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Despite Ending Civilian Carbine Sales, Colt Still In The Game

Friday, September 20th, 2019

Although Colt has announced they will no longer manufacture carbines for civilian sales, they continue to support government contracts.

Announced by the US Department of Defense for 19 September, 2019.

Colt’s Manufacturing Co. LLC, West Hartford, Connecticut, was awarded a $41,924,594 firm-fixed-price Foreign Military Sales (Afghanistan, Bahrain, Djibouti, Federated States of Micronesia, Hungary, Jordan, Kuwait, Lebanon, Macedonia, Marshall Islands, Palau, St. Vincent and Grenadines, and Tunisia) contract for production for the M4 and M4A1 carbines. One bid was solicited with one bid received. Work locations and funding will be determined with each order, with an estimated completion date of Sept. 18, 2024. U.S. Army Contracting Command, New Jersey, is the contracting activity (W15QKN-19-D-0116).

Posted in Black Rifle, Contracts, Industry | 13 Comments »

Colt Statement Regarding Cessation Of Commercial AR-15 Production

Thursday, September 19th, 2019

Company Response to Questions about Colt Participation in Consumer Markets

WEST HARTFORD, Conn. (September 19th, 2019) – There have been numerous articles recently published about Colt’s participation in the commercial rifle market. Some of these articles have incorrectly stated or implied that Colt is not committed to the consumer market. We want to assure you that Colt is committed to the Second Amendment, highly values its customers and continues to manufacture the world’s finest quality firearms for the consumer market.

The fact of the matter is that over the last few years, the market for modern sporting rifles has experienced significant excess manufacturing capacity. Given this level of manufacturing capacity, we believe there is adequate supply for modern sporting rifles for the foreseeable future.

On the other hand, our warfighters and law enforcement personnel continue to demand Colt rifles and we are fortunate enough to have been awarded significant military and law enforcement contracts. Currently, these high-volume contracts are absorbing all of Colt’s manufacturing capacity for rifles. Colt’s commitment to the consumer markets, however, is unwavering. We continue to expand our network of dealers across the country and to supply them with expanding lines of the finest quality 1911s and revolvers.

At the end of the day, we believe it is good sense to follow consumer demand and to adjust as market dynamics change. Colt has been a stout supporter of the Second Amendment for over 180 years, remains so, and will continue to provide its customers with the finest quality firearms in the world.

Very respectfully,

Dennis Veilleux, President and Chief Executive Officer

Posted in 2A, Black Rifle, Industry, Press Release | 14 Comments »

Team Wendy Successfully Overcomes Opposition to Its European CAM FIT Retention System Patent

Thursday, September 12th, 2019

Yesterday in the Hague Netherlands, the European Patent Office (EPO) once again confirmed that Cleveland-based Team Wendy’s European patent directed to its CAM FIT™ Retention System was valid and entitled to a priority date of at least October 2012. The opposition to Team Wendy’s patent was filed by ABG Intellectual Property Law, S.L. against Team Wendy’s sister company that owns the European Patent, Intellectual Property Holdings, LLC (IPH). Although the identity of ABG’s client was not disclosed during the opposition, evidence submitted by ABG directly pointed to FECSA SL, a Spanish company that has been attacking Team Wendy’s CAM FIT™ Retention System IP for more than two years. The EPO found ABG’s opposition unsuccessful on all grounds and Team Wendy’s patent – European Patent No. 2874512 titled “Helmet Retention System” – shall be maintained as granted.

Team Wendy CEO Jose Rizo-Patron said that Team Wendy invests heavily in unique, innovative products and systems designs and will continue to aggressively defend its intellectual property. “We are very pleased with the ruling coming out of the EPO. It is regrettable that this particular company chose a path forward that the EPO has declared a dead-end in lieu of investing in their own design and development. Our IP is firmly grounded and this attempt to have it invalidated was rejected out of hand by the EPO,” he said. “The CAM FIT™ Retention System has been tremendously successful and remains the gold standard for tactical helmet systems worldwide.”

Team Wendy was represented in the opposition by Dr. Matthew Barton of Forresters in Munich, Germany and Mark W. McDougall of Calfee, Halter & Griswold LLP in Cleveland, Ohio.

Posted in Advertiser, Helmets, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Team Wendy Successfully Overcomes Opposition to Its European CAM FIT Retention System Patent

Brownells Launches Gun Guru Product Expert Online Chat Team

Monday, September 9th, 2019

GRINNELL, Iowa (September 9, 2019) – Brownells customers seeking product guidance and expertise can now consult live with a Brownells Gun Guru™ Product Expert.

Starting Monday, September 9, customers can click on the “Chat” icon at the top of the website to be connected with a Gun Guru™ Product Expert. The guru, whose photo will be shown complete with a short bio, will be either a Brownells Gun Tech™ (an actual trained gunsmith) or a vetted firearms enthusiast who can offer advice on product categories for which they are most familiar.

Gun Guru™ Product Expert chat will be live on the website Monday through Friday, 7:30 am until midnight (CT), and on weekends 8:00 am until 5:00 pm (CT).

“The mission of the Gun Guru™ Product Experts will be to help educate customers on products and give recommendations, so customers can make informed decisions,” said Ted Somers, Brownells Director of Customer Experience.

In addition to giving product advice, the Gun Guru™ Product Experts are also prepared to help customers with account issues, give information about previous orders and handle most customer concerns.

While Brownells Gun Techs will participate in Gun Guru™ Product Expert chat online, customers with more-technical questions can still call 1-800-741-0015 and ask to speak with a Brownells Gun Tech™ during regular business hours.

Customers can learn about the individual Gun Guru™ Product Experts on the Gun Guru Product Expert page.

Posted in Industry, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Riton Optics Announces John Piscione as Vice President of Sales

Friday, September 6th, 2019

Tucson, AZ (5 September 2019)- With almost 20 years of firearms industry experience, John Piscione accepts the Vice President of Sales position at Riton Optics. Piscione will be joining the current team at Riton Optics to facilitate the sales environment and build upon the company’s mission to provide high quality, affordable optics backed by industry leading customer service.

As an enthusiast and avid shooter himself, Piscione is focused on bringing more of Riton’s optics to those with his same unwavering passion for uncompromised quality and affordability.

“It is an understatement to say that I am excited and proud to be working with a veteran owned company that offers a variety of high quality, price conscious optics. Riton has created a winning product for everyone, from the novice to expert level hunting and shooting enthusiasts. I should know, I use them myself. We have a top-notch team that knows and understand customer needs. It’s truly an exciting time to be with Riton Optics.” – John Piscione

Through his extensive industry experience, Piscione will provide Riton with a unique sales perspective, allowing the company to continue its expansive growth in the market. Piscione not only utilizes and supports the Riton products on a personal level, but his own beliefs support the customer service motivations of the company.

According to Riton Optics Founder and CEO, Brady Speth, “John was a natural fit for our company and we’re honored to have another employee who is so personally and professionally invested in this industry. We are confident that his experience and talent will support the continued growth of Riton.”

John Piscione, along with the Riton team, will undoubtedly continue to take the market by storm, providing a new level of quality, value and service that the market desires in optics.

www.ritonoptics.com

Posted in Industry, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Riton Optics Announces John Piscione as Vice President of Sales

Fibrotex USA Opens New Factory in Stearns, Kentucky

Thursday, September 5th, 2019

Fibrotex USA recently opened their new manufacturing plant in Stearns, Kentucky. There, Fibrotex USA will manufacture Ultra-Lightweight Camouflage Net Systems (ULCANS) to fulfill a 10-year, $480 million contract.

The factory will employ up to 150 workers and is operated in a partnership with subcontractor Outdoor Venture Corp. Ultimately, OVC plans to employ an additional 200 employees at their existing McCreary County operation

Eyal Malleron, CEO of Fibrotex USA had this to say, “Today more than ever, our troops are facing a near-peer enemy with capabilities that did not exist nor were in play for the last two decades. This new threat requires us to re-adopt and relearn camouflage, concealment and deception doctrines more than ever. We are excited provide this exact solution to the US Army via the ULCANS with the strategic assistance of OVC and the extraordinary workforce in Kentucky.”

“This is an important long-term partnership that we are building in McCreary County to supply products directly to the Army,” said JC Egnew, president and CEO of OVC. “I anticipate this friendship will far exceed the next decade.”

“This exciting project will create substantial new economic opportunity in Southeast Kentucky, while also providing crucial, high-tech products for our nation’s armed forces,” Governor Matt Bevin said. “Outdoor Venture Corporation has been an integral part of McCreary County’s industrial sector for more than 35 years, and it is great to see the company bring another great business to the region. We thank both OVC and Fibrotex USA for the vital work they do, and for their commitment to utilizing Kentucky’s strong workforce to accomplish their mission.”

Posted in Camo, Industry | Comments Off on Fibrotex USA Opens New Factory in Stearns, Kentucky

Wild Things, LLC Announces the Promotion of Dawn West to Chief Operating Officer

Tuesday, September 3rd, 2019

VIRGINIA BEACH, September 3, 2019 – Wild Things, LLC (“Wild Things” or the “Company”), an ASGARD Partners & Co. (“ASGARD”) portfolio company, is pleased to announce the promotion of Dawn West to the role of Chief Operating Officer (“COO”).

West joined Wild Things in March of 2019 as Director of Program Management for the Company. Since that time, she has been instrumental in the successful execution of the company’s strategic growth objectives, taking on a pivotal role in significantly advancing the company’s scope of production planning, demand planning, and ERP system utilization and integration. In this new elevated role, West will oversee daily business operations as the company continues to experience growth and expansion.

With over 14 years of defense industry experience West has held several leadership roles in many facets of the defense market and tactical industry. She has an extensive background in defense program management having had responsibility for management of several large IDIQ equipment contracts for ADS, Inc. valued at over $500 million. West also led in various management positions in operations and sales management with Blue Force Gear, a leading industry supplier and manufacturer of high-quality tactical gear.

“I have known Dawn for over 10 years and have always been impressed with her drive and commitment to remove obstacles and confront challenges while staying focused on the larger mission to support the operational effectiveness of the End User by providing reliable protective products in a timely basis,” said Amy Coyne, CEO of Wild Things.

Addressing her newly appointed position, West stated, “I am honored to support the continued revitalization of this legacy brand that has dedicated 38 years to protecting extraordinary people taking extreme risks in uncertain conditions.”

www.wildthingsgear.com

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, Press Release | 2 Comments »

NNDA Announces Winners of the 2019 Pioneer Awards

Friday, August 30th, 2019

CARSON CITY, NV – August 22, 2018 – Northern Nevada Development Authority (NNDA) today announced the winners of its annual Pioneer Awards (PioneerAwards.com). Winners will be honored and celebrated during the 5th Annual NNDA Pioneer Awards & Gala being held on November 7, 2019. The Pioneer Awards recognize individuals and businesses whose contributions to economic development have supported the growth of Nevada’s Sierra Region, while showcasing the many business success stories of Nevada’s Sierra Region.

• Boundary Peak Exceptional Nonprofit Award: Western Nevada College Foundation (Carson City, NV – WNC.edu/Foundation/). WNC Foundation develops resources and encourages philanthropy in support of Western Nevada College. The organization is being recognized for extraordinary growth in funding streams from 2016- 2019, active board involvement, presence in the community, and support of workforce development initiatives. WNC Foundation Executive Director Niki Gladys said, “We are so honored to receive this prestigious award! The board of directors for the WNC Foundation has worked very hard over the past few years to support students through scholarships, emergency funding and WNC facility improvements in order to contribute to workforce development in this region.”

• Kit Carson Extraordinary Entrepreneurism Award: Kevin Lindseth, CEO, Pure Ground Ingredients (Minden, NV – PureGroundIngredients.com). PGI is an industrial supplier of organic botanicals, spices, chili, and black and green teas. This visionary entrepreneur is being distinguished for his ability to meet market needs, the ongoing refinement of the PGI business model, the company’s growth and environmental responsibility, use of state-of-the-art systems, worldwide community engagement, work with students, and training programs for employees. Kevin Lindseth said, “Pure Ground Ingredients expresses our gratitude to NNDA and our community, our employees and global network of customers and growers. We couldn’t have made it this far without the continued dedication and support over the years!”

• Silver Forge Outstanding Manufacturer Award: Franklin Armory® (Minden, NV – FranklinArmory.com). Franklin Armory specializes in manufacturing quality firearms for sporting, military, and law enforcement applications. The company is being honored as the creator of a new cluster of businesses that support the manufacturing of firearms in Nevada’s Sierra Region, as well as for its innovative manufacturing techniques, community involvement with local law enforcement, growing exports, and recent business expansions. “Northern Nevada continues to provide lower manufacturing costs including real estate, skilled labor, energy, and compliance,” said Jay Jacobson, President. “These competitive advantages allow us to prosper and grow in the Silver State as we satisfy global demand for new products.”

In addition to the award winners, NNDA 2019 Pioneer of the Year Jim Peckham, Executive Director of FISH, will be honored during the gala.

NNDA President & CEO, Robert “Rob” Hooper, said, “The winners of our NNDA Pioneer Awards and our Pioneer of the Year are the movers and shakers who represent what is possible when there is a vibrant and resilient economic ecosystem supporting their efforts.” He continued, “By taking a regional economic development approach and pooling assets, we can achieve economic growth which benefits all of the counties in Nevada’s Sierra Region. At the same time, we can drive growth in alignment with the unique characteristics and goals of each individual county, further strengthening the region’s economy.”

As part of the Pioneer Awards ceremonies, the Nevada Builders Alliance (NBA) will again present its annual Golden Hammer Award that recognizes the construction team whose project had the greatest impact on the economic development of the Sierra Region. 308 Curry Street Project – Metcalf Builders is the 2019 winner of the NBA Golden Hammer Award. The 308 Curry Street Mixed-Use Development in Carson City was envisioned by the owner, The Hop & Mae Adams Foundation, and built by Metcalf Builders (an NNDA Partner). This three-story mixed-use project is now home to retail (The Martin Hotel Restaurant and Squeeze In) on the first floor, offices (Lumos Engineering and Prime Lending) on the second floor, and residential units on the third floor. The project is the embodiment of the mission of the Adams Foundation to provide for the betterment of the people of Carson City and adds tremendous economic impact to its downtown.

The Pioneer Awards & Gala is attended by over 250 influential business leaders, executives, and management teams of companies from the Sierra Region and beyond. Government officials also attend the annual fundraiser. Event sponsorships and ticket sales are used to support NNDA’s mission: To influence, facilitate, and support the ongoing growth and prosperity of the economic ecosystem of the region.

PioneerAwards.com

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