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TTPOA Issues Statement Regarding SIG SAUER P320 Pistol

Tuesday, May 19th, 2026

There been a lot of controversy over the SIG P320 Pistol, especially after a false narrative was shared following the death of an Air Force Airman last summer at the hands of another Security Forces Defender. Rather than take responsibility for the death of his fellow service member, the perpetrator claimed the M18 Modular Handgun, a P320 variant, fired in an uncommanded discharge. Despite that being a lie, the internet went wild for it.

Quite a few instructors as well as some professional organizations and ranges joined in on the hysteria and banned use of the firearm in events and classes sponsored by them. While many revised their position after the truth came to light, some continue the ban.

This week, the Texas Tactical Police Officer Association released a statement regarding reinstatement of the P320 TTPOA-sponsored events and training. However, it should be read in full.

Here is the statement:

The Texas Tactical Police Officers Association (TTPOA) Executive Board has completed an extensive due diligence review regarding the Sig Sauer P320/M17/M18 platform and has voted to lift the prior restriction on the use of the P320/M17/M18 in TTPOA-sponsored training and events.

The original restriction was implemented in response to numerous publicly circulated incidents and videos alleging the Sig Sauer P320/M17/M18 platform were capable of firing without a trigger press, including incidents where the firearm was reportedly holstered at the time of discharge. Additional online videos and demonstrations attempted to replicate these occurrences outside of the holster environment. Due to the seriousness of these allegations and the potential risk to law enforcement personnel, the TTPOA Executive Board elected to temporarily prohibit the use of the P320/M17/M18 platform during TTPOA events pending further review.

In evaluating whether the restriction should remain in place, the Executive Board conducted a comprehensive review process that included independent testing data, consultation with subject matter experts, direct engagement with Sig Sauer leadership, and review of current litigation and industry information related to the platform.

As part of this process, the TTPOA reviewed independent testing conducted by the Texas Department of Public Safety (TXDPS) Firearms Unit. The testing involved ten Sig Sauer P320/M17/M18 pistols, including five new pistols and five pistols currently in service use. The testing was digitally recorded from multiple angles and included multiple test parameters designed to evaluate and confirm the function of the internal safety mechanisms incorporated into the P320/M17/M18 design. The TTPOA Executive Board was briefed on the findings and methodology utilized during the testing process. TXDPS currently maintains approximately 7,000 Sig Sauer P320/M17/M18 pistols in operational inventory.

Additionally, Sig Sauer leadership met with the TTPOA Executive Board during the TTPOA Annual Conference to discuss the restriction and provide detailed information regarding the design and operation of the P320/M17/M18 platform. Participants included Sig Sauer executive leadership, legal counsel, law enforcement sales representatives, and subject matter experts familiar with the internal striker assembly and safety systems of the pistol. TTPOA and Sig Sauer legal counsel participated in the discussions, and questions from the Executive Board were addressed in an open and transparent manner. Sig Sauer also offered TTPOA representatives’ direct access to company facilities and manufacturing operations for further evaluation. Subsequently, two members of the TTPOA Executive Board traveled to Sig Sauer Headquarters and manufacturing facilities to conduct an on-site review and meet further with company leadership and technical experts. The visit included discussions with Sig Sauer law enforcement and military sales leadership, legal counsel, and subject matter experts on the P320/M17/M18 design, manufacturing, testing, and quality assurance processes.

Based on the totality of information reviewed through this due diligence process, the TTPOA Executive Board determined sufficient information exists to support lifting the prior restriction on the Sig Sauer P320/M17/M18 platform for TTPOA-sponsored events and training. While TTPOA has lifted its organizational restriction on the P320/M17/M18 platform, TTPOA recognizes and respects the authority of individual contract instructors, host agencies, and host ranges to establish and enforce their own firearms policies and safety requirements. TTPOA cannot compel contract instructors, host agencies, or range operators to permit the use of the P320/M17/M18 platform during training events conducted on their facilities or under their direction. Any such restrictions imposed by those entities remain within their discretion and authority.

The TTPOA recognizes firearms safety remains a shared responsibility among manufacturers, agencies, instructors, armorers, and individual officers. TTPOA will continue to monitor developments, testing, and relevant information regarding duty weapon platforms and reserves the right to reevaluate policies should new information emerge in the future.

TTPOA Executive Board

Additional resources are available here.

Posted in Advertiser, Firearms, LE | 2 Comments »

PROOF Research Unveils New Shorter Barrel Configurations in the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0

Sunday, May 17th, 2026

COLUMBIA FALLS, Mont. – May 14, 2026 – PROOF Research is proud to announce the launch of shorter barrel configurations for the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0. Built on a commitment to innovation, performance and advanced materials, PROOF Research’s latest barrel options represent a refined approach for both the modern hunter and marksman. Both the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0 in shorter barrel configurations are now available in Tactical Flat Dark Earth (TFDE) and the all-new Midnight color, offering shooters greater customization options alongside PROOF Research’s carbon fiber technology.

With the launch of shorter barrel lengths, the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0 maintain PROOF Research’s lightweight characteristics while expanding usable applications. The more compact configurations improve overall maneuverability while retaining the precision and performance that shooters expect from the Elevation platform. Additionally, all barrel lengths feature a threaded 5/8-24 muzzle with thread protector, providing shooters with enhanced suppressor compatibility.

The PROOF Elevation 2.0 is a purpose-built hunting rifle that offers exceptional accuracy and seamless portability. Designed for backcountry pursuits and extended time in the field, the hunting rifle pairs a PROOF carbon fiber barrel and stock with a Zermatt Arms Origin action and a TriggerTech trigger. Balanced for mobility and precision, this rifle is engineered to perform across a wide range of hunting applications. The PROOF Elevation 2.0 is available in barrel lengths of 16.5″, 18″, 20″ or 22″, depending on the chosen caliber. With nine caliber offerings, including 22 Creedmoor, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7 BC, 7 PRC and .300 PRC. MSRP ranges from $3,199 – $3,499.

The Elevation MTR 2.0 utilizes the same advanced lightweight technology for recreational hunters and shooters seeking competition-level precision and repeatability. Designed for long-range and target shooting, this rifle features a PROOF Sendero contour carbon fiber barrel, PROOF carbon fiber stock, Zermatt Arms Origin action, detachable box magazine and TriggerTech trigger. The Elevation MTR 2.0 is available in barrel lengths of 16.5”, 18”, 20” and 22”, depending on the chosen caliber. With 13 caliber offerings, including .223 Rem, 22 Creedmoor and .338 ARC. MSRP ranges from $3,499 – $3,899.

“Our expansion of the Elevation platform reflects PROOF Research’s commitment to performance and innovation,” said Brandon Hulzebosch, director of sales and marketing. “With the new barrel length configurations, we’ve further refined the technology and ergonomics to ensure the highest level of accuracy and precision in the field or on the range.”

With the introduction of the PROOF Elevation 2.0 and Elevation MTR 2.0 in new barrel lengths, PROOF Research continues to push boundaries in rifle technology. By combining advanced carbon barrel technology with precision manufacturing, these expanded offerings in the Elevation series deliver a new standard for shooters who demand the highest level of performance.

For more information about Proof Research, visit ProofResearch.com.

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UNIT Solutions Launches UNIT9 Non-Lethal Pneumatic Training Pistol

Thursday, May 14th, 2026

TWINSBURG, Ohio — UNIT Solutions, the developer, manufacturer and distributor of the UNIT4 Training Rifle and UNIT9 Training Pistol, today announced the launch of the UNIT9 Compact non-lethal pneumatic pistol, a precision-engineered training system built to the exact weight, trigger feel and manual of arms of a duty-size pistol. Available beginning May 1, 2026, the UNIT9 ships directly to buyers without an FFL transfer, having been classified by the ATF as a non-firearm.

Designed for military, law enforcement and civilian shooters who demand training fidelity without the logistical overhead of live fire, the UNIT9 fires 8mm marking, non-marking or blank rounds powered by an 8g threaded CO2 cartridge. The system holds 15 rounds, operates at 550 psi and delivers an average velocity of 325 fps across a recommended operational temperature range of 38 to 110 degrees Fahrenheit. MSRP is $749.

The UNIT9 is manufactured using the same materials and processes used in actual firearms. The nitride-coated slide is weighted for realistic recoil impulse and battery of arms. Trigger weight and break are engineered to live-fire specification, with critical internal components finished in DLC coating for durability. Magazines are built and tested to withstand repeated drops onto concrete without loss of function, and the system is capable of firing thousands of cycles without a jam. Slide lock engages on empty magazine, reinforcing proper shooting habits.

The UNIT9 is compatible with standard holsters, weapon lights and optics with no modifications required. The system supports RMR, ACRO and DPP optic mounting footprints, allowing shooters to train on the same platform, with the same accessories, at the same standard they carry to.

Both marking and non-marking rounds are approved for force-on-force training in any environment, including in the backyard, garage or shoot house settings, without range scheduling or live-fire restrictions.

UNIT Solutions products are trusted by the U.S. Army, U.S. Air Force, SOCOM and hundreds of federal, state and local law enforcement agencies. The company is also the manufacturer of the UNIT4 Training Rifle, a 1:1 scale non-lethal AR-platform training system.

“The UNIT9 represents the standard serious shooters have been waiting for,” said Cody Snider, founder and co-president of UNIT Solutions. “We built this system to remove every barrier between the shooter and quality repetitions. Same holster, same trigger, same platform. No red tape, no range required. That is what honest training looks like.”

The UNIT9 is available beginning May 1, 2026, at www.unitsolutions.com. The system carries a two-year limited warranty and is manufactured in the United States.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release, Training | No Comments »

Achilles Heel Tactical Launches the AHT Podcast

Sunday, May 10th, 2026

Achilles Heel Tactical has officially launched the AHT Podcast, a long-form conversational platform hosted by AHT instructor David Acosta Jr., intended to extend many of the discussions that naturally happen around its training programs.

The debut episode, “The Genesis of AHT,” features founder Rick Crawley discussing the origins of Achilles Heel Tactical, the philosophy behind the company, and the standards that continue to shape its direction today.

For those who have trained with AHT, the format will feel familiar.

Some of the most meaningful conversations don’t happen while standing on the firing line. They happen during lunch, after class, or sitting around talking once the training day is over. Conversations about leadership, responsibility, discipline, marriage, fatherhood, faith, preparedness, and the realities of navigating life well in a culture that often lacks clear direction. The podcast is intended to be an extension of that atmosphere.

Rather than forcing those conversations into a class setting, the AHT Podcast creates a place where those topics can be explored more freely and in greater depth through long-form discussions with instructors, professionals, and respected voices from the firearms, military, law enforcement, and leadership communities.

“If you’ve trained with us, then you already know that a lot of the best conversations tend to happen during breaks or after class, and the podcast is really just intended to be an extension of that”, said Acosta.

While firearms training remains central to AHT’s work, the podcast broadens the conversation beyond technical skill alone. The intent is to help cultivate men who are more capable, more competent, and more accountable in the responsibilities they carry as husbands, fathers, protectors, and leaders.

New episodes will release weekly and will feature a mix of interviews, solo discussions, and group conversations centered around topics that matter both on and off the range.

“The Genesis of AHT” is now available on Spotify and Apple Podcasts.

For training information and upcoming courses, visit AchillesHeelTactical.com.

Posted in Firearms, Media, Press Release, Training | No Comments »

Wilson Combat Introduces the BULWARK 9mm Pistol

Friday, May 8th, 2026

Wilson Combat is proud to introduce the BULWARK, a new midsize 9mm service pistol engineered to deliver the reliability, durability, and refined shootability serious users demand in a concealed carry or duty handgun.

At the core of the BULWARK is an enclosed internal hammer-fired operating system, combining the ignition reliability and superior trigger characteristics traditionally associated with hammer-fired firearms with a clean, snag-free exterior profile ideal for concealed carry and professional use.

Unlike striker-fired pistols that rely on a spring-driven firing pin, the BULWARK utilizes a fully enclosed internal hammer mechanism. This design preserves the proven mechanical advantages of a hammer-driven system while protecting internal components from debris and eliminating the exposed hammer found on many conventional pistols. The result is a platform engineered to be one of the softest-recoiling and most reliable handguns in its class.

The BULWARK features a sliding trigger with a 1911-style 3.75 to 4.25 lb pull, designed to deliver a crisp trigger break and short, tactile reset familiar to shooters who value precision and control. This refined trigger system promotes consistent engagement, rapid follow-up shots, and enhanced practical accuracy without sacrificing safety.

Built for long-term durability, the BULWARK features a stainless steel slide, hand-fitted match-grade barrel, and fire control module, including integrated frame rails that create a rigid internal chassis for extended service life and consistent performance. For additional protection, the pistol is finished in a tough black nitride coating, offering outstanding resistance to corrosion, wear, and harsh environmental conditions while maintaining a deep matte-black appearance.

Impressive safety is a defining element of the design. The BULWARK incorporates four independent safety mechanisms, including an ergonomic grip safety that blocks the sear and trigger until disengaged, firing pin block and trigger safety providing redundant mechanical protection while maintaining intuitive, fast handling for concealed carry and duty use.

Designed around a highly practical compact-duty footprint, the BULWARK offers 15+1 capacity in 9mm while remaining cross compatible with many Glock 19-pattern holsters, allowing shooters to integrate it easily into existing carry systems. The pistol is also optics-ready, utilizing a versatile pin-based red-dot mounting system that provides a secure, repeatable interface for most modern pistol optics without requiring multiple plates.

Engineered for both deep concealed carry and extreme duty use, the BULWARK brings together compact dimensions, robust construction, advanced safety features, and internal hammer-fired performance in one purpose-built platform.

Key Features & Specifications:

Enclosed internal hammer-fired action delivers the trigger feel of a 1911 in the clean, snag-free profile of a modern duty pistol.
Tested to 5,000 rounds without cleaning or lubrication and without a single malfunction, engineered to run in any condition.
Four independent safety mechanisms provide redundant mechanical protection for confident concealed carry and duty use.
1911-style sliding trigger with a crisp 3.75 to 4.25 lb pull and short, tactile reset for precision and control.
Stainless steel slide, barrel, and fire control unit with durable black nitride finish for outstanding corrosion and wear resistance.
15+1 capacity in 9mm, compatible with many Glock 19-pattern holsters for seamless integration into existing carry systems.
Optics-ready with Wilson Combat’s pin-based red-dot mounting system, accepting most modern pistol optics without adapter plates.

Wilson Combat has been hand-building custom firearms in Berryville, Arkansas, since 1977. Founded by Bill Wilson and still family-owned, the company is widely regarded as one of the world’s premier custom handgun builders, with a product line that spans 1911s, AR and bolt-action rifles, and top-tier accessories.

wilsoncombat.com/handguns/double-stack/bulwark

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Arsenal Inc Celebrates America 250 by Honoring the Armed Citizenry and America’s Firearms Legacy

Wednesday, May 6th, 2026

Arsenal Inc., a premier American importer and manufacturer of semi-automatic Kalashnikov pattern firearms, is proud to commemorate the United States’ 250th anniversary with a heartfelt tribute to the nation and the freedoms it represents.

The United States of America marks this milestone as a quarter millennium defined by freedom, innovation, and determination. From its founding, the nation understood that independence from tyranny required more than words, it required the means to fight for it. The Continental Army relied on a wide range of arms, but it was imported firearms, most notably the French Charleville musket, that ultimately filled most of its ranks. This support not only helped secure victory but also laid the foundation for America’s ability to develop its own domestic arms manufacturing and preserve its independence.

At Arsenal Inc., we recognize and continue that legacy. From our early beginnings importing milled Kalashnikov firearms from Bulgaria to expanding into domestic manufacturing in the United States, our mission has remained the same, to provide the highest quality mil-spec AK platforms, foreign and domestic, to the American people. For nearly three decades, we have had the privilege of serving this market, made possible by the freedoms established by its founders.

Arsenal AKs are not built on reputation alone. They are among the only true mil-spec Kalashnikovs available to American civilians, featuring forged and milled receivers built to outlast their owners. We build real AK-47s. That commitment to quality has earned the trust of military and special operations forces globally, where robustness and reliable performance is mission critical.

In honor of America 250, Arsenal Inc. is offering a special $500 savings on four of its most popular models: SAM7UF, SAM7SF, SAM5, and SAM7K. Only 250 units of each model will be available at this commemorative pricing through K-VAR.

Rather than producing a limited, high-priced commemorative firearm aimed at collectors, Arsenal has taken a different approach, one rooted in accessibility and participation. This special pricing gives the end user the opportunity to get an Arsenal AK at a price not seen in over two decades. This initiative is designed to put mil-spec, high-quality firearms into the hands of more Americans, reflecting the enduring principle that the right to keep and bear arms belongs to the people.

As an added benefit, each firearm purchased as part of this promotion will include a $50 gift card redeemable at ArsenalInc.com.

“This great country has given us the opportunity to do what we do, and we are proud to give something back during this historic milestone,” said a representative of Arsenal Inc. “Our goal is not to create something exclusive for a select few, but to make this celebration accessible to more Americans who value freedom and the responsibility that comes with it.”

This 250th anniversary is more than a milestone, it is a reminder of what was fought for and what must be preserved. Arsenal Inc. is proud to honor that legacy not only in words, but in action, by continuing to provide quality firearms to the American people and supporting the enduring tradition of a well-armed citizenry.

More information

For full details of our American 250 Celebration: Arsenal INC., American 250

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | No Comments »

Ruger and Beretta Holding S.A. Announce Strategic Cooperation Agreement

Tuesday, May 5th, 2026

Agreement Reflects Mutual Commitment to Long-Term Value Creation & Stability
Ruger to Increase Beretta Holding Ownership Cap to 25% of the Company
Ruger to Grant Beretta Holding the Ability to Nominate Up to Two Independent Board Members

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR) (“Ruger” or the “Company”) announced that it has entered a Strategic Cooperation Agreement (“Agreement”) with Beretta Holding S.A. (“Beretta Holding”), the Company’s largest shareholder. The Agreement reflects a shared commitment to long-term value creation, constructive engagement, and stability for Ruger’s shareholders, employees, customers and industry partners.

Under the terms of the Agreement, Ruger is expected to allow Beretta Holding to increase its investment to up to 25% of the Company’s outstanding shares. The minimum partial tender offer price shall be $44.80 per share in cash – which represents a ~20% premium to the Company’s 60-day volume-weighted average share price prior to Beretta Holding’s tender offer announcement. Such tender offer has not yet commenced and will be subject to applicable regulatory approvals.

In connection with this increased investment, Beretta Holding will have the right to nominate up to two independent directors following the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and regulatory approval. At that time, the Company will temporarily expand the Board. The nominees will be subject to Ruger’s Nominating and Governance Committee process and qualification criteria.

As part of the agreement, Beretta Holding has committed to a three-year standstill, during which it will not, among other things, initiate or support any proxy contest or similar action. Over that period, Beretta Holding will also vote its shares in alignment with the Ruger Board’s recommendations on all matters (except in cases where leading independent proxy advisory firms, ISS or Glass Lewis, issue an adverse recommendation or in certain extraordinary transactions not involving Beretta Holding).

Additionally, Beretta Holding has withdrawn its director nominations for the 2026 Annual Meeting of Shareholders and only Ruger Board-recommended candidates will be up for election at the meeting.

These provisions, together with other provisions in the Agreement, are designed to safeguard Ruger’s independence and stability while increasing alignment of Beretta Holding with all shareholder interests.

“This agreement is strategically valuable and will benefit all Ruger stakeholders,” said John Cosentino, Chairman of the Board of Ruger. “As a Board, our responsibility and duty is to act in the best interests of all shareholders. This agreement provides stability, avoids further expense and distraction, and creates a framework for productive engagement with Beretta Holding while preserving Ruger’s independence and governance standards.”

The Agreement is positive for Ruger and its shareholders and enables Ruger and Beretta Holding to explore avenues for commercial cooperation in a manner that complies with all applicable laws. Importantly, Ruger will remain an independent U.S. public company – preserving its brand, heritage and strategic direction – while benefiting from Beretta Holding’s admirable legacy and global industry leadership.

“We are pleased to have reached this Agreement with Ruger. This cooperation is fully aligned with the Group’s strategy to further strengthen our presence in the United States, a key market where we have been active for several decades, and it reflects our commitment to continued longterm development.” said Dott. Pietro Gussalli Beretta, Chairman and CEO of Beretta Holding. “We are eager to work with the Company toward our shared goal of strengthening execution and positioning Ruger for value creation.”

Further information regarding the Agreement, and a copy of the Agreement, will be made available in a Current Report on Form 8-K to be filed by the Company with the United States Securities and Exchange Commission.

Posted in Firearms, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »

CZ-USA Announces Leadership Transition

Tuesday, May 5th, 2026

CZ-USA announced a series of leadership transitions designed to ensure continuity and support the company’s continued expansion in the U.S. market. Following a year of strong revenue and profit growth, these changes position the organization for sustained success and a seamless evolution of leadership.

After two years of rebuilding the CZ brand in the U.S. market, Petr Pistelak, President of CZ-USA, will transition back to Colt CZ Group in the Czech Republic, where he will oversee international sales initiatives for Colt and Dan Wesson. This transition is driven by family medical considerations.

Pistelak’s primary objective during his tenure was to stabilize the U.S. organization and build a team capable of sustaining long-term growth in revenue and operations. He has been the driving force behind the successful turnaround of CZ-USA, making critical hires and bringing a level of energy and focus that has inspired continued momentum across the company. His leadership, passion, and commitment have left a lasting impact on the organization and its people.

Petr Palecek will assume the role of Chief Executive Officer and Head of Operations for CZ-USA. In this position, he will oversee operations, including logistics, manufacturing, finance, legal, and human resources. Palecek joins CZ-USA from Ceska zbrojovka (CZ), where he served as Chief Human Resources Officer and a member of Board of Directors for over 2 years. Prior to that, he worked with CZ as an adviser from McKinsey & Company. McKinsey & Company is a global management consulting firm specializing in strategy, operations, and organizational transformation.

Palecek is a C-level executive with over 10 years’ experience in strategy and operations. While at McKinsey & Company, Palecek led transformation and business development for various clients. He is experienced in driving large scale transformations across the Middle East, Europe and North America in technology, banking, and manufacturing industries.

John Dain, who joined CZ-USA two years ago as Executive Vice President of Sales, will take on the role of President and Chief Commercial Officer. During his tenure, Dain played a vital role in advancing the company’s strategic direction and accelerating growth across retail and channel partnerships, including the continued development of the Dan Wesson brand. In his new role, he will lead sales, marketing, and product management, with responsibility for revenue and profit growth, brand leadership, market expansion, and customer experience across the United States.

Dain brings more than a decade of leadership experience in the firearms industry, with a proven track record of driving revenue growth, strengthening customer alignment, and building enduring brand momentum. He began his career at Sig Sauer in customer service and advanced through key roles in product management, national accounts, retail leadership, and executive sales. Earlier in his career, he served in the U.S. Army as an infantry team leader—an experience that continues to shape his leadership style, emphasizing discipline, accountability, and team development.

Tom Taylor, who has served as Chief Marketing Officer at CZ-USA over the past year, will work closely with Dain to ensure a seamless integration of marketing and product management initiatives. He is concurrently transitioning to Colt CZ Group as Chief Business Development Officer – North America. In this role, Taylor will collaborate business opportunities across CZ-USA, Colt, Dan Wesson, Colt Canada, Colt Optics, and other U.S.-based business initiatives.

Taylor brings more than 20 years of experience in sales, marketing, and product management leadership roles at Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, and Mossberg, along with over two decades in various sales and marketing positions at The Coca-Cola Company.

As John Dain and Petr Palecek assume full responsibility for the U.S. business, they will collaborate closely with outgoing President Petr Pistelak and CMO Tom Taylor to ensure a smooth and effective transition across all areas of the organization.

Posted in Firearms, Industry, Press Release | No Comments »