Team Ruger's Lauryl Akenhead earned third place in the Individual Lady category at the 2026 IPRF Centerfire World Championship in Lipan, Texas, while competing with her Ruger American Rifle Generation II. Her performance helped Team USA secure first place in the Ladies Team division at the international precision rifle competition.

Fiocchi Pro Staff members Lanny Barnes and Dianna Muller delivered exceptional performances at the 2026 IPSC Shotgun World Shoot in Greece, with Barnes capturing three gold medals including a successfully defended Ladies Open World Championship, and Muller earning silver in the Open Lady Senior category.

Defend is supporting Bear Wise Wyoming training events by providing inert training spray, allowing participants to practice deploying bear spray during simulated encounters. The partnership with the Wyoming Game and Fish Department helps outdoor enthusiasts feel prepared and confident using bear spray in real bear country situations.

Following a federal court victory in Silencer Shop/Jensen v. ATF, Firearms Policy Coalition sent letters to 15 state attorneys general requesting immediate non-enforcement of state laws tied to the now-enjoined NFA registration scheme. The ATF also announced it will no longer enforce many NFA restrictions on short-barreled rifles, suppressors, and other covered arms.

Firearms Policy Coalition filed a motion for preliminary injunction in Hoffman v. City and County of Denver, seeking to block Colorado and Denver's nonresident carry permit bans. FPC argues the restrictions violate the Second Amendment and Privileges and Immunities Clause, continuing its nationwide campaign to eliminate residency-based gun carry restrictions.

The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) reached a settlement with Contra Costa County Sheriff's Office to withdraw prohibitions on red-dot sights, weapon-mounted lights, and semiautomatic 1911/2011 pistols for CCW license holders. SAF was joined by private citizens Andrew Moore and James Treuel, represented by attorney John W. Dillon.

B&T USA, a plaintiff in Silencer Shop Foundation v. ATF, welcomed ATF guidance applying a federal court ruling nationwide that eliminates registration and approval requirements for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns. Suppressors now transfer through licensed dealers with Form 4473 and background checks like other firearms.

Luth-AR founder and NRA Board of Directors member Randy Luth attended the Friends of NRA fundraiser in Park Rapids, MN on October 3, 2026, featuring raffles, silent auctions, and the Wall of Guns.

HeadHunters NW clarified that ZEV Technologies was a victim of a recruiting scam, not its source. A fraudulent recruiter exploited a genuine Vice President of Sales opening that HeadHunters NW was recruiting for, using fake emails to solicit payment from candidates.

Dead Air Silencers welcomes the ATF's new guidance eliminating approval and registration requirements for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and short-barreled shotguns following Congress's reduction of the federal tax to $0 effective January 1, 2026. The change removes barriers established since 1934, making hearing protection devices more accessible to responsible gun owners while state and local laws remain in effect.

Heckler & Koch USA announced Katherine Karaki's appointment as National Sales Manager. Karaki brings extensive sales leadership and manufacturing experience from a custom firearms manufacturer, holding a degree in Mechanical Engineering from the University of Texas at Tyler. She will begin her role at the NASGW Expo in Phoenix, Arizona, October 13-15.

Primary Arms Optics announced the promotion of Jeff Scheider to Vice President of Sales. Scheider, who previously served as National Sales Manager, will lead sales strategy and strengthen dealer partnerships for the Houston-based optics company.

The Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers' Institute (SAAMI) has standardized the 5.56 Commercial cartridge, introduced by Hornady Manufacturing Company. The new round features a 55-grain bullet at 3,400 fps with a maximum average pressure of 62,000 psi.

Primary Arms Optics, a Houston-based tactical optics manufacturer founded in 2008, is hiring a Product Development Engineer II to design and develop new optics and products. The role requires a mechanical engineering degree with 3-5 years of firearms or optics industry experience and expertise in manufacturing processes including milling, turning, molding, and casting.

ZeroTech Optics USA introduces the Trace X 5-25x56 FFP – RMG-H MRAD Illuminated riflescope, featuring a matched MRAD aiming system, illuminated first focal plane reticle, 34 MRAD elevation travel, and mechanical zero stop designed for precision competition and long-range shooting.

Primary Weapons Systems (PWS) has joined the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) as a Silver-level corporate partner. PWS also donated a MK114 Mod 2 rifle and BDE 556k suppressor for SAF's October sweeps program, supporting SAF's legal efforts including two upcoming Supreme Court cases on assault weapon bans.

Meta Tactical launched the Vector Green MX-1 handgun conversion kit on October 9, 2026, featuring a digital green camouflage pattern and tool-free installation. Compatible with over 70 handgun models including Glock, P80s, PSA Daggers, and Ruger RXM, the MX-1 offers six configurations priced from $399.99 to $429.99 MSRP.

Liberty Ammunition has been adopted as duty ammunition by the Galveston County District Attorney's Office. CEO Gary Ramey stated the department sought ammunition with greater stopping power and less weight, which Liberty Ammunition provides while meeting FBI protocols.

MDT announced the Scope Tube Mount with V-Mount, a clamp-on mount for riflescopes in 30mm, 34mm, 35mm, and 36mm sizes. The mount provides V-Mount and Picatinny mounting points for accessories like levels and red dots while freeing up rail space on rifles, available October 9, 2026.

Hornady introduces the VEXIS Mobilis Safe line featuring patent-pending vein-scanning biometric technology that unlocks in under half a second. The modular safes offer vault-level security with 9-gauge steel construction, one-hour fire protection, and support for up to 10 authorized users with keypad and mechanical key backup options.

Warne launches a new +5 Magazine Extension for Glock 43X/48 15-round steel magazines, increasing capacity to 20 rounds. The precision-machined aluminum extension features a secure locking mechanism, black anodized finish, and includes a new magazine spring, backed by Warne's lifetime warranty.

NEXTORCH, the primary U.S. distributor of NEXTORCH Industries, announced the NP12 Ti Bolt-Action Titanium Tactical Pen, featuring aerospace-grade TC4 titanium construction, a German SCHMIDT easy FLOW 9000M refill, and an integrated kinetic spinner for stress relief. The tactical pen combines premium writing performance with emergency glass-breaking capability at an MSRP of $79.99.

Canik launched the METE MC9LS Flying Ace, a WWII aviation-inspired special edition pistol featuring laser-ablated Cerakote artwork on the proven MC9LS platform. The 9mm compact-to-full-size handgun offers 17+1 capacity, optics-ready slide, and reversible magazine catch with an MSRP of $549.99.

CAA has announced the Limited Edition Hi-Viz Orange MCK EVO, a Micro Conversion Kit featuring vibrant orange polymer construction launching October 1, 2025. Available in six configurations with prices ranging from $349.99 to $384.98 MSRP, the product will be sold exclusively through caagearup.com.

Galco unveils the Combat Master 2.0 belt holster for Glock 21, now available with or without carry optic accommodation. The professional-grade pancake holster features hand-molded premium steerhide construction, raised sweat guard, and twin belt slots for enhanced comfort and concealment.

Hornady has redesigned its Lock-N-Load Classic Pro Press with 17 refined features, including precision-machined surfaces, brass bushings, and an integrated grease zerk. The press maintains the legendary Lock-N-Load die bushing system while delivering smoother operation and tighter, more repeatable reloading results for serious precision shooters.

Bear Edge Knives introduces the new 4" Light Gray Aluminum Folder with Flipper, a lightweight everyday carry knife featuring a 440 stainless steel blade, aluminum handle, and flipper deployment. Weighing 3.2 ounces with a $42.99 MSRP, the knife offers practical functionality and reliable performance for cutting tasks.

Springfield Armory introduced the Echelon Pro Comp line of 9mm pistols in three variants: 4.0C compact, 4.0FC hybrid, and 4.5F full-size. The pistols feature enhanced performance elements including LightForged grip texture, integrally compensated slides, and modular design with an MSRP of $899.

Silencer Central is running a weeklong SilencerCo takeover through October 18, offering customers a $150 rebate coupon and double Silencer Central Rewards points on qualifying SilencerCo suppressor purchases. Rebate codes can be redeemed toward future SilencerCo suppressors or accessories by November 25, 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.

Firearms News releases its October 2026 issue featuring Field Editor Patrick Sweeney's review of the Springfield Armory Saint Victor PDW-Type Pistol. The magazine, celebrating its 80th anniversary, includes articles on firearms from Q, Live Free Armory, Smith & Wesson, Dead Air, and coverage of NFA rulings and Second Amendment news by Editor-in-Chief Vincent L. DeNiro and other contributors.

Ballistic's Best Hunting Edition 2026 evaluated five advanced laser rangefinding binoculars including the Vortex Talon HD 10K, Tract Toric 10x42 Eagle LRF, Leupold BX-6 Range HD LRF, Apex Synergy LRF, and Leica Geovid Max. The comprehensive testing assessed build quality, ranging performance, glass clarity, ballistic capability, and real-world field performance to determine which rangefinder best serves hunters' needs.

Ballistic's Best Hunting Edition 2026 evaluated five rifle suppressors: Sig Sauer Endure 30, IWI IWS7Ti, EOTech DCBL 762, Dead Air Nomad Ti OTB, and Rugged 360 Ti. Testing measured weight, sound reduction, recoil, and point-of-impact shift to determine which suppressors deliver optimal performance for hunters.

Steiner Optics announced that Strohman Enterprise in Mechanicsville, Virginia, is now an authorized dealer for the Steiner Overwatch Program. Founded by Joe Strohman, the veteran-owned company serves federal agencies, Department of Defense, and law enforcement. Qualified first responders and military personnel can purchase precision optics including binoculars, riflescopes, and red dots through the program.

Traditions Performance Firearms will exhibit at the 2026 NASGW Annual Meeting & Expo in Phoenix, Arizona, October 13-15, showcasing innovative products including the NitroBolt bolt-action muzzleloader, NitroFire, and Outfitter G3 centerfire family at Booth #517.

European American Armory Corp. will exhibit at the 2026 NASGW Expo in Phoenix, October 13-15, showcasing new firearms including the Witness2311 XXX 1911 series starting at $599, the BLK .308 Bolt-Action Rifle from Balikli, and expanded Blue Label O/U Shotgun configurations.

Liberty Ammunition will participate in the Texas Tactical Police Officers Association (TTPOA) SWAT Competition in Pasadena, TX. CEO Gary Ramey noted that several Texas law enforcement departments carry Liberty Ammunition and have requested rifle round development alongside their existing pistol ammunition.

Steiner eOptics will showcase optical and targeting technologies at the Association of the United States Army Annual Meeting & Exposition October 12-14, 2026, in Washington, D.C. The company will display binoculars, rifle scopes, laser systems, and imaging technologies at the Beretta Defense Technologies booth.

Tac Shield will debut its new Modular Suppressor Cover and Fixed Length Suppressor Cover at the 2026 NASGW Annual Meeting & Expo in Phoenix, Arizona. Both mil-spec covers feature high-temperature insulation withstanding up to 2,000 degrees and are designed to reduce heat mirage and improve sight picture clarity.

One Horse, a family-owned and veteran-owned American firearms manufacturer based in Brownstown, Indiana, will exhibit at the 2026 NASGW Expo in Phoenix, showcasing its expanding Express Series developed with Atrius Development Group. The company's Express Rifle has been submitted for consideration in the 2026 NASGW-POMA Caliber Awards.

VKTR Industries and White Label Armory will exhibit at the 2026 NASGW Expo in Phoenix, Arizona from October 13-15. VKTR will showcase piston-driven AR-15 rifles and accessories, while White Label Armory will display AR-15 accessories, lower receivers, and suppressors at booth #1311.

Legacy Sports International will exhibit at the 2026 NASGW Show in Phoenix, Arizona, October 13-16, featuring HOWA, POINTER, and CITADEL brand firearms. The company will showcase popular products including HOWA Superlite Gen 2 rifles, POINTER shotguns, and CITADEL Boss25 AR-style shotguns to top distributors.

Beretta Defense Technologies alliance members including Beretta USA, Sako, Benelli, Steiner, Centanex, SwissP, RWS, and Norma will exhibit at AUSA Annual Meeting in Washington, DC, October 12-14, 2026, showcasing firearms, optics, ammunition, and counter-UAS capabilities.

Dead Air Silencers will exhibit at the 2026 NASGW Expo and National Meeting, October 13-15, in Phoenix, Arizona. CEO Ernie Beckwith emphasized the event's importance for strengthening distributor partnerships and showcasing the company's suppressor lineup, including previews of 2027 products.

Project ChildSafe's Safety Sweepstakes, administered by NSSF, is now accepting entries for eight prize packages valued over $20,000, including offerings from Vault Pro, GLOCK, Hornady, Savage Arms, Leupold, and other sponsors. The sweepstakes runs through January 31, 2027, with winners drawn March 11, 2027.

The following feature was first published on our companion site, Shooting News Weekly. To subscribe to a free weekly newsletter of top stories that appeared on Shooting News Weekly, click here.

As often as not, when I mention the use of airsoft guns for training purposes the person I’m talking to wrinkles their nose as though caught in a cloud of flatulence. I get it. Many dedicated gun people view the fringe “airsoft” movement as a non-serious game. Either that or they see the guns as toys for teens.

Despite these preconceived notions, quality airsoft tools that are near exact 1:1 replicas of the real thing, — to include reciprocating slides and identical controls — can be used as invaluable tools by those who take training seriously and have the correct mindset. 

Airsoft in America

Sometime in the early-aughts, I started writing a monthly airguns column for Harris Publications in Combat Handguns magazine. That meant I had to come up with airgun material each and every month. I began to make acquaintances with all of the marketing folks for airgun companies in the country as well as foreign importers. As you can imagine, there weren’t that many. 

Back in the aughts, airsoft or soft air guns were new in the United States, yes both terms were used back then. While popular in Asia and Europe, importers had a tough time getting permission to import the airgun replicas due to patent/trademark infringements. Back then, the majority of genuine firearms makers jealously protected their trademarks and were not inclined to work with the airsoft makers.

Slowly that situation began to change as genuine market demand altered the gun manufacturers’ ways of thinking. Some smart folks realized that teenagers who bought exact replicas of their guns would likely purchase the real deal later on. One of the gun makers to get smart and get on board was SIG SAUER. 

SIG P229 Airsoft 

Several years ago, SIG SAUER decided that rather than fight the airsoft makers, they would partner with them and create high-quality 1:1 replicas of their guns. SIG also listened to the guys who worked at the SIG Academy who informed the boardroom big shots that airsoft guns could be used as training tools, not just toys.

Today, SIG SAUER offers numerous officially licensed airsoft products directly from their website. The model that I decided to feature is their P229 “green gas” version. Green gas is a special blend of propane and silicone designed deliberately for airsoft guns. SIG also has some airsoft models that are powered by traditional CO2 powerlets.

The SIG P229 airsoft pistol is a true 1:1 replica of the real deal; it looks, feels, and functions exactly like the actual pistol. The airsoft P229 has a blowback, reciprocating slide for added realism. The magazine contains the gas chamber to power the gun as well as the 6mm BB reservoir. This model holds 23 of the plastic BBs. For those unfamiliar, 6mm is the standard size for airsoft BBs and the average weight for these is 0.20 to 0.30 grams. Average velocity from green gas pistols is around 300 feet per second. That’s not enough to break skin, but it is enough to leave a mark and sting a bit.

In addition to the pistol, SIG provided a unique airsoft magazine loading tool which is tremendously handy and useful. Loading a single BB at a time can be quite the tedious task as you might imagine. As for compressed cans of “green gas,” such can be had from numerous online retailers. Hell, even Amazon stocks it. Expect to get 500 to 1000 shots from each 8 ounce can of green gas. Naturally you gas-mileage is going to be gun dependent. 

Training and Practice

Training is where you go and what you do to learn how and what to practice. Practice is what you do on your own to develop and maintain skill. In addition to learning how to press the trigger without disturbing the sights, there are many other things we learn in training; holster drills, moving and shooting, multiple target drills, etc. 

For those whose only option is the local indoor range with severely restrictive rules, much of what you learned during training, things you want to practice, might be forbidden. This is when setting up your own airsoft practice range in a basement, garage, or backyard might be a legitimate idea.

Also, some of us live on the opposite spectrum of the indoors-only range. I have lived in rural areas where the only ranges were outdoors and during the winter, blowing and drifting snow prevented access. When I lived in the northern part of the United States, I spent many January and February afternoons in my basement airsoft range getting in some valuable practice. 

This brings us to a good point. Just how valuable and practical your airsoft practice sessions are is completely dependent upon your mindset. If you treat the practice seriously and handle the airsoft replica as you would a live-firearm, you can gain some valuable experience and keep up with your skill maintenance. 

However, if you treat the airsoft gun like a toy, pointing all around in a negligent fashion or worse, shooting your buddies in their asses, that is the road to ruin. The fact that airsoft replicas look and feel exactly like genuine firearms is a double-edged sword. If you handle them as you would a real gun, you develop positive behaviors. However, if you handle airsoft replicas like toys, that will translate to poor and dangerous habits when you have a live firearm in your hands.

Parting Shots

I found the SIG P229 airsoft replica to be an extremely high quality tool. Whether or not you have been convinced to add airsoft to your firearms practice routine is up to you. Nonetheless, you should be aware of the fact that modern airsoft replicas of genuine firearms are readily available and can be used as tools for productive practice if you go about it with the correct mindset.

– Paul Markel

Paul G. Markel is a combat decorated United States Marine veteran. He is also the founder of Student of the Gun University and has been teaching Small Arms & Tactics to military personnel, police officers, and citizens for over three decades.