Ballistic's Best 2026 Hunting Edition Editors' Choice Awards, featured on Athlon Untamed, recognize outstanding hunting products across eight categories including All-Purpose Shotgun, New Spotting Scope, and Backcountry Precision Rifle. The selections highlight innovation and practical performance from Bleecker Street Publications' expert editorial team.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. received the 2026 Firearm Manufacturer of the Year award from the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers. The recognition reflects the company's commitment to trusted products, American manufacturing, and support for distributors and retailers.

Century Arms received the Importer of the Year award from the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) at the 2026 Caliber Awards dinner in Phoenix. The recognition, voted by NASGW wholesaler members, honors the company's exceptional service, partnership, and support within the shooting sports industry's distribution channel.

Canik USA's Prime Radian, developed in collaboration with Radian Weapons, won both Best New Handgun and Best New Overall Product awards at the 2026 NASGW-POMA Caliber Awards. Selected from over 100 entries, the Prime Radian was recognized by industry judges for its innovation, performance, value, and market impact.

Dead Air Silencers' Nomad Ti OTB has been named the 2026 Athlon Untamed Hunting Suppressor of the Year. The innovative over-the-barrel suppressor earned top honors for its lightweight titanium construction, compact design, and superior performance across multiple evaluation categories.

Brownells reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the European market, with Chairman and CEO Pete Brownell stating the company is not leaving Europe. The company is finalizing its European distribution strategy and will announce additional details regarding products, ordering, and distribution partnerships through official channels.

Meprolight-sponsored shooters Callerina Woodard, Korey Bromery, and Garrett Tyler achieved strong performances at competitive events. Woodard finished second in Women's Tactical at The Tactical Games regional competition using the MVO 1-8X28 riflescope, while Bromery secured seventh place in Men's Elite with MVO 3-18X44 optics and qualified for Nationals. Tyler added a fifth-place finish in precision rifle competition.

Firearms Policy Coalition filed an appeal brief in Wehr-Darroca v. District of Columbia, challenging D.C.'s ban on magazines holding more than ten rounds. FPC seeks to overturn precedent that imposes heightened barriers on Second Amendment challenges, arguing gun owners shouldn't face felony prosecution to contest unconstitutional laws in court.

SHIELD Sights opened a new U.S. distribution facility in Florida to improve shipping efficiency and reduce delivery times for dealers and customers. The facility will handle order fulfillment, warranty claims, and customer support while SHIELD continues manufacturing products in the United Kingdom.

Brownells Global Solutions appointed ADN Enterprise as Brownells Europe to manage sales, marketing, and business development across European territories. The partnership leverages ADN's expertise in firearms, hunting, and defense sectors with Brownells' global brand network, providing localized warehouse, technical, and gunsmithing services.

RetailBI released its Q3 2026 Shooting Sports Report analyzing retail sales data from over 2,000 retailers. Despite a 7.8% decline in firearm unit sales, lever-action rifles grew 21.8%, premium handguns above $1,500 increased 33.6%, and suppressors surged 178.6% year over year.

Silencer Central launched "Ship to Dealer," allowing customers to purchase suppressors online and pick them up at licensed dealers nationwide. The service follows ATF guidance eliminating NFA registration requirements for suppressors, available in 27 states alongside Silencer Central's traditional front-door delivery option.

HeadHunters NW, an executive search firm, is recruiting a Controller for a growing multi-location Pacific Northwest company. The role requires seven years of progressive accounting experience, cost accounting expertise, and SAP Business One proficiency, with responsibilities spanning financial reporting, inventory management, budgeting, and team development.

Galco has released the Stow-N-Go IWB holster for Smith & Wesson M&P Shield 3" with or without carry optic. Part of Galco's Concealed Carry Lite line, the holster features Premium Center Cut Steerhide construction, open top design, and supports strong side or appendix carry.

ZeroTech Optics USA introduces the Thrive HD Reflex Sight 3 MOA, a compact 1x reflex optic featuring a 26mm x 19mm viewing window, up to 50,000 hours of battery life, and included low and high Picatinny mounts. The sight weighs approximately 1.48 ounces and is backed by ZeroTech's Triple-A Lifetime Warranty.

Trijicon introduces a new Standard Green Duplex reticle option for its AccuPoint 1-8x24 riflescope, featuring the company's battery-free tritium and fiber-optic illumination system. The versatile 1-8x magnification scope is designed for hunters and shooters preferring traditional duplex reticles with reliable performance across varying lighting conditions.

Canik announced the official launch of CANIK OPTICS, featuring four pistol-mounted red dot sights across two families: ONYX and PHANTOM. The new lineup includes the ONYXc micro sight, ONYX XL competition sight, PHANTOMc enclosed micro sight, and PHANTOM duty sight, all engineered to deliver Canik's standard of performance, innovation, and value.

The National Rifle Association issued a statement following a violent incident in Oregon where an armed community member intervened to stop an attacker. The NRA highlighted the incident as demonstrating the importance of law-abiding armed citizens prepared to respond during emergencies.

Primary Arms announced the promotion of Robert Sheets to Vice President of Engineering. In this role, Sheets will lead the company's optics engineering division and work with the Product Development Team to develop innovative products that meet market and customer demands.

Real Avid announces the launch of its free Range Ready resource portal, offering comprehensive guidance on equipment setup, maintenance, and shooting techniques with expert instruction from world-champion shooter Doug Koenig. The portal provides downloadable field guides, checklists, and resources designed to help shooters of all levels maximize range productivity and performance.

SnapSafe Premium Vault Doors, manufactured by Hornady, offer fire-rated protection with 12-gauge steel construction and nine 1" live-locking bolts. The UL-listed digital lock features EMP-resistant mechanical key backup, and the interior incorporates Hornady's Square-Lok™ system for customizable storage organization.

RCBS has launched a new generation Vibratory Case Polisher featuring an upgraded lid with built-in sifting, quick-detach bowl, and improved motor. The Made in the USA polisher cleans up to 1,000 9mm cases or 450 .223 Remington brass cases per one-gallon load and is now shipping.

CIVIVI has launched the Lil Yonder (Model C25025B), a compact everyday carry knife designed by Zac Whitmore as a scaled-down successor to the award-winning full-sized Yonder. The lightweight folder features a 2.44" 14C28N stainless steel Spey Point blade, ambidextrous Crossbar Lock, and weighs just 2.06 oz, available October 29, 2026.

CIVIVI unveiled the Ryson-E folding knife, designed in collaboration with custom designer Sam Tran. The EDC folder features a 3.32" harpoon blade, ceramic bearing deployment, and Swedish 14C28N or Damascus steel options, available worldwide starting October 29, 2026.

WOOX, an Italian-American manufacturer of gunstocks and accessories, announced new 1911 Grips handcrafted in Italy. Available in Micarta and high-grade American Walnut with three designs—Plain, Diamond, and X-Grip—the grips offer ambidextrous compatibility with 1911s and clones, priced at $79-$89.

Foxtrot Mike Products announces the ISU-9 Integrally Suppressed 9mm Upper Receiver, featuring eight years of patented suppressor development. The innovative system reduces recoil and reciprocating mass while delivering exceptional accuracy at an MSRP of $499, available through Foxtrot Mike Products, Primary Arms, and Silencer Shop.

SENCUT has launched the SENCUT Clout (Model S26031), a compact EDC knife featuring a 2.99" D2 tool steel reverse tanto blade designed for outdoor cooking and daily tasks. The knife combines cleaver-inspired geometry with lightweight ergonomics, one-handed deployment, and ambidextrous pocket carry.

Federal Ammunition launched an updated Ballistic AE App featuring a modern interface and combined HUD and DOPE charts for improved user experience. The iOS ballistics calculator now supports Federal, Remington, Fiocchi, and Speer projectiles, including new Peak Alloy products like 7mm Backcountry and 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak.

Springfield Armory released the Echelon Central Operating Group (COG), a serialized modular component allowing users to build custom pistols with compatible grip modules, slide assemblies, and accessories. The COG features stainless-steel construction, precision machining, and a unique second sear design with an MSRP of $295.

Hornady introduces its DIGI-Vault line of compact, keypad-secured vaults featuring 16-gauge steel construction and programmable 4-6 digit entry. Available in three models—Original, One-Gun, and Two-Gun—each includes a security cable and interior light, designed for nightstands, vehicles, and travel storage.

Flux Defense released the KOMPAKT Universal IWB Holster, the smallest light-bearing holster compatible with Glock, Sig Sauer, and Springfield Armory pistols. Made from glass-reinforced nylon, it features adjustable retention and a concealment claw for reduced printing.

BLACKHAWK introduces the SONAR Push Button Auto Modified Drop Point automatic folding knife, featuring a 3.5-inch D2 steel blade, lightweight aluminum handle, and push-button deployment. Manufactured by Bear & Son Cutlery in Jacksonville, Alabama, the knife is priced at $204.99 and available in plain or serrated edge options.

Millennium Treestands introduces the DeadLock Carbon Shooting Stick Tripod, a lightweight carbon fiber rest designed for gun deer hunters. The tripod features a multi-platform Vise Head with 3-axis leveling, rapid one-knob leg adjustment, and interchangeable mounting plates for various rifle setups.

Wilson Combat launched match grade replacement barrels for Remington 700 pattern actions, precision button rifled from 416R stainless steel. Available in .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor with threaded muzzles and optional Armor-Tuff® finish at $399.95 MSRP.

WE Knife Co. unveiled the WE Suisei (Model WE25086), a flagship folder designed in collaboration with Japanese custom knifemaker Dew Hara. Featuring Böhler M390 steel, titanium construction, and celestial-inspired inlays, the knife launches globally on October 29, 2026.

Crow Wholesale announced an exclusive MTP Holiday promotion featuring Colt products with special promotional pricing for dealers October 12-16. The limited-time offer helps Crow dealers prepare for the holiday selling season with access to select Colt products while supplies last.

ZeroTech Optics is offering free Vengeance 10x42 binoculars with eligible riflescope purchases from October 15 through December 31, 2026. The promotion applies to purchases from zerotechoptics.com or authorized USA dealers, with a $12.99 flat-rate shipping charge for dealer-purchase redemptions.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. launched the M&P FPC 22 Holiday Rebate, offering a $75 prepaid card with purchase of eligible M&P FPC 22 rifles between October 16 and December 31, 2026. The promotion includes standard and compliant models, plus bundled packages featuring CTS Red/Green Optics, carrying bags, and additional magazines.

Hook & Barrel Magazine features Fox News personality Will Cain on its November/December 2026 cover, alongside mountain man Laramy "Sasquatch" Miller and chef Jean-Paul Bourgeois. The issue includes content from chef Stacy Lyn Harris and musical act Fox N' Vead.

Bass Pro Shops announced plans for a new 110,000-square-foot destination retail location in Irmo, South Carolina, expected to open in late 2027. The store will mark Bass Pro Shops' fourth destination retail location in South Carolina and is expected to employ over 120 Outfitters to serve the greater Columbia region near Lake Murray.

Maxim Defense, a manufacturer of precision firearms and suppressors, will sponsor and exhibit at CANCON West 2026 in Boulder City, Nevada from October 22-24, 2026. The event will feature hands-on demonstrations of Maxim's Quantum Series titanium 3D printed suppressors, including the Quantum 22K Rimfire Suppressor, alongside products from industry manufacturers.

Lyman Products will showcase its Sonicore Suppressors lineup at Suppressed Fest 2026 on October 17–18 at Ares Firearms Training Center in Leesburg, Florida. The event, hosted by the NFA Review Channel and sponsored by the American Suppressor Association, features over 40 vendors and 100 percent suppressed shooting across three ranges.

Luth-AR and Stark's Metal Works of Menomonie, Wisconsin donated a new AR550 hardened steel White Buffalo target to the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, New Mexico. The 10-foot-wide target, positioned 1,123 yards downrange, replaces the historic original and is dedicated to Mike Benecke, a devoted NRA-ILA fundraiser who passed away in 2021.

“The past is a foreign country; they do things differently there.” - L. P. Hartley

A recurring theme that continues to wash over me is the long-shadowed afternoon of my youth. Remarkable, all that changed and how little it’s changed. It seems things are happening that never happened before, but they have. 

I find myself repeating the theme that the lessons of “our age” need to be recalled by the current age, lest you find yourself paying the dreadful price over again. 

We did do things differently; this image showing a “mostly peaceful protest” – it actually was – is from 1968, from a university library, showing local police as they “monitor a 1968 memorial march.”

That was just nine years before I joined the department. The years I served weren’t terribly calamitous – that predated me and carried on after I’d moved on. 

I had nothing to do with the relative calm – it was the ebb and flow of life. 

So often we look at the past from the perspective of the technology. That’s a mistake. Social problems are still with us, with some variations. 

There’s still theft, robbery, murder. I don’t recall the amount of child sexual abuse that is reported now; perhaps it was always that way (I’d suspect so), and it’s just information technology that brought it into the light. 

A clipping from the paper in 1977 shows the “new” targets the outfit had gone to. They look like (and we called them) “cartoon targets,” with a relatively B-21 scoring area on a cartoonish humanoid figure. The paper compared it to the B27 used by the vastly larger and more poorly equipped agency I eventually moved to. 

They used that target into the 1990s, for no reason I can imagine. This was replaced by the NRA TQ-15, then the FBI-Q (along with the rest of the state) ca. 2005. 

The B27 is still in use, e.g., for Texas CCW qualifications. The target they’d used before was vastly better. 

Go figure.

When I went to the HK International Training Division in the latter half of the 1990s, they also used a “cartoon-“ looking target. I felt right at home.

“In my day,” we had the teletype. It was actually a real teletype, connected to the “high-speed line” that came into our county, but not to the county seat. That means we ran TTY for them whenever they needed information on foreign tags, NCIC enquiries and the like. For local tags, the information was printed out and put in a manual file.

We had one of those too. 

When I started, the outfit had one radar unit, stationary only. The cars were all off a showroom floor, no “police package” units. After the first year, we got five police pack marked units, black-and-white (as the Good Lord intended), with a prisoner partition in each and overhead shotgun racks for the Remington 870s in each car. 

Our cars had vinyl seats and floor coverings. If you’ve had someone bleed, vomit or soil themselves in a car with cloth upholstery and carpeting, you’d know what a blessing the vinyl was. Just get that hose, brush and cleaning rags and it’s good as new. 

The outfit I later settled in had no prisoner partitions, kept the shotguns in moisture collecting bags in the leaky patrol car trunks. Cloth upholstered seats and carpets further compounded the misery.

But they issued handguns; that was new to me. The first one I got would cease function in dry-fire.

You check your gear, don’t you?

After I reported the problem – and was told that filing on the extractor would sort that out – I got a gun someone had chucked down a paved road, or so it appeared. It had a ca. 16-pound DA pull and had never had the side plate off. 

I didn’t fix the cosmetics, but took care of the remainder. 

Now you have mobile data terminals, there is no teletype – but a web service – and you have access to acres more information than we ever did.

That’s all nice, but I recommend caution in your approach to any situation. Consider the fact that there are people out to kill you simply due to the clothing you wear. That can be seen online too. 

Be a lover of cover. If you can’t control someone with your voice from a distance, instead of just approaching, ask yourself “why?”

– Rich Grassi