New Glock Gen6By Chris Avena December has a way of slowing things down for most people. The holidays are in full swing, calendars start to clear, and the year begins to wind down. For me, however, this past December did anything but slow down. I found myself stepping inside one of the most iconic firearms manufacturing facilities in the world, the GLOCK plant, for an exclusive look at the launch of their highly anticipated GLOCK Gen 6 pistols.As someone who has spent years in the outdoor, hunting, and shooting sports industry, opportunities like this never lose their impact. GLOCK isn’t just another firearm manufacturer; it’s a brand that has helped define modern handgun design, reliability, and performance. Being invited behind the scenes to see where that legacy continues to evolve was both humbling and exciting.A Purpose-Driven EvolutionFrom the moment the conversation turned to the Gen 6 platform, one thing became immediately clear: this wasn’t change for the sake of change. Every update, every refinement, and every design decision was made with intent. GLOCK has always been known for engineering with purpose, and the Gen 6 pistols embody that philosophy at every level.Walking through the facility, speaking with engineers, product developers, and the people responsible for bringing these pistols to life, it was evident that the Gen 6 represents a thoughtful evolution, one rooted in real-world feedback from shooters across disciplines.Ergonomics That Lock In Your GripOne of the most noticeable advancements in the GLOCK Gen 6 pistols is the redesigned ergonomic frame. GLOCK has always prioritized simplicity and reliability, but with Gen 6, they’ve taken ergonomics to a new level.The frame now features a subtle palm swell, an extended thumb rest, and an enlarged beavertail, all working together to create a more intuitive and locked-in grip. When you pick up a Gen 6 pistol, it naturally guides your hand into a consistent shooting position. There’s no adjustment period, it simply feels right.This ergonomic redesign isn’t just about comfort. It’s about control, repeatability, and confidence. Whether you’re shooting on the range, training, or carrying professionally, those small enhancements translate into improved performance when it matters most.A New Gen 6 Grip TextureGrip texture is one of those details that often goes unnoticed, until it’s done exceptionally well. GLOCK’s Gen 6 grip texture combines two distinct textures into one unified surface, delivering the perfect balance between comfort and performance.The extended surface area allows for better contact without feeling abrasive during extended shooting sessions. It’s aggressive where it needs to be and smooth where it should be, offering consistent traction without sacrificing shootability.As someone who has handled countless firearms over the years, this stood out immediately. It’s a grip that works whether your hands are bare, gloved, or wet, something outdoorsmen and professionals alike will appreciate.Enhanced Slide Serrations for Confident ManipulationAnother refinement that deserves attention is the Gen 6 slide serrations. GLOCK has angled the serrations deeper into the slide, creating a more tactile surface for slide manipulations.This may seem like a small detail, but it makes a significant difference. Whether you’re performing a press check, clearing a malfunction, or manipulating the slide under less-than-ideal conditions, the improved engagement provides added confidence and control.It’s one of those updates that speaks directly to real-world use—especially for shooters who train hard and demand consistency from their equipment.The Flat-Faced Trigger: Familiar, Yet RefinedPerhaps one of the most talked-about features of the GLOCK Gen 6 pistols is the flat-faced trigger design, which now comes standard across the platform.While the trigger profile has been updated, GLOCK has remained true to what matters most: the Safe Action® System. The Gen 6 trigger maintains the same uncompromising safety and reliability that GLOCK is known for, while offering a more consistent and predictable trigger press.The flat-faced design promotes better finger placement and improved trigger control, particularly during rapid or repeat shots. Combined with the undercut trigger guard and reduced distance from the frame to the trigger, shooters can achieve a higher grip and an easier reach, benefits that accommodate a wide range of hand sizes and shooting styles.Designed for a Higher Grip and Better ControlThe undercut trigger guard on the Gen 6 pistols allows shooters to get their hand higher on the frame, which directly translates to better recoil management and faster follow-up shots. This design choice isn’t about aesthetics, it’s about performance.During my time handling the Gen 6 pistols, the higher grip position was immediately noticeable. The pistol feels planted in your hand, reducing muzzle rise and increasing overall control. It’s a design that benefits everyone, from seasoned professionals to new shooters looking to build confidence.The Gen 6 Optic Ready SystemModern shooters demand flexibility, and GLOCK has delivered with the new Gen 6 optic ready system. Designed to integrate seamlessly into the platform, this system allows users to mount optics with confidence, without compromising the pistol’s reliability or balance.Optics-ready pistols are no longer a niche option, they’re becoming the standard. GLOCK’s approach ensures that shooters can run their preferred optics while maintaining the rugged dependability the brand is known for.Touring the GLOCK FacilityBeyond the pistols themselves, touring the GLOCK plant was a reminder of why this brand has earned its reputation. Precision, consistency, and quality control are evident at every stage of the manufacturing process.Seeing the pistols assembled, tested, and inspected reinforced the idea that GLOCK doesn’t cut corners. Every Gen 6 pistol leaving the facility reflects decades of experience, innovation, and commitment to excellence.A Platform Built for the FutureThe GLOCK Gen 6 pistols represent more than just a new generation, they reflect GLOCK’s ability to evolve without losing its identity. The ergonomic advancements, improved grip texture, enhanced slide serrations, flat-faced trigger, and optic-ready system all come together into one cohesive platform engineered with purpose.As I left the facility in December, I couldn’t help but feel excited about what Gen 6 means for shooters, professionals, and enthusiasts alike. This isn’t a radical departure from what made GLOCK great, it’s a refinement of everything that already worked.Final ThoughtsBeing invited to the GLOCK plant for the launch of the Gen 6 pistols was an experience I won’t soon forget. It offered a rare glimpse into the thought process, engineering, and dedication behind one of the most trusted names in firearms.The Gen 6 platform is intuitive, refined, and purpose-built, exactly what today’s shooters expect from GLOCK. Whether you’re on the range, in the field, or relying on your firearm professionally, the Gen 6 pistols deliver confidence where it matters most.For GLOCK, Gen 6 isn’t just the next chapter, it’s a strong statement about where the brand is headed.Glock: Next Generation
In this engaging interview, Kristy Titus shares insights from the Safari Club International Convention. It is a premier gathering for hunters, conservationists, and outdoor advocates. She highlights its role in conservation fundraising. The event unites organizations focused on protecting wildlife habitats. It also preserves hunting traditions. Auctions and grassroots efforts help fund global conservation initiatives.
A key topic is the role hunters play in advocacy and wildlife management. Kristy explains that hunters are stewards of the land. They support conservation through active involvement. Organizations like Safari Club International help guide policy and sustainability. Hunters also help ensure future generations enjoy the outdoors. She stresses ethical hunting, education, and community unity.
Kristy also shares her personal journey and growing brand. She is passionate about connecting people to the outdoors. Her jewelry line reflects her love for hunting and conservation. It blends style with purpose. Her work inspires both experienced outdoorsmen and newcomers. She especially encourages women to get involved in hunting.
Looking ahead, Kristy is excited about the upcoming hunting season. She is planning new adventures in the field. She also continues her advocacy efforts. Her commitment to conservation remains strong. This interview highlights modern hunting values. Tradition, conservation, and innovation shape the future of the outdoors.
This is a must-have wild game cookbook. It blends hunting tradition with practical cooking techniques. This cookbook guides readers from field to table with clear, easy steps. Each recipe highlights fresh, sustainable wild game ingredients. It is perfect for hunters, anglers, and outdoor cooking enthusiasts.
This SEO-friendly wild game cookbook focuses on flavor, preparation, and respect for the harvest. It features venison, waterfowl, and other wild game recipes. Readers learn how to process, prepare, and cook their harvest with confidence. The book celebrates the outdoor lifestyle and field-to-feast philosophy. It is an essential resource for anyone passionate about wild game cooking.
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.
