The Politics of Hunting

In a recent interview with Erica Tergeson of DSC’s Government Affairs Department, American Outdoor News explored the critical legislative efforts protecting hunters' rights and wildlife conservation. Erica shed light on DSC’s role in advocating for pro-hunting legislation, both at the state and federal levels. Her deep understanding of policy and commitment to preserving outdoor traditions showcased the importance of staying informed and engaged as sportsmen and women.

Erica discussed key issues currently affecting the hunting community, including firearms legislation, anti-hunting initiatives, and international hunting policy challenges. She emphasized DSC’s mission to defend ethical hunting and the science-based conservation model that funds wildlife habitat and species preservation. For hunters who want to continue enjoying the outdoors for generations to come, Erica's insights offered valuable perspectives on how government policy impacts the future of our outdoor lifestyle.

This compelling conversation with Erica Tergeson is a must-listen for anyone who values conservation advocacy, Second Amendment rights, and sustainable wildlife management. Her work with DSC highlights the power of unified voices in influencing policy and protecting our freedoms. Be sure to read or tune into the full interview in this month’s edition of American Outdoor News, where the outdoors meets action, advocacy, and education.

http://Biggame.org

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Taking the Long Shot

In this exclusive interview, Tony Smotherman of CVA joins us to talk about precision, innovation, and taking the long shot. Tony shares insights into the legendary CVA muzzleloader line, trusted by hunters across the country for accuracy and reliability and able to take that long shot.

We explore the exciting features of the CVA Cascade bolt-action rifle, designed for hunters who are ready for anything. From dense forests to open fields, these rifles are built for performance in every condition.

Tony also discusses the importance of confidence in your gear when taking the long shot in the field. He explains what sets CVA apart in both muzzleloaders and modern hunting rifles.

Whether you hunt with traditional black powder or prefer long-range precision, this interview has something for every outdoorsman.

https://CVA.com

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Do You Really Need to Be “Tariff-ied?” The Real Threat to Ammunition Prices!

A message from: Dan Wolgin, CEO, Ammunition Depot There’s been a surge of speculation about rising ammunition prices, driven by new U.S. tariffs and concerns about international supply chains. Let’s put those fears to rest. At Ammunition Depot, we don’t foresee any meaningful effects in the near future from the tariffs, and here’s why. 1. The U.S. Ammo Supply Chain Is Largely Domestic Most of our ammunition inventory comes from American manufacturers. That means we’re largely insulated from international trade disruptions. While tariffs may impact some imported goods, they have little to no bearing on the bulk of the U.S. ammunition market. Key reasons: ● Ammunition components materials like brass, lead, and powder are largely sourced and processed domestically. ● Ammunition is loaded and manufactured here in the U.S. ● Foreign ammunition is only a small percentage of our sales. So, while some headlines are causing anxiety, tariffs don’t move the needle for the core of this industry. 2. Two Current Factors, Neither Driving Prices Antimony: A Marginal Component Antimony, a hardening agent used in bullet cores, is no longer being exported by China as of December 2024. But: ● On average, it makes up less than 2% of bullet composition. ● The U.S. can import it from Australia, Bolivia, and Turkey. ● It constitutes a tiny fraction of the total production cost of a bullet. This shift happened before the current tariff situation and is not driving pricing pressure today. Smokeless Powder: A Domestic Supply Concern There has been a domestic shortage of smokeless powder for over two years. It’s not an import issue, as most powder is produced in the U.S., but it could impact prices if the supply tightens further. So far: ● Prices for powder have recently risen by about 15% this year. ● Ammo prices haven’t moved, thanks to careful inventory management and domestic sourcing. Bottom line: it’s a known factor, but it hasn’t driven price increases yet. 3. Manufacturers Have Tried to Raise Prices, and It Hasn’t Stuck Ammo producers have made several attempts over the past two years to raise prices. But in every instance, the market rejected those increases. Unless there’s a real, sustained shift in cost structures (which hasn’t happened yet), price hikes are unlikely to take hold. For the last year ammo prices have gone lower, not higher. 4. The Real Threat? Panic Buying The only real risk to price stability is consumer-driven: panic buying. If fear over tariffs or other rumors triggers a run on ammo, it could lead to short-term shortages and price spikes. That’s not supply-chain driven, it’s behavioral economics at play. Stay calm. Stay informed. And buy smart. Conclusion: No Reason to be Tariff-ied Despite international tension and economic noise, the American ammo market remains strong, stable, and domestic. At Ammunition Depot, we’re monitoring the landscape closely, and we see no legitimate reason to expect a rise in prices driven by tariffs or supply chain issues. So no, you don’t need to be “tariff-ied.”

Feathers & Fields

In this episode of the American Outdoor News Podcast, we sit down with Robin Zimmer from Pheasant Cove Outfitters. Known for premier upland bird hunting, Robin shares her passion for the outdoors and pheasant hunting. We explore the legacy behind Pheasant Cove and how it became a top destination for upland game enthusiasts. Robin also discusses his commitment to conservation and preserving hunting traditions.

Pheasant Cove Outfitters offers guided pheasant hunts tailored for hunters of all skill levels. With acres of managed land, hunters enjoy a truly wild experience. Robin explains how habitat management plays a key role in bird health and sustainability. His team focuses on providing an authentic pheasant hunting adventure in a controlled, yet natural, environment. Every hunt is designed for excitement, safety, and success.

We also dive into the growing interest in upland bird hunting across the U.S. Robin highlights how Pheasant Cove Outfitters attracts hunters from coast to coast. Their reputation for professionalism, hospitality, and top-tier game bird hunting sets them apart. Whether you're a seasoned upland hunter or trying it for the first time, Robin makes it easy to enjoy the sport.

If you're looking for a high-quality pheasant hunting lodge, this is the conversation to hear. Learn how Pheasant Cove Outfitters blends old-school tradition with modern-day comfort. Tune in now to hear Robin Zimmer’s expert take on the future of upland bird hunting in America.

http://PheasantCove.com

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Dire Wolf

The Return of the Dire Wolf: Scientific Marvel or Ecological Threat?

By Chris Avena

The concept of de-extinction has captivated scientists and dreamers alike, but reviving species like the dire wolf—extinct for over 13,000 years—raises serious concerns. While some view this as a scientific triumph, others see it for what it really is: a potential ecological nightmare. As an apex predator, the dire wolf would not simply return to an ecosystem that’s been waiting for it. Today’s world is vastly different from the one it once roamed, and reintroducing such a powerful predator would create more problems than it could ever solve.

Apex Predator with No Place in Modern Nature

The dire wolf wasn’t just a bigger version of the gray wolf—it was a more aggressive, heavily built predator that hunted massive prey like prehistoric bison and horses. Those food sources are long gone. In today’s world, a revived dire wolf would be forced to compete with modern predators such as gray wolves, coyotes, and mountain lions, putting strain on limited food supplies. This could lead to conflict between species, loss of biodiversity, and a ripple effect of ecological imbalance.

We’ve already seen the challenges of predator reintroduction. The gray wolf, though native to North America, has caused widespread issues since being reintroduced to areas like Yellowstone and the Upper Midwest. Farmers and ranchers have suffered livestock losses, some exceeding thousands of dollars annually. Local governments have struggled to balance conservation goals with the economic realities of predator attacks. And yet, there’s now serious discussion about reviving a bigger, more dominant, and long-extinct predator? That’s not wildlife management—that’s reckless experimentation.

A Threat to Agriculture and Human Communities

Let’s be clear: apex predators don't understand property lines or livestock boundaries. If gray wolves have already proven to be a burden on rural communities, what happens when something twice their size shows up? Farmers, ranchers, and even suburban areas bordering wilderness would face new threats. Livestock would become easy prey. Pet owners would live in fear. Wildlife officials would be tasked with monitoring a species no one alive has ever dealt with—one that hasn’t adapted to modern ecosystems or human presence.

And what precedent does this set? If the dire wolf is brought back, what’s next? The woolly mammoth? The saber-tooth cat? These ideas, once reserved for science fiction, are creeping into serious discussion. But just because we can bring back these creatures doesn’t mean we should. There’s a line between scientific curiosity and irresponsible interference with nature.

Playing God Has a Price

Nature has a way of balancing itself over time. The extinction of the dire wolf occurred for a reason—it was part of a natural evolutionary process. Attempting to force that balance backward could unravel ecosystems that have taken millennia to adapt and evolve. We risk introducing chaos in the name of curiosity.

Rather than resurrecting prehistoric apex predators, our focus should be on preserving and responsibly managing the wildlife that does belong here. The idea of bringing back the dire wolf might excite the imagination, but it should terrify anyone who values ecological stability, public safety, and common sense.

.45-70

Smith & Wesson® Adds .45-70 to Model 1854TM Series

MARYVILLE, TN., (4/8/2025) – Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, announces today the release of the Model 1854, chambered .45-70 Government. The Model 1854 is crafted to combine the classic aesthetic of the American lever gun with modern enhancements. Smith & Wesson first introduced the series in a paired synthetic black polymer and stainless-steel finish, as well as an Armornite® and walnut furniture combination, across several pistol calibers including .44 Rem Mag, .45 Colt, and .357 Magnum. Starting today, you can own one of these smooth lever guns chambered in the time-honored .45-70 Government rifle cartridge. Whether you’re hunting big game in deep woods or looking for a more modern lever-action platform, the Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Series provides the perfect blend of heritage and innovation. These new rifles have a 6+1 capacity, a forged 416 stainless steel receiver and 20-inch 410 stainless steel barrel, and include an 11/16-24 thread pattern for suppressor use. Their large loop lever is constructed for smooth operation, allowing for quicker follow-up shots, while their flat trigger design allows for consistent finger placement to support accuracy. The Model 1854 .45-70 rifles come equipped with several out-of-the-box features such as a 5 ¾-inch Picatinny base for optics mounting, an adjustable XS Sights® ghost ring rear sight, a gold bead front sight, and a fixed magazine tube. The forend on the stainless-steel model offers three M-LOK compatible slots for the user’s preferred accessories and both variants incorporate mounts for the addition of a sling. For more information on the Model 1854 Series, visit:1854 | Smith & Wesson (smith-wesson.com). To stay up to date on all the latest news and events, be sure to follow Smith & Wesson on Facebook, X (Twitter), Instagram, and YouTube.

About Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI) is a U.S.-based leader in firearm manufacturing and design, delivering a broad portfolio of quality handgun, long gun, and suppressor products to the global consumer and professional markets under the iconic Smith & Wesson® and Gemtech® brands. The company also provides manufacturing services including forging, machining, and precision plastic injection molding services. For more information call (844) 363-5386 or visit www.smith-wesson.com. XS Sights is a registered trademark of XS Sight Systems, Inc.

Fiocchi Golden Turkey Ammo: You Give It Your All, and So Do We

April 2025 – CSG Member Fiocchi of America, a global leader in defensive, target, and hunting ammunition, understands the dedication and passion behind the pursuit of spring gobblers. From the pre-dawn hikes to the roost trees to the belly-crawl stalks and the fast sprints to setup on a vocal tom, turkey hunting forgives little but demands much of the dedicated hunter. That is why serious turkey hunters demand much from their equipment and ammunition. Meeting these challenges and exceeding expectations are what Fiocchi’s Golden Turkey series shotshells are all about. Golden Turkey and Golden Turkey TSS present the finest blend of premium components and precision manufacturing technology to deliver the ultimate gobbler-dropping performance. Fiocchi Golden Turkey TSS Leading Fiocchi’s premium turkey loads is the Golden Turkey TSS series. Developed for three-inch 12-gauge, 20-gauge, and .410 bore, Golden Turkey TSS taps the incredible knockdown power, extended range, and high pellet density of 18g/cc tungsten payloads in #7 and #9 shot.  
  • 12-ga., 3-in., 1 5/8-oz., 1200 fps, #7
  • 12-ga., 3-in., 1 5/8-oz., 1200 fps, #9
  • 20-ga., 3-in. 1 3/8-oz., 1225 fps, #9
  • .410, 1 3/16-oz., 1100 fps, #9
Fiocchi Golden Turkey Hunters who favor a more traditional payload will appreciate the Fiocchi Golden Turkey series. Golden Turkey ammunition leverages Fiocchi’s heralded nickel-plated lead shot combined with an enhanced wad and clean-burning powder to ensure optimal pellet performance and the kind of energy transfer needed to stop strutting toms in their tracks.
  • 12-ga., 3-in., 1 3/4-oz., 1200 fps, #4
  • 12-ga., 3-in., 1 3/4-oz., 1200 fps, #5
  • 12-ga., 3-in., 1 3/4-oz., 1200 fps, #6
  • 20-ga., 3-in., 1 1/4-oz., 1200 fps, #5
  • 20-ga., 3-in., 1 1/4-oz., 1200 fps, #6
You throw everything you’ve got into putting a tag on a big spring gobbler. At Fiocchi, we give you everything we’ve got to make that happen. For more information about Fiocchi ammunition, visit FiocchiUSA.com. About Fiocchi: Since 1983, Fiocchi of America has been based in Ozark, Missouri. As a stand-alone, US-based arm of the greater Fiocchi global brands, Fiocchi of America and Baschieri & Pellagri USA continue to integrate and launch new products directed towards the US market. Today, Fiocchi furthers its expansion of products in the hunting, conceal carry, self-defense, and law enforcement market channels. Fiocchi offers a full portfolio of target and hunting shotshells, centerfire rifle and pistol ammunition, match and standard-grade rimfire .22LR, specialty and classic cartridges, reloading components, and blanks.  

After the Hunt with MeatSafe

Today on the American Outdoor News Podcast, we sit down with Ryan and Dustin Burt, the creators of MeatSafe. This is the world’s first meat storage system designed specifically for hunters. If you struggle with organizing game meat or worry about waste, this system will change everything. Built in the USA, MeatSafe features a commercial-grade freezer with a butchering and prep surface. It ensures every piece of meat is stored and used efficiently. For hunters who value their harvest, this is more than a freezer—it’s a game-changer.

Ryan and Dustin created MeatSafe to solve a problem every hunter faces. Properly storing, tracking, and managing wild game is a challenge. Traditional chest freezers lead to forgotten and wasted meat. MeatSafe changes that with smart tracking technology. Built-in hardware and software help hunters store their protein efficiently. It makes inventory management simple, prevents spoilage, and ensures nothing goes to waste. Their mission is to honor the hunt by preserving the harvest with precision and care.

With MeatSafe shipping in Fall 2025, excitement is growing. Hunters can now sign up for pre-sales and be among the first to try it. Whether you fill your freezer every season or need better storage, MeatSafe is the solution. Ryan and Dustin are committed to helping hunters maximize their hard-earned meat. Their goal is simple—make sure no wild game ever gets wasted again.

Tune in to today’s American Outdoor News Podcast to hear the full story. Learn about the passion behind MeatSafe and how it is redefining wild game storage.

https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com http://MeatSafe.com

The NEW NRA- Our Exclusive Interview with Leadership

In my recent interview with Amanda Suffecool and Marcus Kahn, we explored the upcoming election for the new NRA Board of Directors and what it means for the future of the organization. With the NRA at a critical turning point, this election is set to determine the next chapter for the nation’s leading Second Amendment advocacy group. Amanda and Marcus provided valuable insights into the candidates, the voting process, and the importance of member participation in shaping the organization’s direction. We also discussed the ousting of longtime NRA leader Wayne LaPierre and how his departure has created an opportunity for the NRA to rebuild trust and transparency with its members. Amanda and Marcus highlighted the need for strong, principled leadership to restore credibility and realign the NRA’s mission with its core values. This pivotal moment gives the NRA a chance to move forward with a renewed commitment to protecting Second Amendment rights while addressing the concerns of its loyal membership. Our conversation emphasized the importance of rebuilding the NRA’s reputation and strengthening its influence in the fight to preserve constitutional freedoms. As the election approaches, Amanda and Marcus stressed that every NRA member has a role to play in ensuring that the organization’s future reflects the values and expectations of its supporters. This election isn’t just about leadership changes—it’s about reclaiming the NRA’s place as a trusted defender of the Second Amendment. https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com www.electanewnra.com
Henry Rifle

Henry Repeating Arms Moves All Manufacturing to Wisconsin, Strengthening American Craftsmanship

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

RICE LAKE, Wis., March 18, 2025 — Henry Repeating Arms, a top U.S. firearm manufacturer, is shifting 100% of its operations to Wisconsin. This move includes transferring all manufacturing from Bayonne, New Jersey, to their expanded headquarters in Rice Lake, Wisconsin. Additional facilities in Ladysmith, Wisconsin, will also play a key role in the company’s growth. A third Ladysmith facility is expected to open by mid-summer 2025.

This transition increases production capacity, supports future growth, and enhances Henry Repeating Arms’ reputation for innovative firearm design. The move underscores the company’s commitment to American craftsmanship and positions Henry Repeating Arms as an industry leader in design and functionality.

“We’re putting all of our eggs in one basket—Wisconsin,” said Anthony Imperato, Founder and CEO of Henry Repeating Arms. “This move boosts efficiency, productivity, and collaboration while maintaining Henry’s solid reputation for quality.”

With approximately 400,000 square feet of advanced manufacturing space across four Wisconsin facilities, Henry Repeating Arms is poised for growth. “This shift lets us focus on what we do best—making world-class rifles, shotguns, and revolvers in America,” said Andrew Wickstrom, President of Henry Repeating Arms.

Henry Repeating Arms continues to meet growing demand for American-made lever action rifles, a platform they’ve championed since their founding. The increased capacity accelerates product launches, improves distribution, and enhances quality control. This ensures they meet the needs of today’s and tomorrow’s firearm enthusiasts, competitors, hunters, and collectors.

For more information about Henry Repeating Arms and their full lineup of rifles, shotguns, and revolvers, visit www.henryusa.com.


About Henry Repeating Arms

Henry Repeating Arms is a leading U.S. firearm manufacturer and global leader in the lever action category. Their motto is “Made in America, Or Not Made At All.” Every Henry firearm includes a Lifetime Warranty and a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee backed by award-winning customer service.

With over 800 employees and 400,000 square feet of manufacturing space in Rice Lake and Ladysmith, Wisconsin, Henry Repeating Arms continues to innovate and excel. The company’s Guns for Great Causes program supports families of sick children, children’s hospitals, veterans, law enforcement, first responders, Second Amendment advocacy groups, and wildlife conservation organizations.

Named after Benjamin Tyler Henry, inventor of the Henry lever action rifle in 1860, the company honors his legacy by delivering excellence in firearm design. Visit Henry Repeating Arms online at www.henryusa.com, on Facebook, Instagram, and YouTube.