Across the pond
CSG Czechoslovak Group launches MSM Group North America Inc. and appoints Jason W. Gaines as CEO
Czechoslovak Group (CSG) has launched MSM Group North America, Inc., a new subsidiary under MSM Group, an industrial-technological holding specialising in medium- and large-calibre ammunition. Jason W. Gaines, with over 20 years of experience in the munitions industry, has been appointed as CEO. Both Gaines and the company will be based in St. Petersburg, Florida.
MSM Group North America aims to strengthen the U.S. Munitions Industrial Base (MIB) by providing essential products and services to the U.S. Armed Forces. It plans to bolster the resilience of the MIB by investing in advanced technology and delivering dependable execution.
Michal Strnad, owner and chairman of CSG, stated: “The launch of MSM Group North America, Inc. is another step forward by CSG to contribute to the stability and growth of the American defence and industrial sectors. Following CSG’s recent acquisition of The Kinetic Group, we are doubling down on our commitment to the U.S. and its national security interests.”
Jason Gaines added: “I am thrilled to lead MSM Group North America and to become part of the CSG Group. My aim is to uphold the high standards set by the CSG team and MSM Group through commitment to execution, customer partnerships, and investment in people and technology.”
Barrett secures new U.S. Army contract for M107 Rifle System
Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc. has been awarded a $14.99 million contract by the U.S. Army to supply the M107 Rifle System, including variants such as the Model 82A1 and M107A1, along with accessories, spare parts, and training. The contract extends through late 2029 and builds on Barrett’s long-standing relationship with the U.S. military.
Ryan Krantz, Barrett’s vice president of business development and sales, said: “This contract reaffirms the trust the U.S. Army places in the M107 Rifle System and Barrett’s commitment to excellence. We are honoured to provide our troops with a superior platform known for its performance and reliability.”
Taylor’s & Company partners with Big Rock Sports
Taylor’s & Company, a leader in historical firearms, has partnered with Big Rock Sports, LLC, a prominent North American outdoor industry distributor. Big Rock Sports will now carry Taylor’s & Company’s lever-action rifles and single-action revolvers.
Keri McDonald, sales and marketing director of Taylor’s & Company, said: “Big Rock Sports is a world-class distributor offering game-changing services. We look forward to them presenting our legendary products to dealers nationwide.”
Taylor’s & Company, in operation for over 30 years, provides historically accurate firearms and modern enhancements for collectors and sports enthusiasts. The company prides itself on rigorous quality control, ensuring that each firearm is hand-checked before shipping.
NSSF-adjusted background checks top 15.2 million in 2024
The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) has reported over 15.2 million NSSF-adjusted FBI National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) verifications for firearm sales in 2024. December alone saw over 1.6 million checks, marking the 65th consecutive month with over 1 million checks in a single month.
NSSF President and CEO Joe Bartozzi said: “These background check figures demonstrate strong sales and the commitment of manufacturers to deliver high-quality products. Our member companies exceed the standards demanded by law-abiding Americans exercising their Second Amendment rights.”
While December’s adjusted figure represented a 7.5% decrease from 2023, the data reflect a robust market. NSSF-adjusted NICS data exclude permit applications and rechecks to provide a clearer picture of market conditions.
Mainland Europe
Victrix Armaments partners with Tangent Theta to elevate precision shooting
Italian precision rifle manufacturer Victrix Armaments has partnered with Canadian optics specialist Tangent Theta. The collaboration aims to combine Victrix’s engineering with Tangent Theta’s advanced optical technology to enhance precision shooting.
Giuseppe Valtorta, CEO of Victrix Armaments, said: “This partnership unites Victrix’s design expertise with Tangent Theta’s advanced optics. Together, we will provide unparalleled solutions for professional shooters.”
Tangent Theta’s VP of sales, Trevor Publicover, added: “By integrating our technology with Victrix’s precision engineering, we aim to redefine performance standards in the industry.”
Colt CZ Group SE announces senior management changes
Colt CZ Group SE has restructured its senior management, effective January 1, 2025. The roles of Group CEO and Chairman of the Board have been separated to enhance strategic focus.
Jan Drahota will remain chairman of the board, focusing on strategic development. Radek Musil, currently CEO of Sellier & Bellot, will assume the role of Group CEO, overseeing operations and implementing the business plan. Sellier & Bellot’s CFO, Vladimir Rada, will step into the CEO position at the company.
Down under
Positive outcome for interstate hunters in Tasmania
The Tasmanian Government has resolved an issue restricting interstate hunters from using firearms in the state. Recreational hunting has now been recognised as grounds for exemption from holding a Tasmanian firearms licence.
On January 9, 2025, Tasmanian Police Commissioner Donna Adams signed an Approval of Recreational Hunting under Section 55 of the Firearms Act 1996, effective January 13. SIFA commended Commissioner Adams for addressing the issue swiftly and noted the decision supports Tasmania’s regional economy and shooting industries.
SIFA also acknowledged the collaborative efforts of stakeholders in securing this outcome.
You can read the full February 2025 issue below:
