Today's edition of The Hunting Wire is being delivered in two parts: the morning edition you're reading now, followed by an afternoon edition arriving closer to noon Eastern Time.
Why the split? Simple. With SHOT Show just a few days away, we received more than 100 news items for today alone, and nobody wants to scroll through that many headlines in a single email.
Looking ahead, we'll begin our annual SHOT Show Special Edition coverage on Thursday, January 15. We'll publish two daily editions each day from January 15 through Friday, January 23, the final day of the show.
During that time, The Hunting Wire will pause. Instead, you'll receive the SHOT Show Special Edition, focused exclusively on show-related news, announcements, and coverage.
The Hunting Wire will return on Monday, January 26.
For those heading to Las Vegas, we wish you a productive and successful SHOT Show. Members of The Outdoor Wire Digital Network team will be on site covering the event, please be sure to say hello if our paths cross.
I’ve seen a shift in the world of lever guns. It’s about more than holding on to old memories; it’s about our duty to take care of something important - America’s rifle.
The modern lever-action revival did not arrive because one company declared it so. It came because shooters rediscovered what these rifles have always offered: balance, reliability, immediacy, and a connection to the American hunting culture.
The question now is not who owns the revival, but who is willing to lead it responsibly.
That distinction matters, and I have an opinion.
As Marlin confidently settles into its new era, the company's posture reflects an understanding that leadership in a heritage category is not about dominance; it is about elevation.
To Marlin, that responsibility is clear.
Over the last few years, Marlin has introduced several new lever-action models that have helped fuel this revival each bringing updated features such as factory-installed optics rails, threaded barrels, new calibers, and improved tolerances. These models mark Marlin's commitment to blending modern performance with classic design, appealing to both longtime enthusiasts and a new generation of shooters.
When you pick up a new Marlin, it's obvious they care. First because Marlins are well made today. Second, because they'll be even better tomorrow . While a lot of good and even great companies make lever guns, Marlin is lever guns. It’s personal for them. I see it in the field and hear about it from our Hunting Wire readers.
I understand personal. And, Marlin's product manager, Eric Lundgren, does too. Early in the Lever-Gun Chronicles Series, Eric Lundgren put a 1894 Trapper, chambered in 44 Magnum, in my hands and waited. He knew what would happen next.
For most of last year, I thought the Browning Model 71 would always be my favorite lever gun. But as 2025 drew to a close, I realize my heart really belongs to something else: that smart, snappy, proven Marlin Trapper. It was with me in the canyons of Arizona when I took a mountain lion with it, and it quickly became the gun I trust the most. When it’s time to protect my family or head out hunting, I reach for the Trapper. That’s the highest praise I can give any gun.
The author with the Arizona mountain lion he took using Marlin's 1894 chambered in 44 Magnum.
Good companies don't play follow the leader. They are the leaders. And, sure enough, Marlin does not simply follow trends; it sets them, leading by example and inspiring the industry to reach higher.
I think it's fair to suggest that when a gun company builds a lever gun these days they measure it against a Marlin.
Today, Marlin stands as a standard-bearer, making what many consider to be the finest production lever-action rifles in the world.
This pursuit of perfection is not just about building great rifles; it is about honoring heritage, advancing innovation, and inviting more people into the lever-gun tradition.
Lundgren's words affirm Marlin's understanding and commitment to these ideals.
“It means taking responsibility for elevating the entire category while showing respect for the many makers and histories that built it," said Lundgren. "Marlin’s role is to be a visible advocate, invest in quality, promote responsible ownership, and create product and marketing touchpoints that grow interest.”
That mindset shows up most clearly in how today's rifles balance legacy with progress. Lever guns do not survive by freezing time. They survive by evolving carefully, without losing their soul. As Lundgren explained, that balance starts with respecting what makes a Marlin feel like a Marlin.
“By keeping signature Marlin cues (iconic lines, handling, balance, and familiar ergonomics) while thoughtfully adopting best practices from the wider family, modern metallurgy, improved actions, and features popularized by other lever-gun makers. The result is rifles that read as unmistakably Marlin in silhouette and feel, but that also reflect the technical and aesthetic progress the entire lever-gun community has contributed.”
This is not imitation. It is participation. And it is paired with a belief that the category grows strongest when manufacturers push one another to be better.
In Lundgren's view, collaboration does not necessarily entail coordination.
“The best way to strengthen the category is for each manufacturer to innovate and make quality products for a reasonable price" said Lundgren. "That in turn will push its competitors to do the same.”
Nowhere is that philosophy more visible than in how modern features are applied. The lever gun does not need to look tactical to be functional. It requires restraint and intent. Elegance isn't a word you often see paired with tactical, but Marlin did just that as it implemented a myriad of advancements to their lever gun line with a high degree of professionalism in form, function, and practicality.
“By applying modern features with restraint and purpose, such as optics rails designed to be low-profile and matched to the receiver lines, threaded barrels with discreet thread protectors, or cap designs that don’t change the muzzle silhouette, and weather-resistant finishes that mimic traditional tones," said Lundgren. "The modern additions preserve the rifle’s proportions and tactile cues so the product still reads classic Marlin at a glance.”
That restraint matters because the customer has changed, but has not abandoned tradition.
“Today’s buyer includes both the traditional hunter/enthusiast and a newer, younger crowd that values versatility, optics, and lifestyle use," said Lundgren. "Marlin adapts by offering models and options that bridge those audiences with factory optics-ready platforms, modern calibers, and threaded muzzles for suppressors, better triggers, improved accuracy, and messaging that honors tradition while highlighting practical modern uses (accuracy, reliability, ease of use).”
The author's 1894 allows for the use of magnified optics like Burris's new and improved Fullfield. The 1894 also came suppressor-ready and wears SilencerCo's Hybrid 46M.
In practical terms, that means redefining what a "working rifle" looks like in 2025, not as a marketing phrase but as a field reality.
“A modern working rifle combines robust reliability, practical ergonomics, accuracy with modern ammunition, accessory readiness (mounting options, muzzle attachments), and low maintenance finishes. Current Marlin models like the SBL, Classic, and Trapper Series meet this standard by blending proven actions with upgraded tolerances, factory-ready optics/rail options, and serviceable finishes, giving hunters and outdoorsmen tools that work in real conditions, day in and day out,” said Lundgren.
But a product alone does not sustain a category. Culture does. Ethics do. Conservation does, and Marlin gets it.
"Through storytelling tied to conservation outcomes, sponsorship of ethical-hunting education and youth programs, partnerships with credible conservation organizations, and clear owner education on safe storage and responsible use," said Lundgren. "When makers openly promote stewardship as part of their brand ethos, lever guns are positioned not just as tools but as instruments of sustainable, tradition-based outdoor ethics.”
Trust, too, is built the old-fashioned way, through decisions customers can see and feel. Lundgren points to manufacturing choices as proof points.
“Those decisions are tangible proof-points: customers can see and feel improved fit-and-finish, consistent accuracy, and durable components. ‘Made in America’ and forged components tell a reliability story that reduces perceived risk. Buyers trust that their rifle will last, be serviceable, and retain value. That trust radiates beyond Marlin and raises expectations for the whole lever-gun segment.”
That rising expectation is exactly what healthy competition should create. As Lundgren sees it, competition strengthens everyone.
“Competition drives incremental improvements in design, manufacturing quality, and customer experience. When brands push one another on reliability, feature sets, or user support, consumers benefit from better products. Healthy competition also creates benchmarks that raise overall category credibility.”
Looking ahead, the lever gun's future is not about returning to the past; it is about widening the circle. Lundgren expects continued growth, provided the industry works together where it matters most.
“Expect steady growth driven by diversification such as new calibers and modern cartridge options, crossover buyers, and lifestyle positioning. Collaboration should focus on standards, safety education, and sharing materials and R&D to lower barriers to entry and increase scale awareness. Collective efforts will accelerate market expansion while protecting the heritage that makes lever guns compelling.”
The lever gun doesn’t need saving; it just needs people like us to care for it and keep it going. That’s been the heart of the Lever-Gun Chronicles Series here at The Hunting Wire: sharing stories, lessons, and the responsibility that comes with loving these rifles. As an editor, I think it’s our job to help these rifles last for the next generation, and I hope these chronicles have done their part to inspire that stewardship.
And as Lundgren makes clear, leadership in this space is not about ownership; it is about responsibility.
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.
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.
Traditions Performance Firearms, based in Old Saybrook, CT, is hiring a National Sales Manager to oversee nationwide sales strategy and revenue growth. The role requires firearms industry experience, leadership skills, and knowledge of distributor relationships. Interested candidates should submit resumes to jobs@traditionsfirearms.com.
MarketTime, a leading B2B commerce platform serving over 400 sales agencies and 11,000 manufacturer brands, is hiring a Business Development Representative to drive expansion into new vertical markets. The role involves market research, lead generation, and collaboration with growth and sales teams.
Hawke Optics unveils the new 2026 Vantage HD Binoculars, combining high-definition optical quality with exceptional value. Available in six configurations ranging from ultra-compact 8x26mm to full-size 8x42mm models, each features phase-corrected BAK-4 prisms, fully multi-coated optics, and Hawke's Lifetime Warranty.
Vortex® unveiled the AMG 1-10x24 FFP riflescope, developed to meet elite military standards from British SAS, Royal Marines, and U.S. SOCOM units. The compact optic features class-leading HD optics, toolless turrets, and dual zero capability, designed for short-barreled carbines with rail space for attachments.
Sightron announced the SV 8x42 ED Binoculars designed for hunters, shooters, and observation enthusiasts. The binoculars feature a wide 70° apparent field of view, ED objective lenses for sharp images, fully multi-layer coated lenses, and waterproof construction with a Lifetime Performance Guarantee.
Trijicon unveiled the AccuPoint 1-8x24 riflescope, engineered for dangerous-game hunters with a Hunter Holds MOA reticle enabling confident shot placement from close encounters to extended ranges. The scope features battery-free tritium and fiber-optic illumination, premium optical clarity, and military-grade durability tested from -20°F to 140°F.
HeadHunters NW completed an executive search resulting in Dr. Todd Adkins' appointment as Executive Director of the Oregon Hunters Association. Dr. Adkins brings 30 years of hunting and conservation experience, including previous roles at Sportsmen's Alliance and the NRA-ILA, and will lead OHA's transformation and growth.
The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation announced new board leadership with Todd Walker as chair, AshLee Strong as vice chair, and five new members including Mark Baker, John Green, Ike Eastman, Will Primos, and Adam Weatherby. The 16-member board from 11 states leads RMEF's conservation efforts for elk, wildlife habitat, and hunting heritage.
Outdoor Action TV announced the addition of Best on Tour Breakdown, a behind-the-scenes bass fishing podcast hosted by industry veterans Dave and Jordan. The podcast delivers insider perspectives on tournament storylines, tackle trends, and competitive bass fishing industry coverage through both audio and video formats.
Hook & Barrel Magazine Founder John J. Radzwilla and professional skateboarder Jason Ellis appeared on the MTNTOUGH Podcast with Founder Dustin Diefenderfer to discuss mental health, sobriety, and Ellis's experience filming the Hook & Barrel short film Skate or Die.
The Wild Sheep Foundation's Women Hunt program launched IGNITE, a new weekly podcast hosted by Dana Dykema featuring conversations with outdoor enthusiasts, conservationists, and hunting advocates. The podcast aims to connect and inspire women in the hunting and conservation community through authentic storytelling available on major platforms.
Knight & Hale Game Calls launches its latest hunting lineup featuring the VersaTube™ tube call developed with World Goose Call Champion Harold Knight, the Ol' Yeller Box Call, and the Pretty Girl™ Decoy Series. These products offer hunters versatility, realism, and performance for turkey and goose hunting success.
Silent Steel USA, based in Livingston County, MI, has launched the 9mm Streamer Series of suppressors designed exclusively for Pistol Caliber Carbines. The new lineup features three variants with proprietary FLOW-IQ™ technology and is priced from $999.00 to $1,499.00.
Speer Ammunition announces new products for 2026, including Lawman TMJ 9mm Luger 135-grain training loads and Speer Impact component bullets in 243-caliber 95-grain and 264-caliber 156-grain. These products will be displayed at SHOT Show 2026, January 20–23 in Las Vegas at Booth No. 11838.
Langdon Tactical Technology announces the LTT 80X Cheetah in .32 ACP, developed in partnership with Beretta. The pistol features reduced recoil compared to .380 ACP while maintaining defensive capability, with optional upgrades including trigger work and optic cuts. Available now starting at $755 MAP.
Weatherby introduced the 25 WBY RPM (Rebated Precision Magnum), a new quarter-bore cartridge designed for lightweight, compact rifles. The cartridge delivers 3,000 feet per second with a 133 gr Berger bullet and will be available in multiple Weatherby Mark V and Model 307 rifle configurations.
Federal Ammunition announces over 20 new centerfire rifle ammunition options for 2026, including the new Federal Subsonic line and additions to Terminal Ascent, Berger Elite Hunter, and Fusion Tipped product lines. Products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23.
Mossberg launches the 940 Pro Waterfowl shotgun in Realtree Legacy camo pattern with optic-ready receiver capabilities. The shotgun will be the exclusive waterfowl gun featured by HALO Waterfowl across all channels during the 2025–2026 season, with an MSRP of $1,246.
Liberty Ammunition will showcase its latest ammunition lineup at the 2026 Camfour event on January 10 & 11 in Fort Worth, Texas. New products include Bear Country, SPIKE, and several new rifle calibers. CEO Gary Ramey highlights Liberty's superiority and dealer support materials at Booth 22.
Knight & Hale Game Calls announces expansion of its Run N' Gun® turkey vest line with four new models: the Run N' Gun® 100 Chest Rig in Mossy Oak® Greenleaf, Run N' Gun® 150 Chest Rig in Mossy Oak® Original Bottomland, Run N' Gun® 200 Turkey Vest in Realtree® Legacy, and Run N' Gun® 300 Turkey Vest in Mossy Oak® Full Foliage and Original Bottomland, each designed for mobile hunters with lightweight comfort and smart storage solutions.
Knight & Hale Game Calls unveils the return of The Moonshiner, a premium hand-turned acrylic call beloved by co-founder Harold Knight. The company also introduces new Double Up dual-surface pot calls, Hammer series calls, and premium hand-crafted strikers including Hickory, Purpleheart, Dymalux, Jatoba, and Waterproof options with Powertip™ technology.
Tac Shield announces the rollout of its Hunting Rifle Sling Merchandisers featuring high-impact packaging and American-made quality. The pre-configured retail displays showcase popular models including the PRS Tac Grip Sling, PRS Hands Free Sling, Buckhorn Grip Sling, and Elkhorn Flex Sling, designed to drive sales at outdoor retail locations nationwide.
BANISH Suppressors unveiled the BANISH 556, an advanced 5.56 NATO/.223 Rem. suppressor featuring controlled-flow technology for sound and flash suppression. Designed by founder Brandon Maddox and his team, the full-auto-rated suppressor uses metal additive manufacturing and Inconel construction, priced at $999 with lifetime warranty.
NEXTORCH North America announced the launch of the TA30D Tactical Flashlight, delivering 2200 lumens with a 448-yard beam distance. Featuring an advanced Ultra Thermal Buffer system and patented One-Step-Strobe capability, the compact tactical light is designed for law enforcement, emergency responders, and tactical professionals, priced at $99.99.
FALCO Holsters launches three new pocket holsters: the A226 leather wallet holster, A913 Kydex pocket holster, and AX93 carbon fiber pocket holster. Each model offers distinct materials and draw methods designed for minimalist concealed carry with reliable performance across over 3,600 handgun models.
TriStar Arms unveiled the Upland Hunter Thumbhole Stock, a 20-gauge over/under shotgun weighing approximately six pounds. The shotgun features chrome-lined barrels, a ventilated rib with fiber optic front sight, and dual choke capability for versatile hunting scenarios, with an MSRP of $879.00.
Iron Valley Supply announced it is now an official provider for Legend Outdoor Gear, offering pistol and rifle cases, cleaning kits, range bags, slings, and accessories. The Birmingham, Alabama-based distributor serves the shooting sports and outdoor community.
Ol'Man Outdoors unveiled its 2026 ladder stand lineup featuring six models including the OT-200 Comfort Lite, OT-202 Final Shot, OT-203 Deadeye, OT-204 Big Daddy, OT-300 Final Shot Extra-Wide, and OT-402 Marksman 2-Person stands. Each model incorporates patented Clamp Down Jaw and Truss systems designed for stability, comfort, and silent operation.
Ol'Man Outdoors launches two new quad pod models: the BaseCamp 7' Quad Pod (OT-702) and Fortress Deluxe 12' Quad Pod (OT-703). Both feature 5'x5' platforms, padded shooting rails, heavy-duty 300D fabric, and Realtree APX camo for hunters seeking stable, spacious elevated hunting platforms.
CCI Ammunition announces 2026 product launches including Hunter Series 22 LR loads, High Bar Air Rifle Slugs in multiple configurations, and a Golden Boy Collector's Edition bulk pack developed with Henry Repeating Arms. New products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Swhacker Broadheads revealed three new 2026 models at ATA in Indianapolis: the #307 mechanical 2-blade, #311 fixed 3-blade, and #316 universal practice points. Director of Operations Randy Groff and engineer Rick Forrest highlighted innovations including Blade-Lock Technology and improved durability features designed for precision hunting performance.
TUO launched its new Ryse camouflage pattern designed specifically for whitetail deer hunting. The pattern features a cooler color palette with greys, browns, greens, and yellows, incorporating macro and micro elements with 3D beveling to provide effective concealment across various woodland environments.
Ol'Man Outdoors introduces the Clamp Down Jaw System and Stabilizer Truss System for ladder stands, enhancing safety and expanding hunting opportunities. These technologies enable secure tree attachment and improved stability across multiple Ol'Man ladder stand models including Big Daddy, Final Shot, and Skyscraper.
Millennium Treestands announces the DeadLock Carbon Shooting Stick Tripod, engineered with high-strength carbon fiber construction and a multi-platform Vise Head featuring 3-axis leveling and interchangeable Arca, Picatinny, and Saddle/Vise plates for hunters, shooters, and outdoor photographers.
Millennium Treestands announces the Dinner Bell 350 Feeder, a 350 lb. capacity wildlife management system featuring a 12-volt motor, programmable timer, solar panel, and heavy-duty varmint cage designed for efficient field management and long-lasting durability.
Hawke Optics announces new 2026 products including Vantage Turkey Scopes in Mossy Oak Bottomland, Vantage HD 34 FFP tactical scopes, refined Vantage HD 30 scopes, Vantage HD binoculars, Frontier ED X compact binoculars, and Carbon Fiber Pro Bipods featuring advanced optics technology and precision engineering.
Blazer by CCI Ammunition announced new 2026 handgun loads including a Clean-Fire Suppressor line with subsonic velocities, plus new Jacketed Hollow Point and Full Metal Jacket offerings. Products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Wolfe Publishing Company released Propellant Profiles, Seventh Edition, a comprehensive reference covering more than 650 modern smokeless powders. The guide provides burn-rate categorization, historical context, and practical performance insights for handloaders, ballistic technicians, gunsmiths, and firearms writers, available through wolfeoutdoorsports.com.
Radians Outdoors will exhibit at SHOT Show 2026 (January 20–23) at the Venetian Expo, Booth #14353, showcasing eye and ear protection products and retail support programs. The company will introduce Brett Bryan, new Director of Sporting Goods, who will meet with dealers and industry partners throughout the show.
NSSF announced that South Dakota Governor Larry Rhoden will join six fellow governors at the 5th Annual Governors' Forum at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas. The forum, moderated by Shermichael Singleton, will feature governors discussing the firearm industry's importance, Second Amendment rights, and legislative challenges on January 21, 2026.
NSSF invites SHOT Show attendees to register for the 3rd Annual Attorneys General Forum featuring state attorneys general including Tim Griffin, James Uthmeier, Brenna Bird, Kris Kobach, Liz Murrill, Catherine Hanaway, Austin Knudsen, and J.B. McCuskey discussing Second Amendment legal battles and courtroom defense strategies.
The DSC Convention & Sporting Expo will be held February 6-8, 2026, at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta. Media members can pre-register for credentials and access a dedicated pressroom with amenities. The event features over 600 exhibitors and raises millions for conservation, education, and advocacy initiatives.
GAME & FISH TV, powered by Outdoor Sportsman Group, launches "Survival Saturdays" in January featuring Alaska's Ultimate Bush Pilots, Survival Science, and Fight to Survive. The free streaming channel offers outdoor programming across hunting, fishing, and shooting sports on multiple platforms.
Bass Pro Shops announced a multi-year partnership with the SMX League, making Thunder Ridge at Big Cedar Lodge near Branson, Missouri the host venue for the 2026 Monster Energy SMX World Championship Final on September 26. The partnership marks Bass Pro Shops' first foray into offroad motorcycle racing and features elite racers from across the globe.
Rob Gearing, Founder and CEO of Spartan Precision Equipment, joins host Michael Waddell on The Michael Waddell Podcast to discuss hunting, firearms ownership in the UK, and how mountain climbing influenced his philosophy on designing precision firearms accessories.
Federal Ammunition announces six new handgun ammunition options for 2026, including three Federal Premium Terminal Ascent hunting rounds, new Power-Shok and Punch Personal Defense loads. The products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23.
German Precision Optics (GPO USA) launched the GPO Carbon Fiber Tripod, an ultra-lightweight tripod weighing 2.62 lbs. with a 33 lb. load capacity. The aerospace-grade carbon composite tripod folds to 13.8 inches and extends to 59.8 inches, featuring a convertible monopod leg and integrated ball head for precision shooting and backpacking at $199.99 MSRP.
Remington Ammunition announces new shotshell and rimfire products for 2026, including Final Strut turkey loads with tungsten pellets, Royal Flush upland loads with copper-plated payloads, and Performance Wheelgun 22 rimfire ammunition. These products will debut at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas.
Blocker Outdoors unveiled the Finisher Chest Pack Pro, a modular chest pack designed for turkey hunters seeking freedom of movement and convenient gear storage. The pack features MOLLE strips, magnetic pockets, adjustable straps, and optional attachments for calls and accessories, priced at $129.99.
NEXTORCH North America will exhibit at the 48th annual SHOT Show, January 20-23, 2026, in Las Vegas at the Venetian Expo Center and Caesars Forum. The company will showcase new state-of-the-art lighting and tactical gear products, recruit dealers with special show pricing, and offer a 30-Day-Free Test & Evaluation Program for law enforcement and military agencies.
