ACROSS THE POND
CADRE HOLDINGS TO ACQUIRE TYR TACTICAL
Safariland parent company Cadre Holdings Inc. (NYSE: CDRE) has entered into a definitive agreement to acquire TYR Tactical, a leading manufacturer of protective equipment for military and law enforcement uses.
Founded in 2010 by Jason and Jane Beck, TYR Tactical is based in Peoria, Arizona, and produces plate carriers, vests, hard armour, shields, and accessories for military units and police agencies worldwide.
Brad Williams, President of Cadre, said: “TYR Tactical and Safariland are two of the most recognisable brands in their respective customer bases, each with distinct strengths and minimal customer overlap. This strategic alignment allows both brands to operate collaboratively in the market while maintaining their unique identities and customer relationships.”
Cadre says TYR Tactical brings advanced engineering and manufacturing capability, including proprietary pressing and autoclave technologies for next-generation plates and shields. TYR’s patented female body armour, designed for an ergonomic fit without added bulk, remains central to its product philosophy.
Jason Beck, TYR CEO, said: “We share with Cadre a long-standing commitment to innovation, quality, and a life-saving mission. We are proud of what our team has built and look forward to the next chapter.”
The deal is expected to close in the first half of 2026, subject to standard approvals.
FPC PETITIONS U.S. SUPREME COURT TO OVERTURN ILLINOIS PUBLIC TRANSPORT CARRY BAN
The Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) has petitioned the U.S. Supreme Court to overturn a Seventh Circuit ruling that upheld Illinois’ ban on carrying firearms on public transport.
The case, Schoenthal v. Raoul, challenges Illinois’ designation of buses, trains and other publicly funded systems as “sensitive places,” where even licensed individuals are prohibited from carrying.
Brandon Combs, FPC President, said: “The Seventh Circuit’s dangerous opinion was legally, historically, and morally wrong. The Supreme Court must make clear that the right to bear arms for self-defence doesn’t stop when you step onto a bus or train.”
FPC argues that millions of Americans rely on public transport daily and that constitutional rights are not forfeited through its use. The petition asks the Supreme Court to clarify the exact limits of “sensitive place” classifications under the Second Amendment law.
Plaintiffs are represented by attorneys from Cooper & Kirk, PLLC, and David G. Sigale. FPC continues to pursue litigation, scholarship and advocacy in support of constitutional rights.
NRA CONSOLIDATES PUBLISHING DIVISION AMID WIDER PRINT CHALLENGES
The National Rifle Association has announced a restructuring of its media and publishing operations, reflecting the growing pressure on print across the firearms sector.
NRA Publications has been rebranded as NRA Media, and its four monthly magazines will be consolidated into two legacy titles: American Rifleman and American Hunter. Both will continue with enhanced monthly digital editions, supported by quarterly print issues.
The NRA is also merging its Membership, Marketing and Advancement divisions into a single operational unit, with the stated aim of improving efficiency through technology and data-led digital systems.
Doug Hamlin, NRA CEO, said: “To ensure we are prepared for the fights ahead, we must create a leaner NRA that focuses on stretching every member dollar to best protect your right to keep and bear arms.”
The Association acknowledged the broader pressures facing print. “In the past 15 years, major publications have foregone print altogether and moved to digital-only models,” it noted.
NRA President Bill Bachenberg said the organisation was balancing generational expectations against rising costs: “Younger members are saying, ‘You’re backwards. You’re old,’ and my old members love their magazines. But with printing, paper and postage rising, it’s not sustainable.”
The shift highlights the structural challenges facing print across the firearms and outdoor industries, with the NRA moving towards a cost-reduced, digitally supported model while retaining its flagship titles
DOWN UNDER
SSAA QUEENSLAND LAUNCHES GRANT PROGRAMME TO SUPPORT SHOOTING-RELATED STUDIES
The Sporting Shooters Association of Queensland (SSAA Queensland) has announced a new grant initiative to support study, research and professional projects linked to the shooting sports.
The programme, run under the Australian Institute of Legislative Action (AILA) and the Australian Shooters Alliance (ASA), offers grants of up to AUD 2,000 for projects relating to biodiversity, criminology, conservation, ecology, engineering, firearm manufacturing, statistics, sports training, gunsmithing, knifemaking and other relevant subjects. Funding is also available for veterinary and wildlife-related research.
The scheme is open to students at any education level as well as to individuals undertaking private study.
Preference will be given to SSAA Queensland members and their families. Applications may be submitted once every 12 months and will be reviewed by a panel.
AFRICA
SOUTH AFRICAN HIGH COURT ALLOWS EXPORT OF CAPTIVE-BRED RHINO HORN UNDER CITES EXEMPTION
In a landmark ruling on 31 October 2025, the Northern Cape Division of the High Court in Kimberley held that rhino horn harvested from captive-bred white rhinos on registered breeding operations may be exported under the non-commercial exemption in Article VII of CITES, provided that all conditions and permits are met.
The case arose after farm owner Wicus Diedericks had multiple export applications refused by provincial authorities. The court found those refusals unlawful and instructed the department to reconsider them within seven days.
The ruling confirms that CITES does not prohibit exports of horn from captive-bred animals used in conservation-focused operations, distinguishing them clearly from wild-taken specimens. Supporters say the decision could provide essential revenue for security, care and habitat management, shifting funds towards conservation efforts and creating rural employment.
Some conservation groups, however, warn of oversight challenges and the potential impact of legal channels on international demand.
The judgment is expected to influence future permitting, certification and enforcement. Analysts suggest it could unlock significant funding for captive-breeding initiatives and revive the global debate around sustainable wildlife utilisation.