The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) named U.S. Rep. Ben Cline (R-Va.) as its 2025 Legislator of the Year for his advocacy supporting firearm industry commerce, Second Amendment rights, and hunting. Cline championed the Hearing Protection Act, secured NFA tax elimination in the One Big Beautiful Bill, and sponsored legislation protecting industry access during government shutdowns.

Zanders, a national distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, has added Check-Mate Industries products to its lineup. Check-Mate specializes in precision firearm magazines and components for military, law enforcement, and civilian shooters, with products now available for immediate shipment through Zanders' website.

Hornady shooter Lauryl Akenhead won Top Production honors at the Koenig-Ruger Precision Rifle Competition in Grand Junction, Colorado, using Hornady 6mm 110 gr. A-Tip Match bullets in her 6mm Creedmoor for consistent accuracy.

Connor Knapp, a Junior Team Ruger member, earned nine individual victories at the 2026 College National Championship in Talladega, AL, including first place in the Optics Rimfire Rifle division using his Ruger 10/22® rifle. Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. celebrated Knapp's strong performance and demonstrated the reliability and versatility of their firearms.

Sturm, Ruger & Company Junior Team member Kaleb Klein won 11 divisions at the 2026 College National Championship in Talladega, AL, including dominating the Rimfire Rifle Iron Sight division with a score of 25.83 using his 10/22® rifle.

Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed a motion for summary judgment in Morris v. Savannah, challenging a City of Savannah firearm storage ordinance. FPC member Deacon Morris and attorney John R. Monroe of John Monroe Law, P.C. seek to affirm Georgia's firearm preemption law and block local gun control measures.

The Second Amendment Foundation and partners including the American Suppressor Association, National Rifle Association, and Firearms Policy Coalition filed a supplemental reply brief in Brown v. ATF challenging the National Firearms Act's registration requirements for short-barreled firearms and silencers.

HeadHunters NW has been exclusively retained by Heckler & Koch USA to conduct a confidential national search for a National Sales Manager — Commercial. The role offers autonomy and accountability leading H&K USA's growing commercial sales operations from Columbus, Georgia, across distribution and premium dealer networks.

The NSSF praised Kentucky's legislature for overriding Governor Andy Beshear's veto of HB 78, the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms (PLCAA) Clarification Act. The bill establishes legal immunity for firearm and ammunition manufacturers and retailers against lawsuits arising from criminal misuse of lawfully sold products. NSSF Senior Vice President Lawrence G. Keane stated the override corrects the governor's decision to stand with gun control groups seeking to abuse courts through litigation.

Hi-Point Firearms unveils a versatile .30/5.56 multi-caliber suppressor at the 2026 NRA Annual Meeting in Houston. The additive manufactured suppressor features flow-through technology, supports multiple calibers, and is available in Titanium 64 or Inconel 718 options, made in Ohio with a lifetime warranty.

Taurus introduces the Deputy Dual Cylinder, a single-action revolver featuring interchangeable cylinders in .357 Magnum/.38 Special and 9mm. The 5.5-inch barrel revolver combines classic Old West styling with modern functionality, offering shooters three caliber options in one firearm.

Wilson Combat announces the return of the Sentinel, its smallest 1911 platform, now joined by the all-new Sentinel XL. Both pistols feature hand-fit construction in Berryville, Arkansas, with the Sentinel XL offering a lighter aluminum frame and longer sight radius, available in 9mm or .38 Super.

Legacy Sports International announces the Howa Fence Line Series is now shipping, featuring standard and mini action models with three Cerakote coating options: Scorched Earth, Gray Light, and Prairie Reaper. The rifles include threaded barrels, muzzle brakes, and caliber options including the new 25 Creedmoor, backed by a lifetime warranty and sub-MOA accuracy guarantee.

Vortex has launched the Veil 400 Thermal Monocular, designed for hunters seeking accessible thermal technology with straightforward operation. Featuring 400x300 resolution, multiple color palettes, and backed by Vortex's VIP Warranty, the monocular offers practical performance for predator and hog hunting at an MSRP of $2,299.99.

Atrius Development Group has joined the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) as a Gold-level corporate partner. The firearm accessory manufacturer, known for its Forced Reset Selector for AR-15 platforms, supports SAF's legal advocacy work defending Second Amendment rights.

Colt's Manufacturing Company has joined the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) as a Gold-level corporate partner to support legal initiatives safeguarding constitutional rights. SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut praised Colt's commitment to ensuring Second Amendment freedoms through courtroom battles across the country.

The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) has promoted attorney Bill Sack to Senior Director of Legal Operations. In this role, Sack will oversee SAF's legal program, including litigation management, case tracking, and public education. Executive Director Adam Kraut praised Sack's coordination of outside counsel and legal program management during his tenure with the organization.

Colt has appointed Jillair Kubish as President and Chief Executive Officer effective April 1, 2026. Kubish brings over 20 years of firearms industry experience, including a decade at Colt in senior leadership roles overseeing Military and Law Enforcement programs, plus prior U.S. Government service and consulting expertise.

Kinetic Development Group is advancing its optic mount development efforts guided by feedback from dealers and professional users. The company's SideLok series flagship platform continues to evolve to support diverse modern rifle configurations and optic setups, with new product development progressing beyond conceptual stages.

COAST announced the launch of the WPH10R, a compact multi-purpose headlamp delivering 1,000 lumens and IP67 waterproofing. The versatile light functions as a headlamp, clip light, hat light, and magnetic work light, available now at coastportland.com for $39.99.

Magpul announced three new M-LOK products: an Index Stop, Thumb Shelf, and SVG Grip designed to improve firearm control. All accessories are ambidextrous, available in May in multiple colors, and constructed from durable proprietary polymer with mil-spec hardware included.

Daniel Defense announces the release of the Null9Ti suppressor, a 3D-printed titanium solution engineered for pistol caliber carbines. The ultra-lightweight suppressor weighs 4.4 ounces and delivers over 75% noise reduction compared to bare muzzle, now available through local dealers.

Taurus USA introduces the GX2 TORO, adding optics-ready capability to its proven GX2 platform at the same accessible price point. The new model features a T.O.R.O. optic-ready slide, Picatinny rail, and 13-round capacity, designed for first-time buyers and value-driven consumers seeking modern features without premium pricing.

Daniel Defense announces the launch of the MUTE30Ti, a 3D-printed titanium suppressor engineered for precision bolt-action rifles. Weighing 8.3 ounces with a 1.55-inch diameter, the suppressor features a low-flow design, integral flash hider, and HUB mounting compatibility, backed by a lifetime warranty.

EchoCore Suppressors' Topo 22 suppressor has been featured on the cover of On Target Magazine's 2026 Personal Defense issue, showcased mounted on an HK G36 .22LR platform. The titanium-constructed suppressor, available through Silencer Shop, represents a significant editorial endorsement for the brand's advanced rimfire suppressor design.

HOWA's new 25 Creedmoor rifles are now available through Legacy Sports International in 1500 barreled actions with 22" and 24" barrel options. The cartridge, dubbed the Triple Threat, serves varmint hunting, deer hunting, and precision shooting applications with ballistic performance comparable to the 6.5 Creedmoor.

Springfield Armory unveiled the SAINT Victor 5.5" 9mm PDW, a compact firearm featuring an ultra-short barrel paired with an SB Tactical HBPDW collapsible brace. The direct blowback system delivers rugged reliability in a maneuverable platform ideal for tight spaces, with an MSRP of $1,399.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. announced the release of the Bodyguard 38 2.0, a compact .38 S&W Special +P revolver designed for personal protection. The 5-shot revolver features a 1.875" stainless-steel barrel, ambidextrous cylinder release, and is available with an optional Crimson Trace red laser at MSRPs of $449.00 and $549.00 respectively.

Springfield Armory is launching the Model 2020 Gear Up promotion, offering purchasers of select new Model 2020 rifles a free XD-M Elite 10mm pistol worth $674. The program runs from April 15 through August 31, 2026, and includes an online redemption process with dealer delivery.

Target Sports USA announces AMMO+ Day 2, an exclusive member-only event launching April 23, 2026, offering AMMO+ members 10-12% discounts on selected ammunition and primers. The membership program provides year-round savings, free shipping, and automatic entries to exclusive giveaways.

Fusion Firearms, known for custom 1911s and performance firearms, has expanded its distribution through Iron Valley Supply Co. The company offers Freedom Series 1911s and Liberty Series shotguns while maintaining its commitment to quality and detail.

Dan Wesson Firearms will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 16-19, showcasing its premium 1911 handguns including the DWX and Specialist models. Members of the Wesson family will attend to celebrate the brand's heritage and craftsmanship.

RCBS and Hodgdon Powder Company will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits at Booth #3617, featuring reloading tools, components, and innovations. Both companies will host in-depth reloading workshops for beginners, with Weaver Mounts also showcased at the booth.

EchoCore Suppressors will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 16–19, alongside Silencer Shop at booth #3643. The company will showcase its premium suppressor lineup, including the award-winning Sector 5.56 models and the newly released Topo 22 rimfire suppressor.

Kinetic Development Group will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas (April 17-19) at Booth #913, showcasing its SideLok optic mount series, Kinect quick-detach M-LOK system, and firearm accessories. Exclusive show specials will be available to attendees and KDG newsletter subscribers.

Check-Mate will showcase its firearm magazines, components, and branded apparel at Booth #3337 during the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, April 17–19. The company will host a multi-sponsor giveaway featuring prizes from Kimber and Nine-Line, with drawings at 3:00 PM on Friday and Saturday.

Jaguar Silencers will exhibit at the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits 2026 in Houston from April 17-19, showcasing three new suppressor systems: the CAF556H Fatty Series 5.56, NANO 9mm, and CAM762 MAX Series 7.62, all featuring the company's proprietary Intermittent-Flow Technology.

Walther Arms will showcase its PDP platform and lineup at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas, April 16–19. The Fort Smith, Arkansas-based company will demonstrate its striker-fired pistols designed for personal defense, competition, and duty use.

Beretta will exhibit at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston (April 17-19) at Booth #2623, showcasing its full portfolio including brands Sako, Tikka, Manurhin, and Langdon Tactical Technology. The company will debut its new Training Gear Collection and feature key firearms including the AX800 Suprema, 694 Black DLC, and A300 Ultima Patrol. Team Beretta athletes including JJ Racaza, Cameron Templin, Vincent Hancock, and Kim Rhode will make scheduled appearances.

Hornady and SnapSafe, a Hornady Company, will showcase their 2026 product lineup at Booth #2115 during the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits April 16-19, 2026, in Houston, Texas. Visitors can meet hunting celebrities and Team Hornady-sponsored shooters at the George R. Brown Convention Center.

CCW Safe, a self-defense legal coverage provider, will exhibit at the 155th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston from April 16-19, 2026. World Champion Shooters JJ Racaza and Julie Golob will appear at the booth, and attendees can enter a giveaway for a Walther PDP with C&H Precision optic.

MTM Case-Gard, a family-owned company since 1968, showcases its latest American-made storage and transport solutions at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Houston, Texas. New products include the Suppressor Protector 2, 250th Multi-Can Ammo Crates, Emergency Boxes, Chronograph Case, Pistol Range Kit, Molle Panels, and Truck Underseat Gear Crate at booth #2107.

I recently had a chance to sit with a member of service, currently in a training role at his agency, for a chat. I like to try to keep up with things – for reasons that should be obvious. 

I’d been complaining loud and long about forgotten lessons, those learned the hard way by those who were no longer in a position to remind us. We’ve lost many in police service over the decades. The things our betters learned by paying with their lives – from fatality or disability – need to still be taught. 

My example of a thoughtful approach, a more recent one from Craig Douglas, had to do with using convenience stores. No one said you couldn’t pull up to a gas pump facing the building (I use one on the side opposite my filler cap, to indicate to anyone watching that I’m not taking fuel) to park. This gives you a chance to look, listen and assess. 

Looking for abnormal behavior is more than just looking to see if someone’s fleeing the building, or seeing someone inside with their hands up. You can listen for raised voices outside, indicating a disturbance in progress. 

For those like me, no longer charged with enforcing the law, that’s a cue to leave the scene. There are other locations, pick one without drama. 

My source informed me that he still teaches caution in approaching situations, listening as well as looking for trouble. 

Assessment. 

After someone – sworn or unsworn – can meet a particular standard in hard skills (marksmanship, gun handling), it’s time to learn scene assessment, approach tactics, human behavior cues, decision-making. 

We should be having to take less time on hard skills; once attained, they need to be sustained and the agency will never provide that time. You have to do it on your own. 

I know that you’re working two jobs to make ends meet, you have appointments, the kids need braces. Life intrudes. The thing is, if you want to keep living, you have to keep those skills sharp. 

We can work on recognizing signs of conflict, resistance, panic. We can apply ourselves to consider how to work corners, doorways, to approach walls with windows. For those not “on the job,” consider transitional spaces. 

Your approach to the area between the doors of the store or your domicile and your vehicle requires some consideration. Looking ahead, a long way down the highway in drivers’ ed, is applicable here. While not ruling out “cross traffic,” an attacker emerging from between parked vehicles, looking a long way out gives you time. 

Time, according to Dennis Tueller, consists of distance and obstacles. 

Knowing where you can quickly step to avoid an aggressive panhandler – or incoming rounds – is handy. 

It’s good to know the young ones are being sent the message. Sadly, there are those who don’t heed the message, wandering in “where angels fear to tread.” 

It’s a good way to meet those angels sooner rather than later. 

– Rich Grassi