Leica USA Announces the New Rangemaster CRF Max
Leica USA Announces the New Rangemaster CRF Max, a Next-Generation Rangefinder with a Fully Customizable HUD via the Leica Ballistics App. Leica Sport Optics USA has unveiled the new Leica Rangemaster CRF Max (MSRP $1,499), the most advanced compact rangefinder in the company’s history. Designed for hunters and long-range shooters who demand precision and reliability, the CRF Max combines Leica’s renowned optical performance with cutting-edge digital integration and a revolutionary new heads-up display. At the core of the CRF Max is its active-matrix microLED heads-up display (HUD), which delivers instant ballistic solutions directly in the optic, followed by new, user-programmable ranging logic that includes first, best, and last target modes, as well as EHR mode for bowhunting. With Applied Ballistics Elite built in, users can store up to 30 custom gun profiles, access a powerful on-board ballistics calculator, and receive holdover and windage corrections in real time, as far as Max can range. The new WEZ feature provides an extra level of decision-making confidence by displaying the likelihood of a successful hit under current conditions. Beyond standalone performance, the CRF Max is designed to work seamlessly with today’s most trusted devices. Through its Bluetooth® interface, the unit effortlessly connects to the Leica Ballistics App, Applied Ballistics Quantum App, and Garmin® ballistic watches; Kestrel® and Calypso® weather meters; and OnX (coming soon), BaseMap, and Google Maps for a fully networked shooting solution. This connectivity ensures hunters and shooters always have the latest environmental data, GPS tracking, and ballistic information at their fingertips. Weighing just seven ounces and measuring only 4.4x3.1x1.4 inches, the CRF Max remains one of the most compact and lightweight premium rangefinders available. Despite its size, it delivers a measurement range of up to 3,700 yards, on-board wind correction, and a full suite of environmental sensors, including station pressure, temperature, inclination, and compass.
Our Home, Our People
Our Home, Our People
GSM Outdoors rallies to help Kerr County communities rebuild by matching consumers' donations through branded websites
Irving, TX – July 2025 – To support those impacted by the devastating floods in Kerr County, Texas, GSM is now matching all donations made through select branded websites dollar for dollar.
Beginning Wednesday, July 9, through the end of the month, some of GSM Outdoors' most recognized brands—including Stealth Cam, Walker's, SOG, Muddy Outdoors, Cold Steel, Bill Lewis, Yamamoto Baits, Northland, and more—are making it easy for customers to contribute to flood relief efforts across Central Texas. On each branded website, a Texas Flood Relief donation option is now available at checkout, enabling the outdoor community to support local families in their time of greatest need.
Whenever the donation option is added to an order, that brand will contribute 100% of every dollar gifted, pledging every penny directly to the Kerr County Relief Fund, where it will fund critical assistance and comfort to those facing the challenges of loss, recovery and rebuilding.
Those wishing to donate directly to the Kerr County Relief Fund can do so at https://cftexashillcountry.fcsuite.com/erp/donate/create/fund?funit_id=4201.
The hearts of the entire GSM family—employees, brands, influencers, and affiliates—are with the families and communities impacted by the devastating floods in nearby Kerr County, Texas.
To our fellow Texans, the proud outdoorsmen and women of the Hill Country: we're here, supporting you, your families, and the region we all call home. Relentlessly. Always.
You can also learn more and check out the entire family of GSM brands at www.gsmoutdoors.com.
About GSM Outdoors:
GSM Outdoors designs, manufactures and delivers the most innovative, technically advanced and diverse assortment of gear tailored to every outdoor passion, pursuit and application. Headquartered in Irving, Texas, GSM has rapidly grown into a global organization comprised of more than 50 hunting, shooting sports, rugged outdoors, and fishing brands all rooted in a long-standing tradition of providing customers with the best products, accessories and app-based subscription services on the market. By leveraging the decades-deep heritage of that brand family, in addition to the latest technology the industry has to offer, GSM Outdoors is preserving the sportsman's legacy, fueling innovation and transforming the way outdoorsmen of all kinds think outside—today, tomorrow, and for generations to come.
Stealth Cam Walker's Muddy Birchwood-Casey TekMat Boss Buck New Archery Products (NAP) Western Rivers Hawk Big Game Down & Out Blinds by Hawk HME Coyote Light Scent Slammer SME Bullseye Crossfire Holsters Cyclops Viking Solutions Hunters Specialties TRUGLO APEX GEAR Johnny Stewart Cold Steel Ameristep Avian X Bloodsport Evolved Flextone Halo Optics Tenzing Wildgame Innovations Zink Gary Yamamoto Custom Baits SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Bill Lewis Buckeye Lures SteelShad HuntStand Bucca Brand Dobyns Rod Camillus Phenix Rods GPS Bags Skull Hooker Big Bite Baits Frog Factory Cuda Bonehead Roboworm Stopper Lures Northland Fishing Tackle
American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement Award Criteria
It is about that time where we start thinking about who should receive the American Outdoor News - Lifetime Achievement Award-
Please email your suggestions to editor@AmericanOutdoorNews.com
American Outdoor News Lifetime Achievement Award Criteria
1. Significant Contributions to the Outdoor Industry Demonstrated a long-standing commitment (typically 20+ years) to advancing the outdoor lifestyle through hunting, fishing, conservation, outdoor media, advocacy, or education.
Played a pivotal role in shaping industry standards, ethics, or public perception.
2. Leadership and Influence Held positions of leadership that inspired growth, inclusion, and excellence within the outdoor community or related organizations.
Recognized as a mentor, innovator, or visionary by peers, colleagues, or the next generation of outdoor enthusiasts.
3. Advocacy and Conservation Impact Actively supported and promoted wildlife conservation, public land access, Second Amendment rights, or other causes essential to preserving the outdoor way of life.
Worked with or supported non-profit organizations, legislation, or grassroots efforts to protect outdoor heritage.
4. Legacy of Integrity and Ethical Standards Maintained a strong reputation for professionalism, fairness, and ethics throughout their career.
Demonstrated respect for wildlife, the environment, and fellow outdoorsmen and women.
5. Media, Storytelling, or Educational Excellence (Optional, but highly valued) Made significant contributions to outdoor journalism, broadcasting, literature, or public outreach that helped grow appreciation for the outdoors.
Educated the public or youth about outdoor traditions, safety, and conservation through storytelling or teaching.
6. Broad Recognition and Respect Widely respected within the outdoor community, with endorsements, nominations, or accolades from peers, associations, or publications.
Often invited to speak, write, or represent the industry at conferences, summits, or in national media.
Victory for New York Crossbow Hunters: Landmark Legislation Expands Access Statewide
New York’s crossbow hunting community is celebrating a major win after state lawmakers passed legislation that permits the use of crossbows for taking big game in any area where longbows are allowed. This long-anticipated bill levels the playing field for crossbow hunters and broadens access throughout the state, marking a historic moment for hunting rights and inclusion in New York.
The bill received overwhelming bipartisan support in both chambers of the legislature. On Tuesday, the New York State Senate passed the measure with a strong 57–2 vote, reflecting widespread agreement on the need for more equitable access to archery seasons. The Assembly reportedly passed the bill on June 17 with unanimous support, though an official vote count has not yet been released. Advocates are applauding this show of unity, which underscores a growing recognition of crossbows as a valuable and legitimate tool for ethical big game hunting.
For years, crossbow hunters in New York have faced limited access due to restrictive regulations. Unlike many neighboring states that allow crossbows during the full archery season, New York had previously imposed limitations on when and where they could be used. This put certain groups—such as older hunters, individuals with physical limitations, and younger sportsmen and women—at a disadvantage. The newly passed legislation eliminates that barrier by aligning crossbow use with existing longbow regulations, allowing for broader participation and increased hunter opportunity.
Beyond accessibility, this bill is expected to have a positive impact on wildlife management and conservation efforts. By increasing hunter participation during archery season, the state may benefit from more balanced population control of big game species like deer and bear. Additionally, increased engagement in hunting can generate more revenue through license sales and equipment purchases, which in turn supports local economies and state conservation programs.
As the hunting community looks ahead to the upcoming seasons, this victory represents more than just expanded access—it’s a testament to the persistence of crossbow advocates and the outdoor community at large. For those who have fought tirelessly for crossbow inclusion, the passage of this legislation is not only a win for hunters, but also for common-sense wildlife policy and outdoor tradition across the Empire State.
New York State Crossbow Coalition | Together We WILL Succeed!
Do You Really Need to Be “Tariff-ied?” The Real Threat to Ammunition Prices!
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.
Smith & Wesson® Adds .45-70 to Model 1854TM Series
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
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- .410, 1 3/16-oz., 1100 fps, #9
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Henry Repeating Arms Moves All Manufacturing to Wisconsin, Strengthening American Craftsmanship
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.