What do you think is the most important leadership quality?
I get that question frequently when working with groups on leadership development. The options for answers are numerous: confidence, decisiveness, vision, communication skills, and the list goes on. My answer may surprise you. I think that the most important leadership quality is humility.
I am a very confident person, but I learned a long time ago that I did not have the market cornered on good ideas. There’s always a chance that you may not be the smartest person in the room. Recognizing that, I got better at listening to others. As leaders, we have the responsibility of deciding which way to go, but by opening up to others’ ideas, we’re exposed to more information so that we can make the best, most-informed decisions.
Jeff Buchanan retired as a Lieutenant General from the Army in 2019. He had four combat deployments to Iraq and one to Afghanistan. He also led the military forces supporting FEMA in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria and commanded more than 6,000 troops on the Southwest border in support of CBP. He and his wife live on a small ranch outside of Patagonia, Arizona and he is one of five commissioners for the Arizona Game and Fish Department.
During my third tour in Iraq, we started operating in an area that no American nor any of our allies had set foot in for several years. We had no intelligence network there and thus very little understanding of the threats and opportunities. That’s when one of our youngest Soldiers suggested that If we had no intelligence network, we needed to do some operations solely to get the bad guys to react. Based on what they did and what we’d learn from it, we could start to build our intelligence. Instead of using intelligence to drive operations, we would be doing the opposite. We planned and conducted a series of mobile checkpoint operations on all the main roads in our area. All of the checkpoints were short-duration and teams were inserted and extracted by helicopter. The purpose was not to find any bad guys by checking the passengers in cars; it was to get all the phone networks to light up…and we would have all of our collection systems focused on those areas. Frankly, it was a brilliant idea and it worked perfectly.
The culture created by my boss fostered this sort of innovation because above all, he listened to others and valued what they offered. That’s what humility is all about.
People often confuse modesty with humility, but I think Maya Angelou said it best: “You don’t want modesty, you want humility. Humility is not thinking less of yourself, it’s thinking of yourself less.”
Humility is not modesty and humble leaders can certainly exude confidence. I recently accompanied a team from the Arizona Game and Fish Department as they darted, took biological samples, and collared a bunch of elk. The purpose of the study included long-term monitoring and tracking of movements. The person actually in charge was the regional supervisor, but she delegated all decision-making to her wildlife manager in that particular area. He planned the capture, supervised execution, and directed all others in their actions. The regional supervisor jumped in and helped out, but she did not “take over.” In this case, humility led to effective delegation and a great developmental opportunity for one of her subordinate leaders.
Arrogance, by the way, is not exactly the opposite of humility but its pretty close. Arrogant leaders lack humility (they always thing they’re the smartest person in the room) and they have an inflated view of themselves. They frequently make sub-optimal decisions because they tend to be limited by their own gray matter.
The higher you go in any organization, the more others want to hear what you have to say. I’ve noticed it also becomes more important to listen. A friend often says: “Never pass up an opportunity to shut the hell up.” If I really want to hear what others think, I can’t start out with “Here’s what I think…what do you think?” When I start out with my own thoughts (even though I certainly have them), it can shut down others. Instead, I just start with “What do you think?”
Here’s how to apply authentic humility in your leadership role:
1. Accept that regardless of how smart you are, you don’t have every answer to every problem.
2. Develop your listening skills. Ask for others’ ideas and focus on really listening to what they have to say, maybe even take notes.
3. Make a decision and own it. Share your logic with others. They will learn from you and appreciate that you listened to their ideas, even if you did not follow their suggestions.
Humble leaders can be decisive, confident, and bold risk-takers. They also tend to make better decisions than leaders who thought they had all the answers.
The next time you’re in a tough situation and everybody is looking to you for guidance, you might want to starting by asking: “What do you think?”
Bob Ameen's velvet blacktail deer scored 115 0/8, earning Pope and Young Club World Record status as the largest bow-harvested velvet typical blacktail in North America. The deer was shot in Southeast Alaska and surpasses the previous record by 5 1/8 inches.
The National Bowhunter Education Foundation congratulates board member Barb Terry on receiving the ATA's Industry Impact Award at the 2026 ATA Trade Show. Terry, an NBEF instructor and mentor for youth and veterans, was recognized for her contributions to archery and bowhunting education, safety, and ethics.
Avian-X won the Bowhunting World Readers' Choice 2026 Gold Award for Wild Turkey Decoys, marking the brand's second consecutive victory. The award recognizes the realism and durability of Avian-X's HDR line, including the HDR Strutter, HDR Jake, and HDR Feeding Hen decoys.
Team Mathews secured four victories across six pro divisions at the 2026 ASA Pro/Am in Russell County, Alabama, with Brady Myers winning Men's Pro, Cara Kelly claiming Women's Pro, Chris Perkins taking Known Pro, and Ryan Jeffries winning Senior Pro, totaling eight podium finishes.
The Outdoor Stewards of Conservation Foundation (OSCF) Executive Director Jim Curcuruto and Board Chair Jenifer Wisniewski will attend the 91st North American Wildlife and Natural Resources Conference in Columbus, Ohio, March 29-April 3, 2026. OSCF will highlight recent successes including the "Come With" campaign with Kentucky Dept. Fish and Game, the "Keepers of the Wild" PSA, and new research on traditional ammunition impacts.
The Boone and Crockett Club will host two women's retreats in 2026 at the Rasmuson Wildlife Conservation Center: the Outdoorswomen Skills Retreat (July 24-26) and the inaugural Women of the Hunt Skills Retreat (September 4-6). Both programs, priced at $500, aim to build women's confidence in outdoor activities including hunting, fishing, and backcountry skills.
The NSSF praised Utah Governor Spencer Cox for signing House Bill 214, which amends civil liability laws to protect firearm and ammunition industry businesses from frivolous lawsuits. Utah became the first state to pass the NSSF's state liability reform language, blocking attempts by gun control advocates to circumvent the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act.
Whitetails Unlimited awarded $10,000 to the Louisiana Wildlife Agents Association (LWAA) to support their annual conference. The LWAA, comprising Louisiana Department of Wildlife and Fisheries Enforcement agents and retirees, focuses on hunting and fishing education, conservation, and anti-poaching efforts.
ALPS Mountaineering, a leader in the pack market for over three decades, launches the Reflection Dry Backpack featuring durable 600D polyester over TPU fabric with welded seams and roll-top closure. Available in 20L, 40L, and 70L sizes in Slate Blue or Taupe, the pack starts at $99.99 and is designed for water-based adventures.
ALPS Mountaineering introduces the EverDry, a 2026 all-season waterproof tote available in two sizes (20-35L and 30-55L) with puncture-resistant TPU material and fully-welded seams. The versatile carry-all features a self-standing design, wide opening, and lashing points, backed by ALPS' Limited Lifetime Warranty.
Federal Ammunition has begun shipping its new Heavyweight TSS Rob Roberts Limited Edition turkey loads, developed in collaboration with legendary choke designer Rob Roberts. Available in No. 7 and No. 9 shot sizes, these limited-edition loads feature 18 g/cc tungsten-alloy shot and FLITECONTROL FLEX wads for extreme range and pattern density.
Spartan Precision Equipment introduces the SpringBok Tripod, a lightweight 1.7-pound hunting support system featuring proprietary SpringBok Silicone technology and MagnaSwitch™ quick-detach system. The tripod adjusts from 34 to 60 inches and is available for $350 at select retailers and javelinbipod.com.
Remington announces the availability of its 2026 Limited Edition Bullet Knife, King of the Mountain, now shipping to dealers nationwide. This collector-focused fixed blade features a 440A stainless steel blade, authentic stag bone handle, and leather sheath with an MSRP of $179.99.
RETAY announced the RA1522 Pistol, a compact .22LR semi-automatic platform weighing 3lbs, 4oz with an aluminum M-LOK forend. Designed for recreational shooting, tactical training, and competitive applications, the pistol features a 25-round magazine capacity, flip-up sights, and an MSRP of $359.
Blocker Outdoors introduces the Finisher Series, featuring the Finisher Chest Pack, Lightweight Turkey Pant, and Lightweight Performance Hoodie designed for mobile turkey hunters. Marketing Director Steve Allie highlights how these minimalist, high-performance pieces enable agile hunting with unrestricted mobility and stealth.
North Lake Outdoors, founded by George Benning and Kyle McKinney, has renewed its sponsorship with Whitetails Unlimited. The Minnesota-based company specializes in extra-large cutting boards for hunters and anglers, manufacturing all products domestically.
SPYPOINT, a global leader in trail camera technology since 2004, earned multiple gold awards in the 2026 Readers' Choice Awards from Bowhunting World and Predator Xtreme. The company won gold in Best New Product for the FLEX-DARK Series, Trail Camera, and Cellular Trail Camera categories, marking the first time any company has swept these awards.
CZ will exhibit at IWA Outdoor Classics 2026 in Nuremberg, Germany, celebrating its 90th anniversary. The company will showcase new pistol models including the CZ 75 LEGEND and CZ SHADOW 2 CARRY, plus rifle offerings like the CZ 600+ Series and CZ 457 TARGET at Stand No. 3C-110.
NSSF, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court for certiorari in NSSF v. James, challenging New York's public nuisance law that attempts to circumvent the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act. NSSF Senior Vice President Lawrence G. Keane argues the law is preempted by PLCAA and creates a circuit split requiring Supreme Court intervention.
The University of Montana's Wildlife Biology Program named Heather Johnson as the new Boone and Crockett Professor of Wildlife Conservation, the sixth researcher to hold this position since its establishment in 1993. Johnson, a researcher with the Montana Cooperative Wildlife Research Unit, specializes in large mammal conservation and climate change impacts on wildlife.
Dallas Safari Club elected Rick Warren as Board President, along with Chris Ruhman, Colby Hale, and Daniel McGehee to the Board of Directors. The election was confirmed at the Annual General Meeting on March 19, 2026, with membership also approving proposed bylaw updates.
SHIELD Sights, a pioneer of compact red dot optics, announced new distribution partnerships with Sports South and Zanders Sporting Goods, expanding availability of their micro red dot optics through established dealer networks alongside their longstanding partner RSR Group.
CZ announced a partnership with Ace Virtual Shooting (AceVR) to introduce a virtual reality controller modeled after the CZ Shadow 2 pistol. The controller replicates the feel and handling of the competition pistol for immersive digital training. CZ and AceVR will showcase the innovation at the 2026 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits with prizes including an AceVR controller and CZ Shadow 2 pistol.
PRADCO Outdoor Brands announced a partnership between Knight & Hale Game Calls and Tag N Brag, a fast-growing hunting content team. The collaboration will feature Knight & Hale calls, vests, and accessories across Tag N Brag's digital platforms and hunt breakdowns throughout the season.
Zanders, a national distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, has added SHIELD Sights' innovative micro red dot optics to its product lineup. The partnership expands dealer access to SHIELD Sights' rugged, compact optics designed for concealed carry pistols, duty firearms, and competition platforms.
Barnett introduces the Hyper Raptor GTX™ crossbow, launching 20" HyperFlite™ arrows at 425 FPS with advanced features including the Halo System, TriggerTech™ Frictionless Release Technology, and Rope Hold™ Roller Ball technology. Each package includes premium optics options, arrows, and accessories for immediate field readiness.
T/C Arms launches multiple new products including the ENCORE PROHunter Pistol Frame Assembly, ENCORE PROHunter Turkey Shotgun, ENCORE PROHunter FireStick Muzzleloader .50 cal., expanded accessories, and returning Contender Barrels. CEO Gregg Ritz emphasizes the company's commitment to modularity and American-built reliability across proven platforms.
Benelli announces the Art of Performance video series showcasing the proprietary engineering behind the Benelli Lupo precision rifle. The series details the rifle's three-step barrel manufacturing process including vacuum heat treatment, electrochemical rifling, and cryogenic Crio treatment, demonstrating Benelli's commitment to advanced rifle engineering and accuracy.
German Precision Optics (GPO USA) now includes a premium custom-fitted Cordura stay-on zip case at no additional charge with all PASSION APO spotting scopes, including the 16-48×65 APO and 20-60×85 APO models, offering rugged protection for outdoor use.
Exothermic Technologies brings its Pulsefire® lineup to Iron Valley Supply. The torch systems, owned and operated by firearms and firefighting professionals, provide safe fire application for bonfire lighting, weed control, and land management.
Outdoor Edge encourages dealers to stock hunting and game processing knives for turkey season, featuring new products including 2.5" and 3.0" Razor APX Hunting Knives, Vantex Boning and Drop Point Knives, and the ErgoMax Game Processing Set, with prices ranging from $29.99 to $109.99.
HIVIZ Shooting Systems will exhibit at the 2026 IWA OutdoorClassics in Nuremberg, Germany, showcasing its full lineup of high-visibility sights including LiteWave H3 tritium/fiber-optic sights, FastDot H3 line, and TriViz shotgun sights. The company will highlight product expansions and discuss OEM partnership opportunities with industry partners.
Killer Instinct Crossbows, based in Windom, Minnesota, continues its sponsorship with Whitetails Unlimited. WTU President Jeff Schinkten praised the company's crossbow lineup as the sport's popularity rises among hunters.
WOOX, manufacturers of Italian-American made gunstocks, axes, and knives, announced an expansion of their Ambassador and Pro Staff Program offering up to 10% commission on sales. The program invites content creators and outdoor enthusiasts to earn by promoting WOOX products across social media platforms and blogs, with average orders exceeding $430.
Hawke® Optics partner Hunter Wallis of Union Dale, Pennsylvania, won the Senior Open Champion title at the Grand National Turkey Calling Championship during the National Wild Turkey Federation's annual convention in Nashville, Tennessee, February 11-15, 2026.
The Kids & Clays Foundation launched a charity auction on GunBroker.com featuring a custom-engraved Ruger Red Label 28-gauge shotgun by Baron Engraving. GunBroker.com is waiving all fees, with 100 percent of proceeds supporting Ronald McDonald House chapters across the country.
Umarex Airguns is sponsoring the 2026 Black Bear Bonanza on March 7 at Benton County Fairgrounds in Bentonville, supporting the Arkansas chapter of Backcountry Hunters & Anglers. The event celebrates black bear reintroduction in Arkansas with raffles, exhibits, and meet-and-greets featuring podcasters Brent Reeves, Bear Newcomb, and BHA CEO Ryan Callaghan.
Pursuit Channel announced the addition of Reel Animals with Captain Mike Anderson, a new saltwater fishing series premiering Q2 2026. Hosted by veteran charter captain Mike Anderson, the show features high-energy offshore and inshore adventures from the Gulf Coast to the Atlantic, airing weekly on Pursuit Channel and available on Pursuit UP's free streaming platform.
