Fort Smith, AR — The PW Group, headquartered in Arnsberg, Germany, today announced the appointment of Richard F. Turner III as President and Chief Executive Officer of Walther Arms, effective January 1, 2026. Mr. Turner has served as President and Chief Executive Officer of PW Group's Umarex USA division since 2021 and will continue in that role concurrently.
Mr. Turner brings more than 28 years of experience in consumer products, with extensive leadership tenure in the outdoor recreation and shooting sports industries. He has spent two decades with the PW Group, serving in senior management roles of increasing responsibility. Prior to joining Umarex USA, Mr. Turner held leadership positions with PRADCO Outdoor Brands and Mossy Oak Apparel, a division of Russell Corporation, where he focused on the outdoor recreation market.
"I've worked alongside Richard Turner for more than 23 years, including the beginning of Umarex USA, I've always considered him a true partner in building this business with our team and shareholders. He is a proven leader with a clear vision and a consistent track record of winning strategy and vision. I'm excited about the future under his leadership." — Adam Blalock, Chairman of the Board, Umarex USA & Walther Arms.
Mr. Turner holds a Bachelor of Science degree in Business Administration from Birmingham-Southern College and an MBA from the University of Alabama at Birmingham.
"I am grateful to PW Group ownership and to the Walther team in both the U.S. and overseas for their trust and support as we advance Walther's long-term strategy focused on innovation, consumer engagement, and US market growth," said Turner. "Walther is a historic, world-class firearms brand with a modern foundation built on advanced design, superior reliability, and uncompromising craftsmanship. Our commitment is to deliver exceptional performance and value to our customers—because there is no stronger advocate for the Walther brand than a Walther owner."
About Walther Arms: Founded by Carl Walther in 1886, the company has manufactured firearms at its facility in Germany for more than 100 years. Walther Arms, Inc. is the United States Walther business unit and is based in Fort Smith, Arkansas. Walther is the performance leader in the firearms industry. Renowned throughout the world for its innovation since its establishment, Walther's innovative spirit has cemented its market position as a supplier of military, police and other government security groups all over the globe.