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OTB Boots Receives Official US Marine Corps Approval for EGA-Marked Footwear

January 15th, 2026

OTB Boots announced that it has received official approval from the United States Marine Corps to produce boots authorized to be worn by Marines bearing the iconic Eagle, Globe, and Anchor (EGA) emblem.

Beginning Spring 2026, OTB Boots will introduce EGA-approved versions of its best-selling M-Carbon 8 and M-Flex 8 boot models. These boots will be available through the Marine Corps Exchange (MCX) as well as directly to consumers via OTB’s website and Amazon storefronts.

“This approval is a tremendous honor for our team,” said OTB Boots President, Dan Ellis. “Partnering with the USMC and earning the right to place the EGA on our boots reinforces our commitment to building elite performance footwear for those who demand the highest standards.”

OTB Boots is proud to support Marines with footwear designed to perform at the highest level.

Posted in Advertiser, Boots, Press Release, USMC | 1 Comment »

Edgar Brothers Invests £12 Million in New Headquarters and National Defence Manufacturing & Innovation Centre (NDMC)

January 15th, 2026

Edgar Brothers, a key UK Defence supplier and leading wholesaler of firearms and ammunition to the shooting sports market since 1947, is proud to announce a £12 million investment in a new, purpose-built 70,000 sq ft facility that will serve as both our new Headquarters and the National Defence Manufacturing & Innovation Centre (NDMC).

Located just 8 miles from our current site, the move will allow Edgar Brothers to maintain current operations with 100% staff retention while expanding into new areas of manufacture. This aligns with the Government’s Defence Strategic Review emphasis on increasing UK-based manufacturing and sovereign capability.

Mike Newman, Director, Edgar Brothers, said:

“With the growing demand for UK sovereign capability and the adoption of advanced manufacturing methods such as additive manufacturing, now is the ideal time for Edgar Brothers to lead this transformation. This investment demonstrates our commitment to supporting the UK MOD and establishing the North West as a hub for innovation and manufacturing. We plan to work closely with our existing suppliers to ensure that years of innovation and expertise are preserved, and that the quality of the final product remains market-leading. The move will also open up export markets we are currently not utilising and will create many skilled jobs in the region.”

The NDMC will feature a state-of-the-art testing and range facility, as well as dedicated education and training spaces, and is expected to be completed by October 2026.

For further information, please contact:

Edgar Brothers Press Office

pmd@edgarbrothers.com

Posted in Advertiser, Industry, International, Manufacturing, Press Release | 1 Comment »

Arc’teryx PRO to Showcase Full Line and New Innovations at SHOT Show 2026

January 15th, 2026

Arc’teryx PRO is excited to announce its presence at SHOT Show 2026 in our new booth and location #30311, where we will exhibit our complete range of high-performance apparel and equipment designed for professionals operating in the most demanding environments.

For 2026 we’re introducing an all new uniform, a new GORE-TEX PRO insulated model, and the first launch of a new colorway that will better serve first responders. These products will be on display ahead of their official launch in Fall 2026, giving attendees an exclusive first look. Our global team will be in attendance and we look forward to meeting you. We welcome the opportunity to discuss our products, share insights, and help you find solutions tailored to your operational needs. Whether you’re interested in technical details, design philosophy, or hands-on demonstrations, our team is ready to engage.

Visit us at booth #30311 to experience why Arc’teryx PRO remains the benchmark for technical apparel and equipment in the field.

Posted in Advertiser, Arc'teryx, Press Release, SHOT Show | No Comments »

Haartz Corporation and FirstSpear Announce Launch of ProTact by Haartz LaserFusion Vigr

January 15th, 2026

Acton, MA – The Haartz Corporation, a global leader in highly engineered textile materials, today announced the launch of ProTact by Haartz® LaserFusion™ Vigr™, a next-generation laminate developed in collaboration with FirstSpear® Technology Group. The new material is the first o?cially licensed substrate within FirstSpear’s Vigr™ Technology Licensing Program, certifying it as an authentic, authorized platform for FirstSpear’s patented LaserFusion™ technology.

“Haartz has been an industry leader in advanced laminates for decades,” said Scott Carver, president and CEO of FirstSpear. “By partnering with Haartz, we’re giving manufacturers a turnkey way to integrate our battle-tested innovations into their own products without compromising on quality or compliance. Working together on ProTact by Haartz LaserFusion Vigr allows us to connect our patented technologies with their proven material expertise, delivering a solution that’s authentic, scalable, and truly built for professionals.”

ProTact by Haartz LaserFusion Vigr combines durable nylon fabric with an innovative, unbroken loop element engineered to deliver unmatched strength, durability, and load-bearing performance. Built on proven military-grade materials and FirstSpear’s LaserFusion and 6/12™ platform technologies, the laminate enables manufacturers to design advanced tactical gear that meets the industry’s highest standards for performance and reliability.

“This collaboration represents the best of what Haartz and FirstSpear each bring to the market: innovation, precision and trust,” said Lance Cullen, senior manager of business development – new markets at Haartz Corporation. “ProTact by Haartz LaserFusion Vigr gives gear manufacturers direct access to FirstSpear’s patented technology through a certified material solution, streamlining design and development while raising the standard for performance.”

The ProTact by Haartz LaserFusion Vigr laminate is Berry Amendment compliant and engineered for use in tactical gear, load-bearing vests, bags, and specialty applications. It provides superior tensile and tear strength while maintaining flexibility and comfort for the end user.

The new laminate will be available in standard solution-dyed solid colors and MultiCam®, with PFAS-free finish.

Learn more: ProTact by Haartz® LaserFusion™ Vigr™

The Haartz Corporation (Haartz) is a global leader in highly engineered textile materials, including coated and laminated fabrics, foams, and films. Founded in 1922, Haartz has a long history of developing innovative solutions for automotive, industrial, and specialty markets. The company’s world headquarters and North American manufacturing operations are located in Acton, Massachusetts, with additional manufacturing in Mannheim, Germany. The company also is part of HaMinGi – Ningbo, China, having joined with TMG Automotive and Minth Group in 2020. Beyond these manufacturing locations, Haartz maintains o?ces in Detroit, Munich, Tokyo, and Irapuato, Mexico. Employing over 400 people worldwide, Haartz has been a trusted automotive supplier since 1907, and continues to be privately owned and operated by the Haartz family. For more information, visit www.haartz.com.

Posted in Advertiser, Materials, Press Release | No Comments »

MYSTERY RANCH Will Be Exhibiting at SHOT Show 2026, Booth 31309

January 15th, 2026

As the long-standing leader in military load carriage, MYSTERY RANCH designs and builds packs built for the mission.

At SHOT Show, MYSTERY RANCH will showcase their full line of military products and select special projects including drone carry solutions, including their collaboration with PDW (Performance Drone Works) supporting their C100 small, unmanned aircraft system (sUAS). These efforts reflect their continued focus on solving complex carry challenges through purpose-built design.

They will also introduce Carry Forward, their newest collection of everyday carry products that bring MYSTERY RANCH’s mission-proven DNA into lower-profile packs designed for daily use, travel, and movement beyond the field.

Stop by booth 31309 to connect with the team, explore what’s new, and see how MYSTERY RANCH continues to advance load carriage.

Posted in Advertiser, Press Release, SHOT Show | No Comments »

XM204 Terrain-Shaping Munition Achieves Urgent Materiel Release

January 15th, 2026

PICATINNY ARSENAL, NJ — The U.S. Army’s XM204 interim top-attack munition was approved for Urgent Materiel Release (UMR) and successfully conducted initial fielding in Europe on December 4, 2025. Managed by Project Manager Close Combat Systems (PM CCS) at Picatinny Arsenal, NJ in partnership with Textron Systems of Wilmington, MA, the XM204 completed Low-Rate Initial Production in September of 2025. The munition was then fielded to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment, based at Rose Barracks in Vilseck, Germany for training.

New Equipment Training and Doctrine, Training and Tactics were provided to 2nd Cavalry Regiment to review the performance, reliability, and integrated safety features of the XM204 and prepare for use Army-wide.

Eight Observer Coach/Trainers from the Joint Multinational Readiness Center also attended the train-the-trainer course so those personnel can continue to guide other Soldiers on the effective use of the weapon system. The training was held at Grafenwoehr Army Base and at the conclusion of training/fielding, PM CCS and JPEO Armaments & Ammunition (JPEO A&A) achieved Initial Operational Capability milestone.

The XM204 is an anti-vehicle munition with standoff and top attack capabilities designed to support terrain shaping operations by supporting a number of counter mobility tasks such as blocking, disrupting, fixing, and turning an enemy force.

“Seeing the XM204 perform so successfully reinforces the strength of our development teams and the speed at which they can design, build, test and field critical munitions that can degrade enemy mobility and create tactical advantages for friendly forces,” said Maj. Gen. John T. Reim, JPEO A&A and Commanding General of Picatinny Arsenal. This new system addresses evolving battlefield demands and the ongoing need to produce safe, reliable, and lethal munitions for our Warfighters and international partners.

The XM204 can be rapidly emplaced and is highly portable; the system can be employed alone, in multiples or in tandem with other terrain shaping systems. The lightweight munition features a dispenser launcher module that autonomously deploys multiple submunitions. Each submunition is equipped with onboard sensors to detect enemy vehicles and utilizes an explosively formed penetrator to defeat those threats. If not armed, the system is recoverable which allows Soldiers to reposition it as needed.

The XM204 also includes tamper-resistant features, armed/safe indicators, and self-destruct timers, aligning with U.S. landmine policy on anti-personnel landmines and reducing post-conflict risks to civilians.

In addition to the XM204, the XM98 Emplacement Trainer was approved by U.S. Army Tank-Automotive and Armaments Command in November. The XM98 training munition was also fielded to the 2nd Cavalry Regiment in Germany. The regiment is the longest continuously serving cavalry unit in the Army and plays a key role in North Atlantic Treaty Organization’s enhanced Forward Presence initiative.

By Michael Chambers

Posted in Army, Guest Post, Munitions | No Comments »

Tasmanian Tiger to Exhibit New Products at 2026 SHOT Show

January 15th, 2026

Tasmanian Tiger® will launch several new products for law enforcement, military, SWAT, undercover, and medics at 2026 SHOT Show® in Booth 20221 in Las Vegas, Nevada, Jan. 20 – 23, 2026.

Knoxville, Tenn. (January 2026) – Tasmanian Tiger®, a tactical nylon line of products distributed exclusively for the US market by Proforce Equipment, Inc., will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show®, to be held Jan. 20 – 23, 2026, at The Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum in Las Vegas, Nevada. Attendees can visit Tasmanian Tiger at Booth 20221 to explore the brand’s latest innovations designed for law enforcement, military, SWAT, undercover operations, and field medics.

“SHOT Show remains one of the most important venues for connecting directly with the professionals who rely on our equipment every day,” said Richard Lewis, President and CEO of Proforce Equipment, Inc. “Our 2026 lineup reinforces Tasmanian Tiger’s commitment to intelligent design, durability, and real-world functionality, and we look forward to sharing these new solutions with industry partners at the show.”

The 2026 lineup reflects Tasmanian Tiger’s continued commitment to highly functional, user-driven design engineered to meet the evolving demands of tactical professionals. Several new products will officially launch in 2026, including:

TT First Responder 50

TT First Responder 50 (MSRP $649 – $799)

A large paramedic backpack featuring a highly functional interior layout with removable pouches, a removable Tegris® panel with hook & loop, and elastic loops for customized medical organization. Designed for efficient vehicle storage, the pack is compatible with the separately sold TT Side Pocket 17 for expanded external storage.

TT Modular Chest Rig 4xM4 (MSRP $219 – $259)

A flat, modular chest rig with four fixed magazine pouches, detachable side pouches, and a front flap with hook & loop fastening for size M SAPI plates. The rig features laser-cut MOLLE, removable shoulder pads, and compatibility with plate carriers and the TT Modular Chest Rig Pack.

TT Modular Grab Pack 30 (MSRP $449 – $499)

A versatile escape and survival backpack offering 30 liters of capacity across two fully opening compartments. Designed for adaptability, it includes hook & loop-mounted pouches, MOLLE customization options, flat document pockets, and a padded, adjustable carrying system that can be removed for vehicle storage.

TT Cross Body Hip Bag (MSRP $44.95)

A compact EDC solution with multiple internal organizers, elastic attachment straps, a secure rear compartment, and an X-shaped hook & loop surface for added flexibility and foldability.

Other new products include the TT Modular Chest Rig Pack, TT SGL Mag Pouch Clamp M4, TT Modular Pack 30 SL, TT Base Pack 60 FO, TT Rescue Pouch, TT Tourniquet Pouch III, and the TT Side Pocket 17. In addition to new product launches, the Tasmanian Tiger team will unveil its new 2026 product catalog, providing a comprehensive look at the brand’s full range of tactical solutions.

The SHOT Show is owned by NSSF, the firearm industry trade association, and is restricted to the shooting, hunting, and outdoor trade professionals and commercial buyers and sellers of military, law enforcement, and tactical products and services ONLY. The SHOT Show is not open to the general consuming public (e.g., private visitors, hunters, sports shooters, members of hunting and sports shooting clubs, etc.). Proof of professional affiliation is required.

Find a local dealer here for any of the exciting Tasmanian Tiger products.

?Stay in the conversation by following us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. All sales inquiries can be directed to tt@tasmaniantigerusa.com.

Posted in Press Release, SHOT Show | No Comments »

Rheinmetall to Supply Lynx to Ukraine – Order Value for the First Batch in the Mid Double-Digit Million Euro Range

January 14th, 2026

Rheinmetall is supplying Ukraine with additional systems for national defence. The country is set to receive its first Lynx KF41 infantry fighting vehicles as early as the beginning of 2026. A contract to this effect was signed in December 2025. The order value for the first five combat vehicles is in the mid double-digit million euro range, with the systems being financed by the Federal Republic of Germany.

The decision in favour of the Lynx KF41 was made after extensive testing of the next-generation infantry fighting vehicle (IFV). The IFVs will feature the two-man Lance turret and be configured specifically for the Ukraine’s armed forces. The next step is to procure additional batches, including production in Ukraine.

‘We are grateful for the trust that Ukraine has placed in us,’ said Armin Papperger, CEO of Rheinmetall AG. ‘We would also like to thank the German government for its support. This order is a fundamental success that underscores our continued efforts to support Ukraine.’

The Lynx KF41 combat vehicle family has been developed to meet current and future requirements. The Lynx KF41 stands for maximum modularity. Thanks to its open electronic architecture and the largest protected interior volume in its class, the vehicle offers exceptional growth potential for future technologies and mission profiles. With a scalable weight concept, a highly efficient drive system and state-of-the-art protection technology, it combines mobility with maximum safety. At the same time, the Lynx impresses with its high level of ergonomics for the crew, which enables efficient and comfortable operation even during long missions.

Posted in Armoured Vehicles, Contracts, International, Press Release | No Comments »