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May 3rd, 2019

Video Reports from 2019 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits

NRA 2019 annual meetings and exhibits video collection

Didn’t make it to the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Indianapolis last week? Not to worry. Here are four videos created at the NRA convention. There was so much to see, with 800+ exhibitors, and 15 acres of guns and gear. Most of these video creators have additional NRA Meetings & Exhibits segments on their respective YouTube Channels.

Address by President Donald Trump at NRA-ILA Leadership Forum

This hour-long video includes the full speech by the President. Definitely worth watching. We are lucky to have a Chief Executive who respects the Second Amendment and gun rights.

Featured Rifles at NRA Convention — GunBlast.com

Jeff Quinn of GunBlast.com visits multiple booths in this video, the first of four 2019 NRA Show videos produced by Gunblast. Quinn visits Colt (0:26), Ruger (1:00), Savage (3:16), Springfield Armory (3:46), CZ-USA/Dan Wesson (4:30), Henry Rifles (4:20), Auto-Ordnance (7:05), Smith-Wesson & T/C (9:35) Alexander Arms (10:47) among others. The “Trump AR” from Auto-Ordnance (shown above) is featured at the 12-minute mark. CLICK HERE to see three other GunBlast videos from the 2019 NRA Show. This page has links to ALL the 50+ manufacturers showcased in the four GunBlast Show Videos.

Pistols and Rifle at NRA Convention — ClassicFirearms

This lengthy 25-minute video showcases a wide variety of interesting firearms, starting with Remington rifles. Next up are some innovative FosTech AR-platform rifles (6:20), followed by Beretta (11:48), Delton (15:00), and some other smaller vendors. There are two other NRA Show videos (Day 1, Day 2) from Classic Firearms.

Women Talk Guns at NRA Convention — The Daily Caller

Here ladies from the Daily Caller interviewed attendees at the 2019 NRA Convention. One hot topic was how women can protect themselves with CCW handguns. One video viewer noted: “We need more of these videos promoting positive and healthy firearm ownership. Women, families, mother or daughter etc… enjoying their right to enjoy sport shooting or have self defense confidence.” Another viewer posted: “There’s nothing more attractive than beautiful conservative women who love the 2nd Amendment!”

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April 26th, 2019

NRA Convention Event Schedule — Friday, April 26

NRA Annual meetings exhibits convention indianapolis indiana President Trump

It’s Friday, April 26, 2019 so the 148th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits opens today at 9:00 am! The event runs through Sunday, April 28th. The NRA Convention features over 800 exhibitors, along with seminars, workshops, special events, and an appearance by President Trump. The NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits takes place at the Indianapolis Convention Center, with some major events nearby at the Lucas Oil Stadium and J.W. Marriott Grand Ballroom.

Seminars, Workshops, and Special Presentations

This is a partial list.
10:00am – 12:00pm, Room 234 – NRA Clubs and Associations Workshop
10:30am, Room 232 – Refuse to be a Victim: Crime Prevention Strategies
11:00am, Rooms 140-142 – Current and Emerging Threats: How it Affects You!
11:00am, Room 233 – What You Need to Know About NRA’s Collegiate Program
11:30am, Rooms 132-133 – You’re the First Responder: Whether You Know It or Not!
11:30am – 1:30pm, Room 131 – Hornady Reloading for Accuracy
12:30pm – 1:30pm, Room 231 – Concealed Carry Facts
1:30pm, 237-239 – 15 Factors Impacting your Shooting Performance under Duress
1:30pm – 3:00pm, Rooms 235-236 – Mental Dynamics of Target Shooting
2:00pm, Room 232 – Refuse to be a Victim: Crime Prevention Strategies
2:00pm, Rooms 140-142 – The Guns of Omaha: D-Day Plus 75 Years
2:30pm – 3:30pm, Rooms 134-135 – Medical Mindset: Are you Prepared?
2:30pm – 4:30pm, Room 131 – Hornady Ballistics
3:30pm, Room 233 – Friends of NRA Workshop

Click here for a complete list of seminars, workshops, and special presentations.

Major Special Events Friday, April 26

NOTE: Tickets are required for ALL these events. For more information visit NRAam.org.

22nd Annual National Firearms Law Seminar
Hyatt Regency, Cosmopolitan Ballroom > Event starts at 8:00 am

Women’s Leadership Forum Luncheon & Auction
J.W. Marriott, White River Ballroom > Event starts at 9:30 am

NRA Annual meetings exhibits convention indianapolis indiana President Trump

NRA-ILA Leadership Forum
Lucas Oil Stadium > Event starts at 11:00 am
President Donald J. Trump, Vice President Mike Pence and other notable spearkers will address NRA members at the NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) Leadership Forum on Friday, April 26, 2019 in Indianapolis, Indiana

NRA-ILA Dinner and Auction
J.W. Marriott, Grand Ballroom > Event starts at 6:00 pm

NRA Country Jam featuring Jacob Bryant and Payton Taylor
8 Seconds Saloon > Event starts at 8:00 pm; Door Open at 6:00 pm

NRA Annual meetings exhibits convention Country Jam music indianapolis indiana President Trump

Celebrity Appearances

CLICK HERE for a complete list of celebrity appearances. Top names include: Jerry Miculek, Doug Koenig, Max Michel, Jessie Harrison, Sheriff Jim Wilson, Tom Gresham, Lanny Barnes, Colion Noir, and Eva Shockey.

NRA Convention, Jessie Harrison
The world’s best female Action Pistol shooter, Jessie Harrison.

Major Everyday Events (Fri, Sat, Sun)

Wall of Guns, Crossroads Hallway at Hoosier Hallway
Pyramid Air® Air Gun Range, Rooms 143-144
NRA Booth, Booth #3639
NRA Store, Rooms 136-139
Eddie Eagle, Crossroads Hallway – Booth #15
NRA Hunter Education – Booth #3838
NRA Country Sound Stage, Wabash West Lobby

Map for Convention Center in Indianapolis, IN

The Indiana Convention center is in the heart of Indianapolis, so it’s easy to find. However, events are spread out over multiple facilities, so you’ll want to study this map when you get to your hotel.

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May 4th, 2018

NRA Annual Meetings — What’s Happening Friday, May 4

NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits 2018 Dallas Texas Donald Trump

It’s Friday, which means the exhibit hall of the 147th NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits (NRAAM) opened today at 9:00 am at the Kay Bailey Hutchison Convention Convention Center in Dallas, Texas. Check out the 800+ exhibitors, seminars, workshops, special events, and celebrity meet and greets all in one spot. Here’s a quick glimpse of what’s happening today, Friday, May 4. The NRA Show runs Friday through Sunday. The Exhibit Hall is open 9:00 am – 6:00 pm on Friday and Saturday, and then 10:00 am through 5:00 pm on Sunday, May 6th.

For more info on events and exhibitors, visit www.nraam.org or download the NRAAM Mobile App.

President Donald Trump will speak today at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum.
NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits 2018 Dallas Texas Donald Trump

Special Events
21st Annual National Firearms Law Seminar (ticket required)
Event starts at 8:00 am.

12th Annual Women’s Leadership Forum Luncheon & AuctionSOLD OUT!
Omni Dallas Hotel, Dallas Ballroom (Level 2). Event starts at 10:00 am.

NRA-ILA Leadership Forum (ticket required) – SOLD OUT!
KBHCC, Arena. Event starts at 11:50 am.

NRA-ILA Dinner and Auction SOLD OUT!
KBHCC, Ballroom D. Event starts at 6:00 pm.

NRA Country Jam Featuring Randy Rogers Band & Special Guest Scoot Brown Band (ticket required)
Gilley’s – Southside Music Hall. Event starts at 7:30 pm.

Daily Events
NRA Booth, Booth #8833
NRATV, Booth #8839
Pyramid Air® Air Gun Range, Ballroom C2
NRAstore, Ballroom C3 & C4
Eddie Eagle, Lobby D – Booth #130
Wall of Guns, Lobby C – Booth #109
Featured Product Center, Lobby D
NRA Country Sound Stage, Lobby F

Celebrity Appearances
Lena Miculek – Booth #6220 – 11:30am-12:00pm, 2:30pm-3:00pm, 5:00pm-5:30pm
Max Michel – Booth #6220 – 10:30am-11:00am, 1:30pm-2:00pm, 4:00pm-4:30pm
Sergeant Sammy L. Davis – Booth #10150 – 10:00am-6:00pm
Mykel Hawke – Booth #10150 – 12:00pm-6:00pm
Norris Jernigan – Booth #10163 – 9:00am-6:00pm
Lou Ferrigno – Booth #8627 – 12:00pm-1:15pm
John “Tig” Tiegen – Booth #8627 – 1:30pm-3:00pm
Valentina “Bullet” Shevchenko – Booth #8627 – 10:00am-11:30am
John Correia – Booth #8623 – 2:00pm-3:00pm
Corinne Mosher – Booth #4323 – 1:00pm
Jerry Miculek – Booth #8555 – 11:00am-12:00pm, 2:00pm-3:00pm
Jim & John Scoutten – Booth #8555 – 10:00am-11:00am
Cheyenne Dalton – Booth #9556 – 10:00am-11:00am
Anthony Amantine – Booth #9556 – 11:00am-12:00pm
Jerry Miculek – Booth #9556 – 1:00pm-2:00pm
The Gould Brothers – Booth #9556 – 2:00pm-3:00pm
Black Rifle Coffee Company – Booth #7733 – 9:00am-6:00pm

Click here for a complete list of celebrity appearances!

Seminars/Workshops/Special Presentations
10:00 am – 12:00 pm, Room D172 – Clubs & Associations Workshop
11:00 am – 1:00 pm, Room D170 – Refuse To Be A Victim: Teaching Crime Prevention
11:00 am – 1:00 pm, Room D167 & 174 – Guns of Vietnam
11:30 am – 12:30 pm, Room C140 & 142 – Concealed Carry Fundamentals
11:30 am – 12:30 pm, Room D163 & 165 – Armed Citizen: How to Interact with Law Enforcement
12:15 pm – 1:15 pm, Room C141, 143 & 149 – Concealed Carry Methods
1:30 pm – 2:45 pm, Room C140 & 142 – Survival Mindset: Are You Prepared?
2:00 pm – 3:30 pm, Room D163 & 165 – Craig Boddington on Great Rifles and Cartridges
2:00 pm – 4:00 pm, Room D170 – Refuse To Be A Victim: Crime Prevention Strategies
2:00 pm – 6:00 pm, Room D167 & 174 – Sheepdogs! The Bulletproof Mind for the Armed Citizen
2:30 pm – 3:30 pm, Room D171 & 173 – National School Shield: More Secure Schools
2:30 pm – 3:45 pm, Room C141, 143 & 149 – 14 Factors RE Shooting Under Duress
4:00 pm – 5:00 pm, Room C140 & 142 – Advancded Concealed Carry Fundamentals

Click here for a complete list of seminars, workshops, and special presentations!

Featured Product Center Demos (Located in Lobby D)
10:00 am – Full Conceal
11:00 am – American Tactical
12:00 pm – American Tactical
1:00 pm – Mantis
2:00 pm – American Tactical
3:00 pm – Full Conceal
4:00 pm – Trijicon

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March 15th, 2018

House Passes Stop School Violence Legislation

Stop school violence act of 2018 Florida School shooting

This statement was released by the NRA Institute for Legislative Action:

The National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action (NRA-ILA) applauded on Wednesday the passage of H.R. 4909, the “STOP School Violence Act of 2018″. This bi-partisan legislation provides funding for training students, teachers, school administrators, and local law enforcement to identify early warning signs that a person is a threat to themselves or others. The bill passed the U.S. House of Representatives on a vote of 407-10.

“This important bill will help stop school violence before it happens,” said Chris W. Cox, executive director, NRA-ILA. “Identifying individuals at risk for violence is a critical part of securing our schools. This bill will give communities the tools they need to stop school violence through early intervention.”

In addition to providing funding for training, the STOP School Violence Act, introduced by Florida Rep. John Rutherford, will also provide funds to implement school threat assessment procedures, and create a coordinated violence prevention reporting system.

“We must improve security in our schools and this legislation will help make that happen. We look forward to seeing it pass quickly in the Senate so President Trump can sign it into law,” Cox concluded.

Stop school violence act of 2018 Florida School shooting

Parallel Stop School Violence Act in U.S. Senate
A similar bill has been introduced in the Senate by Sen. Orrin Hatch (R-Utah). The NRA supports both the House and Senate bills. Senator Hatch explains his legisation in this video:

The National Rifle Association thanks Rep. John Rutherford, Judiciary Chairman Bob Goodlatte, Speaker Paul Ryan and the House Republican leadership for their support on this issue.

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March 6th, 2018

Get Gun Law Info for All 50 States on NRA-ILA Website

NRA-ILA state law gun Arizona reciprocity

Got questions about gun laws in your home state? Are you curious if other states recognize your carry permit? You can get quick answers to state gun law questions on the NRA-ILA website. The NRA-ILA has compiled gun law information for all 50 states. From the NRA-ILA home page, scroll down, to a box titled “Know Your State’s Gun Laws”. Use the simple pull-down menu to select your state. Then a page will open with key legal information.

For example, shown below are the NRA-ILA’s gun law highlights for Arizona. (The NRA-ILA website has more detailed information on purchase, possession, and carrying of firearms). You will find useful law summaries like this for all 50 states. This can help you understand the laws of other states when traveling — to stay out of trouble. NOTE: While you can use these NRA-ILA law summaries as a starting point, if you have complex questions about gun transfers, we recommend you consult an attorney in your state.

NRA-ILA state law gun Arizona reciprocity

NRA-ILA state law gun Arizona reciprocity

Remember that State Laws Can Change — And Read the Fine Print
Note: For all the state legal summaries (including Arizona above), the NRA-ILA includes an important disclaimer, noting that states laws change frequently: “We have made every effort to report the information correctly, however reciprocity and recognition agreements are subject to frequent change. The information is not intended as legal advice or a restatement of law and does not include: restrictions that may be placed on non-resident permits, individuals under the age of 21, qualifying permit classes, and/or any other factor which may limit reciprocity and/or recognition. For any particular situation, a licensed local attorney must be consulted for an accurate interpretation.”

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December 8th, 2017

House of Representatives Passes Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act

Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 HR38 H.r. 38 house of representatives Senate
Photo courtesy NRA-ILA.

The U.S. House of Representatives passed the Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 (H.R. 38) in a 231-198 vote on Wednesday, December 6th. The legislation will next proceed to the U.S. Senate. If a joint version of the Bill is approved by both House and Senate, the new legislation would then go to the President for signature.

Story Based on Report by NRA-ILA.org
The National Rifle Association applauded House Members for passing the most far-reaching expansion of self-defense rights in modern American history. “This vote marks a watershed moment for Second Amendment rights,” said Chris W. Cox, executive director, National Rifle Association Institute for Legislative Action. “The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act is the culmination of a 30-year movement recognizing the right of all law-abiding Americans to defend themselves, and their loved ones, including when they cross state lines.”

Next Stop — the U.S. Senate
“This bill ensures that all law-abiding citizens in our great country can protect themselves in the manner they see fit without accidentally running afoul of the law. We now call on the Senate to take up and pass this critical legislation,” Cox concluded.

H.R. 38 — What This Legislation Does and Does Not Do
The Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017 ensures that those Americans who can legally carry a concealed firearm in one state will legally be able to do so in every other state. It eliminates the confusing patchwork of state laws that have ensnared otherwise law-abiding gun owners.

While the bill allows recognition of concealed firearms permits from one state to the next (reciprocity), it does NOT create a federal licensing or registration system or establish national standards for concealed carry. Moreover, H.R. 38 will NOT override current state laws governing the time, place, and manner of carrying concealed weapons.

The bill also makes improvements to the National Instant Criminal Background Check System, NICS. This bill incentivizes states and government agencies to update the NICS with legitimate records of prohibited persons.

Summary of H.R. 38 — Concealed Carry Reciprocity Act of 2017
This bill amends the Federal criminal code to allow a qualified individual to carry a concealed handgun into or possess a concealed handgun in another state that allows individuals to carry concealed firearms. A qualified individual must: (1) be eligible to possess, transport, or receive a firearm under federal law; (2) carry a valid photo identification document; and (3) carry a valid concealed carry permit issued by, or be eligible to carry a concealed firearm in, his or her state of residence.

Additionally, the bill specifies that a qualified individual who lawfully carries or possesses a concealed handgun in another state: (1) is not subject to the federal prohibition on possessing a firearm in a school zone; and (2) may carry or possess the concealed handgun in Federally-owned lands that are open to the public.

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April 28th, 2017

Event Schedule for NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits

Trump NRA annual meetings and exhibits Atlanta Georgia

It’s Friday, which means the Exhibit Hall of the 146th NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits opens today at 9:00 am! The big attraction will be the 800+ exhibitors in the Hall — including virtually all the big name firearms manufacturers, ammo/component makers, optics makers, and shooting accessory suppliers. Along with the exhibitors, there are seminars, workshops, special events, and celebrity meet and greets now through Sunday the 30th. Here’s a quick glimpse of what’s happening today:

Regular Daily Events

NRA Booth, Booth #1912
National Firearms Museum, Booth #457
Pyramid Air – Air Gun Range, Room B309
Wall of Guns, Second Floor Hallway

Special Events

Trump NRA annual meetings and exhibits Atlanta Georgia

NRA-ILA Leadership Forum (ticket required)
Georgia World Congress Center, Hall A
Doors open at 11:00am
Event starts at 12:30 pm.

NRA-ILA Dinner and Auction (ticket required)
Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center
Event starts at 6:00 pm.

Celebrity Appearances

Julie Golob – Booth #4042 – 9:00am – 10:00am; 4:00pm – 5:00pm
Graham Allen – Booth #4748 – 10:00am – 11:30am
Leaspeed6 – Booth #1713 – 10:00am – 12:00pm
Doug Koenig – Booth #4042 – 10:00am – 11:00am; 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Jerry Miculek – Booth #4042 – 11:00am – 12:00pm; 1:00pm – 2:00pm
Lou Ferrigno – Booth# 1713 – 1:00pm – 3:00pm
Eva Shockey – Booth #4748 – 1:30pm – 2:30pm
Michael Waddel, Gregg Ritz, and Hal Shaffer – Booth #4042 – 3:00pm – 4:00pm
Adam Vinatieri – Booth #2429 – 3:00pm – 4:00pm
IraqVeteran8888 – Booth #1713 – 4:00pm – 6:00pm

Click here for a complete list of celebrity appearances.

Seminars/Workshops/Special Presentations

9:00am – 12:00pm, Room B405 – Clubs & Associations Workshop
11:00am – 12:30pm, Room B312 – B313a – Current and Emerging Threats: How It Affects You!
1:00pm – 2:15pm, Room B311 – Jennifer Broome: Choosing a Dog for Your Family
1:00pm – 5:00pm, Room B315 – Refuse To Be A Victim: Teaching Crime Prevention
2:00pm – 5:00pm, Room B312 B313a – Methods of Concealed Carry
2:00pm – 6:00pm, Room B313b – 314 – Sheepdogs: The Bulletproof Mind for the Armed Citizen
2:30pm – 3:30pm, Room B405 – NRA National High Power Rifle Championships Update
3:00pm – 4:30pm, Room B310 – Mental Dynamics of Shooting
3:00pm – 4:15pm, Room B311 – Making the Shot of a Lifetime: Positional Shooting Afield

Click here for a complete list of seminars, workshops, and special presentations.

To see the full schedule, visit www.nraam.org. For more information on events, exhibitors, and exhibit hall hours, visit www.nraam.org or download the Mobile App.

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April 25th, 2017

Get Event Tickets for NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits in Atlanta

NRA Annual Meetings convention exhibits Atlanta Georgia

The big NRA Convention in Atlanta is just two days away. The 146th National Rifle Association (NRA) Annual Meetings and Exhibits will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia from April 27-30, 2017. 80,000+ people are expected to attend this 4-day event which will feature dozens of seminars, workshops, and special events. There are still tickets available for many of the most important events at the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings. See links below:

GET EVENT TICKETS

Thursday April 27th

National NRA Foundation Banquet
Sponsored by Henry Repeating Arms, Century Arms and Kimber
Georgia World Congress Center Building B – 5 p.m.
Tickets start at $100 – Click here to purchase.

Friday, April 28th

20th Annual Firearms Law Seminar
Georgia World Congress Center – 8 a.m.
Tickets start at $50 – Click here to purchase.

NRA-ILA Leadership Forum
Sponsored by TownHall Media and Bearing Arms
Georgia World Congress Center Hall A3 – 12:30 p.m.
Tickets start at $10 – Click here to purchase.

When President Trump speaks at the NRA-ILA Leadership Forum on April 28th, it will be the first time a sitting president visits the NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits since Ronald Reagan.
President Donald Trump NRA-ILA Leadership

Sunday, April 30th

2017 National Prayer Breakfast
Brought to you by Fathers in the Field and sponsored by Trijicon and Universal Coin & Bullion.
Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center Grand Ballroom – 7 a.m.
Tickets start at $40 – Click here to purchase.

4th Annual NRA Women’s New Energy Breakfast
Georgia World Congress Center Room B405 – 9:30 a.m.
Tickets start at $15 – Click here to purchase

NAVIGATE THE CONVENTION HALL

In and around the Convention Hall there will be 15 acres of firearms, shooting and hunting gear, and other exhibits. There will also be an on-site airgun range. For more information about the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits, including deals on hotels and airfare, show hours, exhibitors, maps, and much more, visit www.NRAAM.org.

CLICK HERE for Exhibitor List and Floor Plan

NRA Convention Annual Meetings and Exhibits

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February 20th, 2017

NRA Annual Convention in Atlanta, April 27-30, 2017

NRA Annual Meetings convention exhibits Atlanta Georgia

The 146th National Rifle Association (NRA) Annual Meetings and Exhibits will be held at the Georgia World Congress Center in Atlanta, Georgia from April 27-30, 2017. This four-day event will be attended by over 80,000 patriots, feature 800+ exhibitors, and include a jam-packed schedule of seminars, workshops, special events and celebrity meet and greets. In and around the convention hall there will be 15 acres of firearms, shooting and hunting gear, and other exhibits. There will also be an on-site airgun range. For more information, including event tickets, visit www.nraam.org.

If you haven’t attended the NRA Convention before, this 2016 video offers a preview:

CLICK HERE for Exhibitor List and Booth Locations

There will be nearly 700 Exhibitors displays products at the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits. You can see products from big name companies such as Berger Bullets, Leupold, Nightforce, Nosler, Redding, Remington, Ruger, Savage, Smith & Wesson, and Winchester. You can also meet with top hunting guides and outfitters.

CLICK HERE for a Full Schedule of Events

The National NRA Foundation Banquet will be held April 27th in the Thomas Murphy Ballroom, Georgia World Congress Center Building ‘B’. The NRA-ILA Leadership Forum is slated for April 28th in Hall A3, Georgia World Congress Center. With the recent changes in the American national leadership, the ILA Forum should be popular this year.

Hank Williams Concert
Lifetime NRA member and multi-Platinum hit-maker and outdoor enthusiast Hank Williams Jr. will take the stage at the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings and Exhibits Saturday, April 29th! This is always a sell out event, so don’t wait to buy your tickets.

Location of NRA Annual Meetings in Atlanta:

Firearms Policy for the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings
During the 2017 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, lawfully carried firearms will be permitted in the Georgia World Congress Center and the Omni Atlanta Hotel at CNN Center in accordance with Georgia law. However, firearms are not allowed in the remainder of the CNN Center, including the food court and shops. When carrying your firearm, remember to follow all federal, state and local laws.

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September 2nd, 2016

ATF Defers Change to Smokeless Powder Classifications

NRA ILA ATF BATFE Bureau Alcohol Tobacco Firearms Wetted Nitrocellulose
Smokeless Powder Photo courtesy GunsAmerica.com, Reloading Powder Feature.

There has been a hue and cry on some internet sites about changes in smokeless powder classifications by the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives (ATF). Writers have been concerned that recent interpretations by the ATF would make it much more difficult to store and transport reloading powders, which in turn could lead to price increases and/or powder shortages. Concern arose over the potential re-classification of “wetted” Nitrocellulose as a “high explosive”. Since “high explosives” are subject to more stringent rules, such re-classification would alter the way common smokeless propellants could be lawfully stored and transported.

Thankfully, there is good news. On August 31st the ATF issued an Addendum to its June 16 ATF Explosives Industry Newsletter saying that its policies regarding smokeless powders containing Nitrocellulose will not change… at least for now:

NRA ILA ATF BATFE Bureau Alcohol Tobacco Firearms Wetted Nitrocellulose

Based on this “Addendum”, it seems the ATF has tabled its proposal to classify Nitrocellulose-based smokeless powders as “high explosives”.

The NRA Institute for Legislative Action (NRA ILA) confirms that the ATF has backed off, so that current practices for powder storage and transport can continue unchanged. Thus hand-loaders should NOT face an impending powder shortage and/or price hikes. Here is the NRA ILA’s report:

ATF Delays Any Changes to Nitrocellulose Regulation
Earlier this summer, ATF released an Explosives Industry Newsletter that changed the agency’s treatment of nitrocellulose, the primary component in smokeless powders used in modern ammunition. This change had the potential to seriously disrupt ammunition supply in the United States because it changed a long-standing ATF policy that exempted properly “wetted” nitrocellulose from treatment as an explosive under federal law.

NRA and [shooting industry representatives] raised these concerns to ATF and any change in ATF’s treatment of nitrocellulose is now officially delayed. In an addendum to the earlier newsletter, ATF announced that it “will conduct further industry outreach concerning wetted Nitrocellulose. In the interim, previously authorized industry practices concerning wetted Nitrocellulose will NOT be affected.”

While the addendum doesn’t indicate that ATF has permanently abandoned this change to nitrocellulose regulation, smokeless powder manufacturers will be permitted to continue normal operation, at least for the time being. NRA will continue to work to ensure that any future change to nitrocellulose regulation will not affect ammunition supply.

ATF Industry Newsletter Caused Concern
The cause for firearms industry concern was the ATF’s statement about Nitrocellulose published in the June 2016 ATF Explosives Industry Newsletter. The key language is shown in the right column below. According to the NRA ILA, the ATF has, at least for the time being, decided NOT to change its policies regarding the storage and transport of “wetted” Nitrocellulose. Accordingly, “smokeless powder manufacturers will be permitted to continue normal operation”.

NRA ILA ATF BATFE Bureau Alcohol Tobacco Firearms Wetted Nitrocellulose

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July 29th, 2016

ALERT: Feds Impose ITAR Registration Burdens on Gunsmiths

AECA DDTC Federal export manufacturer registration requirement criminal sanctions Annual fee NRA-ILA

If you are a gunsmith or work on firearms, you need to read this carefully. The Federal Government, acting through the Department of State Directorate of Defense Trade Controls (DDTC), has imposed significant new burdens on gunsmiths by expanding the definition of “manufacturing”. This is a big deal, as the Arms Export Control Act (AECA) and its implementing rules, the International Traffic in Arms Regulations (ITAR), require firearms “manufacturers” to register with DDTC and to pay a registration fee that (for new applicants) is currently $2,250 per year.

READ DDTC’s ITAR Registration Requirements Concerning Gunsmithing Dated 7/22/2016
Official Title: ITAR Registration Requirements — Consolidated Guidance July 22, 2016 — Firearms Manufacturers and Gunsmiths

Previously, most small gunsmithing operations that did not export firearms were NOT subject to AECA/ITAR registration requirements. Now, by virtue of a DDTC “Guidance” ruling issued 7/22/2016, ordinary gunsmiths might be required to register as a manufacturer simply because they thread a muzzle or cut a chamber.

The NRA-ILA states: “DDTC is labeling commercial gunsmiths as ‘manufacturers’ for performing relatively simple work such as threading a barrel or fabricating a small custom part for an older firearm. Under the AECA, ‘manufacturers’ are required to register with DDTC at significant expense or risk onerous criminal penalties.” Read NRA-ILA Full Report.

AECA DDTC Federal export manufacturer registration requirement criminal sanctions Annual fee NRA-ILA

Here is the key language in the DDTC’s “ITAR Registration Requirements – Consolidated Guidance” Ruling of 7/22/2016:

2. Registration Required – Manufacturing: In response to questions from persons engaged in the business of gunsmithing, DDTC has found in specific cases that ITAR registration is required because the following activities meet the ordinary, contemporary, common meaning of “manufacturing” and, therefore, constitute “manufacturing” for ITAR purposes:

a) Use of any special tooling or equipment upgrading in order to improve the capability of assembled or repaired firearms;

b) Modifications to a firearm that change round capacity;

c) The production of firearm parts (including, but not limited to, barrels, stocks, cylinders, breech mechanisms, triggers, silencers, or suppressors);

d) The systemized production of ammunition, including the automated loading or reloading of ammunition;

e) The machining or cutting of firearms, e.g., threading of muzzles or muzzle brake installation requiring machining, that results in an enhanced capability;

f) Rechambering firearms through machining, cutting, or drilling;

g) Chambering, cutting, or threading barrel blanks; and

h) Blueprinting firearms by machining the barrel.

Editor’s Comment: Does this mean that any stock-maker or stock supplier is an ITAR “manufacturer” under part 2(c)? Would installing a scope or accessory rail fall under part 2(a) as “equipment upgrading”? Would fluting a barrel be considered “manufacturing” under part 2(h)?

Impact of New Registration Requirements
As the NRA-ILA (Institute for Legislative Action) reads this, gunsmithing shops (even one-man operations) will now be subject to ITAR regulation though they export nothing: “These requirements apply, even if the business does not, and does not intend to, export any defense article. Moreover, under ITAR, ‘only one occasion of manufacturing … a defense article’ is necessary for a commercial entity to be considered ‘engaged in the business’ and therefore subject to the regime’s requirements.”

As a consequence, these new regulations may drive smaller gunsmithing services out of business: “DDTC’s move appears aimed at expanding the regulatory sweep of the AECA/ITAR and culling many smaller commercial gunsmithing operations that do not have the means to pay the annual registration fee or the sophistication to negotiate DDTC’s confusing maze of bureaucracy. [This is] likely to have a significant chilling effect on activity that would not even be considered regulated.”

Statutory Authority for Registration
The AECA’s statutory requirement for firearms manufacturers to register with DDTC is implemented in Part 122 of the ITAR:

§122.1 Registration requirements.
(a) Any person who engages in the United States in the business of manufacturing or exporting or temporarily importing defense articles, or furnishing defense services, is required to register with the Directorate of Defense Trade Controls under §122.2. For the purpose of this subchapter, engaging in such a business requires only one occasion of manufacturing or exporting or temporarily importing a defense article or furnishing a defense service. A manufacturer who does not engage in exporting must nevertheless register.

Barrel chambering image from Primal Rights, dealer for Desert Tactical Arms.
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July 27th, 2016

Ruger Gives $4 Million to NRA-ILA and Pledges $1 Million More

Ruger NRA-ILA donation 2 million gun

Ruger has donated $4,000,000.00 to the NRA-ILA (Institute for Legislative Action), based on Ruger’s pledge to donate $2.00 for every new Ruger firearm sold between the 2015 and 2016 NRA Annual Meetings. Ruger called this the “2 Million Gun Challenge”.

Ruger met the challenge goal of selling two million new firearms, thereby generating a total donation of $4,000,000. Ruger CEO Mike Fifer and President Chris Killoy presented Chris Cox, NRA-ILA’s Executive Director, with a check for $4,000,000 at the 2016 NRA Annual Meetings in Louisville, Kentucky. Cox praised Ruger’s Challenge Program: “The funds raised from this program will help us in both our fight to protect America’s Second Amendment and our effort to educate voters and get them to the polls this crucial election year.”

During the challenge period, one of the largest distributors of Ruger firearms, Davidson’s / Gallery of Guns, also pledged to donate $1.00 for each new Ruger firearm sold through its distributorship. Davidson’s effort added more than $350,000 to the NRA-ILA cause.

Ruger 2 Million Gun Challenge Becomes 2.5 Million Gun Challenge

Ruger NRA-ILA donation 2 million gun

Both Ruger and Davidson’s have pledged to extend the challenge period through the end of October, to ensure continued support up until the election. Ruger hopes to sell another 500,000 new firearms (by the end of October 2016) with a $2.00 donation per gun. If Ruger meets its challenge, that would generate another $1 million in NRA-ILA donations, for a total of $5,000,000 for the 2015-2016 period.

For more information on the Ruger 2.5 Million Gun Challenge, visit Ruger.com/2Million.

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