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Henry Repeating Arms Expands Spirit of the Corps Rifle Series for Marine Corps’ 250th Anniversary

Monday, October 6th, 2025

RICE LAKE, Wis., Oct. 2, 2025 — Henry Repeating Arms, one of America’s leading firearms manufacturers, is building upon the success of its now sold-out and discontinued salute to the United States Marine Corps’ 250thanniversary with two new models: the Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary 2nd Edition .22 S/L/LR and the Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary .45-70 Gov’t.

“The response to the first rifle was remarkable, and we knew we had to continue this milestone collection for those who missed out the first time around,” said Anthony Imperato, Founder and CEO of Henry Repeating Arms. “These new models pay homage to the branch’s 250 years of being both sword and shield for the freedoms we enjoy as Americans, and the millions of men and women who have answered the call to serve amongst its ranks.”

Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary 2ndEdition .22 S/L/LR (H004MC2)
Built on the award-winning and world-renowned Golden Boy platform, this lever-action rimfire rifle features mechanically transferred engravings based on a hand-engraved master plate for maximum clarity with 24K gold-plated highlights against a nickel-plated backdrop. The genuine American walnut buttstock showcases full-color portraits throughout history standing in front of the flag of the United States of America, while the forearm bears the banner: “In the Air, On Land, And Sea.” The MSRP is $1,350.

Spirit of the Corps 250th Anniversary Edition .45-70 Gov’t (H010BGMC)
Introduced in direct response to customer feedback requesting a larger caliber option for the series, this rifle is chambered in the powerful and historic .45-70 Government, a cartridge once used by the United States Marine Corps until 1897. It pairs a nickel-plated, hardened brass receiver with 24K gold highlights and upgraded Semi-Fancy American Walnut furniture. The receiver features inscriptions from the Marines’ Hymn, while the buttstock depicts a crowd of hands triumphantly raising the U.S. flag. The MSRP is $2,360.

Both rifles are made in Wisconsin and backed by Henry Repeating Arms’ Lifetime Warranty and 100% Satisfaction Guarantee. They are available now through Henry dealers nationwide. For more information, visit the product page at henryusa.com.

These rifles are not affiliated with, endorsed by, or officially licensed by the U.S. Department of Defense or any of its branches.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release, USMC | 1 Comment »

Outdoor Research Named Staff Apparel Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2026

Monday, October 6th, 2025

BOULDER CITY, Nev. – October 2, 2025 – SHOT Show® Industry Day at the Range, the highly anticipated hands-on event held annually the day before SHOT Show®, is thrilled to announce Outdoor Research as the official Staff Apparel Sponsor of the 21st annual event, taking place January 19, 2026, at the Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada.

This collaboration marks a new chapter in elevating the on-site experience for Industry Day staff, who will be fully outfitted in technical apparel from Outdoor Research. Known for its commitment to innovation, performance and protection in the outdoors, Outdoor Research’s support ensures the event staff will be equipped with the gear they need to perform in all conditions throughout the day.

“We’re proud to support the SHOT SHOW Range Day team as the official Staff Apparel Sponsor,” said Nick Smith, senior tactical brand manager at Outdoor Research. “This event showcases the cutting edge of the tactical and outdoor sports industries, and we’re proud to outfit the staff in the same mission-ready gear trusted by professionals operating in the world’s most demanding environments.”

Industry Day offers an unparalleled opportunity for exhibitors to introduce new products, engage with top-tier media and influencers and create direct connections with SHOT Show attendees in a hands-on environment. This exclusive event provides early momentum that extends well into the SHOT Show itself, ensuring maximum exposure for brands ahead of the main event.

“Having Outdoor Research join us as the Staff Apparel Sponsor is a perfect fit,” said Kelsey Puryear, Industry Day at the Range co-owner. “Its dedication to function, comfort and quality aligns perfectly with the needs of our team on the ground. We’re excited to have them be a part of the 2026 event.”

The sponsorship by Outdoor Research enhances the professionalism and cohesion of Industry Day at the Range. As a respected leader in technical outdoor gear, Outdoor Research brings added credibility and industry alignment to the event, reinforcing its reputation as the premier range day in the shooting sports industry.

Supported by the National Shooting Sports Foundation as title sponsor through 2028, Industry Day at the Range remains the only official range event associated with the SHOT Show. Exhibitor space is limited, and early registration is strongly encouraged.

New exhibitors can register online now to secure their space. Sponsorship information is also available online. For additional details and answers to frequently asked questions, please visit the event website.

For more information about the 2026 SHOT Show Industry Day at the Range visit ShotShowRangeDay.com.

Posted in Clothing, Industry, Press Release, SHOT Show | Comments Off on Outdoor Research Named Staff Apparel Sponsor for Industry Day at the Range 2026

NEXTORCH TA30D MAX: Power & Thermal Control for Tactical Operations

Monday, October 6th, 2025

Seattle, WA – (September 30th, 2025) – NEXTORCH North America, the primary U.S. distributor of global manufacturer NEXTORCH Industries, proudly introduces the TA30D MAXTactical Flashlight. Delivering a powerful 4000 lumens of output that can blast a beam 450 meters (492 yards), the TA30D Max combines its compact size with maximum tactical performance. Since its debut, it has become a trusted companion for law enforcement, military personnel, emergency responders, and tactical professionals around the world.

Power Meets Performance

The TA30D MAX is built for professionals who require both tactical responsiveness and long-range illumination. The TA30D MAX is not only a tactical tool, it’s also a compact searchlight capable of handling wide-area scanning, perimeter defense, and long-range threat detection.

Designed for instinctive use under pressure, the TA30D MAXfeatures NEXTORCH’s patented one-step strobe technology. A quick press of the tail switch instantly activates the disorienting strobe function, while a half-press engages high output for threat identification or search operations. A magnetic rotary mode selector ensures smooth switching between brightness levels even while wearing gloves or in high-stress scenarios.

Most high-output flashlights suffer from heat buildup leading to throttling (reduced brightness), discomfort, or even the risk of burn. The TA30D Max patented Ultra Thermal Buffer (U.T.B.)system changes that dynamic. It delays or prevents thermal throttling while maintaining full performance, not just short bursts. This third-generation temperature control system, uses phase-change materials plus an intelligent chip to maintain peak brightness while keeping the grip under 50°C (120°F).

Rugged, Field-Tested Construction

Built from 6061-T6 aerospace-grade aluminum and fitted with a titanium alloy bezel embedded with nano-ceramic glass breakers, the TA30D MAX is engineered to endure extreme conditions. It is IPX8 waterproof, impact-tested to 2 meters (6.5 ft), and designed for high-stakes use in the field.

Key Features:

• 4000 lumens max output

• 450-meter (492 yards) beam distance

• 50,625 candela

• Ultra Thermal Buffer System

• USB-C rechargeable 21700 battery (included)

• IPX8 waterproof & impact resistance to 3 meters (6.5 ft)

MSRP: $137.99

Available for Evaluation

Law enforcement, military, and security agencies in the U.S. are invited to participate in the NEXTORCH 30-Day-Free Test & Evaluation Program. To learn more about the T&E program “click here”.

Posted in Lights, Press Release | Comments Off on NEXTORCH TA30D MAX: Power & Thermal Control for Tactical Operations

Shield of Odin Responds to VA Backlog: Offering Veterans an Alternative Pathway to Overcome Delayed Disability Claims

Sunday, October 5th, 2025

ORLANDO, Fla., Oct. 2, 2025 — The Department of Veterans Affairs (VA) currently reports a disability claims backlog of more than 190,000 unresolved cases across the country. While this marks progress compared to historic highs, veterans are still facing average wait times of 12 to 18 months — and in many cases, delays stretching two years or morebefore receiving a decision.

In recent years, the backlog has swelled dramatically, topping 300,000 cases and even approaching 400,000 at its peak, driven in part by the implementation of the PACT Act and a surge of new claims related to toxic exposure. For veterans with urgent health needs, these numbers translate into months — and often years — of uncertainty, lost income, and untreated conditions.

Shield of Odin, a veteran-focused healthcare and medical-legal services provider, is working to close that gap by offering veterans an alternative pathway to strengthen their claims and avoid repeated cycles of denials and appeals. Through its nationwide network of licensed physicians, nurse practitioners, psychologists, and vocational experts, the organization provides independent medical evaluations, Nexus Letters, Disability Benefits Questionnaires (DBQs), vocational assessments, and peer-reviewed evidence tailored to VA rating criteria.

The goal: ensure veterans can submit fully developed claims that stand on solid medical-legal evidence, reducing the risk of denial and expediting access to benefits.

“The VA’s official backlog today is just under 200,000 claims — but anyone watching this system knows how quickly those numbers can rise, and how devastating the wait can be,” said Ryan Hawley, CEO of Shield of Odin. “For a veteran with lung disease from burn pit exposure or PTSD from combat service, being forced to wait 18 months or longer is not simply a delay; it’s a barrier to care, stability, and dignity. Our mission at Shield of Odin is to ensure those veterans are not left behind.”

Shield of Odin emphasizes that the backlog is not merely a matter of statistics but of lived human impact. Veterans awaiting benefits often face mounting medical costs, difficulty maintaining employment, and mental health struggles as they navigate a system strained by volume and complexity.

“The averages don’t tell the full story — behind every number is a veteran and a family in crisis,”said Dean Johnston, COO of Shield of Odin and a board member of Heros of the Sea. “We see veterans waiting 24 months or more for a claim to move forward. Some pass away before ever receiving a decision. That’s why we’ve built a system to provide timely, accurate evidence that can cut through the bureaucracy and accelerate the process.”

VA Backlog by the Numbers (2025)

Current backlog (May 2025): 190,000+ unresolved claims (VA official reporting)

Peak backlog in recent years: Over 300,000 cases, with spikes near 400,000

Average wait time: 12–18 months for resolution

Extended delays: 24+ months common in complex or toxic exposure cases

First-time claim denials: Nearly 70% linked to insufficient or incomplete medical evidence

Rural veterans: Face 30–40% longer waits due to limited examiner availability

(Sources: U.S. Department of Veterans Affairs, VA News, Military Times, Federal News Network, advocacy group analyses)

Shield of Odin’s Role in Solutions

Shield of Odin has developed a nationwide telehealth platform that connects veterans with qualified practitioners across all 50 states, ensuring even those in rural or underserved areas can access timely support. Services include:

Telehealth Nexus Letters and DBQs to establish medical connections between service and condition

Independent Medical Exams (IMEs) for complex or contested cases

Vocational impact assessments linking disabilities to occupational limitations

Peer-reviewed, evidence-based opinions aligned with VA rating criteria and legal precedent

By providing medical-legal documentation that is both rigorous and veteran-centric, Shield of Odin helps veterans avoid common pitfalls that result in denials, repeat appeals, and further time lost in the system.

Posted in Medical, Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on Shield of Odin Responds to VA Backlog: Offering Veterans an Alternative Pathway to Overcome Delayed Disability Claims

Clear Path for Veterans Receives Generous Donation from Martin’s Point Health Care

Sunday, October 5th, 2025

SYRACUSE, N.Y., Oct. 2, 2025 — Clear Path for Veterans has received a generous donation from Martin’s Point, a not-for-profit health care organization that provides the greater Syracuse region with US Family Health Plan [TRICARE Prime] insurance plans for eligible military retirees, their families, and certain active-duty family members.

The contribution supports the ongoing mission of Clear Path for Veterans to walk alongside and empower service members, veterans, and their families as they navigate their personal journeys, strengthen relationships, and discover a clear, hopeful path to a more fulfilling future.

The gift from Martin’s Point will enable Clear Path for Veterans to reach even more veterans in the greater Syracuse, NY, region, helping to create connections for veterans within their communities, re-adjust to their life after service, and leverage their military experience to develop new skills and discover a new sense of purpose.

“We are incredibly grateful to Martin’s Point Health Care for their generous support of Clear Path’s mission. This donation directly fuels our ability to provide comprehensive programs and services that empower veterans and their families to thrive,” said Alex Behm, Chief Community Officer at Clear Path for Veterans. “Partnerships like this not only sustain our work — they strengthen the community bonds that are vital to the well-being of those who have served.”

As a Department of Defense-sponsored health plan provider for over 40 years, Martin’s Point has a long-held and deep commitment to those who serve and have served our country, and to organizations throughout our regions working to support, connect, and care for the veteran community.

“Contributing to the work of Clear Path for Veterans represents our profound commitment to improving the emotional well-being and long-term success of veterans in our communities,” said Steve Amendo, chief marketing and communications officers at Martin’s Point. “We are incredibly honored to support the work of Clear Path, and all they do to provide important resources and connectivity for those who have served our country.”

For more information about Clear Path for Veterans and the services they provide, please visit www.clearpath4vets.com. To learn more about Martin’s Point Health Care and their USFHP plans visit martinspoint.org/US-Family-Health-Plan.

Posted in Charity, Press Release, Veterans | Comments Off on Clear Path for Veterans Receives Generous Donation from Martin’s Point Health Care

SDS Arms Expands Spandau Arms S2 Line with 20-Gauge

Saturday, October 4th, 2025

KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – October 3, 2025 – SDS Arms is proud to announce the expansion of its Spandau Arms S2 line with the addition of the 20-gauge caliber. Following the success of the S2 12-gauge, this latest offering is now available in response to the demand for more variety. The Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge delivers the performance seen in the 12-gauge, with the added benefit of reduced recoil that hunters have been seeking in the field.

Working with the input from partners at leading hunting and conservation organizations, including the National Wild Turkey Federation, Pheasants Forever, Quail Forever, Ducks Unlimited and Delta Waterfowl, SDS Arms saw an essential need for the 20-gauge among hunters. Through the development of this expansion, the team carefully paired heritage-driven craftsmanship with a strong value proposition. These efforts resulted in the S2 20-gauge shotgun, allowing hunters to focus on valuable hunting traditions.

“The introduction of the Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge reflects our dedication to listening to hunters and delivering the products they want,” said SDS Arms’ Digital Marketing Manager Jahred Gamez. “Sub-gauge shotguns like the 20-gauge continue to be in strong demand, especially among conservation and hunting groups. They provide reduced recoil with modern performance, while staying true to the heritage of the sport. With the S2 20-gauge, we’re proud to give hunters more options, more value and more reasons to spend time in the field.”

Featuring a dependable Inertia operating system, the Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge delivers lightweight power and high-performance. It comes equipped with a customizable Benelli/Mobil choke tube system and a fiber optic front sight for enhanced accuracy. Engineered for ease, precision and versatility, the S2 also includes oversized controls, a widened loading gate and compatibility with Benelli® M2 accessories. The Spandau Arms S2 20-gauge is now available in Mossy Oak Bottomland with 24” or 28” barrel lengths, and Traditional Matte Black finish with Turkish Walnut furniture with a 28” barrel length.

Product No. / Description / MSRP

21000194/ Spandau S2 20/24 Mossy Oak Bottomland / MSRP $647.89

21000195 / Spandau S2 20/28 Mossy Oak Bottomland / MSRP $647.89

21000172 / Spandau S2 20/28 Traditional Matte Black / MSRP $551.75

To learn more and see all the firearm brands and products available from SDS Arms, please visit the SDS Arms website or find SDS Arms on Instagram or Facebook.

Posted in Firearms, Press Release | Comments Off on SDS Arms Expands Spandau Arms S2 Line with 20-Gauge

Darley and National Fallen Firefighters Association Announce Winners of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Competition

Saturday, October 4th, 2025

Itasca, IL, October 3, 2025 – Darley, in partnership with the National Fallen Firefighters Foundation (NFFF), is proud to announce the winners of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Contest – Understanding the “Why” Behind Mental Health Challenges in the Fire Service. Now in its fourth year, this year’s initiative challenged firefighters nationwide to explore the critical yet often overlooked mental health issues within their ranks.

The purpose of this competition was to explore and uncover the underlying factors that shape mental health challenges in the fire service, beyond the obvious demands of a high-risk, life-saving profession. “Understanding the ‘why’ behind these challenges is crucial if we want to create meaningful, lasting solutions,” said Paul Darley, President & CEO of Darley. “This competition gives firefighters and thought leaders a unique platform to share insights that can drive real change. With 85 entries submitted, it’s clear the fire service is ready to engage in this critical conversation and lead the way forward.”

We are incredibly thankful to everyone who participated. The essays were graded using the following criteria, ranked and weighted in importance:

Specific Solutions Offered –?Do you present specific recommendations for change? How innovative, impactful, and viable are the proposed solutions?

Potential Impact on the Fire Service –?Can this impact the fire service in the short and long term? Can this concept move the fire service forward in a positive manner?

Quality of Writing –?How is the essay structure, vocabulary, readability, and overall authorship?

Intangibles –?Is this exciting? Does it challenge preexisting assumptions? Does it invoke a thought-provoking discussion? Is the core message courageous?

Congratulations to the Following Winners of this Year’s Contest:

First Place: Marc Wysocki, Sheffield Volunteer FD, Captain (MA)

Second Place: Marc Revere, Mountain View & Monterey Park FD, Fire Chief (Ret., CA)

Third Place: John Murphy, Eastside Fire and Rescue, Deputy Fire Chief (Ret.) Fire Commissioner (WA)

First Runner Up: Stephen Lindsey, Palo Alto Fire Department, Deputy Fire Chief (CA)

Second Runner Up: Shawn McKerry, Lakeland College Emergency Training Center, Dean (AB, CAN)

“Our strength as a fire service has always been in how we show up for each other,” said Victor Stagnaro, Chief Executive Officer of the NFFF. “This competition is about more than awareness — it’s about creating solutions together. By sharing ideas and experiences, we can move upstream, address the root causes of mental health challenges, and build a culture where well-being is part of who we are in the fire service.”

For more information, visit

www.firehero.org.

Learn more on our websites:

www.darley.com and

shop.darley.com.

Posted in Advertiser, FES, Press Release | Comments Off on Darley and National Fallen Firefighters Association Announce Winners of the 2025 Fire Service Thought Leadership Essay Competition

AV Selected for $499M AFRL Contract to Advance Electromagnetic Spectrum Survivable Materials, Awarded $246M in Task Orders

Friday, October 3rd, 2025

ARLINGTON, Va., October 1, 2025 – AeroVironment, Inc. (“AV”) (NASDAQ: AVAV), a leading provider of advanced research and development innovation for national security missions and warfighter protection, has been selected for a 10-year single-award, indefinite-delivery/indefinite-quantity (IDIQ) contract valued at $499 million by the U.S. Air Force Research Laboratory (AFRL) for the High-Performance Electromagnetic Spectrum Survivable Materials Advancement (HELMSSMAN) program. Work completed under the program will mature material technology development and deploy protective solutions to the frontlines, guarding warfighters against exposure to harmful electromagnetic radiation.

“As technologies advance and battlespace tactics evolve, AV is helping warfighters stay ahead of emerging threats,” said Wahid Nawabi, AV Chief Executive Officer. “Whether through our autonomous systems, our layered counter-drone technologies, our advancements in satellite communication and space domain awareness, or–like HELMSSMAN–our advanced research and development, we are taking on the most critical challenges and rapidly transitioning innovation from the lab to the frontlines.”

AV has been awarded two initial task orders for this contract valued at $246 million:

Under the “Advanced Development of Vision Protection Materials” task order, valued at $98M, AV will develop a suite of viable electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) protection capabilities that do not increase operational risk or degrade mission performance. The team will research the interaction of EMS elements with materials, systems, and personnel to develop future-proofed vision protection systems for our warfighters.

Under the “Advanced Development of Materials for EMS Resilience” task order, valued at $148M, AV will conduct research on the impacts of EMS sources on U.S materials, components, and systems and provide mitigation options to the warfighter to ensure effective kill chain execution in complex environments. The team will develop test infrastructure and modeling methods to accelerate the fielding of measures validated in realistic environments for warfighter protection.

With these task orders, AV will research, develop, test, evaluate, prototype, demonstrate, and transition technologies to advance the development of vision protection materials and materials for electromagnetic spectrum (EMS) resilience. Work is planned to begin this month.

Leveraging its multi-domain, multi-mission expertise and past performance delivering innovative R&D material solutions to AFRL, AV will advance electronic protection materials through directed energy solutions, test range experience, modeling, and simulation (M&S) capabilities, and space technology transitions. The company has previously supported AFRL through the development of laser-hardened materials and techniques and electronic, photonic, electro-optical, and quantum materials for Intelligence, surveillance, and reconnaissance (ISR) and electronic warfare (EW) missions.

“We have demonstrated unique strengths in managing and executing strategic research programs,” said Dr. John Hogan, Vice President of Advanced Research and Development at AV. “This contract complements and continues our research and development work in material development with AFRL. We are honored to be a trusted partner in this effort.”

The Advanced R&D team at AV, located in Dayton, OH, is dedicated to developing hardened, smart materials that dynamically adapt properties to protect warfighters, their sensors, and their assets, like ground vehicles, aircraft, and structures. With expertise in thermal, optical, and electronic systems, the team identifies challenges and vulnerabilities across various domains and develops material solutions to counteract threats.

Posted in Air Force, Contracts, EW, Materials, Press Release | Comments Off on AV Selected for $499M AFRL Contract to Advance Electromagnetic Spectrum Survivable Materials, Awarded $246M in Task Orders