Gun Trade Insider offers a detailed examination of the latest developments across various international markets.
Across the pond
Sig Sauer has announced that Robby Johnson has been appointed chief marketing officer. Currently serving as senior vice president, commercial & defence product management, Johnson will retain these responsibilities. His role has involved significant cross-functional collaboration, linking marketing, sales, product management, engineering and manufacturing in the commercial and defence sectors.
Johnson will report to Sig Sauer president and CEO, Ron Cohen, and will collaborate closely with Tom Taylor, the former chief marketing officer & executive vice president, commercial sales, who will now serve as executive vice president, global brand development. Additionally, Johnson will take on the role of senior vice president of the Sig Sauer Academy, managing the renowned training institution and the SIG
Experience Center.
“Robby brings extensive experience to the evolving SIG brand,” said Cohen. Johnson’s military background as a U.S. Army Ranger and competitive shooter, combined with his industry roles at Remington and Sig Sauer, position him well for this transition into leading Sig Sauer’s marketing efforts.
The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) has filed an amicus brief with the US Supreme Court supporting Smith & Wesson against Mexico’s lawsuit, which seeks to hold the manufacturer liable for third-party criminal acts in Mexico. Their attorneys submitted the brief, outlining the history of firearms litigation and the rationale behind the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA).
SAF executive director Adam Kraut argued that allowing Mexico’s lawsuit would undermine the firearms industry and limit American citizens’ ability to acquire arms. SAF founder Alan M. Gottlieb emphasised that the PLCAA was designed to prevent such litigation aimed at bankrupting the firearms industry.
German Precision Optics (GPO) USA has partnered with Schooler Outdoor Marketing to handle sales of GPO’s premium optics in the eastern United States. This partnership follows the merger of Outdoor Marketing Group and Schooler Associates, forming Schooler Outdoor Marketing.
Mike Jensen, CEO of GPO USA, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, highlighting the team’s extensive experience and alignment with GPO’s values. This collaboration is expected to enhance GPO’s presence and service quality in the expanded territory.
Vista Outdoor Inc. has rejected an unsolicited acquisition offer from MNC Capital, which valued the company at $37.50 per share. The board, after consulting with financial and legal advisors, determined that the offer significantly undervalued Vista Outdoor. Despite extensive engagement with MNC, no improved proposal was received.
Chairman Michael Callahan highlighted the company’s strong growth prospects, including the GEAR Up initiative aimed at re-accelerating growth and improving adjusted EBITDA. Vista Outdoor remains committed to its strategic plans, including a pending transaction with CSG and the separation of Revelyst as a standalone public company.
Mainland Europe
H&N, the German airgun ammunition manufacturer, has introduced the H&N Precision Slug .22, looking to set a new standard in long-range airgunning. This product responds to advances in airgun technology, offering improved performance for modern shooters. Notable past innovations include the Slug HP range and the T-Slot Hollow Point for the H&N Slug HP II. The H&N Precision Slug, developed with professional shooter Airhunter Gerhard, boasts an average Ballistic Coefficient (B.C.) of 0.140, enhancing accuracy and reducing wind susceptibility. Initially available in .22 calibre and 33 grain weight, it promises exceptional performance for both target shooting and hunting.
Carl Walther GmbH has secured a contract to supply the German Armed Forces’ elite special forces – Bundeswehr – with adapted models of the Walther PDP pistol. This seven-year contract involves providing the KSK, KSM, and military police special forces with tailored versions of the PDP pistol to meet military requirements.
CEO Bernhard Knöbel expressed pride in supporting the Bundeswehr, emphasising the importance of equipping soldiers with high-performance firearms. This contract solidifies Walther’s position in tactical firearms and underscores the Bundeswehr’s commitment to operational excellence.
Down under
Australian powerhouse NIOA’s American subsidiary has opened an office at Picatinny Arsenal in New Jersey, a key hub for US Army armaments development and procurement. NIOA group CEO Robert Nioa highlighted the strategic importance of co-location for enhancing US and allied defence collaborations.The Picatinny office marks a significant step in NIOA’s US growth plan, which includes the acquisition of Barrett Firearms and a teaming agreement with Aerojet Rocketdyne. Major-General John T Reim and other officials attended the ribbon-cutting ceremony, underscoring the commitment to strengthening defence industrial resilience.
The Shooting Industry Foundation of Australia (SIFA) has welcomed TSA as a patron member. TSA, a family-owned distributor of small arms and outdoor equipment, aligns with SIFA’s mission to protect and represent the Australian shooting industry.
TSA managing director Aaron Millard expressed pride in joining SIFA, emphasising the importance of unity in safeguarding the industry’s future. SIFA CEO James Walsh welcomed TSA, noting that their membership will strengthen SIFA’s efforts to ensure the industry’s success and prosperity.