Hunting license sales fall 3.1% in 2022, back to pre-pandemic levels

Washington D.C. – assistants to 88he The North American Conference on Natural Resources and Wildlife, which concluded last week in St. Louis, took a first look at the results of the Sale of Hunting Licenses 2021 – 2022 report documenting a 3.1% decline in hunting license sales in 2022.

“We continue to track hunting license sales as an indicator of participation, and our results indicate that the impacts of COVID on getting people outdoors may be diminishing,” said Council Director of Research and Partnerships Swanny Evans. , while addressing the Hunting and Shooting Sports Committee in St. Louis. “Hunting license sales are returning to pre-pandemic levels.”

The study was a follow-up to Council to Advance Hunting and Shooting Sports studies from the past two years that documented a 4.9% increase in hunting license sales from 2019 to 2020 (also known as the COVID-Bump) and a 1.9% decrease the following year from 2020 to 2021. To continue to monitor sales trends in the wake of the impact of the pandemic, the Board reviewed this study in early 2023 to identify ongoing changes and emerging trends in hunter license purchase fees.

In collaboration with Southwick Associates, the Council collected monthly resident and non-resident hunting license sales data from 46 state wildlife agencies to quantify and compare sales from 2022 to 2021. Among the 46 reporting states:

  • Overall, hunting license sales decreased approximately 3.1% in 2022 compared to 2021. Coincidentally, resident and non-resident license sales also decreased 3.1%.
  • Only six of 46 states saw an overall increase in the number of licenses sold in 2022 compared to 2021.
  • License sales were down across the board in each of the four geographic regions (Northeast, Southeast, Midwest, and West), with percentages ranging from -2.4 to -4.8%.
  • The only months that saw overall increases in license sales, and slight ones, were February and September.
  • The increase in non-resident license sales seen in 2021 receded in three of the four geographic regions, with the only increase seen in the Northeast.

He Sale of Hunting Licenses 2021 – 2022 The report, which provides the most representative data on the current state of hunting license sales nationally and regionally, can be accessed on the Council’s website, https://cahss.org/our-research/hunting- license-sales-2021-2022.

Ruger Introduces New Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Lite Optic-Ready with Co-Witness Sights

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR) has expanded the Ruger® Mark IV™ 22/45™ Lite family of rimfire pistols with a new model featuring a mounting position for a Shield™ footprint reflex optic. Standard RMS in place of the Picatinny rail. It also features a raised front fiber optic sight and adjustable rear sight that is a match for most micro red dot optics. The new model has an attractive vented rib on top of a clear anodized receiver.

Like most Ruger Mark IV 22/45 Lite pistols, the new model combines a precision-molded, lightweight polymer grip frame with a ported, anodized aluminum receiver for a custom pistol look without the custom price tag. Chambered for the popular .22 LR cartridge, this pistol is fun to shoot, accurate and reliable. Weighing just 22.5 ounces, the 22/45 Lite is the ideal lightweight rimfire pistol. The CNC-machined aluminum receiver houses a 4.4-inch stainless steel barrel, held by a tension nut to ensure accuracy, and a 1/2″-28 factory-threaded muzzle to accept popular muzzle attachments. The comfortable, precision-molded polymer grip frame incorporates replaceable checkered 1911-style grip panels that allow shooters to customize the look of the pistol. The Mark IV 22/45 Lite is the perfect outdoor companion and can be used for target shooting, plinking, small game hunting, or competitive shooting. With a one-button detach, dual 10-round magazines, and a 1911-style grip angle, it’s the perfect .22 caliber training pistol.

To learn more about the Mark IV family or to learn more about Ruger’s extensive line of award-winning firearms, visit ruger.com, Facebook.com/Ruger either Instagram.com/RugersOfficial. To find accessories for Mark IV and other Ruger firearms, visit StoreRuger.com or your local independent Ruger firearms retailer.

The acquisition, ownership, possession and use of firearms is heavily regulated. Some models may not be legally available in your state or locality. Whatever your purpose for legally acquiring a firearm, know the law, get educated, and shoot safely.

Missouri House Recognizes NWTF’s 50-Year Legacy of Wild Turkey Conservation

EDGEFIELD, SC — The National Wild Turkey Federation was recognized by the Missouri House of Representatives during Conservation Day at the Capitol in Jefferson City, Missouri on April 5. The resolution recognized the NWTF’s commitment to conserving the state’s wild turkey populations and preserving game. traditions for future generations.

Representative Bruce Sassmann of the 61street District and Natural Resources and Conservation Committee chair introduced NWTF district biologist John Burk on camera, presenting him with the framed resolution.

“Rep. Sassmann was elected in 2020, but he has been a friend of conservation and more specifically the NWTF for many years prior to becoming a legislator,” Burk said. “Bruce has been a participating farmer and mentor for our Governor’s Youth Turkey Hunt for the event’s 14-year history, and we are thrilled to have him in the role he currently holds. We are also very grateful that he took the time and effort to recognize our 50he Anniversary in front of their peers in the legislature.

The resolution concludes with:

“While the National Wild Turkey Federation, at the national level, has accomplished all of these aforementioned accomplishments, the chapter system in Missouri, like the Missouri Department of Conservation with which we frequently partner, has established itself as a national leader among his peers;

Resolve the (Senate/House of Representatives/General Assembly) of the (State/118he Congress of the United States of America) that we recognize and celebrate the 50he Anniversary of the National Wild Turkey Federation and salute the organization, its chapters, and members across the United States for their tremendous efforts to advance state-led scientific wildlife management and the conservation of America’s wild turkey and its habitat. We wish the National Wild Turkey Federation, its members and chapters the best for the future as they continue to fulfill their mission by working beyond property lines at the landscape scale to increase clean and abundant water, healthy forests and resilient wildlife habitat. communities and strong recreational opportunities across the country.”

The event, coordinated by the Missouri Federation of Conservation, celebrated the protection of outdoor recreation, with outdoorsmen and women coming together to show their support for our natural resources.

Approximately 90 affiliate agencies and organization members, including the NWTF, came together to represent the Missouri conservation community for Conservation Day on Capitol Hill. The event provided an opportunity for these affiliates to display their organizational materials in the capitol rotunda, allowing legislators and visitors to learn about them. Also, local 1980s rock station morning show from central Missouri features “Trevor and Shags” aired at the event and interviewed the groups in attendance.

The NWTF policy team and its volunteer leadership are working with state legislatures across the country to pass similar measures this year that enshrine the NWTF’s legacy and mission in state law.

Learn more about the policy and advocacy work of the NWTF.

About the National Wild Turkey Federation

Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested more than half a billion dollars in wildlife conservation and has conserved or improved more than 22 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The organization continues to advance wildlife conservation, forest resiliency, and robust recreational opportunities across the US by working beyond borders at the landscape scale.

2023 is the 50th of the NWTFhe anniversary and an opportunity to push the organization’s mission into the future while honoring its rich history. for his 50 he anniversary, the NWTF has set six ambitious goals: positively impact 1 million acres of wildlife habitat; raise $500,000 for wild turkey research; increase membership to 250,000 members; dedicate $1 million to education and outreach programs; raise $5 million to invest in technology and the people of NWTF; and raise $5 million to build a $50 million endowment for the future. Learn how you can help us achieve these lofty goals.

Ruger Introduces ReadyDot™ Micro Reflex Optic

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR) is pleased to introduce the Ruger® ReadyDot™ reflex micro-optic. The Ruger ReadyDot is an ultra-reliable 1X reflex sight designed specifically to co-wit the Ruger MAX-9® pistol, but the low-profile sight will also fit any compact pistol with a standard Shield RMSc footprint. Using a reflex sight like the Ruger ReadyDot allows the shooter to keep both eyes open and focus on the target, rather than the front sight.

Unlike optics that use batteries and electronics to generate your aiming point, the Ruger ReadyDot uses the light-gathering properties of fiber optics, so it automatically adjusts for brightness and never needs a battery. Adding to the unit’s ruggedness, it is a non-adjustable fixed sight with a large 15 MOA dot optimized for rapid target acquisition at pistol distances. Eliminating features that are unnecessary for close range pistol shooting makes this the most rugged and reliable waterproof and shock resistant pistol optic available.

For more information or to order your Ruger ReadyDot visit StoreRuger.com or your local independent Ruger firearms retailer.

The acquisition, ownership, possession and use of firearms is heavily regulated. Some models may not be legally available in your state or locality. Whatever your purpose for legally acquiring a firearm, know the law, get educated, and shoot safely.

Steiner Optics to Exhibit at the 2023 NRA Annual Meetings

Post #4255

Greeley, Colorado – Steiner Optics, the leader in high-performance optics for military and law enforcement, professional shooters, and avid hunters, invites all NRA members and visitors to the 2023 National Rifle Association Annual Meetings & Exhibits to Booth #4255 at the Indiana Convention Center in Indianapolis, Indiana, April 14-16, 2023.

Steiner will have new products on display at the event, including its complete line of hunting optics with the Predator 4 and Predator 8 series scopes, premium binoculars, thermal imaging devices, and red dot optics. A new low power variable optic that tactical shooters will be interested in choosing is the T6Xi series of rifle scopes. This scope combines advanced German engineering with American-made precision manufacturing to deliver premium, rugged optical performance that’s ready to take on any mission, anywhere. The T6Xi series is based on Steiner’s legendary T5Xi optics, developed for advanced competitive and tactical shooting, and incorporates Steiner’s latest glass and lens coating technology for brighter, clearer views in all light and field conditions. . Features include improved elevation and windage risers, CNC-machined extruded aluminum housings, low-profile Never-Lost™ risers and more.

The four models in the T6Xi series include:

Another product to check out at Steiner booth #4255 is the Steiner Micro Pistol Sight (MPS). The MPS has been approved by various law enforcement agencies across the country for its reliability, durability, and performance. It is built around a robust all-metal housing with enhanced sidewalls and a sealed emitter that can withstand submersion to 10 meters. The Steiner MPS is packed with features that ensure reliability and predictable performance for heavy use. The recessed optical window and thick metal cover protect the Steiner-quality lens from most direct impacts, and the 1X magnification provides a sharp, distortion-free image for rapid image acquisition with both eyes open. Additional features include a bright 3.3 MOA reticle, 13,000-hour battery life, 8 brightness levels, user-selectable auto-off, and multiple mounting options.

For more information about Steiner products, visit booth #4255 at this year’s NRA show, contact your Steiner dealer, or visit www.steiner-optics.com.

About Steiner

For more than 70 years, Steiner has made reliable optics for life’s defining moments. Successful search and capture of these moments demands rapid and accurate detection, location and identification of a distant target. Whether the target is wildlife, a fur seal, law enforcement suspects or military combatants, Steiner products enhance an individual’s most important sense, vision, so that on land or sea, nothing will come your way. exhaust. For more information, please visit the company’s website at https://www.steiner-optics.com/.

Houston Safari Club Foundation Announces First Annual Saltwater Fishing Tournament

The Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is pleased to announce its first annual Saltwater Fishing Tournament, June 15-16, 2023.

The “Flip Flops & Pop Tops” Saltwater Fishing Tournament will be based in San Leon, Texas with all festivities taking place at Topwater Grill. Options include self-guided or the use of a professional guide with all the extras. There will be a launch party on Thursday night and a captains meeting. The tournament will take place on Friday, followed by the official awards ceremony and banquet. Prizes will be awarded in the categories of spotted trout, redfish and sole. This tournament is open to the public.

Registration is now open. Sponsorships and booth spaces are still available. For more information, visit the HSCF website at https://hscfdn.org/calendar/fishing-tournament-2023/ or call 713.623.8844.

About the Houston Safari Club Foundation
The Houston Safari Club Foundation (HSCF) is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization whose mission is to preserve the sport of hunting through education, conservation, and the promotion of our hunting heritage. HSCF has awarded 646 scholarships totaling $2.92 million. HSCF conducts youth outdoor education programs, vocational training, hunter education, and field experiences throughout the year. HSCF has provided more than $4 million in grants for wildlife, habitat, and various hunter-funded conservation initiatives. HSCF is an independent organization, is not affiliated with Safari Club International (SCI) or its affiliates and is not a chapter or affiliate of any other organization. Visit wehuntwegive.org or call 713.623.8844 for more information. HSCF. We hunt. We give.

Speer Ammunition to Showcase New Products at the 2023 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits

Speer Ammunition will showcase new products at the 2023 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, taking place at the Indiana Convention Center, April 14-16, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attendees are encouraged to visit booth 5355 to see all of Federal’s new products for 2023, including the new Speer Gold Dot carbine.

“With the popularity of PCC and the continued rapid pace of new 9mm carbine introductions to the market, we thought it would be worth investigating what was possible to optimize a defensive load,” said Chris Laack, product line manager for PCC. Speer’s Centerfire pistol. “By evaluating a large selection of our existing designs, as well as others available on the market, we found that certain bullet technologies and design features stood out in performance across the carbines.”

The new Speer Gold Dot Carbine produces ideal velocities through barrels and cycles carbine length without issue. The G2-style elastomer-filled bullet nose is tuned to produce extremely effective penetration and expansion through common barriers. It is available in a 135-grain 9mm Luger load.

“While it is impossible to cover every carbine and magazine combination, we optimized the feature for as many as possible. We did a deep dive on terminal accuracy, velocity, and performance through different barrel lengths. The goal was to have a bullet that would provide the improved accuracy and terminal performance of a carbine at slightly longer ranges, up to a hundred yards, but also work well up close,” Laack continued. “Knowing that people would likely own a 9mm pistol as well, and that it’s common for carbines to share magazines with these pistols, we also made sure performance could be trusted across full-size pistols. The end product is a hybrid of different Speer Gold Dot technologies that will really work very well for people looking to have a 9mm carbine for personal defense.”

Speer Gold Dot has set an industry benchmark for both self-defense and mandatory wear, earning the trust of consumers and law enforcement around the world. Speer ammunition can be found at dealers across the country. For more information on all Speer products or to purchase online, visit www.speer.com.

The new Scorpion 3+ carbine from CZ-USA, adaptable to any situation

First released to the US public in pistol form: The new Scorpion 3+ carbine has been developed based on feedback from consumers, military and law enforcement personnel. This rifle completes the popular Scorpion 3+ semi-automatic firearms platform.

The 16.3-inch barrel rifle is offered in two standard configurations. This setup employs the iconic Scorpion EVO folding stock, staying true to the design users love. Three adjustment points allow the user to adjust the length of the pull to suit their needs.

Ambidextrous controls are the gold standard in today’s firearms. The Scorpion 3+ includes an ambidextrous AR-style mag release and latch/bolt release. These controls have been repositioned since the EVO 3 for intuitive, easy-to-find operation – essential in high-stress situations!

Users will notice a notch in the magazine that accommodates the new magazine release. The new Scorpion 3+ magazines are also backwards compatible with Scorpion. A redesigned grip ensures there are no issues with finger contact safety. A straightened grip improves ergonomics and control. The M-LOK hand guard makes adding your favorite accessories simple.

A redesigned magwell features a recessed front radius in the lower receiver, adding more grip on the forend with gloved hands. The lower ⅓ co-witness of the Scorpion 3+ sight with standard height red dot optics allows users to easily have an unobstructed view of the target over iron sights.

The Scorpion 3+ is available in three variations. The micro has a 4.2-inch barrel, the pistol model has a 7.8-inch barrel, and the carbine offers a 16.3-inch barrel. All three use cold hammer forged barrels for precision. The micro is an extremely compact pistol for maneuverability in tight spaces. The longer barreled pistol model has improved ballistic performance (over micro) in a slightly larger package, and the carbine is for those looking to add a stock without the need to SBR their Scorpion.

The newly redesigned Scorpion 3+ models build on the success of the proven features of the original with enhancements throughout the weapon. The MSRP for the Scorpion 3+ Micro is $1299, the Scorpion 3+ Pistol MSRP was recently reduced to $899, and the Scorpion 3+ Carbine is $999. Check out the advanced design of the new Scorpion 3+ models.

Features of CZ Scorpion 3+:

  • Ambidextrous bolt
  • Ambidextrous magazine release
  • Enhanced grip design
  • improved views
  • Improved upper and lower receiver
  • New chargers, backwards compatible with Scorpion EVO 3 models
  • Adjustable folding stock

Specifications of the CZ Scorpion 3+ carbine:

  • SKU: 91422 (Folding Stock)
  • Caliber: 9mm Luger
  • Magazine Capacity: 20 rounds
  • frame/slide: fiber reinforced polymer
  • Monuments: Adjustable
  • cuffs: Polymer, adjustable to reach the trigger
  • Barrel: Threaded 1/2×28
  • Barrel Length: 16.3 inches
  • Total length: 32.7 inches, 24.4 inches (folded),

32.2 inches, 26.7 inches (collapsed)

  • Height: 8.9 inches
  • Broad: 2.4 inches
  • Weight: 6.8 pounds
  • Security: Safety Manual Ambidextrous
  • MSRP: $999.00

CZ Scorpion 3+ Pistol Specifications:

  • SKU: 91421
  • Caliber: 9mm Luger
  • Magazine Capacity: 20 rounds
  • frame/slide: fiber reinforced polymer
  • Monuments: Adjustable
  • cuffs: Polymer, adjustable to reach the trigger
  • Barrel: Cold Hammer Forged 7.8-Inch; threaded 1/2×28
  • Height: 8.9 inches
  • Broad: 2.4 inches
  • Weight: 5.3 pounds
  • Security: Manual; Ambidextrous
  • MSRP: $899.00

CZ Scorpion 3+ Micro Pistol Specifications:

  • SKU: 91420
  • Caliber: 9mm Luger
  • Magazine Capacity: 20 rounds
  • Magazine type: double stack polymer
  • frame/slide: fiber reinforced polymer
  • Monuments: Adjustable, Aluminum
  • cuffs: Polymer, adjustable to reach the trigger
  • Barrel: 4.2-inch, cold-hammered, 1/2×28 threaded; (micro)
  • Weight: 4.7 pounds
  • Total length: 14.63 inches
  • Height: 8.9 inches
  • Broad: 2.4 inches
  • Security: Ambidextrous thumb safety
  • MSRP: $899.00

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

Federal Ammunition to Showcase New Products at the 2023 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits

Federal Ammunition will introduce new products at the 2023 NRA Annual Meetings & Exhibits, taking place at the Indiana Convention Center, April 14-16, 2023 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Attendees are encouraged to visit booth 5355 to see all of Federal’s new products for 2023, including new 155 and 170 grain 7mm Terminal Ascent PRC cartridges.

“The new 7mm PRC cartridge is designed for long-range hunting, delivering magnum power from a standard-action rifle platform with large-caliber, streamlined bullets,” said Eric Miller, Federal’s Centerfire product line manager. “Federal is maximizing the accuracy, range and terminal performance of the 7mm PRC with three new offerings.”

Features of these new cartridges include: all-new standard action centerfire rifle cartridge; high ballistic coefficient (BC), bullets heavy for caliber; available in Terminal Ascent or ELD-X bullets; and loaded with Gold Medal primers, specially formulated propellant and Premium brass.

“We looked at the 7mm PRC and its capabilities as a new cartridge and knew that together with Terminal Ascent, we would have a fantastic loadout for the hunter and shooter,” continued Miller. “With the fastest twist rates, the tall BC and long warhead on Terminal Ascent is a great combination for the hunter and marksman. People will like the energy that the .284-inch caliber carries, and through our firing tests, we have been very pleased with the accuracy of these new loads.”

The 2023 NRA Annual Meetings and Shows will showcase more than 14 acres of the latest weapons and equipment. Learn more at: www.nraam.org.

Federal ammunition can be found at dealers across the country. For more information on federal ammunition or to purchase online, visit www.federalpremium.com.

East Dakota Chapter Celebrates Its 30th Annual Banquet

EDGEFIELD, SC — On April 1, 2023, the East Dakota Chapter of the National Wild Turkey Federation held its 30th annual banquet in Sioux Falls, South Dakota. The banquet raised funds for wildlife conservation projects and the preservation of hunting heritage in the state.

At the banquet, 204 attendees enjoyed a meal and had the opportunity to participate in live and silent auctions and various raffles. These activities raised funds and awareness to support NWTF conservation initiatives.

During the banquet, plaques were presented to donors who have generously supported the chapter and the banquet over the past 30 years. In addition, five East Dakota committee members (Dean Schueler, Duane Albers, Jon Soderholm, Ron Schauer, and Mark Anderson) were recognized and honored with plaques for their dedication to the chapter over 30 years.

During the banquet, South Dakota Representative Jessica Bahmuller presented the NWTF’s East Dakota Chapter with the 50th Anniversary Bill. commemoration, recognizing the critical role of the NWTF in wildlife management research, habitat conservation, and the preservation of outdoor traditions in the United States. Randy Gaskins, NWTF Senior Regional Director, read the commemoration to those present at the event.

The NWTF East Dakota Chapter has the distinction of being the longest running chapter in South Dakota. In recognition of their exceptional contributions to conservation efforts, the NWTF awarded the East Dakota Chapter the prestigious Golden Gobbler status (50% net to gross), which only 18 chapters nationwide have achieved for more than 25 years. years, 29 consecutive years. for the East Dakota Chapter. In addition, the chapter has raised more than $1.5 million to support conservation initiatives since 1993.

For more information, please contact Michael Brown at (605) 360-0709. Brown is a 30-year member and volunteer with the East Dakota Chapter and has been a committee member since 2017.

About the National Wild Turkey Federation

Since 1973, the National Wild Turkey Federation has invested more than half a billion dollars in wildlife conservation and has conserved or improved more than 22 million acres of critical wildlife habitat. The organization continues to advance wildlife conservation, forest resiliency, and robust recreational opportunities across the US by working beyond borders at the landscape scale.

2023 is the 50th of the NWTFhe anniversary and an opportunity to push the organization’s mission into the future while honoring its rich history. for his 50 he anniversary, the NWTF has set six ambitious goals: positively impact 1 million acres of wildlife habitat; raise $500,000 for wild turkey research; increase membership to 250,000 members; dedicate $1 million to education and outreach programs; raise $5 million to invest in technology and the people of NWTF; and raise $5 million to build a $50 million endowment for the future. Learn how you can help us achieve these lofty goals.