Across the pond
Industry celebrates Trump’s election win
The U.S. firearms industry is celebrating Donald Trump’s re-election, which many see as a historic victory for Second Amendment rights. The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) credited gun owners, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts for their voter turnout, which helped secure both Trump’s win and pro-Second Amendment majorities in Congress. Through its #GUNVOTE initiative, NSSF focused on registering gun owners and hunters, engaging communities in swing states, and promoting a pro-Second Amendment stance. Since 2020, there have been over 22 million first-time gun owners in the U.S., along with millions of unregistered hunters, who became part of a significant voting bloc in this election. Trump’s win in the popular and electoral votes is viewed as a public mandate for defending the Second Amendment.
Orvis announces layoffs and store closures
Iconic retailer Orvis is restructuring, announcing plans to lay off 8% of its workforce, close some stores, and discontinue its longstanding catalogue. The company’s President, Simon Perkins, called these actions necessary to address “new challenges” in the modern retail landscape. With a 170-year history, Orvis has faced several cycles of transformation, but today’s environment requires a bold approach to adapt to shifting consumer habits and the rise of digital shopping. Affected employees will receive two months of full pay, health insurance, severance, and job transition services. This restructuring is part of Orvis’s effort to streamline operations and focus on products that resonate with today’s consumers.
SHOT show to address export/import compliance for firearms industry
At the upcoming SHOT Show, the firearms industry will be offered a series of sessions to address export and import compliance, critical issues as global regulations evolve. Experts from the U.S. Bureau of Industry and Security (BIS), the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI), and compliance specialist Kim Pritula will present updated guidance. Each session costs $75 and is designed to help businesses stay current with new regulations, including recent changes under the Export Administration Regulations (EAR). Key topics include export licensing, documentation through the DDTC and BIS systems, and practical compliance tips. These workshops will be particularly valuable for those responsible for international transactions, and the sessions provide a cost-effective way to understand and implement regulatory requirements that protect business operations from compliance risks.
Luth-AR acquires ACRO machine
Luth-AR, a prominent firearms manufacturer, has acquired ACRO Machine Inc., a Minnesota-based barrel manufacturing firm, expanding its in-house production capabilities. This acquisition follows a 23-year partnership with ACRO, during which ACRO provided barrel machining services for Luth-AR and D.P.M.S., Inc. The acquisition includes CNC machines, proprietary designs, and other manufacturing assets that will allow Luth-AR to innovate in new product lines. The company intends to offer a wider selection of barrel calibres, contours, and specialty coatings, underscoring its commitment to quality and innovation in barrel production.
Barrett names new director of U.S. Government sales
Barrett Firearms Manufacturing has appointed Cameron Fraser as its new Director of U.S. Government Sales. With a 20-year career in defence, including roles within the Australian Army and U.S. Army, Fraser brings expertise in defence partnerships and project management. Barrett’s CEO, Bryan James, expressed confidence that Fraser will uphold Barrett’s high standards in precision manufacturing and support for government clients. Fraser, who holds a Bachelor of Science and three Master’s degrees, will represent Barrett at the upcoming Association of the United States Army (AUSA) Annual Meeting. He expressed gratitude for the opportunity and looks forward to contributing to Barrett’s vision for advancing soldier lethality.
Middle East
Gun Trade World partners with Middle East hunting expo
Gun Trade World magazine has entered a strategic partnership with the Middle East Hunting Expo, marking an important collaboration in the global hunting and shooting industry. The Expo, attended by UAE’s Vice President and Prime Minister Sheikh Mohammed bin Rashid Al Maktoum, featured an impressive range of products, reflecting the enthusiasm for hunting and shooting in the region. Simon Barr, CEO of Time Well Spent Group, publisher of Gun Trade World, spoke highly of the event and partnership, seeing it as a chance to promote industry innovations. The Expo, held from November 7–10 at Dubai Marina, provided attendees with a unique experience, including interactive product displays. This collaboration strengthens Gun Trade World‘s global presence and supports knowledge exchange within the hunting community.
Mainland Europe
Czechoslovak group expands ammunition production
The Czechoslovak Group (CSG) has announced the acquisition of a nitrocellulose production facility in Lower Saxony, Germany, as part of its effort to expand ammunition production capabilities. Nitrocellulose, a key ingredient in ammunition, is critical to Europe’s defence industry, yet there is a reliance on non-EU suppliers. CSG Chairman Michal Strnad highlighted the strategic importance of this acquisition, especially in addressing shortages of large-calibre ammunition. With this purchase, CSG aims to establish a vertically integrated supply chain, from raw materials to finished products, which will strengthen Europe’s defence sector. Over 350 employees will transition to CSG’s workforce, and the acquisition is expected to close by mid-2025, underscoring CSG’s commitment to supporting European defence with locally produced materials.
You can read the full December 2024 issue below:
