Hunting/Shooting

10/14/2025 |  New Report Confirms Broad Firearms Retail Slowdown in Summer 2025 (SGB UPDATE) RetailBI released its Q3 2025 Shooting Sports Retail Report, which confirms what many in the shooting sports industry have felt over the summer period — the “Trump Slump” is no longer speculation.
Combining this new data, along with the slide in NICS background checks since the President’s Inauguration Day, is often evidence of a perceived “2A-safe” period for gun owners and purchasers. Sales and background checks generally rise when consumers feel their Second Amendment (2A) rights are challenged by one administration, only to decline when they see less threat to future purchases or gun ownership.

10/3/2025 |  NSSF: Adjusted NICS Background Checks Show Recovery in September (SGB UPDATE) The National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) reported that the September 2025 NSSF-adjusted National Instant Criminal Background Check System (NICS) figure increased by 2.0 percent, marking a return to positive growth after seven consecutive months of decline.

9/19/2025 |  Riton Optics Acquires Blackhound Optics (SGB UPDATE) Riton Optics announced the acquisition of direct-to-consumer brand Blackhound Optics. Terms were undisclosed.
Blackhound Optics will continue operations through its website, while inventory lasts, with Riton assuming the warranty responsibility as part of the agreement.

9/16/2025 |  Mammut Partners with Top Gun Sales to Expand Southeast Coverage (SGB UPDATE) Mammut, the maker of apparel, gear, and accessories for outdoor pursuits, is expanding its presence in the Southeast by partnering with Top Gun Sales. Led by Kurt Smith and Chaz Warren, the partnership will increase Mammut’s regional reach with local retailers and gyms.

9/15/2025 |  Smith & Wesson Opens Training Academy at Tennessee Headquarters (SGB UPDATE) mith & Wesson Brands, Inc. has opened the Smith & Wesson Academy, a training facility with pistol and carbine ranges, a multi-purpose flex range, a 300-yard rifle range, and a two-story shoot house.