IN ASSOCIATION WITH IWA OUTDOORCLASSICS
ACROSS THE POND
U.S. ARMY AWARDS MOSSBERG CONTRACT FOR ADDITIONAL 590A1 PUMP-ACTION SHOTGUNS
O.F. Mossberg & Sons, based in North Haven, Connecticut, has secured an approximately $11.6 million contract to supply the U.S. Army with additional 590A1 pump-action shotguns. The 590 platform was first adopted by the U.S. military in 1987 and proven through MIL-SPEC testing. Requests for a more durable platform capable of sustained use led to the development of the 590A1, designed for challenging environments.
“Mossberg is honored to receive an additional contract from the U.S. Department of Defense for the 590A1,” said John MacLellan, vice president of sales and marketing. “This award reflects our commitment to supplying rugged, mission-capable firearms built to exacting standards.”
The 590A1 builds on the Mossberg 500 platform and features twin action bars, steel-to-steel lock-up, dual extractors and ambidextrous top-tang safety, together with a heavy-walled barrel, metal trigger guard and parkerized finish. Founded in 1919, Mossberg is the oldest family-owned firearms manufacturer in the United States and remains one of the largest producers of pump-action shotguns.
SHIELD SIGHTS ANNOUNCES CREWKERNE FACILITY NOW FULLY OPERATIONAL
SHIELD Sights has confirmed its new 26,000-square-foot facility in Crewkerne, England, is now fully operational, bringing manufacturing, design, assembly, quality control and customer service under one roof.
“Bringing this facility fully online represents the next chapter for SHIELD Sights,” said CEO James White. “This expansion strengthens our capability, supports local jobs and ensures our products continue to be designed and assembled in the UK.”
The facility supports growing global demand for compact reflex sights and strengthens local supply chains, with continued ISO 9001 certification and investment in workforce development.
Key points include:
• 26,000 sq. ft. facility now operational
• optics designed and assembled in the UK
• continued investment in people and training
• ISO 9001 certification and NSSF Patron Member status
Founded in the early 1980s, SHIELD has contributed to the evolution of compact reflex optics across sporting, defence and professional markets, including early products produced under partner brand names before establishing its own identity.
RUGER INTRODUCES NEW HARRIER RIFLE LINE
Sturm, Ruger & Company has launched the Harrier series, a new line of modern sporting rifles manufactured at its Hebron, Kentucky facility.
The Harrier platform is designed to improve fit, function and compatibility with aftermarket components. Two 5.56 NATO models launch initially, both featuring free-floated 15-inch handguards with M-LOK slots, but configured differently to meet user preferences.
The rifles feature forged 7075 aluminium receivers, mil-spec components, tension screw for upper-to-lower fit, 16.1-inch barrels, Picatinny-equipped uppers and nitride-treated bolt carrier groups.
“Harrier rifles advance the quality and performance of our modern sporting rifle line,” said Ruger President and CEO Todd Seyfert. “They combine Ruger reliability with modern adaptability.”
The launch continues Ruger’s expansion in the MSR category while maintaining compatibility with widely available components.
MAINLAND EUROPE
UPDATES ON REACH RESTRICTION ON LEAD IN AMMUNITION
The European Commission has revised its proposal to restrict lead in ammunition under REACH, extending transition periods following Member State feedback.
For centrefire bullets of 5.6 mm and above used in hunting, the transition period has been extended to five years, compared with the previously proposed 18 months.
Centrefire bullets below 5.6 mm and rimfire bullets used in hunting are now proposed for a 15-year transition period, subject to a review after ten years.
The proposal maintains a three-year transition for banning lead shot for hunting, while allowing a five-year transition for the retail sale of lead shot — a disparity questioned by stakeholders.
The revised draft was discussed on 16 December 2025 by the REACH Committee as part of the continuing legislative process.
DOWN UNDER
NSW PARLIAMENT PASSES FIREARMS AND PROTEST REFORMS FOLLOWING BONDI ATTACK
Following a two-day debate, the New South Wales parliament has passed a package of reforms introduced after the Bondi Beach terror attack, which left 15 dead.
Debate highlighted divisions over firearms provisions and new protest restrictions, although most proposed amendments failed. One key amendment from Greens MP Sue Higginson strengthening firearms permit controls for people with suspected links to terrorism received unanimous support.
The amendment aims to ensure the police commissioner does not grant permits to anyone investigated for terrorism-related activity, or associated household members, addressing concerns raised after the Bondi attack.
Supporters argued the changes provide needed clarity for licensing decisions, while critics warned the legislation risks penalising law-abiding firearms owners.
The bill also includes new limits on mass protests following declared terrorism incidents, prompting criticism from civil liberties advocates, though government ministers described the package as balanced and constitutionally sound.
The legislation now returns to the lower house for final approval.