NSSF: Firearm Industry Economic Impact Rises 213 Percent Since 2008

The total economic impact of the firearm and ammunition industry in the United States increased from $19.1 billion in 2008 to $60 billion in 2019, a 213 percent increase, while the total number of full-time-equivalent jobs rose from approximately 166,000 to over 332,000, a 100 percent increase in that same period, according to a report released by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).

The firearm and ammunition industry paid more than $6.74 billion in business taxes, including property, income and sales-based levies.

“Our industry continues to show the steady and reliable growth that is a hallmark of a healthy industry,” said NSSF President and CEO Joe Bartozzi.

The Firearm and Ammunition Industry Economic Impact Report provides a state-by-state breakdown of job numbers, wages and output covering direct, supplier and induced employment, as well as federal excise taxes paid. Access the full report here.

Kinsey’s Dealer Show Attendance

This year’s Kinsey’s Dealer Show (KDS) had record attendance in 2020, 20 percent more than the 2019 show. Attendees were once again treated to a weekend of entertainment, best-of-the-year pricing, and giveaways at the Hershey Lodge in Hershey, Pennsylvania. But in 2020, the floor hours were revamped to provide additional convenience. Kinsey’s expanded categories on display for this year’s show— dealers were able to stock their shelves with archery, firearms, ammunition and general outdoor products. 

“The expanded categories benefited everyone this year,” said Kinsey’s Justin Gorman. “Whether you are an archery dealer, firearms dealer, combination dealer, or a vendor there was a lot of new faces at KDS this year. New faces mean new interactions and new sales. We look forward to continuing to grow our assortment and be a one-stop shop for outdoor and hunting retailers.” 

Kryptek Releases Camouflage Courtesy Face Masks

In light of recent CDC recommendations that cloth face coverings should be worn in all public settings to help prevent the spread of COVID-19, Kryptek has begun offering face masks in their camouflage patterns.

Proceeds from the sale of each face mask help provide masks to Kryptek’s local first responders, law enforcement units and SWAT teams.

Per CDC guidelines, Kryptek face masks are designed to fit snuggly over the nose and mouth. Kryptek courtesy face masks come in two sizes and are featured in Kryptek Wraith, Typhon, Raid, Neptune and Inferno. Masks are safe for regular machine washing. Masks should be washed routinely, and filters changed regularly depending on the frequency of use.

Dan Thelen Named President of Capstone Precision Group

Capstone Precision Group recently announced that Dan Thelen will be taking over as president of the company.

“I announced my planned retirement 18 months ago and hired Dan in January 2019 to accept this role in 2Q 2020”, said Bill Gravatt, former president of Capstone Precision Group. Dan joined Capstone as the general manager of Mesa, Arizona, operations which includes Berger Bullets and Berger Ammunition production. Gravatt added, “I am confident that Dan will do an outstanding job leading Capstone as the premier component and ammunition brands in the US. We have an excellent group of team members within Capstone, so he is inheriting a fantastic team.”

“I’m very excited for this new opportunity”, said Thelen. “I want to thank Bill for his leadership and guidance these past 18-months as we prepared for this transition. Bill has built a great foundation for Capstone and I look to further his vision for the company with the best bullets, cases and powder in the industry. The Berger, Lapua, Vihtavuori and SK brands have tremendous following in the global market.”

Thelen brings more than 22 years of experience in finance and operations within the shooting sports industry.

SAF, NRA and FPC Join Lawsuit Against Two Governors

The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF), National Rifle Association and Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) filed a federal lawsuit against New Mexico Gov. Michelle Lujan Grisham, challenging her order mandating the closure of lawful retail firearms businesses during the ongoing coronavirus pandemic. Also named as a defendant is Kathyleen Kunkel, secretary for the New Mexico Department of Health and The Department of Health.

“By arbitrarily, capriciously — and unconstitutionally — targeting those who lawfully sell firearms and ammunition, New Mexico is depriving citizens of their natural and fundamental right to keep and bear arms,” the complaint alleges.

“Gov. Grisham simply can’t suspend the Second Amendment,” stated SAF founder and Executive Vice President Alan M. Gottlieb. “Of course, there is an emergency, but such emergencies do not nullify the Constitution, even temporarily. We cannot allow public officials to put their personal agendas above the rights protected by the Constitution, and that includes the right of the people to keep and bear arms.”

In related news, the SAF joined the FPC, Commonwealth Second Amendment, Inc. (Comm2A), and the Massachusetts Gun Owners Action League (GOAL) in a federal lawsuit against Massachusetts Gov. Charlie Baker and two other Massachusetts officials. The lawsuit challenges their acts of eliminating all lawful channels of access (gun stores) to constitutionally protected arms and ammunition during the coronavirus emergency.