Dead Air Silencers will exhibit at the 2026 Connecticut SWAT Challenge (August 10-13) at Hartford Gun Club, showcasing their latest suppressor technology including the new CT5P suppressor designed for tactical teams and patrol officers running 5.56 NATO duty rifles.
The Second Amendment Foundation and partners including the National Rifle Association and Firearms Policy Coalition filed a motion for preliminary injunction in Renna v. Bonta, challenging California's Assembly Bill 1127, which bans Glock and Glock-style handguns starting July 1, 2026. SAF argues the ban violates the Second Amendment as handguns are constitutionally protected and in common use.
A federal court ruled that challenged NFA provisions are unconstitutional as applied to untaxed firearms in Silencer Shop Foundation v. Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives. SilencerCo, a named commercial plaintiff represented by Wiley Rein LLP, celebrates this landmark decision affecting silencers, short-barreled rifles, short-barreled shotguns, and any other weapons, representing a significant first step toward broader suppressor reform.
The Second Amendment Foundation filed a reply brief in Harrington v. Crawford, challenging the unconstitutional search of high school student Jack Harrington's vehicle based solely on his lawful gun ownership. SAF Senior Director Bill Sack and founder Alan M. Gottlieb argue the search violated Fourth Amendment rights without probable cause or valid consent.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) and partners including the California Rifle and Pistol Association, Gun Owners of America, and Gun Owners of California announced a settlement in California Rifle and Pistol Association v. LASD, resolving claims against the Los Angeles County Sheriff's Department over Second Amendment carry rights violations. The settlement follows LASD's compliance with California's 120-day CCW permit processing requirement and represents significant victories including nonresident carry rights and reformed permit fee structures.
SLG2, Inc. brings its Shoot Like A Girl experience to Bass Pro Shops in Rapid City on August 15-16 during the 86th Annual Sturgis Motorcycle Rally. The free event features a mobile range with firearm simulators, archery activities, and demonstrations from outdoor industry brands including Black Rifle Coffee.
The 41st annual Gun Rights Policy Conference (GRPC) will feature keynote speaker Judge Roger T. Benitez and Assistant Attorney General Harmeet Dhillon, along with speakers including Brandon Herrera, ATF Director Robert Cekada, and ATF Chief Counsel Robert Leider. Co-hosted by the Second Amendment Foundation and Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, GRPC 2026 is scheduled for September 25-27 in Dallas.
Athlon Outdoors is giving away a Umarex StormFire .177-caliber Full-Auto CO2 BB Air Rifle through its Free Gun Friday promotion. The rifle features semi and full-automatic fire modes, delivering up to 2,020 rounds per minute with a 400-round BB reservoir. Entries are now open at Athlon Outdoors.
European American Armory (EAA) emphasizes its commitment to dealer and distributor partnerships while introducing the Girsan Witness2311 XXX Series, a revolutionary double-stack 1911 platform for concealed carry. EAA is actively recruiting dealer and distribution partners at upcoming industry shows.
The Murray Road Agency, a marketing firm serving the outdoor industry, is hiring a senior communications specialist in Charleston, S.C. The role requires 3-5 years of PR and marketing experience, with responsibilities including client relations, campaign strategy, and media outreach. Knowledge of fishing, hunting, camping, shooting, and boating is preferred.
Firearms News released a special report by Field Editor Darwin Nercesian detailing how Ohio House Republicans voted with Democrats to kill House Bill 495, the Freedom to Carry Act, introduced by Representative Jennifer Gross. The bill would have expanded concealed carry protections to other lawfully owned weapons for licensed citizens.
Federal Ammunition is now shipping a new rifled slug load for its Action Shotgun ammunition line designed for competition shooting. The 12-gauge, 2-3/4-inch load features a 1-ounce projectile at 1,300 fps and Federal's TruBall system for superior accuracy in both tube- and magazine-fed shotguns.
EOTECH announced the HWS CUAS (Counter Unmanned Aircraft Sight), available in EXPS3 and XPS3 models, featuring a sophisticated aiming reticle for rapid engagement of stationary and moving drones. VP of Engineering Todd Estes highlighted how holographic technology corrects for parallax error and provides superior field of view compared to conventional lenses.
Primary Arms Optics has opened pre-orders for two new long-range scopes: the PLx 2.5-20x48 and PLx 4.5-36x56 FFP Compact Rifle Scopes, featuring Japanese-manufactured ED glass, Steel-on-Steel turrets, and modular Cartridge Turrets. Shipping begins in September with prices starting at $2,299.99.
Friends of NRA has reached a historic milestone, welcoming more than 5 million attendees to its volunteer-led fundraising events since 1992. The organization has hosted over 27,000 events across all 50 states, generating more than $1.2 billion in gross revenue and funding over 66,000 state grants supporting firearm safety, education, youth development, and shooting sports programs.
Walk the Talk America featured domestic violence survivor Kelly Sutliff's experience regaining firearm ownership after legal battles, with Bersa USA donating a handgun to replace one she lost. The conversation examined extreme risk protection orders, mental health evaluations, and how firearm manufacturers can support survivors.
Gun Tote'n Mamas and Byrna Technologies announced a partnership to expand less-lethal personal protection options. GTM has identified concealed carry handbags compatible with Byrna's CL Launcher, while Byrna will feature GTM products on its website to help consumers and dealers identify compatible carry solutions.
Realtree and Aflac, two Columbus, Georgia institutions, announced a partnership to raise awareness about financial protection for outdoor enthusiasts. The collaboration extends Aflac's supplemental health insurance access to the outdoor community, addressing risks like hunting-related injuries while supporting conservation and children's health causes.
Walk the Talk America partnered with B.O.S. Lock on a July 29 content shoot in Florida to produce educational videos on responsible firearm storage and mental health. The collaboration developed realistic scenarios featuring B.O.S. Lock's Fusion biometric safety device to help firearm owners make informed storage decisions while maintaining authorized access.
DeSantis Gunhide® introduces the Nemesis® pocket holster for the S&W Bodyguard 2.0 with Viridian RFX1, featuring advanced viscous material for secure pocket carry and a slick pack cloth inner surface for easy draws. The holster is priced at $34.99 MSRP.
MDT has launched three new precision rifle actions—the Fuzion, Fuzion Ti, and Razor—acquired from Utah-based Lone Peak Arms. All three models feature Remington 700 footprint compatibility and are available starting August 7, 2026, through MDT dealers and mdttac.com.
Trijicon, Inc. is expanding its iron sight portfolio with 22 new SKUs across HD and HD XR Night Sight product lines, including new HD XR Suppressor Sights for suppressor-equipped and optics-ready pistols. New configurations will be available for Glock 43X MOS, 48 MOS, Smith & Wesson® M&P, M&P M2.0, CORE and Bodyguard 2.0 pistols.
AMERIGLO has expanded its night sight lineup with new options for the Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 pistol, including Trooper and Protector night sight sets and tritium front sight configurations designed for personal protection and low-light use.
SOG Knives announces the release of its 40th Anniversary Fat Guard Bowie knife, a limited run of 500 individually serialized knives inspired by the original S1 Bowie from 1986. The knife features a 6.1-inch AUS 8 steel blade and comes with a commemorative Zippo lighter, leather sheath, and handcrafted pine display case.
Federal Ammunition secured contracts to supply the Canadian Department of National Defense with 300 Blackout ammunition and the Royal Canadian Mounted Police with 12-gauge shotgun rounds for duty and training purposes.
Beretta USA introduced two innovative .22 LR pistols: the B22 Jaguar Tac Metal for recreational shooting and training, and the B22 Jaguar Metal Competition developed with the Scholastic Action Shooting Program (SASP) and TANDEMKROSS for Steel Challenge-style competition. The Competition model features premium TANDEMKROSS upgrades and is purpose-built for youth shooters and competitive athletes.
Galco has released the Stow-N-Go IWB holster for Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0 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.
DeSantis Gunhide® launches the Slim-Tuk™ IWB holster (#137) for the H&K VP9CC, featuring an ambidextrous Kydex® design with a tuck-able 360° C-Clip for unlimited mounting options. The holster retails for $55.99.
Bass Pro Shops and Cabela's Fall Hunting Classic Sale runs through Aug. 26, featuring major savings on hunting gear, trade-in programs offering up to $200 in savings, and free family-friendly activities. The event includes expert tips, educational workshops, and opportunities to support conservation through gear donations to local organizations.
Iconic Outdoor Group, parent company of Daisy Outdoor Products, Crosman Corporation, GAMO USA, and Benjamin Airguns, will exhibit at the Mid-States 2026 Fall Rendezvous on August 11–12 in Phoenix, Arizona. The company will showcase air rifles, BB guns, air pistols, and accessories at Booth #240.
Orchid will demonstrate its POS platform integrations with Guns.com, GunBroker, and GunMade at the Sports, Inc. 2026 August Outdoor Show in Nashville, August 13-15. Sports, Inc. members purchasing Orchid POS, eCommerce, or FFL Bound Book technology at the show receive 25% off implementation and year one services.
AGM Global Vision will exhibit at the Mid-States Fall Rendezvous on August 11–12, 2026, at Booth 144 in Phoenix, Arizona. Keith Weaver and Scott Cook will represent the company, showcasing thermal imaging, night vision, and digital optics for hunting and outdoor use.
AGM Global Vision will showcase thermal, night vision, and digital optics at the Sports, Inc. Outdoor Sporting Goods Show, August 13–15, 2026, at Booths 371 and 373. Andrew Becker, Justin Poole, Austin McCord, and Scott Cook will demonstrate products for hunters and outdoor professionals.
Iconic Outdoor Group, parent company of Daisy Outdoor Products, Crosman Corporation, GAMO USA, and Benjamin Airguns, will exhibit at the Sports Inc. Outdoors Show on August 13–14 in Nashville, Tennessee. The company will showcase air rifles, BB guns, air pistols, and accessories at Booth #753.
RSR Group's 2026 E-Vault Virtual Show featuring Ruger runs August 11-14, 2026, offering dealers exclusive online access to limited-time promotions, new product announcements, daily prize giveaways, and extended terms on Ruger products at www.rsrgroup.com.
The International Practical Shooting Confederation (IPSC) announced that Tippmann Arms has been named an official IPSC Strategic Partner for Mini Rifle. Tippmann Arms manufactures premium .22 LR semi-automatic rifles designed for IPSC Mini Rifle competition, with Barry Giddings recognized for his instrumental role in developing the partnership.
Outdoor Sportsman Group announced GAME & FISH TV's addition to Truth+, a FAST streaming platform powered by Trump Media and Technology Group. The channel, drawing from Outdoor Channel, Sportsman Channel, World Fishing Network, and MyOutdoorTV libraries, offers live Major League Fishing competitions, hunting, fishing, adventure, and cooking programming to over 430 million monthly active users.
People did that in Twin Falls, ID. It’s not normal – or wasn’t – for people to run to the gunfire, but it apparently happens in some places.
Everyone talks about the “FiveSeven” responder and a few wonder who the responding off-duty trooper was, but there’s a single news report that gives us some important lessons from someone else who was there.
Before we get there, make a note of this: This is not a criticism of the individual who bravely responded – in fact, ran – to the sounds of rifle fire at a drive-in fast-food place in Twin Falls. He’s paying a large price for decisions he made. He’s paying, so you learn from it.
Got it?
According to the story:
A third man, Austin James, a former police officer, also ran to confront the shooter. Although Mr. James was armed, he initially — and intentionally — did not draw his weapon, he said. He had feared being confused for the gunman. When Mr. James rounded a corner, he encountered Mr. Williams, who shot him in the upper arm, shattering his bone and severing an artery.
“He didn’t say or do anything,” Mr. James said in a text message from the hospital, where he has been since the shooting. “Just had a blank stare on his face.”
Once wounded, Mr. James said he drew his gun and tried to fire, but his gun was without a round in the chamber. He said he was trying to chamber a round when his wife and her friend — both emergency room nurses — found him and pulled him back to the car, where they began to treat his wounds.
Now there will be some who will criticize his rushing in without gun in hand. To do that is to fail to consider the urgency and the other-side potential risks: getting shot by a “good guy.”
Is it better than being shot by the offender with the rifle … when he could keep his rifle running?
I can’t say I’d like it any better. Are there ways to mitigate the risk?
A "covered low ready" (hand on holstered handgun) removes most of the time taken in the draw after recognition of a threat, while allowing you to slowly remove the hand from the gun if accosted by responders. Below, having a badge isn't enough. It's often not seen by responders in time. See CSAT Way/Paul Howe for exploration of avoiding mistaken ID shootings.
Perhaps, but the time for us to consider it is now. The time for Mr. James to consider it was “several weeks ago.”
The problem of “blue on blue” shootings in NYC was considered decades ago. In a strictly infringement riddled city, there were around 13,000 municipal cops and that number didn’t include staties, feds and other armed law enforcement types. It was such a problem that Jim Cirillo was one of the people working on solutions.
It’s still something to be considered today. The ‘halo effect’ – “everyone can see I’m a good guy” – is still a problem. Considering a covered low ready (hand on the holstered gun), various postures for cross-draw and shoulder rigs – and not rushing into the gunfire but making a calculated approach – may buy you time.
Even better, something more visible, like a DSM Safety Products banner, could take some worry out of getting that gun in hand earlier. Just making another responder pause enough to figure out what you are helps.
Learning one-handed manipulation of the handgun is "advanced." It's seldom necessary unless you carry the gun half-loaded. Shown is a one-handed reload. The slide was racked with the rear sight against the sole of his boot.
As for the “gun … without a round in the chamber,” I’d add my voice to those decrying what some still refer to as Israeli carry. If the gun you have is prone to shooting by itself, unload it, put it in the safe and take it out for range carry.
Also, learn how to clear stoppages one-handed.
How does that help?
A snub revolver (Ruger LCRx shown) is a good backup gun, won't have the "empty chamber" syndrome and is capable of decent accuracy at distance, as shown here.
A pistol without ammo in the chamber will cause you to experience a “stoppage in the cycle of operation.” Clearing it one-handed is a thing.
Load all the way up, by all means. But take this opportunity to learn from the misfortune of the brave Austin James. He put himself out there and bought time for other citizens.
Not learning from his misfortune is disrespectful.
