INTERNATIONAL PERSPECTIVE

Gun Trade Insider offers a detailed examination of the latest developments across various international markets.

IN ASSOCIATION WITH IWA OUTDOORCLASSICS

ACROSS THE POND

BARRETT LANDS NEW US ARMY CONTRACT FOR M107 RIFLE SYSTEM

Barrett Firearms Manufacturing Inc has been awarded a new US Army contract for its M107 Rifle System and variant systems, including the Model 82A1 and M107A1. This $14,999,500 agreement encompasses accessories, spare parts, and training support, with deliveries scheduled through late 2029.

The Barrett M107, a long-standing staple in the US Armed Forces’ arsenal, has proven itself for more than two decades as a reliable and accurate long-range weapon. Barrett’s Vice President of Business Development and Sales, Ryan Krantz, noted that the contract reinforces the US Army’s confidence in the M107 platform and Barrett’s dedication to excellence.

“This contract reaffirms the trust that the U.S. Army has placed in the M107 Rifle System and Barrett’s commitment to excellence,” Krantz said. “We are honoured to continue providing our troops with a superior platform that has stood the test of time in both performance and reliability.”

LEGAL BATTLES OVER FIREARMS LAWS INTENSIFY IN THE US

Courtrooms across the United States have become battlegrounds for debates over firearms regulations, with cases emerging in Hawaii, New York, and Pennsylvania.

In Hawaii, the Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) has filed a federal lawsuit challenging state laws that restrict firearm ownership for individuals aged 18–20. The case, Pinales v. Attorney General for the State of Hawaii, argues that these laws violate the Second and Fourteenth Amendments. SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut stated: “Hawaii’s ban on the purchase and possession of firearms by adults in the 18to 20-year age group makes it impossible for these citizens to exercise their constitutional right to keep and bear arms.”

In New York, the Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) is contesting a law that prohibits non-residents from carrying firearms. The case, Shaffer v. Quattrone, seeks to extend constitutional protections across state borders. FPC President Brandon Combs commented:

“We look forward to ending New York’s immoral ban on carry by non-residents and allowing millions of peaceable people to exercise their rights as they visit the Empire State.”

Meanwhile, in Pennsylvania, the state Supreme Court upheld firearms preemption laws, ruling that local governments cannot enforce their own firearm regulations. This decision reaffirms the legislature’s sole authority in regulating firearms statewide.

LEICA APPOINTS RYAN HOLM AS DIRECTOR OF MARKETING FOR SPORT OPTICS

Leica, the German optics manufacturer renowned for its high-end products, has named Ryan Holm as Director of Marketing for its Sport Optics division. With over two decades of experience in the hunting and outdoor sectors, Holm will focus on enhancing Leica’s brand presence in the lucrative U.S. market.

“Leica’s rich heritage is unparalleled in the sport optics world,” Holm said. “It’s our mission to ensure our brand continues to inspire and serve the needs of our customers.” He plans to implement integrated marketing strategies across e-commerce, social media, and direct sales channels, aiming to position Leica as a leader in premium optics.

POF-USA PARTNERS WITH ORION WHOLESALE TO EXPAND DISTRIBUTION

Patriot Ordnance Factory Inc. (POF-USA), a Phoenix-based manufacturer of AR-type rifles, has partnered with Indiana’s Orion Wholesale to expand its reach to U.S. firearms retailers. Jeremy Selting, POF-USA’s Vice President of Sales and Marketing, highlighted the alignment between the companies’ values, stating: “Orion’s impressive distribution network and commitment to serving the needs of firearms retailers align perfectly with our mission.”

Brent Taylor, CEO of Orion Wholesale, expressed his excitement, emphasising the shared commitment to American craftsmanship and innovation.

MAINLAND EUROPE

CZ GROUP PARTNERS WITH ROMANIAN COMPANY AMID RECORD REVENUES

Czech arms manufacturer Colt CZ Group SE has partnered with Romania’s Transcarpat Sportours International to assemble firearms locally, including the CZ BREN 2 PDW and CZ P-10 pistols. The partnership enhances CZ Group’s commitment to supporting Romania’s military with NATO-standard weaponry.

This announcement coincides with Colt CZ Group’s report of a 51.1% revenue increase for the first nine months of 2024, reaching CZK 14.97 billion. CEO Jan Drahota attributed the growth to strong organic performance and the integration of Sellier & Bellot, a key acquisition.

“The results for the nine months of 2024 confirmed our expectations for the year,” Drahota said. “We are proud that investors want to participate in our business story and further growth of the Group.”

FN BROWNING GROUP IN TALKS TO ACQUIRE SOFISPORT

FN Browning Group, owner of FN Herstal and Browning, has entered exclusive negotiations to acquire French shotshell manufacturer Sofisport. The deal aims to create a world-class European manufacturer in small arms and ammunition, bolstering both companies’ competitiveness in the global market.

FN Browning Group CEO, Julien Compère, said: “Together, we would create a strong, sustainable group with leading brands and a comprehensive range of products and services in defence and hunting.”

Sofisport CEO Paolo Pederzoli called the acquisition an ideal way to consolidate the company ’s strategic position and diversify into new market segments. If approved, the merger will mark a significant step in European industrial collaboration within the firearms and ammunition sectors.