FastBound announced full availability of NICS Direct, its integrated background check solution now powering daily transactions for FFLs nationwide. The platform eliminates technical barriers by automating server management and certificate renewal while integrating directly with Electronic A&D and 4473 workflows. FastBound's partnership with FFLGuard provides funded legal defense for administrative actions.
Industry Update
Range USA announced the promotion of Jimmy McManus to Chief Operating Officer, effective immediately. McManus will oversee day-to-day operations across the company's 50 locations in 14 states, focusing on revenue generation, profitability, and scaling the business.
Orchid announced its Winter ONEderland Promotion running January 10βFebruary 20, 2026, offering FFLs up to $10,000 in software credits. The company introduced Orchid POS Spark, a cloud-based solution for startup and small retail FFLs at $99 monthly, and will exhibit at Camfour Dealer Show, NSSF SHOT Show, NBS Spring Market, and Sports Inc Outdoor Show.
Kovix announced a partnership with Silencer Shop, the nation's largest suppressor distributor. Silencer Shop will distribute Kovix's complete product lineup, including the new Badlands series suppressors debuting at the 2026 SHOT Show.
Janette Palmer has rejoined 1791 Outdoor Lifestyle Group as Vice President of Sales. Palmer brings extensive industry experience from previous roles at Rock Ridge Outdoors, Crimson Trace, HIVIZ Shooting Systems, and Michaels of Oregon. She will lead sales efforts across all channels to meet growing distributor and retailer demand.
Primary Arms announced Matt Fleming's appointment as President, effective January 5th, 2026. Fleming brings 24 years of leadership experience in shooting sports and outdoor industry. He will report to Founder and CEO Marshall Lerner and oversee operations across Primary Arms' divisions.
The PW Group announced Richard F. Turner III's appointment as President and Chief Executive Officer of Walther Arms, effective January 1, 2026. Turner, who has led Umarex USA since 2021, brings over 28 years of experience in consumer products and outdoor recreation industries.
Dasan USA has partnered with Wild West Marketing as their sales representation group for the Alpha Foxtrot pistol line in the western U.S. region. The partnership supports Dasan USA's 2026 product launches and reflects the company's commitment to dealer support and market expansion.
Charter Arms announced a partnership with BCE Marketing for sales representation across Missouri, Iowa, Nebraska, Kansas, North Dakota, and South Dakota. BCE Marketing will handle commercial sales and support for the American-made revolver manufacturer founded in 1964.
Yamaha Motor Corporation, U.S.A. announced the appointment of Bryan Seti as Vice President of the Yamaha Boat Business Unit and Ben Mallett as Vice President of Marine Development. Dean Burnett transitions to President of Yamaha Motorsports U.S. Business Unit as Mike Martinez prepares for retirement.
Christensen Arms appointed Daniel Vernon as Director of Marketing to lead brand strategy and creative development. Vernon, formerly of Yomping Royal agency, will guide marketing initiatives across Christensen Arms' product lines including the Ridgeline FFT and MPR platforms.
The NSSF-adjusted NICS figure for December 2025 was 1,587,049, representing a 3.4 percent decrease from December 2024. Annual 2025 NSSF-adjusted NICS checks totaled 14,612,314, down 4.1 percent compared to 2024, with Texas, Florida, and California leading in adjusted checks.
Silent Steel USA announced that former U.S. Navy SEAL Justin Sheehan has joined as Vice President of Combat Capabilities & Law Enforcement Programs. Sheehan, who served with SEAL Team 2 and SEAL Team 6, brings extensive special operations and combat medicine expertise. He will lead combat capability initiatives and expand partnerships with military and law enforcement professionals.
RetailBI released its December 2025 Firearm Sales Index showing a -16.4% decline for the month and -12.1% year-over-year decrease. The index, powered by Gearfire, provides retailers, distributors, and manufacturers with accurate new firearm sales data from over 2,000 U.S. retailers to guide production and inventory decisions.
The NSSF's Protect Liberty PAC received a $25,000 contribution from the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) to support candidates dedicated to preserving Constitutional rights and Second Amendment protections ahead of the November 2026 election. NASGW President Kenyon Gleason and Protect Liberty PAC Treasurer Lawrence G. Keane urged industry members to support the super PAC's efforts.
Yankee Hill Machine, founded in 1951 by James H. Graham and Wallace Judd, will celebrate its 75th anniversary throughout 2026. The family-owned firearms suppressor leader plans to kick off celebrations at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas with second and third-generation Graham family members in attendance.
Bryant Ridge's silver coin and bullion collection is featured in a live Premier Event on Collector's Elite Auctions, with lots starting at one penny and bidding closing January 11. The auction attracts metals collectors, outdoor enthusiasts, and preppers recognizing silver's value as a tangible asset and hedge against economic uncertainty.
Bowtech Archery appointed Colin Legge as Executive Vice President of New Products and Innovation. Legge brings entrepreneurial experience, technical archery expertise, and financial acumen from founding The Carriage Archery Club and working in banking and energy sectors.
American Sniper announced a strategic partnership with Maschmedt & Associates to expand retail presence across 23 western states. The collaboration will launch new tactical products including knives, gloves, and backpacks, with support from AGE Retail Partners managing the brand's retail expansion and the TACK-F Foundation receiving financial support.
Safari Club International announced Karen Mehall-Phillips as Vice President Publications, overseeing all SCI and affiliated publications. With over 30 years of leadership in communications and publishing, Mehall-Phillips will develop growth strategies and manage editorial direction, digital publishing, and profitability across all SCI platforms.
