NSSF Bullet Points Articles

All Ready on the Firing Line

The 2006 Shooting Industry Masters, which supports NSSF’s STEP OUTSIDE mentoring program, continues to attract shooters from throughout the industry, including top company executives. "The Shooting Industry Masters is an important way of getting people involved by supporting the STEP OUTSIDE program. Plus, it’s a lot of fun and a great chance to spend time with folks in the industry," said Mike Golden, Smith & Wesson president. The three-gun event will be held Sept. 22 and 23 in St. Cloud, Minn. For a look at last year’s event and to download an entry form, visit www.shootingindustry.com.

Cabela's Posts Strong Second Quarter

Outdoor retailer Cabela's Inc. on Thursday reported net profit increased 32 percent in the second quarter. Net income was $8.4 million, or 13 cents per share, compared to $6.0 million, or 9 cents per share for the same period a year ago. The results beat Wall Street expectations.

Winchester Ammo Sales Up 7 Percent

Winchester Ammunition sales rose 7 percent in the second quarter, compared to the same period last year. Clayton, Mo.-based Olin Corp., owner of Winchester, announced ammunition division sales were $85.7 million, compared to $80.4 million in the second quarter of 2005. Overall earnings at Olin, which also operates metal and chemical products divisions, were up 3 percent in the quarter. "Winchester's results improved substantially over the second quarter of 2005 and helped offset lower Metals (division) profits," the company said. Olin is traded on the New York Stock Exchange under the ticker symbol OLN.

Women of Steel

In a story that is increasingly common, the Naples (Fla.) Daily News chronicles the rise in women taking up shooting and becoming regular customers at local shooting ranges and gun clubs.

First Shots at Steel Challenge

Spectators who have never fired a handgun will be able to take their first shots at the Steel Challenge this month. NSSF's First Shots program is partnering with the Steel Challenge world speedshooting championships, slated for Aug. 17-20 in Lake Piru, Calif., and other industry notables to give first-timers a chance to give shooting a try.

ATF Director Resigns

Carl J. Truscott, director of the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF), announced his resignation last Friday in a letter to Attorney General Alberto Gonzales, citing plans to "pursue other challenges and consider private sector opportunities."

NSSF, Pawnbrokers Association Forge Alliance

The National Shooting Sports Foundation and the National Pawnbrokers Association have announced the formation of a strategic alliance, each becoming a member of the other’s organization and strengthening the opportunity to present educational and safety programs to pawnbrokers who sell firearms. “This is a great opportunity to help keep the pawnbrokers with FFLs informed and up-to-date on all issues related to our industry, and the alliance provides a tremendous opportunity for membership growth,” said Bettyjane Swann, NSSF manager of membership services.

Vote Your Sport in the Primaries

The 2006 election season is underway with primaries taking place across the country, including tomorrow in Connecticut, Colorado, Michigan and Missouri. The National Shooting Sports Foundation encourages all its members and supporters to know where your candidates stand on firearms, hunting and shooting sports issues. For more information on specific primary dates in your state, NSSF has set up this Web site. Get educated. Get engaged. And Vote Your Sport!

Scholastic Program Kick Offs Competition Tuesday

The world's largest shooting competition is getting a whole lot younger. Around 1,500 youngsters from 26 states will converge on the World Shooting and Recreational Complex in Sparta, Ill., Tuesday and Wednesday for the Scholastic Clay Target Program's (SCTP) National Trapshooting Championships.

Animal Rights Group Claims Credit for Botched Arson Attempt

The Animal Liberation Front (ALF) web site is claiming responsibility for a failed arson attempt in Los Angeles.