|
|
November 2nd, 2026
Tomorrow, November 3, 2026, is the final “mid-term” election day for state and federal political offices. The control of Congress can swing based on the results for contested seats in the House of Representatives. And the small Republican majority in the U.S. Senate could also be challenged.
NSSF urges all gun owners, hunters, recreational target shooters and supporters of the Second Amendment to vote in this important mid-term election. On Election Day, November 3rd, be sure to vote or, alternatively, vote by mail where that is an option. With just 1 day left until Election Day, you should confirm that you are registered and go to a local polling place, or submit your vote-by-mail ballot in accordance with your state voting systems. Remember, every vote counts!
If you sign up with the NSSF’s GunVote.org website you can access state-by-state links to voting protocols and voting locations. Gunvote.org also has information on polling places in many states. But we recommend you also check with your local city and country information centers. With increased vote by mail, many states have fewer voting locations than in years past.
“Second Amendment rights and the rights of hunters and recreational target shooters are on the ballot every election. It is not hyperbole to say this election will matter… for the future of those rights.” said Lawrence Keane, NSSF Senior V.P. and General Counsel.
A Few Thousand Votes Can Make a Difference in Swing States
In 2024, the presidential election was decided in some key states by relatively small margins. Research indicated there are more than 10 million hunters and Second Amendment supporters who remain unregistered to vote ahead of this 2026 mid-term election. Make sure you vote and tell your hunting and range buddies that they need to vote as well. Visit www.GunVote.org for all the information you need to find your polling place on Tuesday, November 3, 2026.
Reports from the 2024 election show millions of American firearm owners are not registered to vote and so cannot vote in local, state, and Federal elections. Unregistered gun owners number more than 515,000+ in Pennsylvania and roughly 370,000 each in Michigan and North Carolina. In addition, Georgia, Wisconsin, Missouri and Virginia all have large populations of gun owners who are unregistered.
November 1st, 2026
Late last week the National Rifle Association unveiled its updated NRA.org website and also upgraded the NRA Mobile App (for Android and Apple/iOS). These were major moves to enhance the NRA’s online presence and better serve members. We have checked out the new NRA.org website and can affirm that it does offer enhanced navigation — allowing better access all the major benefits of NRA membership.
Key Features on the updated NRA.org website home page include:
The updated NRA.org website offers a cleaner, more intuitive hub for training and education resources, event information, legislative alerts, and membership management, with more features rolling out over time. Paired with the free NRA App (available on Google Play and the Apple App Store), members get on-the-go access to daily news and content, digital editions of American Rifleman and American Hunter, a local events and training finder, and the Member Benefits portal. The updated App includes a digital membership card, with Apple Wallet and compatible digital wallet integration coming soon.
NRA Mobile App (Android and Apple/iOS)
“This [website update] is a clear demonstration of our commitment to innovation and progress in defending the Second Amendment and serving our members,” said Doug Hamlin, NRA Executive V.P. and CEO. “We’ve [streamlined] critical information so members can stay informed and engaged[.]”
The NRA.org website and Mobile App make it easier to learn about shooting sports events, and connect with more than 100,000 certified instructors offering firearm safety and education training. The website and apps also showcase the many benefits available to NRA members including health and life insurance, firearms insurance, shooting product discounts, ID theft protection, and travel discounts.
NRA membership also provides exclusive benefits now more accessible through the new platform, including discounts on firearms, optics, accessories, and ammunition; banking and financial services through partners such as PenFed Credit Union; wireless providers like Patriot Mobile; and specialized insurance and protection options for gun owners.
NRA Online Range Locator
Members are encouraged to visit the new NRA.org site, log in to explore benefits and local events, and download the free NRA App. Non-members can join or renew to unlock these advantages while supporting the nation’s leading gun rights organization.
October 30th, 2026
Hunting season is coming soon around the country. If you want to get hunting tips from experts, here is a great audio “infotainment” resource. Leupold offers podcasts, 40-75 minutes in length, on a variety of topics of interest to hunters and precision shooters. A podcast is like a radio show that’s available 24/7, at your convenience. When you want to “tune in”, via your home computer or mobile devices, just visit the Leupold Podcast Page.
Oregon-based optics-maker Leupold & Stevens (“Leupold) offers the “Core Insider” podcast series. These podcasts deliver hunting advice and recount successful hunting trips — such as Caribou hunting in Alaska. Other Leupold podcasts provide optics info, industry intel, and tech tips. Leupold’s Core Insider podcasts can also be accessed directly from Leupold.com. From the Leupold Podcast Home Page, you can stream the podcasts live or download for later listening.
You can also stream these podcasts via iTunes and Spotify.
The Leupold Core Insider Podcasts cover a wide variety of shooting and hunting topics. One early episode features Leupold team members Kyle Lamb and Buck Doyle discussing long-range shooting, while recent Episode 55 explains how Binoculars and Rangefinders function. There are now 96 Leupold Podcasts available online for FREE.
Episode 2, Long-Range Shooting. Click to launch Leupold Ep. 2 Podcast Page:
Episode 55, How Binoculars and Rangefinders Work. Click to launch Leupold Ep. 55 Podcast Page:
Episode 36, The Art of Wild Game Cooking. Click to launch Leupold Ep. 36 Podcast Page:
There are now ninety-six (96) Leupold Core Insider Podcasts. Here are ten of our favorite episodes. Click links below to access:
 Episode 94: Anyone’s Hunt Colorado Rifle Elk
Episode 56: Hunting Elk in Utah with Wild Country Outfitters
Episode 54: How to Select a Riflescope for Your Budget
Episode 52: Randy Newberg’s Top 5 Glassing Tips
Episode 44: Understanding Rangefinder Technology, Myths, and More
Episode 41: Precision Rifle Competition Shooting with Jon Pynch
Episode 37: Q&A with Leupold Technical Service
Episode 26: Understanding Your Shooting System 101
Episode 7: Predator Hunting with Jeff Thomason
Episode 6: Trendsetters — Women Who Hunt
You can access all Core Insider podcasts on Leupold.com, as well as iTunes and Spotify. In addition, Leupold Core Insider videos can be found at YouTube.com/LeupoldOptics.
October 28th, 2026
Click above image for full-size version.
Halloween (aka “All Hallows Eve”) will be celebrated in three days, on the 31st of October. Around the country pumpkins and Halloween decorations are on display in neighborhoods. Why not head to the range and shoot some Halloween-themed targets this month amidst the fall foliage. The folks at the NRA Blog have created a series of “spook-tastic” Halloween targets. Writer Kyle Jillson says, “In addition to stocking up on candy and finding great costumes, we thought you might like to have some fun at the range, so we created these spooky targets for you to use.”
Just click an image to launch its full-size version. You can then download the target and print it out on regular 8.5″x11″ paper. Now you have fun Halloween-themed targets to bring to the range in the next couple weeks.
Pumpkin Patch Target | Pumpkin Antler Target | Turkey Target | Pig Target
CLICK EACH Target to Download Full-Size Version
October 27th, 2026
Halloween (originally “All Hallows Eve”) is just four days away. Throughout the country, there will be youngsters (and parents) making the rounds on October 31st, trick-or-treating. U.S. LawShield has provided Halloween safety tips for homeowners and families with kids. These tips are designed to keep kids safe/secure and to help adults supervise the young ones and avoid potential liabilities as homeowners. READ Full Article HERE.
Halloween Safety Tips for Adults (Parents and Homeowners)
Drive Carefully – Drive slowly and watch for people crossing the street. Avoid distractions like phones or food so you can be ready to stop quickly. (But it’s best to just avoid driving after dark on Halloween[.])
Clear the Way – Clear your front steps, driveway, and lawn of any potential safety hazards. If any injuries happen on your property, you could be held liable!
Leave a Light On – If you leave the house, keep a few visible lights on inside to discourage criminals. However, leave your porch light off to let trick-or-treaters know you aren’t giving out candy!
Verify Insurance – Are you turning your home into a neighborhood haunted house? Are you charging admission? Make sure to check your local laws and verify your homeowners insurance coverage! Something like this could be considered a business activity, and accidents or injuries typically are not covered. (You should also verify your self-defense insurance coverage!)
Go Flameless – Use electric lights in your jack-o-lanterns and other décor. House fires are one of the more common accidents reported by homeowners on Halloween.
Halloween Safety Tips for Kids
Adult Supervision – All children aged 13 and under should be accompanied by an adult when trick-or-treating. Older kids without an adult should be in groups of three or more.
Create a Route – Only trick-or-treat in familiar neighborhoods and at houses with porch lights on. Be aware of and avoid the addresses of local sex offenders.
Street Smart – Walk only on sidewalks, and cross streets only at crosswalks or corners. Make eye contact with drivers before crossing to help prevent accidents. Take extra caution with costume masks, as they greatly reduce a child’s ability to see their surroundings.
High Visibility – Carry glow sticks or flashlights when out after dark, and avoid wearing costumes that are dark-colored or aren’t reflective.
Treat Smart – Check your kids’ candy! The CDC Halloween Safety Guide highly recommends throwing away any unwrapped or unsealed pieces.
U.S. LawShield also strongly recommends not having toy guns — even Nerf guns or squirt guns — as part of costumes. At night toy guns can cause confusion, with potential bad reactions.
About U.S. LawShield
Founded in 2009, U.S. LawShield now has 700,000+ members and 6,000+ industry partners. The goals are to help members handle critical, life-threatening situations and prevent potential injustices in the legal system after acts of self-defense. For more information on U.S. LawShield visit USLawshield.com.
October 26th, 2026
Sightmark’s New Latitude XD LRF 10x42mm binoculars combine high-clarity ED glass with a built-in laser rangefinder to deliver accurate distance and angle data — great for long-range shooting. The premium ED Glass performs well even in low light. Notably, the MSRP is $799.97, hundreds less than most other quality laser rangefinder binoculars. Designed for hunters and competitive marksmen who demand accuracy and dependability, the Latitude XD LRF combines crisp, bright glass with a powerful built-in laser rangefinder to deliver instant, precise distance distance readings up to 3280 yards (with reflective targets).
You can view product specifications and details on the Sightmark Official Product Page. The Latitude XD LRF 10×42 Binoculars are now available direct from the Sightmark.com online store as well as from authorized Sightmark dealers.
Key Features of Sightmark Latitude XD 10×42 Binoculars
• Magnification & Optics: 10x magnification with extra-low dispersion (ED) glass, 42mm objective lens, BaK4 roof prisms, and fully multi-coated (FMC) lenses delivering over 84% light transmission.
• Laser Rangefinder (LRF): Integrated laser rangefinder with a maximum range of 3280 yards (reflective targets) and 2187 yards (non-reflective).
• Display: Red digital OLED display with 10 brightness levels integrated into the field of view.
• Range Display: Multiple ranging modes show distance and angle data. Choose from Horizontal Component Distance (HCD), Line of Sight (LOS) with real-time angle, First, Best, and Last target modes.
• Display Control: Measure ranges and change modes with two easy-to-use buttons.
• Durability: Rugged magnesium-alloy waterproof body with an IPX7 waterproof rating and nitrogen-purged fog-proof tubes.
• Battery Specs: Up to 42,000 actuations on a single CR2 battery, with auto power-off to conserve energy.
• Accessories included: Neoprene neck strap, carrying case, lens cloth, tripod adapter, flip caps, and covers.
Download Product Manual | Download Product Specifications
You can view product specifications and details on the Sightmark Official Product Page.
October 24th, 2026
We’ve found a dozen great discount/rebate programs. These specials can save you big bucks on rifles, pistols, shotguns, ammo, and shooting accessories. Some of these rebates are worth $100 or more. For example you can get up to $350 off a Beretta Long Gun and save $100 on a Savage shotgun. And there are $75 Rebates on Savage pistols and a S&W M&P FPC22 rifle. And there is a deal with a free silencer (suppressor) with purchase of an IWI rifle. Click each box below to access the discount page.
NOTE: Some of these promos are good through the end of December 2026, but some expire on October 31, 2026, a week from now. So check the dates. If you snooze you lose.
October 23rd, 2026
NRA F-Class National Championships 2026
Sunday, October 25 – Sunday, November 1, 2026
Sponsored by the Desert Sharpshooters Rifle Club and the National Rifle Association
The 2026 United States F-Class National Championships commence Sunday, October 25, 2026 at the Ben Avery Shooting Facility (BASF) in Phoenix. For 2026, the Nationals combine both Mid-Range and Long-Range competitions in one extended mega-match. The Mid-Range U.S. F-Class Nationals take place October 29 – November 1, 2026, with all shooting at 600-yard targets. The Long Range F-Class National Championships then run Thursday, October 20 through Sunday October 23, 2022. All Long Range matches are at 1000 yards. The competitions will have two different divisions: F-Open and F-TR (Target Rifle). Registration is now closed for both Mid-Range and Long-Range Championships.*
NRA F-Class Mid-Range National Championship 25 October – 28 October, 2026
NRA F-Class Long Range National Championship 29 October – 1 November, 2026
The range should be open for practice on Saturday 10/24/2026.
Located on 1,650 acres in north Phoenix, Ben Avery is one of the nation’s largest publicly operated shooting facilities. A City of Phoenix “Point of Pride,” the facility has received a five-star rating from the National Association of Shooting Ranges. A camping area is available for competitors. Contact Ben Avery Shooting Range Camping to reserve a camping spot.
You’ll see some serious hardware on the firing line at Ben Avery. Here’s a modern F-Open rig with a handsome maple stock. The gun, belonging to David Mann of Texas, shoots as good as it looks.
View Larger Map
Location: Ben Avery (Black Canyon) Shooting Range, 25 mi. North of Phoenix, AZ. 1⁄2 mile West of I-17 on the Carefree Hwy. (Exit 223).
Facilities: Camping is available at Ben Avery during the matches through the Arizona Fish and Game Department. CLICK HERE for camping information and/or to make an online reservation.
Eligibility: Any competitive shooter. NRA membership is not required to compete in this match. However, non-NRA members cannot set National Records.
* Advance Entries are required: All entries must be paid in advance. Entries Closed 4:00 PM on 10/19/26. Entries after 10/19/26 are considered late entries and may be accepted to fill vacancies on existing relays only. An additional $20.00 will be charged for late entries.
October 21st, 2026
 Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (“Smith & Wesson”, Nasdaq SWBI), a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, today announced that it has acquired Savage Arms (“Savage”) by merger from an indirect subsidiary of JDH Capital I, L.P. (“JDH”). The price of the acquisition is listed at $160,000,000 in stock value and cash.
The transaction combines two iconic American firearm manufacturers with leading capabilities across distinct segments of the firearms market. Savage’s strength in hunting and bolt-action rifles is highly complementary to Smith & Wesson’s leadership position in handguns and growing presence across other long gun categories, creating a broader product portfolio.
Savage has been producing firearms for more than 130 years and is one of the world’s largest manufacturers of hunting, competition and target shooting centerfire and rimfire rifles and shotguns.
According to Shooting Times: “The combined company [S&W plus Savage Arma] will immediately rank as the largest commercial firearms manufacturer in the United States, with a full-line product offering spanning handguns, revolvers, rifles, shotguns, and suppressors. Savage brings roughly $160 million annual net sales and a dedicated, skilled workforce of approximately 500 to the Smith & Wesson family, strengthening the combined company’s position at a moment when consumer demand for American-made firearms across every category remains strong.”
Mark Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer of Smith & Wesson, commented, “The acquisition of Savage is a transformative step for Smith & Wesson and an important milestone in our strategy to be the undisputed market leader in the firearm industry. Savage’s brand heritage, culture, and longstanding reputation for performance and innovation align closely with our own, and the business meaningfully expands our presence in the hunting category. By bringing these two companies together, we have created a broader, stronger platform with significant opportunities to better serve our customers, accelerate innovation, realize operating efficiencies and drive long-term value for our stockholders.”
Michael Fertitta, Managing Director of JDH, commented, “Savage has a storied history spanning more than 132 years, and we are incredibly proud of the business and brand the Savage team has built. Smith & Wesson is a natural partner for Savage given the complementary strengths of the two companies and their shared commitment to quality, innovation and serving the firearms community. We are excited about the potential of the combined business and look forward to participating in its continued success as a significant Smith & Wesson stockholder.”
Transaction and Company Details
• Acquisition Date: October 21, 2026
• Deal Value: $160 million in cash and stock
• Previous Owner: JDH Capital I, L.P. (which becomes a Smith & Wesson stockholder)
• Savage Headquarters: Westfield, Massachusetts
• Savage Workforce: Approximately 500 employees
• Annual Net Sales (Savage): Roughly $160 million
Strategic Impact
• Product Complementarity: Merges Smith & Wesson’s handgun leadership with Savage’s footprint in bolt-action and hunting rifles.
• Market Scale: Creates one of the largest combined commercial U.S. firearm manufacturers, spanning handguns, revolvers, centerfire/rimfire rifles, shotguns, and suppressors.
October 20th, 2026
Here’s a cool way to save money — but you need to act quickly. Today — October 20, 2026 — Powder Valley Outdoors is offering FREE SHIPPING on orders over $99.00. So if you need powder, primers, bullets, brass, ammo or other products (including reloading gear), head over to PowderValley.com and take advantage of this special ONE-DAY Only deal on 10/20/2026!
NOTE: In addition to today’s FREE Shipping offer, Powder Valley is currently offering FREE Hazmat on qualifying orders of $599.00 or more. NOTE: This is a completely separate deal from the 10/20/26 one-day FREE Shipping offer. But it can save you $25 or more with a large order of powder and/or primers.
|
