DEAD AIR SILENCERS APPOINTS CRIS MCRAE AS SENIOR PRODUCT MANAGER FOR ACCESSORIES
Dead Air Silencers has strengthened its product development division with the appointment of Cris McRae as senior product manager for accessories, reinforcing the company’s focus on innovation across suppressor and accessory markets.
McRae joins from Magpul Industries Corp, where he worked on product development and commercialisation projects, helping bring products from concept stage through to market launch. His background also includes experience in marketing support and business analysis.
The appointment reflects Dead Air’s continued investment in product strategy and category expansion across commercial, law enforcement and military sectors.
Ben Bachmeier, senior director of product development at Dead Air Silencers, said: “Cris understands what serious shooters expect from premium products, and he knows how to translate those expectations into durable, purpose-built solutions.”
McRae added: “Dead Air is known for creating solutions that are engineered with purpose, and I’m excited to join a team that is so deeply committed to innovation, quality, and the customer experience.”
Founded around real-world suppressor performance, Dead Air has developed a strong position in the premium suppressor market through its emphasis on sound reduction, durability and reduced backpressure systems.
WILSON COMBAT ACQUIRES GUNCRAFTER INDUSTRIES
Wilson Combat has announced the acquisition of Guncrafter Industries, bringing together two established names within the American custom firearms segment.
The acquisition includes the Guncrafter brand and associated assets, with both companies expected to continue operating while integrating manufacturing infrastructure and technical expertise.
Founded by Bill Wilson, Wilson Combat has built a global reputation for its 1911 pistols, defensive firearms and accessories. Guncrafter Industries, founded by Alex Zimmermann, is recognised for its development of the .50 GI cartridge and precision-built 1911 pistols.
“This is a natural fit for both companies,” said Bill Wilson.
“Guncrafter Industries has built an outstanding reputation for innovation and craftsmanship, and we share a common philosophy when it comes to quality and performance.”
Zimmermann will remain involved in an advisory and development role as the businesses align future product strategies and operations.
The acquisition reflects continued consolidation within the premium firearms market, where manufacturers are increasingly combining heritage craftsmanship with larger-scale manufacturing and distribution capabilities.
ZEV TECHNOLOGIES RELOCATES HEADQUARTERS AND MANUFACTURING TO UTAH
ZEV Technologies has announced the relocation of its headquarters and manufacturing operations from Washington state to Riverton, Utah, in a move the company says will support future growth and product development.
The relocation, which is being completed in phases, will transfer all core business functions to a new 40,000-square-foot facility within the Salt Lake City metropolitan area by the end of May.
According to the company, the decision was influenced by Washington’s political and regulatory environment, alongside Utah’s emergence as a growing centre for firearms manufacturing.
Taylor Goode, president of ZEV Technologies, said: “Relocating to Utah represents a strategic decision that not only expands our capacity for growth and scalability but also strengthens our ability to invest in innovation, advanced manufacturing, and product development.”
Originally known for aftermarket Glock components and drop-in triggers, ZEV Technologies has since expanded into complete firearms platforms serving competitive shooters, law enforcement and military users.