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HOP Munitions Collaborates with Vortex Edge to Enhance Precision Training with Superior Ammunition

Tuesday, August 6th, 2024

BARNEVELD, WI—Precision and reliability are paramount in firearms training. That’s why Vortex Edge, Vortex Optics’ cutting-edge training facility, trusts HOP Munitions for its training ammunition needs. Although not an official partnership, this relationship highlights the respect and trust between two industry leaders.

Vortex Edge instructors Chris and Cody use HOP Munitions’ 9mm 147gr poly ammo during their courses, ensuring that students experience top-tier performance in every session. This choice underscores the ammo’s consistency and reliability, making it a preferred option for professional firearms instruction.

Recently, HOP Munitions had the privilege of visiting the Vortex Edge facility and gaining insights into Chris and Cody’s advanced training methods. Discover how HOP Munitions’ innovative poly ammo enhances the Vortex Edge training experience.

Precision and Reliability at Vortex Edge

The Vortex Edge Instructors’ decision to utilize HOP Munitions’ poly ammo is a testament to the ammunition’s superior performance characteristics:

– Consistent Performance: HOP Munitions’ poly ammo offers unparalleled consistency, ensuring trainees experience reliable results in every session.

– Precision and Accuracy: Designed for precision, the 9mm 147gr poly ammo supports both novice and advanced shooters in achieving accurate shots.

– Eco-Friendly Design: HOP Munitions’ ammo’s environmentally friendly design reduces lead exposure, aligning with Vortex Edge’s commitment to sustainability.

– Cost-Effectiveness: With competitive pricing, HOP Munitions’ ammo allows extensive training without sacrificing quality.

A Visit to the Vortex Edge Facility

The team at HOP Munitions recently had the opportunity to visit the Vortex Edge training facility, observing firsthand the advanced training techniques employed by instructors Chris and Cody. This visit offered insights into the comprehensive training environment that Vortex Edge provides, featuring state-of-the-art technology and a wide range of training scenarios, including indoor and outdoor ranges, shoot houses, and simulation rooms that mimic real-world conditions.

During the visit, HOP Munitions representatives immersed themselves into the Vortex Edge training environment and gained valuable insights into how Vortex Edge integrates their expertise into each session. The choice of HOP Munitions’ poly ammo further solidified the effectiveness of the instruction, offering participants an optimal experience.

Expert Instruction and Training Programs

The collaboration allows Vortex Edge to enhance its training offerings, which include a variety of courses tailored to different skill levels:

– Intro to Long-Range Shooting: Fundamentals of long-range shooting, including ballistic calculations and wind reading.

– Advanced Carbine: Dynamic shooting techniques to improve adaptability and performance in real-world scenarios.

– Advanced Pistol: High-pressure shooting techniques focusing on speed, accuracy, and tactical reloading.

– Precision Rifle: In-depth exploration of long-range shooting with advanced ballistic theory and environmental considerations.

– Low-Light Engagements: Training for reduced visibility conditions using flashlights and night vision equipment.

Testimonial from HOP Munitions

Max, a representative from HOP Munitions, shared his thoughts on the collaboration with Vortex Edge: “During my recent visit to Vortex Optics, I was thoroughly impressed by their exceptional hospitality and state-of-the-art facilities. The experience was truly five-star. The training sessions with Chris and Cody from Vortex Edge were phenomenal, providing us with invaluable insights and skills. We eagerly look forward to returning the entire HOP team to Vortex Edge for further training classes.”

Future Opportunities

Although not currently an official partnership, Vortex Edge and HOP Munitions’ relationship opens doors for future collaborations and innovations in firearms training and ammunition technology. As discussions continue, both companies look forward to exploring new opportunities to enhance training experiences for shooters of all skill levels.

Contact Information:

For more information on Vortex Edge training programs, visit Vortex Edge Firearms Training.

For more information on HOP Munitions Poly Ammo for training, visit the HOP Munitions website.

Posted in Ammo, Press Release, Training | 4 Comments »

Ceremonial Handover in Hungary: Rheinmetall Takes Over Ammunition Factory in Várpalota, Hungary, After Completion

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024

On 29 July 2024, the Duesseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall celebrated the official takeover of its new state-of-the-art 30mm ammunition factory in Várpalota, Hungary.

The ceremony took place in presence of the Hungarian Minister of Defence Kristóf Szalay-Bobrovniczky and the CEO of Rheinmetall AG, Armin Papperger.

The new production facility in Várpalota is a significant milestone in Rheinmetall’s expansion strategy. It underlines the company’s commitment in providing up-to-date technologies to support the defence capabilities of its partners. The factory is designed to produce 30mm ammunition for the KF41 Lynx infantry fighting vehicle (IFV), which will be built in Zalaegerszeg and delivered to the Hungarian armed forces. The Várpalota factory will start production in October 2024. Furthermore, ammunition for battle tanks and artillery as well as igniters will be among the products manufactured in Várpalota in a second phase. In the final expansion stage, the company site will cover a total of around 150 hectares.

In his opening speech, Armin Papperger highlighted the importance of the new factory for Rheinmetall and the site in Hungary: “The opening of this state-of-the-art ammunition factory in Várpalota is a clear signal to our commitment concerning innovation and quality. This facility will not only strengthen the defence capabilities of our global partners and in Hungary, but will also contribute to the economic development of the region.”

In his address, Hungarian Defence Minister Szalay-Bobrovniczky emphasised the strategic importance of the cooperation with Rheinmetall, and stressed the joint efforts in strengthening the national security and defence industry.

The new factory in Várpalota is equipped with the latest technology and will create more than 200 jobs in the region, making an important contribution to the local economy. The establishment of the Lynx IFV and other Lynx models also strengthens the development of the Hungarian defence industry. Rheinmetall is thus continuing its tradition of contributing to global security through technological innovation and close partnerships.

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Vista Outdoor Board Announces Review of Strategic Alternatives

Wednesday, July 31st, 2024

Company Adjourns Special Meeting for CSG Transaction to September 13, 2024

ANOKA, Minn.– Vista Outdoor Inc. (“Vista Outdoor” or “the Company”) (NYSE: VSTO) today announced that its Board of Directors (the “Board”) has commenced a review of strategic alternatives, which includes:

• Exploration of a full range of alternatives for Revelyst, including a potential sale of Revelyst. The Czechoslovak Group a.s. (“CSG”) is also considering an acquisition of Revelyst with potential partners (in addition to its proposed acquisition of The Kinetic Group).

• Engagement with MNC Capital (“MNC”) and its private equity partner with respect to its proposal to acquire Vista Outdoor to see if it can deliver superior value for the Company’s stockholders. This follows MNC’s recent public statement on July 26, 2024 that “if there were a reason or basis to increase our offer, including Vista engaging with us and providing one, we would increase our offer price”. In light of this recent statement, the Board has determined that MNC’s proposal would reasonably be expected to lead to a superior proposal and meets the standard for engagement under the terms of the CSG merger agreement. Considering the extensive diligence conducted by MNC and its private equity partner to date, Vista Outdoor expects MNC to be able to confirm an increased proposal for the acquisition of Vista Outdoor in short order.

• Continued consideration of the separation of Revelyst and The Kinetic Group through a spin-off.

The Board remains committed to acting in the best interests of the Company and its stockholders.

“We recognize the continuing support received from many of our stockholders for the CSG transaction and the feedback from some of our stockholders with respect to other strategic alternatives,” said Mike Callahan, Chairman of the Board of Directors. “We take the views of our stockholders very seriously and believe it is prudent to evaluate all strategic alternatives. In addition to engaging with CSG and MNC and its private equity partner, we also look forward to reviewing any other strategic alternative for Vista Outdoor that would maximize value for stockholders. While we conduct this strategic review, we remain as focused as ever on delivering high-quality, innovative products for our consumers around the world.”

In light of this announcement, Vista Outdoor will adjourn the special meeting of stockholders (the “Special Meeting”) scheduled to be held at 9:00 am (Central Time) on July 30, 2024, to 9:00 am (Central Time) on September 13, 2024. The Board continues to recommend Vista Outdoor stockholders vote in favor of the proposal to adopt the merger agreement with CSG at the Special Meeting.

Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as sole financial adviser to Vista Outdoor and Cravath, Swaine & Moore LLP is acting as legal adviser to Vista Outdoor. Moelis & Company LLC is acting as sole financial adviser to the independent directors of Vista Outdoor and Gibson, Dunn & Crutcher LLP is acting as legal adviser to the independent directors of Vista Outdoor.

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Rheinmetall Manufactures 81mm Mortar Ammunition for the Swiss Armed Forces

Saturday, July 27th, 2024

The Düsseldorf-based technology group Rheinmetall has been commissioned by the Swiss Confederation to manufacture and supply 81mm mortar cargo ammunition. The total value of the order is in the mid double-digit million euro range.

The entire scope of supply comprises 81mm MX2-KM mortar weapons from Rheinmetall EXPAL Munitions SA as well as 81mm mortar cartridges Cargo for illumination white light, illumination infrared and smoke discharge based on RP (Red Phospor), which are manufactured by Rheinmetall Waffe Munition GmbH at the Neuenburg am Rhein plant. The delivery is scheduled to be completed by 2025 and includes various additional services as part of the product launch.

The cartridges are qualified for the MX2-KM mortar of the Swiss armed forces and, together with the weapon system, form a mortar system in which both the ammunition and the weapon system are manufactured by Rheinmetall.

At the end of the qualification measures, the cargo cartridges were verified at a test site on the Spanish coast. The order underscores Rheinmetall’s expertise in the production of state-of-the-art steep-fire mortar ammunition.

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SIG SAUER Broadens 6.8 / 277 FURY Offerings

Thursday, July 25th, 2024

During the recent SIG NEXT event in New Hampshire SIG announced that they would not only introduce an MCX SPEAR chambered in 6.8×51, but that they are also increasing the types of 277 FURY cartridges as well as offering a 6.8 ammunition for commercial sale.

277 FURY / 6.8 x 51mm Ammunition

The cartridge is unlike anything else out there and was developed by SIG Ammunition in 2017 at their plant in Arkansas. The design is 23.5% lighter than the weight of an equivalent energy cartridge (270 WSM) which exceeds the Army’s goal of a 20% weight reduction for the Next Generation Squad Weapon program.

In addition to being lighter, the case is also stronger. It features a unique hybrid case design which is made of two components, a brass body and steel head. Combined, you get more strength in the head where you need it, and a malleable case which works very well in the firing cycle. This allows the cartridge to withstand very high pressures, in excess of 80,000 psi, and right along with it, you get very high velocities.

277 FURY is the SAAMI certified equivalent of the US Army’s new 6.8 x 51mm hybrid-cased cartridge developed for NGSW. The commercial 277 FURY ammunition has been around for a while now and incorporates the 150 grain Nosler AccuBond projectile. It’s a boat tail bullet, featuring a polymer tip, copper-alloy jacket with a lead-alloy core and a thick heel. With this cartridge expect 3,000 FPS from a 16” barrel and an additional 30 FPS for every additional inch of barrel.

SIG Ammunition’s new 113 grain 6.8 ball cartridge from SIG is as close as you are going to get to the new XM1188 solid copper projectile ammunition being procured by the US Army for NGSW. It comes off of the same line and it’s produced to the same specs, meaning, you’ll see the same performance. Expect muzzle velocities above 3200 feet per second from a 16” barrel from this hybrid cartridge.

All told, you’ll have access to 6.8×51 hybrid ball in can (460) or crate (920), 277 SIG Fury Venari Hunting 130gr soft point (non hybrid), and 277 FURY hybrid match 155gr OTM as well as the currently available 277 Accubond and 277 ball (non hybrid).

There are a lot of rumors floating around out there about the NGSW program. One of them is that SIG isn’t delivering enough ammunition to the Army. This isn’t true. In fact, the availability of this commercial ammunition is proof that it isn’t so.

6.8 MCX SPEAR

When the Army adopted SIG new ammunition they also adopted two new weapons to fire it, the XM250 Automatic Rifle which is actually a belt-fed machine gun replacement for the current Squad Automatic Weapon and the XM7 Rifle which will replace the M4 carbine in units like the Infantry and Cav Scouts across the service.

Along with the commercial 277 FURY ammunition, the bolt action SIG CROSS has been available for a couple of years. In addition, you’ll now also have a semi-auto rifle chambered in 277 FURY. They are expanding the caliber selection of the popular MCX SPEAR platform to include 6.8 / 277 FURY in addition to the currently available .308 and 6.5 Creedmoor.

Just like the XM7 version, the 6.8 MCX SPEAR features a 13.3″ barrel so it’s an SBR. However, they are planning to introduce a pistol version now that stabilizing braces are back on the menu as well as a standalone upper for those who already own an MCX SPEAR rifle in .308. As with the 6.8 ammunition, the 6.8 MCX SPEAR is as close as you are going to get to NGSW without joining the Army and being assigned to one of the close combat units receiving the new gear.

Look for these new options soon.

www.sigsauer.com

Posted in Advertiser, Ammo, weapons | 7 Comments »

HOP Munitions Fills the Gap Amid Vista Outdoor’s Uncertainty

Wednesday, July 24th, 2024

Hayesville Ohio, USA – [July 2024] – In light of recent news regarding Vista Outdoor’s ammunition division facing potential sale and shareholder uncertainties, HOP Munitions, a trusted U.S.-based ammunition manufacturer, is stepping up to provide American shooters with a reliable and high-quality alternative.

Vista Outdoor’s Market Challenges

Vista Outdoor, a leading ammunition supplier, is experiencing significant challenges that have led to concerns among shareholders and consumers. Speculation about potential sales or restructuring has introduced uncertainties in the market, prompting many shooters to seek dependable sources for their ammunition needs.

Impact on American Shooters

The instability surrounding Vista Outdoor’s future poses several risks for American shooters:

? Supply Chain Disruption: Potential changes in Vista Outdoor’s operations could lead to delays and shortages, disrupting the supply of ammunition for recreational, hunting, and self-defense purposes.

? Price Fluctuations: Restructuring or new ownership might bring price adjustments, making it difficult for shooters to plan their purchases.

HOP Munitions: A Trusted Alternative

Amid these challenges, HOP Munitions stands out as a steadfast provider of high-quality ammunition. HOP Munitions is committed to domestic production and strategic sourcing, ensuring a stable and reliable supply for American shooters.

Key Advantages of HOP Munitions:

? Consistent Supply: Despite industry-wide challenges, HOP Munitions has maintained a steady supply of ammunition through effective production management and strategic sourcing.

? High-Quality Products: HOP Munitions prides itself on producing ammunition that meets stringent quality standards, providing shooters with reliable performance for various applications.

? Domestic Production: By manufacturing ammunition within the U.S., HOP Munitions reduces dependency on foreign suppliers, offering a more secure and stable supply chain.

Navigating the Gun Powder Shortage

The ammunition industry has also faced a gun powder shortage, affecting many manufacturers. HOP Munitions has navigated this challenge by diversifying suppliers and optimizing production processes, ensuring continued supply even when others face delays.

Transparency and Communication

HOP Munitions values transparency and has kept customers informed throughout the gun powder shortage, building trust and loyalty. This commitment to clear communication further distinguishes HOP Munitions as a reliable partner for American shooters.

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SIG NEXT Opening Night

Monday, July 1st, 2024

Last week SIG SAUER launched a year’s worth of new product during a two-day event called SIG NEXT. This video is a great summary of launch night which was attended by hundreds of media, top SIG dealers, and SIG employees.

The launch includes:

P365-FUSE

P320-FLUX Legion

– ROMEO-X Enclosed optic

– MCX-SPEAR 6.8

– .277 FURY Ammunition

– CROSS-MAGNUM Sawtooth @ Signature Meateater Ammunition

– P226-X5 Reserve

– P226 40th Anniversary

– P320-X5 SX

– ECHO family of thermal sights

Several items are already shipping to dealers like the P365-FUSE and P320-FLUX Legion. Even then, expect a few more surprises throughout the year.

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McAlester Army Ammunition Plant Successfully Completes Surge Outload Exercise

Sunday, June 30th, 2024

A week of bustling activity at the McAlester Army Ammunition Plant’s depot operations outload sites ensured the depot operations team executed its outload mission with a 100% completion rate and 19 hours ahead of the surge outload exercise scheduled stop time.

The exercise began on June 3 and was completed on June 7 with the depot operations team prepping and packaging almost 500 twenty-foot equivalent units in nine 12-hour shifts.

“The shipping of ammunition to the warfighter attracts a certain vigor from the MCAAP team. When experiencing this mission activity on the distribution pads, there just isn’t a greater feeling of patriotism that can be applied to our duty as Army Civilians,” said Todd Stone, MCAAP’s depot operations director. “It is simply moving to watch thousands of tons of ammunition, prepared and loaded by the MCAAP teammates, to be shipped to serve our nation. This is truly where the rubber meets the road.”

In coordination with the Transportation Engineering Agency, MCAAP sent munitions Outside the Continental U.S. in support of U.S. Central Command, U.S. European Command, and Presidential Drawdown requirements demonstrating the installation’s capability of ramping up outload requirements with short notice.

“I am extremely proud of the mission our depot operations team recently completed,” said Col. Gabe Pryor, MCAAP’s commander. “It can be difficult to operate as a well-oiled machine during a long-sustained outload, but the team welcomed the task and executed the mission with precision.

“The highly skilled workforce of MCAAP allows us to remain ready, reliable, and lethal at any given time,” Pryor added. “Our depot operations team worked diligently to ensure safety and readiness.”

The mission of MCAAP, a subordinate of the Joint Munitions Command, is to provide global sustainment across the Army through ammunition production, storage, distribution, and demilitarization. The government-owned, government-operated installation is housed on more than 45,000 acres and has the storage capacity of 6.3 million square feet.

By Julia Hawkins

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