Visionary leader to drive aerospace and defense growth with proven military-approved Carbon Fiber Technology.

Columbia Falls, Mont. (January 2025) – PROOF Research®, the global leader in composite technology, is proud to announce the appointment of Richard Hunter as its new Chief Executive Officer. With over 25 years of leadership in the aerospace, defense, and industrial manufacturing sectors, Hunter brings a wealth of experience to the company, poised to accelerate growth in its aerospace and defense markets while continuing to innovate in the commercial firearms space for which PROOF Research has built its legacy.

Hunter joins PROOF Research following a successful tenure as CEO of Eaglepicher Technologies, where he spearheaded growth initiatives by building high-performance teams and implementing transformative organizational strategies. Previously, he served as President of L3 Technologies’ Defense Electronic Systems division, where he led the integration of four distinct divisions into a unified entity, delivering synergies in manufacturing and business development.

As an advocate for innovation and operational excellence, Hunter’s leadership is expected to bolster PROOF Research’s commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions, including their patented match-grade carbon fiber barrels – the only carbon fiber barrels approved for use by the U.S. military.

With its industry-leading advanced composite products already trusted by the military, including for platforms such as the F-35 Joint Strike Fighter and the B2 Stealth Bomber, PROOF Research is poised to expand its industry-leading firearm, composite technologies into more precise and complex systems utilized in the aerospace and defense markets.

“Joining PROOF Research represents an extraordinary opportunity to harness the company’s unparalleled expertise in advanced composites to address the evolving needs of the aerospace and defense industries,” said Hunter. “The team’s ability to merge next-gen aerospace materials with precision firearms technology sets a new standard for innovation. I look forward to working alongside this talented group to expand PROOF’s reach and capabilities.”

Find out more about PROOF Research barrels and rifles at proofresearch.com.

Dover, NH — 01/07/2025— Q, LLC, the unapologetically bold leader in firearms innovation, is proud to welcome Cody Osborn as its new Vice President of Sales and Marketing. An avid hunter and lifelong firearms enthusiast, Osborn has been a dedicated fan of Q firearms and suppressors, relying on The Fix as his go-to hunting rifle for the past few years. Now, he’s stepping in to help take Q to the next level.

“Cody gets it,” said Kevin Brittingham, Owner of Q, LLC. “He’s not just another suit; he’s one of us. He knows the industry, he knows the community, and he’s been rocking The Fix in the field for years. With his experience and passion, Cody is the perfect fit to help us push boundaries and keep delivering the products our customers demand.”

With a career spanning roles in both sales and marketing, Osborn has earned a reputation for delivering results. A competitive shooter for nearly 10 years, he honed his skills both on the range and in the field, bringing a unique perspective to product development and marketing. From his start at a local gun store to leading marketing efforts at Walther Arms and Taurus USA, he’s launched iconic products like the Q5 Match Steel Frame, PDP, and Executive Grade series. His knack for blending innovative strategies with a deep understanding of the firearms market earned him a spot on the prestigious SHOT Business 40 Under 40 list.

In his role at Q, Osborn will oversee all sales and marketing initiatives, helping drive strategies to grow brand recognition and expand Q’s reach in the firearms market. He will lead efforts to connect with Q’s loyal customers and introduce new audiences to the brand.

“Joining Q is an incredible opportunity to work with a team that’s redefining what creativity and innovation mean in the firearms industry,” said Osborn. “They’re relentlessly focused on making the best products, from rifles and suppressors, right down to the smallest details, like how a sling connects to a rifle—it’s proof that Q is changing the game. I couldn’t be more excited to be part of this team that’s rewriting the rules.”

“Q is just getting started, and with Cody on board, we’re doubling down on doing things our way—uncompromising, innovative, and always pushing the limits.” Said Brad Kunkel, President of Q, LLC.

For more about Q and our lineup of Unpossible products, check out LiveQorDie.com.

We are thrilled to announce that Impact Weapons Components (IWC) is now operating under new ownership. As a cherished provider of high-quality, American-made tactical weapon components and mounts, IWC remains dedicated to delivering the same outstanding products and exceptional service that our customers have come to expect.

Under the stewardship of our new owners, who are committed to upholding the integrity and quality of the IWC brand, we are excited to embark on the next chapter of our journey. Our team will continue to craft our products with the same meticulous attention to detail and robust manufacturing processes that have defined our brand.

Looking ahead, we are excited to share that IWC will be launching the e-commerce website in early January.

We appreciate the loyalty and support of our customers and partners during this transition. We are confident that this new phase will not only enhance our ability to meet your needs but also strengthen our commitment to innovation and quality.

Stay tuned for more updates, and we look forward to continuing to serve you with the same great American-made products. Thank you for being a part of our community.

Impact Weapons Components

Dave Dunn joins Hydra Weaponry as Hydra Plant Manager in its new 20,000-square-foot facility, demonstrating growth as Maine’s largest firearms manufacturer and carrying on the legacy of Gwinn Firearms, Bushmaster, and Windham Weaponry.

Hermon, Maine (December 2024) – Hydra Weaponry, Maine’s largest firearms employer, designers, and manufacturers of the truly modular MARCK-15 Hydra® Weapon System, announces that seasoned firearms industry veteran Dave Dunn has joined the Hydra Weaponry team as Plant Manager.

“Dave brings with him extensive experience in back-of-the-house production and facilities management, plus front-of-the-house skills like sales and new business development,” Mack Gwinn III, CEO of Hydra Weaponry, said. “He keeps the corporate machine well-oiled and running smoothly.”

Dunn’s experience and dedication to his employment are evident in his 47 years with Silvex, located in southern Maine, a full-service company, specializing in electroplating and surface finishing with 65 years of experience with silver and platinum plating, aluminum anodizing, and phosphating. Dunn worked with firearms clients for the hard coat finishing of firearms parts before moving into sales, as the company Sales Manager. In 2008, Dunn was promoted to Director of Operations/Plant Manager, where he served for eleven years.

?For more information about Hydra Weaponry’s product offerings, please visit www.hydraweaponry.com or contact our customer service team at admin@hydraweaponry.com or 855-493-7221.