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SLG2, Inc Remains at the Forefront of Safety: A Look at the Q2 Report

Sunday, August 6th, 2023

ATHENS, Ala. – August 1, 2023 – SLG2, Inc. has officially released its impressive 2023 2nd quarter report, showing they continue to make lifelong impacts on the shooting industry with new brand extensions, the 15-year expansion tour, and more. The company remains dedicated to empowering individuals and families to build confidence, enhance their shooting skills and prioritize safety.

“With a strong emphasis on public safety initiatives, we’re proud of the impact we’ve made throughout this past quarter,” said Karen Butler, founder and president of SLG2, Inc. “The Shoot Like A Girl and Safe LivinG trailers continue to pioneer firearm and community safety nationwide. We are excited to keep connecting with both new and seasoned firearm owners, fostering further discussions on safety and empowerment.”

Throughout the 2nd quarter, SLG2, Inc. took its mission nationwide, reaching nearly 2,000 registered guests and an estimated 90,000 attendees at events, along with hosting two turkey hunts. The company’s efforts have been instrumental in promoting safety within communities.

SLG2, Inc. recently debuted the Excellence in Safety Award, honoring companies that prioritize safety and produce secure products. The award, symbolized by a cut crystal trophy featuring the Safe LivinG logo, underscores the significance of always prioritizing safety. Ruger was the recipient of the 2nd Quarter award, having demonstrated exceptional commitment to the shared mission.

The 15-year Expansion Tour created a transformative impact on guests’ attitudes towards firearms in this quarter. Approximately 28% of guests exhibited improved attitudes, while 68% already held a positive view of firearms. 31% of guests were inspired to recruit others to explore shooting sports after the experience.

“This was such a positive experience for me. It gave me self-confidence and appreciation of the outdoors and hunting. The women I met where so encouraging, patient and kind,” said one turkey hunt guest. “I left there not only loving the total experience, but I learned how to love myself.”

As SLG2, Inc. reflects on this impactful quarter, these impressive numbers and events were made possible by the overwhelming support from its industry partners and the amazing guests that choose to participate. The team continues to foster a love for the shooting and keeping themselves and others safe through education and empowerment as they look towards the next quarter and beyond.

Posted in For the Ladies, Industry, Press Release | Comments Off on SLG2, Inc Remains at the Forefront of Safety: A Look at the Q2 Report

Rheinmetall Completes Acquisition of Spanish Defence Contractor Expal Systems: Move Significantly Expands the Group’s Ammunition Production Capacity

Thursday, August 3rd, 2023

Rheinmetall AG has completed its takeover of all shares in Expal Systems S.A.U. of Madrid. First announced last November, the acquisition follows final approval by the relevant authorities. The transfer of Expal S.A.U.’s business activities to Rheinmetall took place on 1 August 2023. Rheinmetall thus continues to expand its position as an important supplier for NATO armed forces, systematically increasing its production capacity especially for artillery, mortar, and medium-calibre ammunition.

The purchase price for the takeover of Expal Systems S.A.U., a world-renowned ammunition and armament manufacturer, is about €1.2 billion. Moving forward, the company will operate under the name “Rheinmetall Expal Munitions S.A.U.”.

In a fast-growing market driven by increased demand for military equipment in countries around the globe, the acquisition provides Rheinmetall with swift access to greater production capacity, covering the entire ammunition production value-added chain, with multiple plants in Spain and a demilitarization and soil remediation business in the United States.

In this market environment Rheinmetall is an important supplier to the Ukrainian armed forces with large amounts of medium- and large-calibre ammunition, including 20mm automatic cannon rounds for the Marder infantry fighting vehicle, and 105mm and 120mm tank ammunition for the Leopard 1 and Leopard 2. In addition, a first lot of 35mm ammunition for the Gepard anti-aircraft tank will soon be ready for shipment.

In acquiring Expal, Rheinmetall aims to secure and strengthen its core business in weapons, ammunition and propellants. The current Expal Systems product portfolio encompasses artillery ammunition, mortar and medium-calibre rounds as well as fuses and rocket propulsion systems. In many cases, Expal’s ammunition are “full shot” products, from propellant to fuse. Due to partly complementary product ranges, the acquisition significantly strengthens Rheinmetall’s existing product portfolio.

Given the likelihood of strong future demand in many countries, the acquisition places Rheinmetall in a favourable position to respond to complex new ammunition procurement requirements.

Enhancing its direct access to this important market, the acquisition expands Rheinmetall’s footprint in Spain, where the Group already has an automotive engineering plant in Abadiano. Rheinmetall Expal Munitions will continue to serve the Spanish armed forces as a preferential and key partner, offering its products, technology and industrial capabilities.

Rheinmetall sees maintaining the company’s existing technology and staff as essential; all locations (Madrid, Trubia, Burgos, Navalmoral, El Gordo, Albacete and Murcia in Spain as well as Texarkana in the USA) are therefore to remain fully operational, with further expansions planned.

Rheinmetall is very pleased to be welcoming a new company to the Group, and especially to be augmenting its workforce with highly skilled new staff. Reinforced by Rheinmetall Expal Munitions, the Group will continue contributing to global security, meeting the needs of a fast-growing market.

Posted in Ammo, Industry, International, Press Release | Comments Off on Rheinmetall Completes Acquisition of Spanish Defence Contractor Expal Systems: Move Significantly Expands the Group’s Ammunition Production Capacity

NIOA Ballistics Testing Tech a Gamechanger

Thursday, August 3rd, 2023

Cutting edge ballistics data acquisition technology, capable of measuring real-time projectile velocity and location will be a gamechanger in weapon and ammunition performance testing, says NIOA’s top engineer.

Rudi Bekker, NIOA Australia’s General Manager – Engineering, said the newly installed MS Instruments Projectile Velocity Measurement System (MSI PVMS) at the company’s Brisbane range facility took accuracy diagnostics to the next level.

“This is a game changer to our stronghold arsenal of NIOA Test & Evaluation expertise capability,” he said.

“The ballistic instrumentation records highly accurate data with an integrated software system, providing acoustic and optical target system outputs that are precise, and a cost and time effective way of measuring weapon and ammunition accuracy.

“The equipment is versatile and can be used within the NIOA 100m in-door range; as well as being deployable to external ranges operating in any weather conditions.”

The MSI PVMS is the latest addition of specialist equipment at NIOA’s world-class weapons, firearms and munitions testing complex.

The fully instrumented range, which opened in 2014, is the only indoor 100m range in Australia rated for the firing and data acquisition of small arms through to medium calibre cannons up to 40mm.

It has had an intensive workout during NIOA’s delivery of the LAND 159 Tranche 1 Lethality Systems Program which includes the latest sniper and close combat weapon systems for use by the Australian Defence Force.

NIOA Australia and New Zealand CEO Ben James said: “This technology is another example of NIOA’s investment in domestic capability to ensure we stay at the forefront of innovation.

“By embracing the most advanced technology we are enhancing Australia’s sovereign capability which ultimately supports national security in an increasingly complex threat landscape.”

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Edgar Brothers Announces Partnership with Sentinel Photonics as the Exclusive UK Distributor

Wednesday, August 2nd, 2023

Macclesfield, UK, 1st August 2023. Edgar Brothers is pleased to announce its partnership with Sentinel Photonics as the exclusive and sole distributor for all Sentinel Photonics products within the UK MOD and Police Markets. This exclusive collaboration underlines Edgar Brothers’ commitment to providing cutting-edge solutions to its customers.

Sentinel Photonics has been rapidly emerging as a market leader in the Laser Detection and Protection industry. Their revolutionary products, including FROST, LASERD® MAX, and LASERD® MICRO, have garnered significant attention for their exceptional performance and innovative design.

FROST is a series of protective filters specifically designed to be attached to the objective lens of optics. Protecting personnel by eliminating the risk of detection by laser retroflection and enhancing signature management. By offering advanced protection, these filters greatly enhance the safety and efficiency of Users operating in challenging environments.

LASERD® MAX is a comprehensive laser detection and intelligence gathering system that effectively tackles a wide range of real-world threats by establishing a laser intelligence picture of the battlespace or chosen environment. Its high-performance capabilities make it an essential tool for organisations operating in laser-prone environments.

Additionally, LASERD® MICRO, a compact body worn laser threat detector, provides enhanced security by alerting Users to the presence of pulsed laser radiation typically associated with laser designators and rangefinders.

Mike Newman, Director of Edgar Brothers expressed his excitement about the partnership, stating, “Having collaborated with Sentinel for several months, we firmly believe that their innovative solutions in the laser detection and protection markets will be game-changing for our customer base. Our ability to expedite the product to market will be a significant advantage for our End-Users, who will ultimately benefit from these exceptional products.”

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, International, Optics, Press Release | Comments Off on Edgar Brothers Announces Partnership with Sentinel Photonics as the Exclusive UK Distributor

U.S. Air Force And Archer Enter Into Contracts Worth Up To $142 Million Representing Landmark Investment In EVTOL Technology By U.S. Military

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023

• Archer has been partnering with the Department of Defense (DoD) since 2021 on a series of projects through the Air Force’s AFWERX program with the goal of helping the AFWERX Agility Prime program assess the transformational potential of the vertical flight market and eVTOL technologies for DoD purposes

• This new execution phase of the partnership includes the delivery of up to 6 of Archer’s Midnight aircraft, which the Air Force is targeting for use in personnel transport and logistics support, rescue operations and more

• This expansion of Archer’s partnership with the DoD represents a significant investment in the future of the country and will help ensure the U.S. maintains its leadership position in aviation

• The other military branches have the opportunity to leverage these contracts as a platform for additional projects, which could increase the total value of Archer’s DoD partnership

SANTA CLARA, CA, – Archer Aviation Inc. (NYSE: ACHR), a leader in electric vertical takeoff and landing (eVTOL) aircraft, today announced that it has significantly expanded its partnership with the DoD by signing new contracts with the U.S. Air Force with a total value of up to $142 million. The new contracts signal the U.S. military’s recognition of the transformative potential Archer’s innovative eVTOL aircraft brings to our country’s Armed Forces. This new execution phase of the partnership includes the delivery of up to six of Archer’s Midnight aircraft to the Air Force, the sharing of additional flight test data and certification related test reports, pilot training, and the development of maintenance and repair operations. As a result of these contracts, Archer will create and provide innovative capabilities that will strengthen the national defense of the United States of America.

Archer has been partnering with the DoD since 2021 on a series of projects through the U.S. Air Force’s AFWERX program with the goal of helping the AFWERX Agility Prime program assess the transformational potential of the vertical flight market and eVTOL technologies for DoD purposes. Now, with Archer recently completing the manufacturing of its first Midnight aircraft, the DoD recognizes that with its vertical takeoff and landing capabilities, target payload of approximately 1,000lbs, proprietary electric powertrain system, and low noise profile, Archer’s aircraft represents a potential paradigm shift in military aviation and operations. These aircraft hold the promise of enhancing rapid response, agility, and operational effectiveness across a wide range of mission profiles, from personnel transport and logistics support to rescue operations and more. Archer’s Midnight aircraft are expected to provide a much safer and quieter alternative to helicopters while being more cost-effective for the U.S. military to transport, operate and maintain in the field.

“This historic agreement reflects the steadfast commitment by our Armed Forces to embrace the cutting-edge technology our eVTOL aircraft offer,” said Adam Goldstein, Archer’s Founder and CEO. “It’s clear that the development and commercialization of eVTOL technology continues to remain a national priority. We look forward to working closely with the U.S. Department of Defense and the U.S. Air Force to integrate Midnight into their operational fleet with a focus on transport, logistics and rescue operations.”

“It is our mission to ensure the U.S. continues to lead the world in developing and deploying emerging aerospace technology,” said Colonel Tom Meagher, the lead for AFWERX Agility Prime programs. “eVTOL aircraft represent the cusp of the third revolution in aerospace, and these aircraft and their descendents will drive advances in capabilities and efficiency. Our contracts with Archer Aviation provide the U.S. Department of Defense and U.S. Air Force the opportunity to play a role in ensuring from the onset, and as the technology evolves, that we unlock the many benefits these aircraft have to offer the U.S. military.”

“As a retired senior military leader who was responsible for U.S. forces, operations and activities throughout the continent of Africa, I’m thrilled with this agreement and its potential impact on the capabilities of our Armed Forces,” said Retired 4-Star General and Archer Government Services Advisory Board Member, Steve Townsend. “The United States has always been at the forefront of technological innovation, and this partnership demonstrates our nation’s commitment to maintain that position. I commend the visionary leadership at DoD which led to this contract and Archer’s dedication to pushing the boundaries of aviation technology.”

This announcement comes on the heels of Archer announcing the formation of the company’s Government Services Advisory Board in May. The goal of the advisory board is to allow Archer to more fully engage with U.S. government and public safety agencies to explore opportunities to commercialize its eVTOL aircraft. The members of this advisory board are assisting and facilitating Archer’s direct engagement with appropriate government agencies and officials to advance both consideration and implementation of Archer’s eVTOL aircraft and related technologies. The board includes Retired 4-star General Steve Townsend, Retired 3-star Lieutenant General David A. Krumm, Retired 3-star Vice Admiral Ron Boxall, Retired 2-star General Clayton M. Hutmacher, Retired 2-star General Bill Gayler, and Retired Chief Warrant Officer 4 Michael J. Durant.

Posted in Air Force, Aviation, Contracts, Industry, Press Release, Research | 3 Comments »

SIG SAUER Statement on Montville, CT Police Department Incident

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023

NEWINGTON, N.H., (July 31, 2023): SIG SAUER has the following statement relative to a reported unintentional discharge from an officer at the Montville, CT Police Department on Monday, July 24, 2023:

“We have seen the news reporting of the incident involving a P320 discharge at the Montville (CT) Police Department. We are confident, as is the case in all instances, that when the factors and evidence are reviewed this will be proven to be an unintentional discharge as a result of inadvertent contact with the trigger, and that the pistol did not fire without a trigger pull.

In reviewing the video footage of this incident currently available, it appears that the involved firearm was not fully seated in its holster and the holster retention hood was not fully closed over the pistol at the time of discharge (images below). This improperly holstered condition would have left the firearm’s trigger exposed and vulnerable to actuation. Even if properly holstered, the features of the involved holster allow for foreign object intrusion and interaction with the trigger, as has been seen in other incidents.

We regret that the involved agency jumped to conclusions regarding the cause of this discharge without first carefully examining the footage of the incident and providing SIG SAUER with an opportunity to assist in the examination of the involved firearm.

The P320 model firearm is used effectively and safely every day, by both civilians and armed professionals. Despite years of litigation and extensive discovery, no one has ever been able to replicate a condition under which the P320 could discharge without a trigger pull, and experts who have attempted to assert such a claim have been repeatedly thrown out of court as unqualified and/or unreliable. Three separate federal courts (in the matters of Frankenberry v. SIG SAUER, Mayes v. SIG SAUER, and Hilton v. SIG SAUER) have concluded that the two experts who have proffered a theory of uncommanded discharge are unfit to testify in court because they are unqualified and/or their opinions are untested and unreliable. In the only case regarding a P320 discharge to proceed to a full trial (Guay v. SIG SAUER), a jury of 12 rejected these experts’ unproven and unscientific theory, and found unanimously in favor of SIG SAUER. SIG SAUER stands behind the proven safety and reliability of the P320.”

Posted in Advertiser, Firearms, Industry, LE, Press Release | 10 Comments »

Supacat and NP Aerospace Hand-Over Recovery Vehicles to the British Army

Tuesday, August 1st, 2023

Pictured (left in both images) Supacat LWRV Vehicle towing an HMT vehicle

This week, Supacat and NP Aerospace will be delivering new Lightweight Recovery Vehicles to British Army units in Tern Hill and Leuchars as part of the UK Ministry of Defence Protected Mobility Engineering and Technical Support (PMETS) contract.

The Lightweight Recovery Vehicle (LWRV) designed by Supacat and NP Aerospace as engineering authority for PMETS have successfully reached Initial Operating Capability (IOC). They were presented to the Vehicle Support Team within DE&S at an event at Supacat facilities in Devon.

In June 2023, serving members from the Royal Scots Dragoon Guards and Royal Irish Regiment received operational training on the vehicles, and this week they will receive their first vehicles. Later this year, the British Army will receive two further Supacat LWRV vehicles to fulfil their need for off-road capability in harsh environments like those encountered during Operation Newcombe in Mali, Africa.

LWRV has addressed the capability gap for a recovery vehicle with the off-road performance to follow the routes of the British Army’s High Mobility Transport (HMT) `Jackal` and `Coyote` vehicles, developed by Supacat. The solution utilises four in-service Jackal 2 vehicles with the addition of Supacat’s innovative ‘Extenda’ removable 3rd axle to provide the recovery module and configure the 4×4 Jackal 2 as the 6×6 `Coyote`. The LWRV solution incorporates Supacat’s patented ‘Supalift’ recovery system technology, enabling the recovery of both the Foxhound and HMT platforms.

Brigadier Matt Wilkinson, Vehicle Support Team Leader at DE&S, said: “The announcement of the Lightweight Recovery Variant reaching Initial Operating Capability is the product of fantastic collaboration between the British Army, Defence Equipment and Support, Supacat and NP Aerospace under the PMETS contract. We now have a Lightweight Recovery capability, which the British Army can exploit to inform the Army’s Future Soldier requirements for recovery vehicles.”

David Petheram, Managing Director & Senior Vice President, NP Aerospace, commented: The PMETS contract has run successfully for the last four years, delivering significant innovations that have benefited the British Army on operation. Achieving IOC is an important step in our lightweight recovery vehicle programme with Supacat and demonstrates our joint collaboration with industry partners for the benefit of the UK MOD.”

Phil Applegarth, Director and Head of Supacat, said: “We are thrilled to hand over new

LWRV vehicles to the British Army in partnership with NP Aerospace. This solution fills a crucial capability gap and showcases the HMT’s modularity as a highly adaptable vehicle that can accommodate various system integrations based on operational needs. The LWRV has been equipped with a ground-breaking technology called “Supalift,” which significantly extends the lifting capacity of light vehicle recovery systems for the Army.”

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Blue Ridge Knives to Purchase Ontario Knife Which Will Cease New York Operations

Monday, July 31st, 2023

In a deal expected to close this week, New York-based Servotronics is selling Ontario Knife for $2.1 million to Virginia’s Blue Ridge Knives. Along with this sale, the knife manufacturer will cease operations in Upstate New York, where it has manufactured since 1889.

Parent company Servotronics has owned Ontario Knife since 1967, but makes the majority of its income from motion control equipment.

The company is well known for its government contract knives like the M9 bayonet. A visit to the Ontario Knife Company website informs the reader:

Thank you for visiting our website. We are currently in a transition and not accepting orders.

The factory in Elma, New York may remain open as Servotronics works to keep the 36 employees and determine what they can use the factory for.

No word yet on what plans the new owners have for the future of Ontario Knife.

Posted in Industry, Knives | 5 Comments »