Colona, IL (March 2026) – Rock River Arms, the industry's most respected name in Modern Sporting Rifles and pistols, wants to remind everyone that the newly implemented “zero tax” on NFA items doesn’t only apply to suppressors but also to Short-Barrel Rifles (SBRs). To celebrate, RRA introduces the new 10.5-inch A1 Carbine SBR.
This retro A1 Carbine SBR is an ideal pairing for anyone looking to run a suppressor on a high-mobility, exceptionally maneuverable defensive AR platform. This “old school is the new cool” configuration is the perfect SBR for those who value operational simplicity and no-fail performance as the base for their suppressed home defender. With its lightweight, chrome moly 10.5-inch A-1 barrel assembly and CAR gas system, the A1 Carbine SBR with an attached suppressor (suppressor not included) is compact and easy to handle in close quarter environments.
The A1 Carbine SBR comes chambered in 5.56 NATO/223 Rem. and is built on RRA’s forged LAR-15M lower receiver and forged A1 carry handle upper. The barrel is fitted with a conventional F-style front sight/gas block and A1 flash hider (1/2-28 thread) and hosts a classic A-1 triangular handguard.
Two variants of the A1 Carbine SBR are offered: one with a multi-position M4-style stock and the other with a fixed entry stock. Both include RRA’s A1 grip and single-stage trigger.
If you’ve been considering purchasing an SBR for personal or home defense, the A1 Carbine SBR from Rock River is the ideal candidate and now is the perfect time to make your move.
RRA A1 Carbine SBR Specifications
Caliber: 5.56 NATO/223 Remington
Barrel: 10.5-inch lightweight chrome moly
Upper Receiver: forged A1 w/carry handle
Lower Receiver: forged RRA LAR-15M
Trigger: RRA single-stage
Handguard: A1 CAR triangle
Buttstock: M4 adjustable or fixed entry
Grip: RRA A1
Muzzle: A1 flash hider / 1/2-28
MSRP: $1,135 (entry stock); $1,150 (M4 stock)To see the full range of firearms, components, and accessories offered by RRA, visit RockRiverArms.com.
When temperatures drop and the wind starts to bite, dependable gear can make or break a hunt. The Sitka Incinerator Jacket in Optifade Elevated II is built for hunters who refuse to back down from the elements. Designed for comfort, concealment, and performance, this jacket is the ultimate choice for late-season whitetail hunters looking to stay warm and focused in the stand. The Sitka Incinerator Jacket sets a new standard for cold-weather hunting gear. With its advanced GORE-TEX® protection and PrimaLoft® insulation, it delivers unbeatable warmth and weather resistance. The Optifade Elevated II pattern is purpose-built to keep hunters hidden in elevated treestand environments, breaking up the human outline in any light condition. Sitka has mastered the balance between stealth, durability, and comfort.This waterproof and windproof jacket is designed to handle nature’s harshest conditions. Every feature serves a purpose — from the articulated fit that allows unrestricted movement to the adjustable hood and cuffs that lock in heat. Strategically placed pockets let hunters access gear quickly and quietly. Whether you’re facing sleet, snow, or freezing rain, the Incinerator keeps you dry, warm, and ready for action. The Sitka Incinerator Jacket Optifade Elevated II embodies Sitka Gear’s commitment to innovation and performance. It’s a must-have for serious hunters who demand reliability during the toughest hunts. Warm, quiet, and functional, it proves that top-tier gear can give you the edge when conditions get extreme. If you’re gearing up for a challenging late-season hunt, don’t settle for less. Experience the difference with the <strong>Sitka Incinerator Jacket where cutting-edge design meets field-tested performance. Visit SitkaGear.com</strong> to explore the full collection and elevate your hunting experience.MSRP: $750.00"https://www.sitkagear.com/products/incinerator-aerolite-jacket/optifade-elevated-ii">Incinerator Aerolite Jacket | Optifade Elevated II | SITKA GearSitka Incinerator Winter gear review
Few voices in hunting carry the respect of Craig Boddington. At the Safari Club Convention, his message was simple. Ethical hunting matters for conservation. In this interview, Boddington shares years of real experience. He also explains how hunters and outfitters work together. As a result, they help protect wildlife for the future. Overall, his insights show why ethical hunting still matters today.
First, Boddington highlights the role of outfitters in stopping poaching. Governments make rules. However, outfitters protect the land each day. In many cases, they are the first line of defense. For example, outfitters in Africa use drones and patrol vehicles. This helps track animals and stop illegal hunting fast. At the same time, it supports local jobs. Because of this, regulated hunting plays a key role in conservation.
Next, Boddington explains the North American Model of Wildlife Conservation. This system guides wildlife management in the United States. It also allows people to take part in conservation. Hunting fees help fund wildlife programs. Meanwhile, many African countries use land lease systems. Outfitters manage wildlife on these lands. As a result, they keep animal numbers strong. In both cases, strong rules and care lead to success.
Finally, Boddington offers clear advice for new hunters. Respect the land and the animal. Most importantly, respect the tradition. He also suggests finding a good mentor. In addition, make ethical choices in the field. Looking ahead, hunting depends on education and strong values. For this reason, protecting wildlife must come first.
Kevin Reese receives the American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement AwardBy Chris AvenaFor those who truly live the outdoor lifestyle, it’s never been about headlines, recognition, or applause. It’s about time spent in the field before daylight, lessons learned the hard way, and the responsibility to pass on knowledge so traditions don’t fade with the next generation.That belief sits at the heart of the American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement Award and it’s why this year’s honor belongs to a man whose influence runs deep across the outdoor industry.Kevin Reese is not just a name many recognize; it’s a name synonymous with mentorship, integrity, service, and leadership. Whether guiding young hunters, supporting new shooters, mentoring outdoor communicators, or quietly shaping the future of the industry behind the scenes, Kevin Reese has spent a lifetime doing the work that truly matters.Recognizing a Life Lived OutdoorsAmerican Outdoor News has always stood for the men and women who don’t just talk about the outdoor lifestyle, they live it. The Lifetime Achievement Award is reserved for those who have spent decades on the land, on the water, and in service to others, ensuring the next generation is prepared to carry forward our outdoor traditions with respect, skill, and purpose.These are the mentors. The leaders. The steady hands who make sure knowledge isn’t lost and that progress doesn’t come at the cost of tradition.Kevin Reese represents all of that.A Career Defined by Mentorship and ServiceThroughout his career, Kevin Reese has been a constant presence wherever mentorship is needed. He guided young hunters taking their first steps into the outdoors, supported new shooters learning responsibility and discipline, and worked tirelessly to elevate the voices of those telling outdoor stories the right way.His leadership within the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA) has helped shape countless careers. Through education, guidance, and example, Kevin has mentored aspiring outdoor writers, photographers, and communicators, helping them navigate an industry that values credibility, ethics, and respect for the outdoors.Many professionals working in outdoor media today can trace their confidence, opportunities, or direction back to Kevin Reese’s influence. And that’s exactly how he prefers it.A Marine First, AlwaysLong before his work in the outdoor industry, Kevin Reese served our nation as a United States Marine, a commitment that speaks volumes about the character we honor with this award.The values instilled through Marine Corps service, discipline, accountability, leadership, and service before self are woven into everything Kevin does. They show up in how he mentors others, how he approaches conservation, and how he leads without ever needing to be the loudest voice in the room.That foundation of service is one of the reasons Kevin’s impact resonates so deeply across the outdoor community.A Moment of Honor: Recognizing Service and LegacyIn a meaningful moment during the presentation of the Lifetime Achievement Award, Barry Cohen, founder of Protek Watches, honored Kevin Reese not only for his lifelong contributions to the outdoor industry, but also for his service to our country.To recognize Kevin’s time in the United States Marine Corps, Barry presented him with the Protek 250-Year U.S. Marine Corps Anniversary Watch, a timepiece created to commemorate the Marine Corps’ 250 years of honor, courage, and commitment. The presentation served as a powerful symbol of Kevin’s service, sacrifice, and the values that have guided both his military and civilian life.The gesture reflected more than recognition, it was a tribute to a Marine whose leadership has continued long after his time in uniform, and whose lifetime of achievement has left a lasting mark on the outdoor community.Shaping the Industry Without Seeking the SpotlightIn an industry that often celebrates personalities, Kevin Reese has built his legacy by focusing on people. He’s helped strengthen organizations, support ethical standards, and elevate professionalism across the outdoor space, often behind the scenes, where the real work happens.If you’ve attended industry events, participated in mentorship programs, or worked alongside organizations dedicated to conservation and responsible outdoor engagement, chances are you’ve felt Kevin’s influence, even if you didn’t realize it at the time.There’s a simple truth many in the outdoor industry understand:
If you haven’t crossed paths with Kevin Reese, you probably haven’t been here very long.Protecting Traditions While Preparing the Next GenerationOne of the defining qualities of Kevin Reese’s career is his commitment to ensuring outdoor traditions are passed on correctly, without shortcuts, without ego, and without forcing the next generation to reinvent the wheel.He understands that progress and tradition are not opposing forces. Instead, when guided by the right mentors, they strengthen each other. That philosophy has shaped how he teaches, how he leads, and how he supports those coming up behind him.From conservation ethics to responsible storytelling, Kevin Reese has helped ensure that the future of the outdoor lifestyle is grounded in respect for the past.Why This Award MattersThe American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement Award is not given lightly. It represents decades of dedication, countless hours volunteered, and a commitment to something bigger than any single career or organization.Kevin Reese embodies what this award was created to recognize:
A lifetime of service
Unwavering integrity
Leadership rooted in humility
A passion for teaching and mentorship
A deep respect for the outdoor way of life
His impact cannot be measured by titles alone, it’s measured by people, by preserved traditions, and by an industry made stronger through his presence.A Thank You From the Outdoor CommunityKevin, on behalf of American Outdoor News, our partners, and the countless individuals you’ve mentored, supported, and inspired—thank you.Thank you for your service to our country.
Thank you for protecting what matters.
Thank you for shaping careers, strengthening communities, and honoring the traditions we all hold dear.This Lifetime Achievement Award and the recognition of your Marine Corps service is more than well-deserved. It’s a reflection of a life lived with purpose.Congratulations, Kevin Reese.Kevin Reese Receives the American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement Award
In this exclusive interview, Amanda Lynn Mayhew shares her inspiring journey from growing up in Canada to becoming a recognized leader in the outdoor industry. Known for her passion for hunting, conservation, and outdoor education, Mayhew has built a powerful platform dedicated to preserving the outdoor lifestyle. Her story reflects the values of hard work, heritage, and stewardship that resonate deeply within the hunting and conservation community.Throughout the conversation, Amanda Lynn Mayhew discusses her work in outdoor television, hunting programs, and digital media, where she showcases ethical hunting practices and responsible wildlife management. As a strong advocate for conservation and sustainable hunting, she uses her voice to promote education, mentorship, and hands-on experience in the field. Her television appearances and outdoor initiatives have helped expand awareness about the importance of protecting wildlife and passing down outdoor traditions to the next generation.A major focus of the interview centers on empowering women in hunting and outdoor activities. Amanda Lynn Mayhew speaks openly about breaking barriers in a traditionally male-dominated industry while encouraging more women to participate in hunting, shooting sports, and conservation efforts. Her leadership highlights the growing role of women in the outdoor community and reinforces the message that the outdoors is for everyone willing to learn, respect nature, and embrace the challenge.Equally important is her commitment to youth involvement in hunting and outdoor education. Through mentorship programs, community outreach, and advocacy for youth hunting opportunities, Amanda Lynn Mayhew is helping shape the future of conservation. This interview underscores the critical connection between education, family traditions, and wildlife preservation—making it clear that empowering women and youth in the outdoors is essential to sustaining the hunting heritage for generations to come.https://AmericanOutdoorNews.com http://justhunt.ca
The annual Safari Club International Convention once again proved why it is widely regarded as one of the largest and most exciting hunting conventions in the world. This year’s event in Nashville brought together thousands of hunters, outfitters, conservation leaders, and outdoor industry professionals for what many consider the premier outdoor show of the year. During my conversation with Raymie Grimm, we reflected on the incredible energy that filled the convention halls as attendees from across the country and around the world gathered to celebrate hunting, conservation, and the global outdoor community.
Hosted by Safari Club International, the SCI Convention is far more than a typical outdoor trade show. It serves as a central hub for the hunting community where attendees can connect with world-class outfitters, hunting destinations, outdoor gear manufacturers, and conservation organizations. The show floor featured hundreds of exhibitors offering guided hunting opportunities, firearms, optics, apparel, and outdoor equipment. For many sportsmen and women, the convention is the ideal place to plan their next hunting adventure while discovering the latest innovations in hunting gear and outdoor technology.
Raymie emphasized that the Safari Club International Convention plays a vital role in supporting wildlife conservation and protecting hunting traditions. Through auctions, fundraising events, and special recognition ceremonies, SCI raises millions of dollars annually to support conservation initiatives and wildlife habitat preservation around the world. These efforts reinforce the important role that ethical hunters play in global conservation, helping to fund research, habitat management, and wildlife protection programs.
Another key aspect of the convention is the extensive planning required to deliver an event of this magnitude. From coordinating hundreds of exhibitors to organizing educational seminars, conservation discussions, and networking opportunities, the SCI team works year-round to ensure the event provides value for both members and industry partners. According to Raymie, the goal is to create an environment where attendees can build meaningful relationships, gain valuable knowledge, and strengthen the future of the hunting and outdoor industries.
Beyond the business and conservation discussions, the camaraderie and community spirit of the convention truly set it apart. Longtime friends reconnect, new partnerships are formed, and hunters from every corner of the world share stories and experiences. The vibrant atmosphere of Nashville added to the excitement, making it an ideal host city for an event that celebrates outdoor heritage and the hunting lifestyle.
As Raymie and I discussed, the success of this year’s convention highlights the continued growth and influence of Safari Club International within the outdoor community. The event not only showcases the best the hunting industry has to offer, but it also reinforces the importance of conservation, education, and advocacy for hunters everywhere.
For those passionate about hunting, wildlife conservation, and the outdoor lifestyle, the Safari Club International Convention remains one of the most influential hunting events in the world. If the excitement and engagement seen in Nashville are any indication, the future of the hunting community and the conservation efforts that support it remains stronger than ever.
In this episode of American Outdoor News, Chris Avena sits down with Scot McClure of the Outdoor Tomorrow Foundation to discuss the powerful origin story behind one of the most impactful outdoor education organizations in the country. McClure shares how the foundation was built to preserve our outdoor heritage by introducing students to hunting, fishing, wildlife conservation, and responsible outdoor ethics through structured curriculum in schools nationwide. What began as a bold idea to protect the future of the outdoors has grown into a nationally recognized program helping shape the next generation of conservationists.
Throughout the interview, McClure explains how the Outdoor Tomorrow Foundation bridges the gap between conservation, education, and community involvement. By partnering with schools and educators, the organization ensures students gain hands-on knowledge about wildlife management, habitat preservation, and the role hunters play in conservation funding. The conversation highlights how outdoor education programs are critical to sustaining America’s hunting traditions while promoting responsible stewardship of natural resources.
The discussion also explores the foundation’s growing association with Safari Club International, one of the world’s leading advocates for wildlife conservation and hunting rights. This partnership strengthens both organizations’ missions, expanding outreach and reinforcing the connection between youth education and long-term conservation efforts. Together, they are working to secure the future of hunting, conservation, and the outdoor lifestyle for generations to come.
In this exclusive interview with Mike Fuljenz of Universal Coin & Bullion, we dive deep into the growing importance of gold and silver investments in today’s uncertain economic climate. As inflation concerns, market volatility, and global instability continue to impact investors, Fuljenz explains why precious metals remain one of the most trusted hedges against economic downturns. He breaks down how gold bullion, silver coins, and rare collectible coins can serve as both wealth preservation tools and long-term financial security assets.
Throughout the conversation, Fuljenz outlines key gold and silver market trends, including the influence of global demand, central bank purchasing, and supply constraints. He shares insights into how geopolitical tensions and economic policy shifts directly affect precious metal prices. For investors seeking portfolio diversification, he emphasizes the value of owning physical gold and silver as a safeguard against currency devaluation and stock market corrections.
The interview also provides critical guidance on how to safely navigate the coin and bullion industry. Fuljenz discusses the importance of working with reputable dealers, understanding grading standards, and avoiding common pitfalls that can cost investors thousands. He highlights consumer education as a top priority, encouraging buyers to research companies carefully and focus on transparency, authenticity, and long-term value when investing in precious metals.
Beyond finance, Fuljenz speaks about the responsibility of businesses within the industry to support constitutional freedoms, including the Second Amendment. Through his leadership and industry involvement, he underscores how companies can stand for economic stability while also advocating for American values. This powerful discussion offers valuable insight for anyone interested in gold investing, silver bullion, wealth protection strategies, and the future of the precious metals market.
For more information go to http://Universalcoin.com or call 800-822-4653
Chris Avena interviews Stephanie Spika-Hickey about her extensive involvement with Safari Club International (SCI) and the Professional Outdoor Media Association (POMA). They discuss the importance of youth and veterans awards in promoting outdoor activities, the process of starting a new chapter within SCI, and the significance of networking in the outdoor media industry. Stephanie emphasizes the need for community engagement and education in outdoor sports, encouraging listeners to introduce others to the outdoors and share their passion for hunting and conservation.
takeaways
Stephanie has been with SCI for a long time, serving in various roles.
The Youth Award encourages young hunters to engage in their communities.
Veterans awards recognize chapters that support military service members.
Starting a chapter requires community involvement and support from SCI.
POMA connects outdoor media professionals with industry opportunities.
Networking is crucial for growth in the outdoor media field.
The POMA Summit is a key event for media and companies to connect.
Members can apply for awards to be recognized for their contributions.
Education about hunting is important for non-hunters to understand the lifestyle.
Community engagement is essential for the future of outdoor sports.
In a recent interview, Christopher Avena sits down with Raymie Grimm to discuss the highly anticipated Safari Club International Convention, one of the premier gatherings for hunters, conservationists, and outdoor enthusiasts. The conversation highlights the convention’s massive scale, featuring more than 900 exhibitors showcasing hunting destinations, outdoor gear, conservation initiatives, and industry innovations. As one of the largest hunting and conservation conventions in the world, the event offers attendees a unique opportunity to explore new products, connect with outfitters, and immerse themselves in the global hunting community.
Throughout the discussion, Grimm emphasizes the critical role Safari Club International plays in conservation advocacy and protecting hunting traditions. Membership in SCI provides outdoor enthusiasts with exclusive access to educational resources, conservation programs, and legislative advocacy efforts that support the future of hunting and wildlife preservation. The convention itself serves as a central hub where members and newcomers alike can participate in educational seminars designed to provide valuable insights into wildlife management, ethical hunting practices, and conservation leadership.
Avena and Grimm also highlight the unmatched networking opportunities available during the convention, where attendees can meet industry experts, professional outfitters, conservation leaders, and fellow hunters from around the world. The event’s evening social gatherings and auctions are major highlights, offering guests the chance to support conservation fundraising efforts while building lasting relationships within the outdoor community. The convention remains welcoming to families and newcomers, with free admission for children helping encourage youth participation in outdoor traditions.
Hosting the event in Nashville adds another layer of excitement, as the city’s vibrant culture, entertainment, and hospitality enhance the overall convention experience. Grimm encourages attendees to fully engage with the event, take advantage of educational opportunities, and connect with like-minded individuals who share a passion for conservation and the outdoor lifestyle. The Safari Club International Convention continues to serve as a cornerstone event that strengthens the hunting community while promoting responsible wildlife stewardship and outdoor heritage.
