Gun Trade Insider offers a detailed examination of the latest developments across various international markets.
Across the pond
The total economic impact of the firearm and ammunition industry in the United States increased from $19.1 billion in 2008 to $90.05 billion in 2023, a 371 percent increase, while the total number of full-time equivalent jobs rose from approximately 166,000 to over 384,437, a 131 percent increase in that period.
The National Shooting Sports Foundation’s (NSSF) Protect Liberty Political Action Committee (Protect Liberty PAC) has been invigorated by a notable $10,000 contribution from Grasso Holdings. This contribution is strategically aimed at supporting electoral candidates who champion the preservation of liberty, freedom, and Constitutional rights in the U.S. This initiative focuses on key battleground states and districts, actively opposing candidates who promote a progressive, far-left agenda that threatens these
fundamental rights.
In a pivotal legal development, members of the firearms industry have requested the U.S. Supreme Court to review a $10 billion lawsuit filed by Mexico, which accuses them of contributing to violence by narco-
terrorist groups.
Streamlight, Inc. is advancing its leadership positions with the promotions of Eric Pike to Director of eCommerce and Digital Shelf Architecture, Kevin Burger to Director of Automotive and Hardware, and Geoff Evans to Sales Director, Canada.
AG Composites continues to innovate in the firearm stock market by offering fiberglass OEM stocks designed for mid-range rifle manufacturers, reinforcing its commitment to quality and performance in rifle
stock production.
In defence of Second Amendment rights, new privacy laws in Indiana and Utah, championed by Governors Eric Holcomb and Spencer Cox respectively, now prohibit financial institutions from tracking lawful purchases of firearms and ammunition. These laws have garnered staunch support from the NSSF and are seen as a critical step in protecting the privacy of lawful gun owners.
The U.S. Postal Service plans to roll out electronic fingerprint services to facilitate the resolution of challenges and appeals concerning FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System
(NICS) denials.
SDS Imports has appointed Christopher DiCenso as its new CEO, aiming to strengthen its position in the international firearms market with his expertise.
Fiocchi of America has congratulated Fiocchi Pro Team member Matthew Kutz on his huge achievement at the Spring Olympic Trials held in Tucson, AZ, at Tucson Skeet and Trap. Matthew earned a coveted spot on the 2024 US Jr. National Team, his third consecutive year on the team. His journey continues as he prepares to represent the United States at the upcoming Jr. World Cup in Porpetto, Italy, and the Jr. World Championships in Lima, Peru,
later this year.
Watchtower Firearms, a leading veteran-owned firearm manufacturing company, recently announced the appointment of Graham Kohlmeyer as its new Chief Operating Officer. Graham’s role will be effective immediately, and he will report directly to owner and CEO Jason Colosky. With his extensive experience and proven record of accomplishment, Graham is expected to bring valuable insights and leadership to the team.
Meanwhile, Safariland, part of Cadre Holdings, Inc., has partnered with Noveske Rifleworks to launch the Liberator HP headset in a limited edition N81 camouflage design. This collaboration combines advanced technology with unique styling, targeting the public safety, military, professional, and outdoor markets.
Mainland Europe
The Czechoslovak Group (CSG) has reported a record fiscal year with a 71% revenue increase to EUR 1.73 billion and a doubling of its EBITDA to EUR 439 million. Significant growth was particularly noted in its Ammo+ Division, which focuses on small calibre ammunition, predominantly for the U.S. civilian market.
The Czech investment group RSBC, led by Robert Schönfeld, has acquired Austria-based firearms manufacturer Steyr Arms. The transaction, finalised on April 23, 2024, places Steyr Arms entirely under the ownership of RSBC, which purchased the company from its previous owner, SMH Holding GmbH. The financial terms of the deal have not been disclosed.
A ground-breaking survey commissioned by the French National Hunters’ Federation (FNC) and conducted by YouGov in partnership with the European Federation for Hunting and Conservation (FACE) indicates a strong public support or neutrality towards hunting in France, contingent upon adherence to legal standards.
Weihrauch & Weihrauch Sport celebrated its 125th anniversary with an exclusive reception at the IWA Outdoor Classics Exhibition in Nuremberg, attended by over 100 international guests, highlighting its long-standing heritage and commitment to the firearms industry.
Down under
The Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia (SIFA) has been actively engaged in addressing the discrepancies in firearm categorisation by NSW Police through the newly established Firearms Classification Working Party (FCWP). This initiative aims to standardise firearm classifications across Australia, enhancing clarity and fairness in
the industry.
Additionally, SIFA is vocally criticising the Western Australian government’s decision to allocate over $76 million for a firearm buy-back program targeting legally owned and registered firearms. SIFA argues that this measure does not effectively target criminal possession of firearms and misuses taxpayer funds.
