Utah’s Gun-Control Bill Failed Senate Committee

There has never been a more important time in sportsmen’s history than now to be involved and engaged in protecting our way of life. Animal extremists and other radical elements are working hard to cancel sportsmen’s rights and our way of life forever. Even Utah is not safe.

Last Friday, the Senate Natural Resources Committee heard a bill that would have cratered hunting and firearm ownership in the Beehive State. Thankfully, the bill overwhelmingly failed 5 to 1 to receive a favorable recommendation by the committee. Essential, defeating the bill for the year.

Utah’s 45-day legislative session is not over yet. The Sportsmen’s Alliance Government Affairs team will continue to monitor SB 130 and other bills moving through the legislative process. Nothing is completely defeated until the legislative session adjourns sine die.

SB 130 would have, among other items:

  • banned the import, sale, manufacture, transfer, receive, or possess, in certain circumstances, a gas-operated semiautomatic firearm;
  • required the Department of Public Safety to create a system for individuals who possess certain gas-operated semiautomatic firearms before January 1, 2027, to register the firearm with the department; and
  • required, beginning on January 1, 2027, a manufacturer or seller of gas-operated semiautomatic firearms that is manufacturing or selling the firearms to the government of the United States, a state, or a federally recognized tribe, to mark on the firearm that the firearm may only be used by a government employee in accordance with government policy;
  • created a waiting period, with certain exemptions, between the purchase of a firearm from a dealer and the delivery of the firearm to the purchaser;
  • created a criminal offense beginning on January 1, 2027, for a person to import, sell, manufacture, transfer, receive, or possess, in certain circumstances, a large-capacity ammunition feeding device. Read more
Gun Control

More Firearm Restrictions on Sportsmen: Bans and Mandatory Storage in Hawaii

Animal and gun-control extremists in Hawai’i are working overtime to destroy sportsmen’s rights, so they can receive an “A” rating from the Giffords Law Center to Prevent Gun Violence. So, it is no surprise that anti-sportsmen legislators are not wasting time scheduling legislation to add more restrictions on our way of life. The only way we can slow down the extremists is by being more actively involved and engaged in the process of protecting our values, rights and heritage at every level.

On Thursday, February 6, the House Committee on Judiciary and Hawaiian Affairs is scheduled to hold a public hearing on three bills that will only add more red tape and restrictions to owning a firearm in the state. Please use the Take Action button to contact committee members and urge them to vote “No” on House Bill 893, House Bill 125, and House Bill 279.

> > > > TAKE ACTION NOW! < < < <

House Bill 893 expands the existing “assault pistol” ban to include commonly owned semiautomatic rifles and shotguns with a length less than 30 inches, with a fixed (except .22 caliber attached tubular device design) or detachable magazine and one or more feature. The bill also imposes a ban on standard capacity magazines capable of accepting more than 10 rounds.

House Bill 125 expands the existing firearm storage mandate to include using a properly engaged tamper-resistant mechanical lock or other tamper-resistant safety device that renders the firearm inoperable by any person other than the owner or authorized user. HB 125 will also hold the firearm owner strictly liable for damages incurred if the firearm was obtained as a result of a violation of the storage law.

House Bill 279 restricts an individual from carrying or possessing firearm parts outside of their home or business and only allows transport of firearm parts in an enclosed container to specific locations such as an FFL for repair, a target range, organized, scheduled firearm show or exhibit, or for a “formal hunter or firearm use” instruction. Firearm parts include the barrel, bolt, slide, frame, receiver, trigger, hammer, firing pin, cylinder, magazine or any other part necessary for a firearm to operate. Read more

Gun Control

Enter to Win Alaska Combo Hunt Sweepstakes

Alaska Dall Sheep, Brown/Grizzly, Black Bear, Caribou, Wolf Combo Hunt Sweepstake

10-day guided hunt at Alaska’s oldest hunting lodge the Perrins Rainy Pass Lodge est. 1937. Experience a combo hunt of a lifetime that includes Dall Sheep, Brown/Grizzly, Black Bear, Wolf and Caribou. The package provides guide service, lodging, transportation in the field, meals, and field preparation of trophies.

Enter at bit.ly/AKCombo.

Sheep opens August 10th and most the sheep are harvested the first 10 days of the season. The King and Red Salmon runs have both typically hit by now which brings a lot of new Brown/Grizzlies to the area. One of the few places in Alaska where the State allows you to harvest two Brown/Grizzly Bears per person and they’re open year-round. This is the Best time of year for Brown/Grizzly Bear. Experience this authentic wilderness hunt on horseback in the heart of the Alaska Mountain Range just West of Denali National Park. Exquisite meals, great accommodations and first class service.

INCLUDED

    • 10 day guided hunt August 9-18, 2027 (Number of days hunting each species is not guaranteed due to weather)
    • One guide per one hunter
    • Meals and lodging while at the lodge or camp
    • Field preparation of trophies and transportation of trophies back to Anchorage
    • Any and all state, federal or private land use fees

 

Learn more at bit.ly/AKCombo. Read more

Hunting

SAF, CCRKBA Hail Trump Executive Order Protecting 2A Rights

BELLEVUE, Wash. —— The Second Amendment Foundation (SAF) and Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms (CCRKBA) join in congratulating President Donald Trump for his Executive Order Friday protecting Second Amendment Rights.

“It is reassuring that after four long years of the executive branch assaulting our Second Amendment rights that the Trump Administration is investigating avenues to undo the damage inflicted by the prior administration,” said SAF Executive Director Adam Kraut. “We look forward to seeing tangible results benefiting gun owners and the individual liberty of every American.”

“We are delighted that President Trump is following through on his promises to gun owners during the campaign,” said CCRKBA Chairman Alan Gottlieb. “We are particularly grateful to see he is directing the Attorney General to examine all orders, regulations and other actions taken by the Biden administration affecting the Second Amendment rights of law-abiding American citizens during Joe Biden’s entire term in office.” Read more

Firearms, Gun Control

NSSF Files Amended Claim Against New Jersey Anti-PLCAA Law

WASHINGTON, D.C. — NSSF®, The Firearm Industry Trade Association, filed an amended complaint against New Jersey’s anti-Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act (PLCAA) law that is not “consistent with the Constitution.”

NSSF filed a motion to reopen the NSSF v. Platkin case and for leave to file an amended complaint today in the U.S. District Court for the District of New Jersey. The motion and amended complaint were filed after New Jersey’s Attorney General Matthew J. Platkin brought a lawsuit against GLOCK, Inc., alleging the company is responsible for the criminal misuse of firearms when criminals modify and alter well-designed and lawfully-sold GLOCK pistols by illegally obtaining, possessing and installing a “switch” into the handgun.

NSSF previously sued to block New Jersey’s law from taking effect, but that challenge was dismissed by a three-judge panel for the U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit because the court determined that NSSF lacked standing at the time to challenge the law. The Office of Attorney General Platkin disavowed to the appellate court that it had any intention of suing firearm manufacturers for engaging in lawful commerce or placing liability on firearm manufacturers for the criminal misconduct of third parties beyond their control. They promised to only sue for a company’s own misconduct. In dismissing the case, Judge Stephanos Bibas wrote, “[W]e see little evidence that enforcement is looming. Because the Foundation has jumped the gun, its challenge must be dismissed.”

That has all changed now that Attorney General Platkin is seeking to enforce this unconstitutional anti-PLCAA law against GLOCK, Inc., and other industry members.

“As feared, Attorney General Platkin has weaponized the judicial system against firearm manufacturers who have done nothing but engage in lawful commerce and have not violated any federal or state statutes. New Jersey is seeking to blame GLOCK and other industry members for the actions of criminals,” said Lawrence G. Keane, NSSF’s Senior Vice President and General Counsel.

NSSF’s amended complaint argues that New Jersey’s public nuisance law flouts the will of Congress and undermines the U.S. Constitution because it is preempted by the bipartisan PLCAA. Additionally, it violates the First Amendment, Second Amendment, Due Process Clause and the Commerce Clause. Read more

Gun Control

Collaborative UP moose study launched

Aerial surveys and research studies aim to uncover insights into moose population trends and challenges in the Upper Peninsula

By RACHEL LINCOLN
Wildlife outreach coordinator
Michigan Department of Natural Resources

The 1,000-pound Michigan bull moose, standing 6 feet, 5 inches tall with 40-pound, paddle-like antlers, is the iconic symbol of the Upper Peninsula’s wildness.

Despite their majestic status, Michigan’s moose have faced significant challenges over the past century. To understand the factors shaping their survival today, researchers are examining population trends and the hurdles moose encounter.

“Michigan’s moose are a vital part of the Upper Peninsula’s ecosystem and identity,” said Tyler Petroelje, northern Michigan wildlife research specialist for the Michigan Department of Natural Resources. “Through this new study of factors limiting moose population growth, we’re working to uncover a clearer path for the future of moose in Michigan.”

Aerial survey

DNR wildlife biologists have conducted aerial surveys to estimate the moose population in the western U.P since 1997. Read more

Wildlife

Going Long

Length makes bullets heavy. And deadly. Does a pointed nose help or hinder?

When they caught up with the injured elephant, a right and a left from the client’s .600 double—7,500 foot-pounds each—had no effect. Quickly he reloaded, sent two more 900-grain bullets, then another pair, all into the head. By then, the fusillade had severely punished both elephant and hunter. Neither was yet prostrate when the professional hunter triggered his .450 No. 2. The elephant collapsed just four steps away.

The .600’s solids had flattened on bone and stopped shy of the vitals. These days, high-velocity bullets that disintegrate on moose, elk, even deer before penetrating yield the same unsatisfactory result.

A hunting bullet has two tasks: to hit and to kill. Target bullets need only hit. Since rifled barrels appeared in the 16th century, accuracy standards have tightened. Shooters expect ever-smaller groups on paper, and hits at greater distance. But for stopping elephants—or tumbling deer or elk—good accuracy is often just hitting a melon as far as you can throw it.

Bullets that fly flat and nip tight knots far away gain you nothing in cover. They may even cost you kills. Read more
Ammunition

Win a Fishing Trip for Two with Legendary Angler Mark Zona Presented by MyOutdoorTV

DENVER – Reel in the fishing adventure of a lifetime by entering for a fishing trip for two with legendary angler Mark Zona in “Zona’s Awesome Fishing Sweepstakes” presented by MyOutdoorTV. Running now through February 17, this one-of-a-kind sweepstakes offers a grand prize that’s every angler’s dream—a day spent fishing on Michigan’s renowned Lake St. Clair with none other than professional angler and TV personality, Mark Zona. To enter, visit www.myoutdoortv.com/zonasweeps.

Mark Zona, host of Zona’s Awesome Fishing Show, available to stream on MyOutdoorTV, is known for his unparalleled expertise and humor, making him one of the biggest names in the fishing world. He’s ready to guide one lucky winner and their guest on an unforgettable adventure filled with big catches, stunning lake views, and plenty of Zona-style fun.

The sweepstakes is free to enter, and there’s no better way to create memories on the water with a pro leading the way. Don’t miss the chance to experience all the thrills of Lake St. Clair fishing at its best!

To enter, visit www.myoutdoortv.com/zonasweeps. Entries will close at the end of the day on February 17, 2025.

For official rules and more information, head to www.myoutdoortv.com/zonasweeps. Read more

Contests, Fishing

Maryland Alert: Firearm Excise Tax Bills

GW: Just another end run around the Constitution. Sure gets old!
Contact your Delegate today and urge them to Oppose these New Taxes!

On Thursday, February 13th at 1:00PM, the House Ways and Means Committee will hear two bills aimed at creating new, punitive taxes on firearms, accessories, and ammunition. If passed, these bills will have a significant impact on industry operations in Maryland.

HB 387 imposes an excise tax of 11% on the sale of firearms from dealers in the state and on sales from outside the state to residents of Maryland.

HB 937 increases the sales and use tax rate to 12% for firearms, firearm accessories, and ammunition.

These new taxes are in addition to the 11% excise tax already imposed by the Pittman-Robertson Act. Proponents’ arguments that the money will fund programs and services to decrease gun violence are disingenuous. These taxes are punitive and have the intention to drive firearm retailers and manufacturers out of the state.

Please take action today by contacting your delegate and asking them to oppose these new taxes. You can also reach out to committee members and voice your opposition directly. Ways and Means committee membership is listed here.

Gun Control

Browning Trail Cameras Introduces LPC Series Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Packs

Browning Trail Cameras is proud to announce the launch of its innovative LPC Series Rechargeable Lithium-Ion Battery Packs, designed to provide unmatched power, convenience, and eco-conscious performance for trail camera enthusiasts. Featuring three versatile models—LPC-1, LPC-2, and LPC-3—these battery packs revolutionize the way users power their trail cameras in the field.

Efficient Power for Every Adventure

The LPC Series eliminates the need for disposable AA batteries, offering an impressive 30% increase in battery life to keep your cameras running longer. Whether you’re monitoring game or securing remote property, these lithium-ion packs ensure uninterrupted performance, so you never miss a critical moment.

Each battery pack is engineered for easy swapping in the field and comes equipped with a USB-C charging cable for fast, hassle-free recharging. The LPC Series provides a seamless power solution, enhancing the performance of your compatible Browning trail cameras while reducing environmental impact.

Tailored Compatibility for Every Model Read more

Hunting, Optics
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