Hydra Weaponry, formerly MGI-Military, changes business scale and hires Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM)

With over 50 years of firearms innovation, from the Bushmaster series to the Hydra multi-caliber modular pistol and rifle, the newly renamed Hydra Weaponry Company engaged Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) to communicate product innovation and company news to industry media. A new website reflects the company’s commitment to its current and new customers.

Hydra Weaponry, formerly MGI-Military, based in Maine, has launched a revamped website at www.hydraweaponry.com to reflect the company’s commitment to developing firearms for civilian, law enforcement and professional military personnel. As part of the business revamp, Mack Gwinn, CEO of Hydra Weaponry and son of Mack Gwinn, Jr., designer of the Bushmaster pistol, rifle and submachine gun, along with other firearms innovations, is increasing capabilities manufacturing at a Maine facility to accommodate orders. In addition to adding new CNC machines to produce parts and products in-house, Hydra Weaponry hired Laura Burgess Marketing (LBM) to facilitate industry media communications.

“We are thrilled to partner with Mack Gwinn and Hydra Weaponry,” said Laura Burgess, LBM President. “The Hydra system is a unique weapons system that allows the user the advantage of changing calibers quickly to meet the mission at hand. For civilians as well as law enforcement agencies, this concept not only makes owning weapons of various calibers more affordable, but training on a system improves shooter performance, and that’s especially important for the operator. tactical”.

“Hydra Weaponry is the new home for all Hydra rifles and pistols, including the MARCK-15 Hydra Vipera pistols,” added Gwinn. “We have been investing in the company to increase capacity and effectively grow the brand. Hiring Laura Burgess Marketing is the first step in creating that link between our company, the media and our clients. We’re excited to get going.”

Hydra Weaponry manufactures the MARCK-15 Hydra® Modular Weapon System. With the Hydra, or base system, the user can take advantage of and utilize a growing system of caliber conversion kits and various magwells. The change is as simple as changing the barrel, bolt and magazine to the desired caliber. To change some calibers, it’s as simple as changing the barrel and bolt. Hydra caliber conversions include .223 (.556), .22LR, .300 Blackout, .450 Thumper and, for heavy hitters, .50 Beowulf®.

For more information on the Hydra Weaponry, visit the new website at www.hydraweaponry.com.

About Hydra Weaponry:

Based in Maine, Hydra Weaponry, formerly MGI-Military, has 50 years of firearms innovation in its DNA. Beginning with the development of the Bushmaster pistol, rifle and submachine gun, the Gwinn family has set a high standard in designing innovative firearms platforms built around the real-world needs of tactical operators, often fighting in extreme conditions and environments. The MARCK-15 Hydra Modular Weapon System is the ultimate modular platform that designer Mack Gwinn, Jr. created to meet the criteria of modularity, durability, consistent performance, precision, and affordability. Hydra Weaponry is the future of small arms.

Marsupial Gear Closed Binoculars Bundle Review by Max Crotser

Comfort, fit, and function are some of the critical aspects that hunters and outdoorsmen alike look for when looking for a new piece of gear to help them out in the field. Innovative designs and material changes over the years have contributed to many product manufacturers claiming to have the “next best product” or “the last upgrade you’ll ever need.” I have found it here with the Marsupial Gear Chest Pack.

Growing up, he hunted on small holdings with densely wooded areas. I keep my binoculars in the bottom of my backpack because I usually don’t need them. I quickly found that the cheap thin shoulder straps and harnesses that normally came with a new pair compromised my use of them. Constantly readjusting the straps as they moved around on my shoulders became a frustrating burden on top of the noise they made as I walked through the woods.

A recently renewed passion for bowhunting started me looking to replace and upgrade most of my current gear. When I first started practicing at our local 3D archery range, I found myself eyeing the various binocular chest packs fellow shooters were carrying. It didn’t take me long to start asking questions. Carrying binoculars, extra field points for arrows, extra shoots, and a rangefinder seemed to be the standard among the different setups I saw.

Armed with a few recommendations from other nature lovers, I began my search. I came across Marsupial Gear and was impressed with the story of it. This small company started in 2015 with the goal of designing high-quality outdoor gear, solving problems, and creating long-lasting products. Since then, Marsupial Gear has become a staple in the archery industry and community. Marsupial offers standard base colors, but will occasionally offer small batches with unique colors and camo patterns. I made the decision to use the limited edition Kryptek Altitude pattern because it was a better fit for my camo. The marketing for the limited edition led me to believe that the bundles and accessory bags were being sold as a complete package. Frustration turned to relief when Marsupial Gear explained the bug in a quick response to my email, acknowledged the mistake, and sent out the extra accessory bag.

Out of the box this package was exactly what I expected. I was very pleased to see that the pattern matched well with my hunting wardrobe, particularly my spring turkey kit. The build quality of this pack immediately impressed me, especially with its lightweight design at just 14.5 oz. When I started exploring the different side pockets and accessory pouches, I realized this was built to last. The equipment can take a beating during the different conditions in any season. Marsupial offers an unconditional lifetime guarantee that sweetens the deal by replacing any of their products regardless of defect.

Mounting the included rangefinder bag and accessory bag was a breeze. When positioned correctly, they did not move or make any noise when the material rubbed against my clothing and other equipment. This is especially important in forests. A standout feature on both the binoculars pack and rangefinder bag were the forward-opening, magnetic-closing covers that provide quick, quiet access to your favorite tools. The ability to keep my binoculars and rangefinder close at hand and not buried under extra gear or stuffed into a noisy zippered pocket came in handy on my first few hunts this spring. Of the few versions of the package available, I’m happy I chose the fully enclosed package. It offers added protection against the elements such as spring rain. The additional zippered accessory bag has proven to be perfect for additional mouth calls and chalk to freshen up a snare call when chasing birds. The medium-sized main body fits most 12×50 binoculars on the market. Two adjustable cables connect the harness chest straps and binoculars while holding them securely in place. These straps made me feel much more secure compared to my previous setup. I no longer worried about my binoculars falling to the ground or making a noise when I put them down in a hurry to get the perfect shot. This pack offers multiple adjustable straps that go over the shoulders and around the midsection, connecting at the base of the pack to create a secure fit.

At first, I was a bit worried that the pack would get in the way when drawing my bow, especially in the various positions I use in the woods and on a 3D field. The slim, compact design kept the pack close to my chest and at a perfect angle so as not to interfere with my drawing. While I’m still looking forward to taking this pack out west one day, it has proven to be a perfect tool in both turkey woods and 3D archery here in New York. Some of the smaller targets are often difficult to locate – they are hidden in the undergrowth and brambles. Having a pair of binoculars and a rangefinder on hand allows the shooter to locate the target’s scoring rings and accurately gauge distance without having to put down the bow and dig around in a bulky backpack. The included rangefinder pack has a small loop for attaching a strap to your rangefinder of choice with plenty of room to clip an arrow remover for new 3D rigid targets. A small zippered pocket on the back provides a dry, secure place for 3D scorecards or a cell phone. The snug side pockets were the perfect size for an extra pen and Allen key set. After losing a field tip inside a 3D target, I started keeping an extra set of tips and a spare trigger in the accessory bag. I quickly filled this pack with everything I needed in the woods and at the shooting range.

After testing the Marsupial pack for several months, I can honestly say that it will be a part of my hunting gear for years to come. Ultimately, I would like to start competing in larger 3D archery events with more challenging terrain. I always pay special attention to small businesses and was happy to support a 100% American made product from a small business growing in the 3D archery range and outdoor industry. While limited runs may be priced differently with different configurations, the Medium Fully Enclosed Chest Harness is $130 MSRP with accessory bags sold separately for $36 MSRP. Keep an eye on your networks social and website for frequent special offers at an even better price.

Kryptek Totally Enclosed Binocular Harness

MSRP: $130

Young Hunter Award Winner 2023

(DALLAS)— DSC is pleased to announce John Hartford as the recipient of the 2023 Colin Caruthers Young Hunter Award. This award honors young hunters who prioritize their time to be active both in the field and in their school and community.

The award is named for the late Colin Caruthers, an avid hunter and wildlife enthusiast from a young age. Colin spent countless hours at DSC thanks to his parents, Tommy and Pat Caruthers, longtime DSC Life Members who have been integral to the development of outdoor education programs for DSC. Colin thrived on the camaraderie of contract hunting and enjoyed learning from other hunters. DSC honors this young hunter’s devotion to hunting and conservation through this award.

“As hunters, we are conservationists,” said John Hartford. “And if we want our children and grandchildren to have the same hunting opportunities as us, conservation is vital to the growth and strengthening of wildlife populations and habitats.”

A life member of DSC and a senior at La Jolla High School in San Diego, California, Hartford is an accomplished hunter and conservationist who has hunted in North America, South Africa, Namibia and Mozambique. Hunting since he was 11 years old, Hartford has spent countless hours in the field with his family and friends. In addition, he successfully completed the Kobus Schoeman Hunting Academy Professional Hunter Course, certifying him as a South African Professional Hunter. Hartford served as an apprentice to professional hunter Jacques Strauss of Kowas Adventure Safaris in Namibia for two months during the summer of 2022.

“The main thing that stood out to me is John’s work ethic,” says Jacques Strauss of Kowas Adventure Safaris. “It shows commitment and confidence, while illustrating an eagerness to learn and great professionalism. I am humbled by his efforts to take an entire summer and dedicate it to worthwhile conservation efforts in Namibia.”

John has also maintained rigorous academic discipline while captaining and MVP of his high school baseball team, leading his rugby team, volunteering with the Rotary Club, and attending leadership camps as an active contributor to his community.

After high school, John is considering an appointment to the US Military Academy at West Point or attending a prominent university in Texas. Raised in a military family, Hartford has a high regard for service and would ultimately like to become a professional guide or hunter.

“John is very active in the conservation and hunting communities and helps set the standard for how our youth should conduct themselves in our industry,” said Michael Vernone, DSC President.

About DSC

A member of IUCN, DSC is a mission-focused conservation organization funded by hunters from around the world. With a small administrative staff and a volunteer army of 500, DSC hosts its annual Convention which raises funds for conservation, education and advocacy grants. In the last three years, more than $5 million has been channeled to qualified projects, organizations and programs in support of our mission. Get involved with DSC at www.biggame.org.

About DSCF

The DSC Foundation is a not-for-profit corporation organized under section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code of 1986, as amended. The DSC Foundation fulfills DSC’s mission to conserve wildlife and wildlands, educate youth and the general public, and promote and protect the rights and interests of hunters throughout the world. Learn more about the DSC Foundation at www.dscf.org.

For more information, visit www.biggame.org.

Visit DSC on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/DallasSafariClub/

Visit the DSC Foundation on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/thedscfoundation/

Millennium Treestands® 12 Days of Christmas Gifts

Pearl, M.S. – “The Twelve Days of Christmas” will be sung differently among the hunting community this year. Millennium Treestands® will be running a Twelve Days of Christmas themed giveaway on their social media pages beginning November 28. Tune in to Millennium’s Instagram and Facebook pages for your chance to win big this holiday season!

An initial post on November 28 will announce the promotion on the Millennium Treestands Facebook and Instagram pages. To be entered for a chance to win, follow @MillenniumStands, tag a friend and share the post to your own personal Instagram and Facebook story. Follow the Millennium giveaway partners listed on the Millennium Instagram story for an additional entry. Raffle winners will be selected from December 1-12; people can continue to enter until the final winner is chosen on the 12th.

Fans who entered the draw will have a chance to win one of the following prizes during the promotion. Millennium Treestands hopes everyone has a safe and joyous holiday season, and to all you nature lovers out there, happy hunting!

12-Day Prize Line:

  • MIL Hat, MIL Safelink Rope, Ol Man Treestand Assassin Hang On
  • Heat Hog 18,000 BTU Portable Heater MIL Cold Weather Pad
  • MIL M250 Climbing Poles, Woox SOLO Ax
  • MIL TU0200 Turkey Seat, Boker Fixed Blade Hunting Knife
  • MIL M300 Tree Seat, Mossy Oak Swag Package
  • MIL G200 Shooting Saddle, Redline Bow Case and Bow Strap
  • MIL M25 Hang On Stand, Conquest Scents Pack
  • MIL G-400 Saddle, Barnes Bullets VOR-TX in 308 Winchester 150 grain (3 boxes)
  • MIL M50 Hanger Bracket, Analogics Deer Crush 4-Pack (Sugar Beet Granular, 5 lb Bags) + Deer Crush 4-Pack (Sugar Beet Liquid, 1 gal Jugs) + Deer 6-Pack Crush (4 lb acorn bricks)
  • MIL M100U Ultralite, GPO Bino (passionate-ed-8×32-deep-green)
  • MIL M150 Monster, Redline Sight, Quiver, Stabilizer (your choice)
  • MIL GB-100 Buck Blind, WOOX Wild Man Stock

At Millennium Outdoors, maker of Millennium Treestands, OL’MAN Treestands, and Millennium Marine, we’re committed to ensuring every hunter and angler can make the most of every season, from fall bigs to spring gobblers, from redfish on the flats to crappie and bass in the lakes, and all species and seasons in between. From innovative ladder and hanging brackets to ground blind chairs, fishing seats and rod holders, Millennium Outdoors and its brands are dedicated to providing quality products to avid outdoor enthusiasts. Millennium’s reputation has been built on the comfort, safety, quality and versatility that hunters and anglers recognize and appreciate.

For more information please visit

WWW.MILLENNIUMSTANDS.COM

Ultimate Outdoor Pack

Buy tickets here

Toyota, Alumacraft Boats and Second Century Habitat Fund team up for conservation

Sioux Falls, SD —- South Dakota’s Second Century Habitat Fund (SCHF) has partnered with South Dakota Toyota dealers and Alumacraft Boats to help you hook your next adventure.

A Toyota Tundra TRD Pro paired with an Alumacraft Classic 165 Sport is the ultimate fishing package that takes you places on and off the water that others can’t. Not only can you win this truck and boat combo, but to make it the ultimate fishing package, it comes with over $5,000 worth of fishing and outdoor gear to make sure you’re ready for the water and properly equipped for any circumstance.

“This is a great campaign with several great partners that make it possible. We are very grateful to have the support of these companies throughout the country. Not only does our work directly support habitat in South Dakota, but our conservation efforts benefit everyone who visits South Dakota, whether they’re here to hunt, fish, or vacation. We’re making sure South Dakota’s wildlife has ample habitat to fight and survive. All of this is possible thanks to our generous partners and those who purchase tickets.” Said Brian Bashore, Executive Director of Second Century.

For your chance to WIN this ultimate fishing adventure package and support habitat in South Dakota, all you have to do is go to sdhabitatfund.org/raffle and purchase your ticket. Tickets come in packages of (1) for $20 (3) for $50 or (10) for $100. You do not have to be present to win and there is no limit to the number of entries.

Proceeds raised from this raffle support habitat programs in South Dakota, promoting quality habitat for wildlife to thrive and ensuring another century of the nation’s best pheasant hunting.

Your copy should address 3 key questions: Who am I writing for? (Audience) Why should they care? (Benefit) What do I want you to do here? (Call to action)

Create a great offer by adding words like “free,” “custom,” “free,” or “custom.” A sense of urgency often helps readers take action, so consider inserting phrases like “only for a limited time” or “only 7 left”!

CMP Western Games Returns to Arizona in 2023 with New Gun Bundle Deal

PHOENIX, Ariz. – Western CMP Games and Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) High Power Matches are scheduled to return to the Ben Avery Shooting Facility in Arizona, March 10-19, 2023. This recreational marksmanship event is comprised of a full lineup of friendlies, challenging competitions on the shooting range, as well as educational opportunities. The event is open to anyone interested in the sport, regardless of experience.

The Western CMP Games and CMP Highpower Matches present a combination of marksmanship opportunities for guests to enjoy. CMP Games events such as Garand, Springfield, Vintage Military, Modern Military, Rimfire Sporter, Carbine, and Vintage Sniper will once again fill the rifle competition calendar, while those wanting more educational experiences can sign up for the Pistol or Rifle courses. Basic, they teach firearms. fundamentals in a one-on-one classroom.

A number of pistol opportunities such as the 2700 pistol, .22 Rimfire Pistol, EIC Pistol, 1911, and Military & Police Service Pistol will also resume for a second year. New for 2023, the CMP have added a Service Revolver EIC Match to the calendar.

Competitors who shoot in all five Solo Pistol Matches (.22 Rimfire EIC Pistol, EIC Service Pistol, EIC Service Revolver, Original 1911 Pistol, and Military & Police Pistol) will be able to register for the Solo Pistol Match Package for one price with discount. Slightly increased entry fees at all Western Games events for 2023 make the package even more attractive, though competitors shouldn’t expect any further hardship on their pockets from the increases.

CMP’s Western Games offers a variety of rifle and pistol matches, as well as educational courses.

Another addition to the Western Games schedule for 2023 is a 3×600 Rifle Match. This contest includes sighting shots, followed by three 20-shot sequences for the record in slow prone shooting from 600 yards. Competitors may use a Match Rifle, Service Rifle, F-Open, FT/R or AR tactical rifle during the 3×600 event.

Outside of the Games schedule, CMP Highpower Matches include three days of 800 Aggregate competition with additional recognition for the culminating 2400 Aggregate event. Highpower events also include Service Rifle and 4-Man Team EIC matches which create even more exciting possibilities on the firing line.

In addition, CMP instructors will conduct a CMP Advanced HP Clinic (with live fire training and practice). The clinic offers lectures and demonstrations from some of the world’s leading civilian Highpower service rifle competitors. Those enrolled in the course must bring their own shooting equipment, rifle and ammunition to participate.

To further ensure a safe environment for all competitors and spectators, trained CMP staff members will be present at every match. Both young and old are welcome, so join in on all the competition, new experiences and fun!

Western Games will reintroduce a full lineup of pistols, including a new Revolver Match.

Registration is now open! More information about the Western CMP Games and registration forms can be found on the CMP website at https://thecmp.org/cmp-matches/western-cmp-highpower-cmp-games-matches/.

— By Ashley Dugan, CMP Staff Writer

The Civilian Marksmanship Program is a federally chartered 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. It is dedicated to firearms safety and marksmanship training and the promotion of marksmanship competition for United States citizens. To learn more about the CMP and its programs, log on to www.TheCMP.org.

Restricted to those 18 and older in CA pursuant to CA State Assembly Bill 2571 prohibiting the sale of firearms to minors in the State of CA.

STEELHEAD OUTDOORS LAUNCHES CASE KEEPER SECURE OUTDOOR GUN STORAGE

Shakopee, MN – Steelhead Outdoors introduces Case Keeper to expand outdoor storage options for gun safes. Like their line of modular gun safes, Case Keeper is Made in America. This magnetic accessory is designed to attach to the top corner of a safe and can hold a maximum of 30 lbs. A stainless steel rod with eight stainless steel hooks is attached to the outside corner of a safe by a magnetic-backed steel bracket. The mount has a durable black textured powder coating. S-hooks provide an adjustable system capable of holding soft cases, game calls, rangefinders, optics, or other items that can be hung from a hook. Case Keeper will work in any 18” deep safe from any gun safe manufacturer and will fit in all Steelhead Outdoors modular gun safes. Available at steelheadoutdoors.com with a suggested retail price of $49 USD.

“We are constantly looking to improve our safes and storage options through the use of better design and better materials,” explained Corey Meyer, co-founder of Steelhead Outdoors. “Case Keeper is a simple, well-designed accessory for storing items that don’t need to be secured inside a safe.”

Steelhead Outdoors offers three sizes of Modular Gun Safes (Nomad Series Safes) that feature many high-end security features expected in a premium gun safe. Modular safes can be easily moved and assembled by two people in about an hour with just a few tools. Prices start at $2,700. Steelhead Outdoors also offers custom made modular safes to fit any space in the home in a multitude of colors.

The Steelhead Outdoors Nomad series of premium modular gun safes are designed and built to allow for flexibility and mobility without sacrificing security or durability. The patent-pending construction features a totally dry insulation system, eliminating the need for a dehumidifier. A fully modular shelving system offers endless gun rack and shelving configurations. Choose between electronic keypad or dial locks.

Steelhead Outdoors created their Homestead Vault Doors collection as an alternative to modular gun safes for people with large gun collections or wanting to create a safe room in their home. Safe rooms aren’t just for Hollywood celebrities and professional athletes. More people are incorporating safe rooms into their homes to protect their family and keep valuables safe. Homestead vault doors start at $5,000.

Learn more about Case Keeper, Modular Gun Safes, and Vault Doors at SteelheadOutdoors.Com Follow us on Instagram.com/SteelheadOutdoors, on Facebook.Com/SteelheadOutdoors, and watch how-to videos on YouTube.

About Steelhead Outdoors:

Founded in 2016, Steelhead Outdoors is an innovative safe company offering the only American-made modular fire-insulated gun safe available on the market today. Old friends, engineers and avid outdoorsmen, Charlie Pehrson and Corey Meyer, searched for an American-made gun safe that was adaptable and offered a respectable level of fire and burglary protection, but they soon found out. that this product did not exist. Since they couldn’t buy it, they decided to build it. Steelhead Outdoors was created with the goal of building a safe that customers could and would like to take with them from one home to another or pass down from one generation to the next. Four years of research and development went into the iconic Nomad series to create a durable and innovative modular gun safe. Based in Shakopee, Minnesota where all products are proudly designed, manufactured and shipped. Learn more at SteelheadOutdoors.com

CZ Configurator now available in the US

Kansas City, Kansas – We are happy to announce that the CZ Configurator is now online and available to CZ customers in the United States!

With the addition of the United States, the CZ Configurator is now fully operational, serving CZ customers in seven countries: the Czech Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Germany, Austria, France, and the United States. CZ models differ for each country, so visit the CZ Configurator site to see available models by country.

The CZ Configurator is an online tool that allows you to fully customize and order the CZ firearm of your dreams from the convenience of your phone or computer. CZ provides complete control in the construction and accessories of the weapon: model, caliber, colors, components, controls and accessories.

The firearm is virtually displayed on the screen as the user specifies colors, components, controls, and accessories. Users can save, print and share the custom configured firearm at any time.

With the initial release of CZ Configurator in mid-October 2019, CZ established itself as the world leader in putting the power of custom firearms in the hands of its customers. Since this custom firearm is an official CZ product made in the CZ factory, a full warranty is provided on the configured firearm and all components and accessories. Access to exclusive CZ services is also available to CZ Configurator customers.

The CZ Configurator is truly a revolution in building, ordering, and purchasing a custom firearm!

Join the CZ Configurator revolution today by visiting www.czconfigurator.com/us!

Since 1997, CZ-USA has offered American shooters and hunters the best firearms the Czech Republic has to offer. CZ-USA will continue to improve, innovate, and add to the CZ-USA line of high-quality, affordable pistols, rifles, shotguns, and Dan Wesson custom-grade pistols. See how CZ-USA can make shooting better, easier and a whole lot more fun at cz-usa.com/.

For more information please visit

WWW.CZ-USA.COM

Team Federal’s Alysia Burrows shines at the 2022 PCSL 2-Gun Championship

ANOKA, Minnesota – November 29, 2022 – Federal Ammunition congratulates Team Federal sponsored marksman and brand ambassador Alysia Burrows, who also recently took home the Division 1 Women’s Practice at the 2022 PCSL 2-Gun Championship.

“This was Alysia’s first major match returning to action shooting sports after a 6 month layoff to recover from rotator cuff surgery immediately after winning first lady in the 2 gun division in the Superstition match Mountain Mystery this past March,” Federal Marketing said. Director Brian Anderson. “It doesn’t look like she’s missed a beat, getting back on the clock and ready to take on whatever the stage throws at her. With this win, she clinched the top Lady position in the Practical Division for the second year in a row. We congratulate her and everyone on Team Federal on her excellent performances this fall.”

Burrows relies on the 150-grain 9mm Federal Syntech Action Pistol in his pistol; American Eagle 55-grain .223 Rem and Federal Premium Gold Medal Sierra MatchKing 69-grain .223 Rem in his rifles.

“I was excited to go back and film at this event. This match is known for attracting some of the best and it is always a privilege to ride alongside them,” said Burrows. “What really gave me my advantage in this match was Syntech. This pistol load has low recoil, but also has great power to take down all the big heavy steel. And in a match like this, long range can make or break your game, the 69-grain .223 Rem. The gold medal rounds worked fantastically well. It’s nice to have ammunition you can trust to get the job done.”

Federal ammunition can be found at dealers across the country or can be purchased online directly from Federal. For more information on all Federal products or to shop online, visit www.federalpremium.com.

CMP Holds State Directors Workshop 2022

On the weekend of November 12-13, 2022, the state directors of the Civilian Marksmanship Program (CMP) gathered at Talladega Marksmanship Park in Alabama to brainstorm, learn more about the organization’s latest efforts, and socialize. A total of 27 State Directors attended the meeting, which was the first time the group was able to meet since 2018.

CMP State Directors are appointed in each state to provide leadership, coordination, networking, motivation, and publicity for shooting sports in their geographic areas. They work directly with coaches and individuals to provide enjoyable, informative and fun opportunities for competitors in their states and help steer them in positive directions.

“It was great to get everyone together again; a lot has changed within CMP since 2018,” said Dana Lynd, deputy director of programs. “We were able to update everyone on all the great things we are doing.”

Over the weekend, the state directors were able to meet with the new chairman and chief executive officer, Jerry O’Keefe, who took office in September after former chair Judy Legerski retired.

Attendees also heard from Mark Johnson (Civilian Marksmanship Director), Christie Sewell (CMP Head of Programs), Shannon Hand (Competition Manager), Steve Cooper (Educational Training & Training Manager), Greg Raines (Deputy Director of Operations ), Gina Johnson (CMP South General Manager) and Ryan Hinson (Program Coordinator). They each talked about their respective departments such as pistol, air rifle, small bore, summer camps, and of course the CMP State Director program.

Ashley Jackson of the MidwayUSA Foundation was also on hand to discuss the nonprofit’s important relationship with the CMP. The event was facilitated by Sylvia Schoewe, support staff to the State Director.

State directors heard various presentations and also provided their own comments.

“All went well!” Schoewe said. “I’ve had quite a few state directors come up and say they enjoyed the meeting, it was very well organized and they learned a lot.”

State Directors also had the opportunity to stand up, introduce themselves and explain a bit about what their state has been involved with with marksmanship programs.

“The new state directors thought that was really helpful,” Schoewe added. “It also gave existing state directors fresh ideas.”

After the classroom portion of the workshop was over, the group was able to tour the 500 acre Talladega Shooting Park.

A full list of CMP state directors, including their individual biographies and contact information, can be found by visiting https://thecmp.org/training-tech/state-director/. They are always happy and willing to answer any questions about shooting sports or targeting opportunities available in your area.

CMP’s new President and CEO, Jerry O’Keefe, was surprised with a birthday cake over the weekend.

CMP State Director Vacancies. The CMP is currently accepting applications for the following states: Delaware, Maine, Nevada, Tennessee, Vermont, and Washington. For more information on the requirements to apply for a State Director position, visit http://thecmp.org/training-tech/state-director/ or contact Sylvia at (419) 635-2141, ext. 726 or email [email protected].

— By Ashley Dugan, CMP Staff Writer

The Civilian Marksmanship Program is a federally chartered 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation. It is dedicated to firearms safety and marksmanship training and the promotion of marksmanship competition for United States citizens. To learn more about the CMP and its programs, log on to www.TheCMP.org.

Restricted to those 18 and older in CA pursuant to CA State Assembly Bill 2571 prohibiting the sale of firearms to minors in the State of CA.