model 336 lever-action rifle. Along with all the accuracy you’re ever likely to need. www.marlinfirearms.com © 2008 Marlin Firearms Only from Marlin® . With today’s new flexible-tip Circle No. 239 on Inquiry Card Circle No. 242 on Inquiry Card 08MAR3367_SI_MastersAd_layouts.indd 2 5/8/08 3:11:42 PM For more information on the Shooting Industry Masters, call 1-800-537-3006 ext. 279, or visit www.shootingindustry.com www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 392008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=40http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=40The companies listed have featured advertisements or products in this issue. Look to them first when you are ready to make a purchase. Companies 2008 Shooting Industry Masters Amchar Wholesale Armalite ATK/Shooters Ridge ATK/Weaver Barska Bianchi Brownells DKG Trading Fobus Holsters Gametamers Insight Technology Kinsey’s Archery Kwik-Site Lewis Machine & Tool Lone Wolf Knives Lyman Mec-Gar USA Millett Minox USA Pelican Products Remington Savage Arms Scherer Supplies Sightron Smith & Wesson Springfield Ten Point Crossbow Traditions Performance Trijicon Circle # ---201 202 203 204 205 206 207 208 209 210 211 212 213 214 215 216 217 218 219 220 221 222 223 224 225 226 227 228 229 230 231 232 233 234 235 236 237 238 239 240 241 242 243 244 245 246 247 248 249 250 251 252 253 254 255 256 257 258 259 260 261 262 263 264 265 266 267 268 269 270 271 272 Page 33 21 31 28 48 13 14 21 10 6 19 5 10 43 44 32 12 12 27 9 17 23 2 5 7 1 47 17 15 3 36 38 38 37 35 38 36 35 37 39 39 39 39 36 34 38 35 37 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 Companies Millett Sights Minox USA Nikon Inc. Pentax Corp. Quake Industries Redfield Optics Schmidt & Bender Sightron Simmons Outdoor Smith Abrasives Springfield Armory Steiner Swarovski Optik Swift Instruments Inc. Tasco Thompson/Center Arms Trijicon Inc. U.S. Optics Vortex Optics Warne Manufacturing Weaver Winchester Optics Yukon Advanced Optics Zeiss Sports Optics Ajax Custom Grips AmeriGlo Beretta USA Bianchi International Birchwood Casey BlackHawk Blade-Tech Break-Free Brownells Browning B-Square Co. Butler Creek Chip McCormick Corp. Crimson Trace Decal Grip DeSantis Holsters Eagle Grips Ed Brown Products ERGO Grips First Light USA Fobus U.S.A. Galco International Glock Gould & Goodrich Gunslick HiViz HKS Hogue Grips Holsters Plus Hoppe’s Insight Technology Laser Devices LaserLyte LaserMax Lone Wolf Distributors Lyman Products Mag-na-port Mec-Gar USA Meprolight MidwayUSA Millett Sights Milt Sparks Holsters Mitch Rosen MMC Sights Novak’s Sights Otis Outers Pachmayr Ltd. Pearce Grip Precision Sights International ProMag Ranch Products Circle # 273 274 275 276 277 278 279 280 281 282 283 284 285 286 410 287 288 289 290 291 292 293 294 295 296 297 298 299 300 301 302 303 304 305 306 307 308 309 310 311 312 313 314 315 316 317 318 319 320 321 322 323 324 325 326 327 328 329 330 331 332 333 334 335 336 337 338 339 340 341 342 343 344 345 346 347 Page 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 24 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 Companies Safariland Scherer Sig Sauer Silencio Speer Springfield Armory SureFire The Hunter Co. Trijicon Inc. Triple K TruGlo Uncle Mike’s Wiley-X Williams Gun Sight Wilson Combat WrenTech Industries XS Sight Systems Accurate Arms Co. American Pioneer Powder Barnes Bullets Bushnell Outdoor Products CCI Cheyenne Cartridge Box Co. Circle Fly Wads Connecticut Valley Arms (CVA) Dixie Gun Works E.M.F. Co. Federal Premium Goex Hodgdon Powder Co. Hornady Mfg. Co. Knight Rifles Leupold & Stevens Lyman Muzzleloaders Mountain State Muzzleloading MTM Case-Gard Co. Navy Arms New England Firearms Nikon Nosler Inc. PowerBelt Bullets RCBS Redding Remington Arms Co. Savage Arms Shiloh Rifle Mfg. Taylor’s & Co. Tennessee Valley Mfg. Thompson/Center Arms Traditions Performance Firearms Triple K Mfg. United States Fire Arms Vihtavuori Walters Wads White Rifles Winchester Ammunition Circle # 348 349 350 351 352 353 354 355 356 357 358 359 360 361 362 363 364 365 366 367 368 369 370 371 372 373 374 375 376 377 378 379 380 381 411 382 383 384 385 386 387 388 389 390 391 392 393 394 395 396 397 398 399 400 401 402 403 404 405 406 407 408 409 Page 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 29 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 41 44 44 44 45 45 2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=41http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=41Mark Kayser SELLING T T o be a successful, safe blackpowder enthusiast, muzzleloaders constantly adopt new trends and upgrade their current setups — which is exactly how dealers should approach their black-powder sales. Embracing what’s been selling in the past will result in lackluster sales. To keep your black-powder sales strong, learn the current muzzleloader trends and what’s driving sales. Nearly every state offers special muzzleloader hunting seasons or, at the very least, the use of muzzleloaders during big-game seasons. Hunters living in states with shotgun-only zones also embrace the new class of muzzleloaders, because of their increased accuracy and range over conventional shotguns. This is good news for dealers. Unlike many hunting and sporting pursuits, big-game hunting has not lost participants in more than 10 years of surveys, according to the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s 2006 National Survey of Fishing, Hunting and Wildlife Associated Recreation. Sporting-goods stores and gun shops still have a base of more than 10 million deer hunters and more than 12 million big-game hunters to sell to — folks who are serious spenders. Overall, U.S. hunters spent $23.5 billion in 2006 on hunting-related pursuits, the bulk of which was for big game. That’s a 24-percent increase from 1991 to 2006. What does that mean to you, the dealer? Times are changing, and in order for your profits to increase, your knowledge and attitude about muzzeloading must mature as well. Hornady’s Lock-N-Load Speed Sabot allows preloading pellets onto Hornady’s SST-ML bullet. MUZZLELOADING For Success, Know The Trends, Your Hunting Seasons TODAY’S Traditions’ Yukon inline muzzleloader features a unique drop-breech action. www.shootingindustry.com JUNE 2008 412008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=42http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=42Longer Seasons Create More Sales G .A.T. Guns, a full-service dealer with more than 1,500 firearms on display at any given time, understands the importance of keeping up with trends in the muzzleloader market. Located 45 minutes west of Chicago in Dundee, G.A.T. has served Illinois gun owners since 1979. Store Manager Randy Potter says his sales have increased because of the state’s longer hunting seasons. “One of the biggest changes I’ve witnessed in the last 10 years or so is the guy who came in and bought the cheapest muzzleloader he could because he was only going to hunt with it for three or four days,” Potter said. “Now he has the opportunity to hunt with it more throughout the entire season and he’s spending more to ensure success.” Potter recalls when most hunters would spend $400 for everything, from the muzzleloader to accessories. Today it’s a different story. Now customers spend $500 to $800 on a muzzleloader. Then they shop for a riflescope, spending $300 to $400, and complete their shopping spree with $100 in accessories. “They are investing more because it’s Randy Potter, G.A.T. Guns store manager, ensures solid sales by offering a wide variety of muzzleloaders and accessories. something they are not afraid of; they have more opportunities to hunt and it’s a great way to kill a big buck in Illinois,” Potter said. The store dedicates 70 square feet solely to muzzleloader accessories. G.A.T. Guns has at least 25 muzzleloaders on display and they handle custom-order requests. Current Trends Draw Customers ow often do hunters update their muzzleloader setup? Potter believes modern enhancements have increased updates from a one-time purchase 10 years ago to a purchase every three to five years. “Even though great updates hit the market each year, most of our customers are sticking with their current muzzleloader setup for three to five years,” Potter said. H “We are seeing hunters who bought their equipment six to eight years ago coming in and updating, but the guy who purchased a T/C Omega or Encore is still pretty satisfied with its performance, and it will take a major change for them to change.” According to Potter, the traditional market accounts for approximately 10 percent of muzzleloader sales, if that. His remaining sales fall to modern in-lines with Thompson/Center models are the top-selling muzzleloaders at G.A.T. Guns. Thompson/Center topping G.A.T. Guns’ best-seller list. Customers who walk in and ask to see the T/C brand first are “an everyday occurrence,” Potter said. He also stocks Traditions, Knight and CVA brands. Potter says T/C’s marketing plan and their technology, which makes cleaning easier, are the two components that drive customers to T/C models. His strong sellers are the Encore Endeavor, which comes with Speed Breech XT, and the Triumph, T/C’s new magnum muzzleloader. Even though 99 out of every 100 muzzleloaders sold go to the hunting crowd, Potter sees a small burst of traditional sales around Christmas, particularly with kit guns and Hawken-style muzzleloaders. From Thanksgiving until Christmas, nearly 50 percent of all muzzleloader sales at G.A.T. Guns are for traditional blackpowder rifles or kits, including muzzleloader pistol kits. “They are small, easy to assemble and relatively cheap with a price of less than $120. It’s the perfect gift for the muzzleloader enthusiast who has everything,” Potter said. 42 JUNE 2008 www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=43http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=43Cash In On Accessories or years, muzzleloader wannabes com- hot-ticket items these days in muzzleloader plained about the time it took to keep a sales, but that doesn’t mean you can’t have traditional muzzleloader clean and the time products in stock. You just need to realize it took to work up an accurate load. Those what sells the best, and stock what customdays are gone. Modern muzzleers demand,” Potter said. loaders clean easily, don’t In powder, Potter need to be cleaned as often says Pyrodex is his sales and shoot more accurately. leader with Jim ShockPotter sees this as both ey’s Gold from Ameria positive and a negative. can Pioneer Powder Easier care means less gaining market share. sales in cleaning products, “(Shockey’s) Gold acbut it also means more counts for 25 percent of overall sales in muzzlepowder sales with Pyroloaders and other products. dex pellets making up 65 “Cleaning products and percent. Loose powder the tools required to mainrounds out the rest of powtain a muzzleloader are pretder sales,” Potter said. ty important to us,” Potter As for muzzleloader said. “Even so, accessories bullets, Potter stocks a aren’t as big as they used to wide selection of Powerbe a decade or so ago. You belt bullets, but says he don’t need as many tools sells more sabots, with to run a modern in-line as T/C’s line making up the compared to a traditional majority of the sales. muzzleloader. That said, we In optics, Potter sells still carry an extended line of riflescopes with 60 to accessories including T/C, 70 percent of all muzTraditions and CVA cleanzleloaders purchased at ing products. Muzzleloaders G.A.T. Guns. still require cleaning — just “Leupold and Nikon not as often.” are the biggest sellers in Potter doesn’t see as muzzleloading scopes. many “must-have” muzzleCustomers are big into the loader accessories as he Omega scope by Nikon did before the mass introwith its BDC reticle. It Outers’ Black Powder duction of in-lines. The inallows them to hold over, Cleaning Kit includes an creased number of hunters with exact aiming for lonaluminum rod, bore cleaner now drives his strong sales. ger shots, and that’s today’s concentrate and other “There are not as many trend,” Potter said. 9 cleaning accessories. F MUZZLELOADING SALES Accurate Arms Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . American Pioneer Powder . . . . . . . . Barnes Bullets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Bushnell Outdoor Products . . . . . . . . CCI . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Cheyenne Cartridge Box Co . . . . . . . . Circle Fly Wads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Connecticut Valley Arms (CVA) . . . . . Dixie Gun Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . E .M .F . Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Federal Premium . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Goex . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hodgdon Powder Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . Hornady Mfg . Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Knight Rifles . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Leupold & Stevens . . . . . . . . . . . . . Lyman Muzzleloaders . . . . . . . . . . . Mountain State Muzzleloading . . . . . www.shootingindustry.com 365 366 367 368 369 370 371 372 373 374 375 376 377 378 379 380 381 411 MTM Case-Gard Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . Navy Arms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . New England Firearms . . . . . . . . . . . Nikon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Nosler Inc . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . PowerBelt Bullets . . . . . . . . . . . . . . RCBS . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Redding . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Remington Arms Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . Savage Arms . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Shiloh Rifle Mfg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Taylor’s & Co . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . Tennessee Valley Mfg . . . . . . . . . . . . Thompson/Center Arms . . . . . . . . . . Traditions Performance Firearms . . . Triple K Mfg . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . United States Fire Arms . . . . . . . . . . Vihtavuori . . . . . 2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=44http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=44Text First Line See Your Product Here! If you are a manufacturer, importer, distributor or entrepreneur with a newsworthy, new or revised product available to dealers or distributors, let us know! Text Address all releases to: New Products Editor SHOOTING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE 12345 World Trade Dr. San Diego, CA 92128 SHOOTING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE www.shootingindustry.com Phone #be color, if possible. Electronic images, should transparencies and glossy prints are acceptable. Website Company We have room for about 80 words. Pictures Text First Line Text Product releases are printed on a space-available basis at the discretion of the editorial staff. FMG Publications Defensive Tactics DVD Learn important defensive tactics from firearm training expert Clint Smith including Room Clearance, Proper Technique and Application and Flashlight Use and Technique. The two-disc set, which was filmed at Thunder Ranch in Oregon, includes a Terminator Live Fire Demonstration. Waffentechnik Search and Rescue Device The SARD (Search and Rescue Device) by Waffentechnik is designed for military, police, firefighters and special forces. Blade options include: drop tanto, wave, tanto and rescue. Constructed of the new layered material plakarta, the SARD has fewer parts for reliability and easy maintenance. The knife features a patented “blade lock” safety pivot, with integrated lubricate reservoir and polished hardened axle; awl, with either plastic handcuff or seat belt cutter; wire cutter; crimper; window breaker and integrated belt clip. Available through Hallmark Cutlery. Hallmark Cutlery 1-866-583-3912 Company FMG Publications Phone # 1-800-628-9818 Website www.americanhandgunner.com Circle # 403 Circle # 404 Text First Line Minox USA Digital Camera Module Circle No. 214 on Inquiry Card Text Minox’s DCM (Digital Camera Module) combines a digital camera, video recorder, monitor and eyepiece into a compact unit. The DCM attaches to a spotting scope’s eyepiece bayonet, and features a 2-3/8" high-resolution monitor. The 5-megapixel camera is multi-compatible, with five bayonet fittings now available for scopes from Zeiss, Leica, Swarovski, Kowa and the Minox MD 62 series. Watertight and shockproof, the DCM has an internal memory of 128 MB, and a port for SD memory cards with up to 4 GB capacity. • Hot-Selling Long Guns • Increase Your Flashlight Sales • Your Hunting Season Profits 44 JUNE 2008 LOOKING TO THE FUTURE! Company Minox USA Phone # 1-866-469-3080 Website www.minox.com Circle # 405 www.shootingindustry.com2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=45http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=45ACCESSORIES Down Wind Scents Inferno Buck Foam Down Wind Scents’ Inferno attractant uses natural deer essence combined with modern technology to create an alluring 100-percent natural blend of urine from does in estrus. The scent attracts mature bucks, while masking a hunter’s scent. The innovative nozzle permits proper dispersal of the foam, and Inferno is formulated not to dissipate into soil, but to remain on the surface to prolong its usefulness. It can be applied to mock scrapes, deer trails and around tree stands. Lansky Sharpeners Pro Grade Industrial MultiTool Lansky Sharpeners launches a new product line with the Professional Grade Industrial MultiTool (LMT 100). Constructed of 420 HC stainless steel, the tool measures 6 1/4" open and folds to 4 1/8", weighing 9.6 oz. The tool offers 20 functions, including spring-loaded, needle-nose pliers; wire cutter; clip blade; serrated clip blade; small and medium screwdrivers; file and ruler; awl; magnetic bit holder; can/bottle opener; plus a 1/4" socket drive with nine assorted bits. Included is a reinforced, ballistic nylon sheath with snap closure. Down Wind Scents 1-877-647-8451 www.DownWindScents.com Lansky Sharpeners (702) 361-7511 www.lansky.com COLLECTORS IDENTIFY YOURSELF THIS BADGE MAY SAVE YOUR LIFE Police Quality Gold Plated 100% LEGAL FOR PERMIT HOLDERS Circle # 406 Circle # 407 Gold Plated Badge Case & Shipping FREE With Order Order Toll Free Size 2” x 3” Money Back Guarantee MSRP: $58.00 You Save $20.00 PO Box 970057 Coconut Creek, FL 33097 $38 1-877-332-2343 Winchester Ammunition Reduced Recoil .460 S&W The Winchester Super-X .460 S&W Reduced Recoil round features a 250-grain jacketed hollowpoint bullet, a muzzle velocity of 1,450 fps and 1,517 foot-pounds of muzzle energy. $49.00 Steiner Binoculars Night Hunter Add $4.00 S/H www.maxarmory.com Steiner introduces the XP Night Hunter binoculars, with NANO Protection on extra-large objective and ocular lenses and Steiner HD Optic coating technology. Binoculars include roof prisms, dialectic mirror coatings and HD-XP lens technology, and the bodies of the binoculars are pressure-sealed and shock- and waterproof. The Night Hunter XP 10x50 has a field-of-view of 315' at 1,000 yards and weighs 35 oz.; and the Night Hunter XP 12x56 has a field-of-view of 258' at 1,000 yards, with a weight of 41 oz. Classified ads are: $2.00 per word per insertion with a 20-word minimum OR $1.50 per word per insertion for three or more issues with a 25-word minimum. No charge for CAPS. Bold words add $1.00 per word. Copy and rerun orders must be accompanied by PAYMENT IN ADVANCE. NO AGENCY OR CASH DISCOUNTS ON LISTING OR DISPLAY CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING. All ads must be received with advance payment BY NO LATER THAN THE 15th of each month. EXAMPLE: Closing for NOVEMBER 2008 issue is September 15th. Ads received after closing will appear in the following issue. Please type or print clearly. PLEASE NOTE: NO PROOFS WILL BE FURNISHED. Include name, address, post office box, city, state and zip code as counted words. Abbreviations count as one word each. Mail to SHOOTING INDUSTRY CLASSIFIEDS, 12345 World Trade Dr, San Diego, California 92128. IF YOU HAVE ANY QUESTIONS REGARDING YOUR CLASSIFIED AD IN SHOOTING INDUSTRY MAGAZINE, CALL OUR SALES REPRESENTATIVE AT (858)605-0235. Winchester Ammunition (618) 258-3242 www.winchester.com Steiner Binoculars 1-800-257-7742 www.steiner-binoculars.com Circle # 408 www.shootingindustry.com Circle # 409 Visit Us Online 24/7 JUNE 2008 452008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=46http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=46Russ Thurman The Magic Of www.shootingindustry.com O ne of the most unintended bestkept secrets of Shooting Industry magazine is its Web site: www. shootingindustry.com. It’s magical. At first glance, it may not seem so, but it is. Really. Yes, like many other Web sites, it has a lot of information of interest to everyone in the industry, but it has one major difference: It’s a great tool for dealers. All the articles in the printed version of Shooting Industry are posted on the site every month. What so special about that? Well, all the Web site addresses we publish in the magazine are “active” in the online version. Meaning, when you click on, say “www.ruger-firearms.com,” the Ruger Web site opens on your computer. Magic! In addition to being a great timesaver, the “active” links save you a lot frustration. You can move quickly through dozens of Web sites and avoid the invariable outbursts of “%4#9++#!” when you continuously mistype the Web addresses you’ve noted in the printed magazine. For example, in May’s Industry News section, there’s a story “ATK Honors 2007 Dealer Of The Year.” At the end of the story, there are Web addresses for ATK’s Premium Partner program and to Mike Goschinski’s Fin Feather Fur Outfitters. You read the story and say, “let me check these sites out,” and you type: “www. premiumpartners.atk.com” or “www.finfeatherfuroutfitters.com” into your Web browser. Likely, just like me, you get an error message because you mistyped Sign onto www.shootingindustry.com and click on “Click for More” under the “Table Of Contents” heading in the upper righthand corner. the address. You try again. “%4#9++#!” Again. Finally, you give up. Instead of creating new and interesting words, read Shooting Industry magazine, place paperclips on the pages with Web sites you want to examine, sign onto www. shootingindustry.com and click on the “Table Of Contents” in the upper right-hand corner. There you’ll find links to all the features and columns in the month’s issue. In addition, at the bottom of the “Table Of Contents” page, there are links to all the issues for this year. So if you missed, say the “2008 New Products Showcases and Galleries” in our December, January, April and May issues, they’re still available. The person who creates all this magic is Lorinda Massey, our promotions coordinator. It takes a tremendous amount of work and patience to maintain the SI Web site. There are more than 75 “active” Website links in May’s online edition. For our mega December and January Web editions, there were more than 100 each. I thank her for all she does. You should, also. So, read Shooting Industry magazine, earmark the pages with Web sites you want to visit, then sign onto www.shootingindustry. com and experience the magic. W We Have The Numbers Making That Million hat 2008 new products did dealers select as the best on our April blog? What were the 2007 top-selling brands in firearms, ammunition and accessories? Who was the top U.S. firearm manufacturer in 2006? We know and we’ll present all the data in next month’s issue. In addition to our unique “U.S. Firearm Business Report,” we’ll present a look at trends and concerns facing the industry. In addition to examining data from the ATF, NSSF, Foreign Trade Division and others, we’ve partnered with Southwick Associates (info@southwickassociates.com). Here is their latest report on top-selling brands. R Top-Selling Brands March Category Rifles Shotguns Handguns Rifle Ammo Riflescopes Game Calls * Marketshare Brand Marlin Remington S&W Remington Bushnell Primos MS* 1 6.9% 23.2% 28.0% 31 .9% 26.1% 33.3% emember the $1 million Lansky Sharpening Systems displayed at its 2008 SHOT Show booth? “We want dealers to know they can make a lot of money selling our sharpeners,” said Arthur Lansky, company founder and president. To help dealers make that million, Lansky is offering retailers new point-of-purchase displays, which allow customers to try a variety of Lansky Sharpeners before making a purc2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=47http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=47Circle No. 226 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=48http://fmgpublications.ipaperus.com/FMGPublications/ShootingIndustry/Jun2008/?Page=48Since 1930 THE PERFECT PAIR When it comes to rugged performance, hunters have always relied on the trusted name of Weaver®. From legendary optics to the rings and bases that all others strive to imitate, Weaver has been keeping outdoorsmen in the hunt since 1930. Keep the tradition alive. Stock your shelves with the brand that symbolizes hunting optics in the minds of millions of hunters—Weaver. For more information on the entire line of Weaver products—including optics, rings and bases—contact ATK Dealer Services at (866) 223-9388. ©2008 ATK WE330 Circle No. 204 on Inquiry Card2008-09-23T16:30:03+02:00