Big Nest Boxes for Owls, Kestrels, & Ducks

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Who wouldn’t enjoy seeing young Eastern Screech Owls peering out of the entrance to a nest box they provided (photo by Judy Fairchild).
A male American Kestrel surveys the area outside a big nest box that a pair has adopted for the nesting season. Big nest boxes supplement the lack of safe, natural nesting cavities and help to reduce competition for nest sites.
A female Wood Duck perches atop a big nest box during an incubation break. You can position a big nest box for ducks near a wetland, or in the midst of a marsh.

For another level of birding fun, consider adding a big nest box to your property, or to a nearby park or nature center – with permission of course. Big nest boxes provide additional, safer nesting locations for large cavity nesting birds, including such impressive birds as Screech Owls, American Kestrels, Wood Ducks, and Hooded Mergansers. Large natural cavities suitable for these nesting birds are in especially short supply, and we can provide safer nesting options for larger cavity nesting birds by providing Big Nest Boxes with all the right features.

The larger cavity nesting birds – owls, kestrels, and ducks – primarily rely on large natural holes in tree trunks and large cavities in branches, but these are not always safe from predators like raccoons, large snakes, and tree squirrels. Large woodpecker cavities can be used by small owls and kestrels, but ducks can only use larger natural cavities that have a bigger entrance hole. Read more

Wildlife

XS Sights Introduces Optic Plates and OR-Height Sight Bundles for Glock MOS Pistols

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XS® Sights is pleased to introduce XS Optic Plates for Glock MOS pistols (for ACRO and RMR footprint optics) and low-profile XS Optics-Ready (OR) Minimalist Sights for Glock that do not obstruct the field of view. These backup iron sights (BUIS) combined with the XS Optic Plate offer a complete mounting solution for those who like to run a red dot on their pistol yet want maximum visibility in the optic window while having a simple back-up sight picture in case the optic fails.

The XS Optic Plates and Optics-Ready Sights are available as bundles or sold individually.

XS Optic Plates for Glock, available to fit ACRO or RMR footprint optics, are designed for strength and reliability, providing a secure and seamless mounting solution. Each plate features precision CNC machining and a durable BlackNitride finish for enhanced corrosion resistance, ensuring long-lasting performance. Engineered for ideal optic alignment, these plates are compatible with the most common red dots on the market, offering a rock-solid foundation for law enforcement, self-defense, and competition use.

Features:

  • Precision CNC machined steel
  • 30% more thread engagement
  • BlackNitride finish for corrosion resistance
  • Easy installation
  • Made in the USA

The plates will fit the following Glock MOS Models: 17, 19, 34, 45, & 47

Retail Price: $82.99

XS OR Minimalist Sights eliminate the need for heigh calculations, giving you the perfect co-witness out of the box. XS OR Sights for Glock pistols are simple and low-profile back up iron sights to maximize visibility through your optic’s window. Read more

Firearms, Optics

FPC Asks Supreme Court to Hear Age-Based Gun Ban Case

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Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) has asked the United States Supreme Court to hear its Worth v. Jacobson case, agreeing with the State of Minnesota that the Court should take up the State’s petition in order to affirm FPC’s victory below and eliminate unconstitutional age-based bans across the country. FPC’s Supreme Court brief and the Eighth Circuit’s unanimous decision in favor of FPC and its co-plaintiffs can be viewed at firearmspolicy.org/worth.

“While the court below correctly held that Minnesota’s age restriction on carrying firearms is unconstitutional, [Minnesota] is correct that the federal courts of appeal have divided over the constitutionality of such laws,” argues FPC’s response brief. “Whether the government may prevent peaceable 18-to-20-year-old Americans from acquiring or carrying firearms is a question of fundamental importance, and Respondents agree that it merits this Court’s review.”

“This case presents the perfect vehicle for the Supreme Court to take up this incredibly important issue and hold that all peaceable adults have the right to keep and bear arms. In case after case, FPC and our allies have successfully shown that these age-based bans are unconstitutional and cannot survive scrutiny. The Court should grant review and affirm the Eighth Circuit’s well-reasoned decision,” explained FPC President Brandon Combs. Read more

Gun Control

ESCORT BullTac – Mag Fed: The Next Evolution in Tactical Pump-Action Shotguns

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Pump action shotguns are found in nearly every industry that requires firearms. Pump action designs offer versatility and dependability mixed with firepower unmatched by any other type of firearm. The pump action shotgun has cemented itself in law enforcement, hunting, and sport. New for 2025, ESCORT Shotguns releases the BullTac – Mag Fed, a tactical pump-action shotgun for everyone.

The BullTac – Mag Fed is available in 12-gauge, 20-gauge, or .410 cal, all with 3-inch chambers. The bullpup design features the use of Escort’s already available VTS magazines for capacity, versatility, and relative ease in changing ammunition type. Great for sport, security, and law enforcement, the BullTac – Mag Fed features a carry handle riser with built in front and adjustable rear sites. A removable, vented muzzle brake and muzzle cap are included for use depending on need, while accessories can be mounted via the integrated picatinny rail sections.

With a bullpup design, the polymer stock and forend provide excellent all-weather use with simple and effective tactile retention. Flashlights, lasers, magazines, and shell holders may be quickly attached and detached for all-in-one carry options without additional, separate accessory holders. This short bullpup simplifies home defense, security, and law enforcement work. Read more

Firearms

ATN Corp’s Highly Demanded TICO LTV 640×480 Ready to Ship

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ATN Corp, the foremost authority in advanced Smart Digital, Night Vision, and Thermal Vision Optics is pleased to announce that one of their latest innovations, the TICO LTV 640×480 is ready to ship. This groundbreaking thermal clip-on device offers a revolutionary upgrade for hunters and observers, transforming any daytime scope into a high-performance thermal sight. The product was unveiled at SHOT Show 2025 in Las Vegas and received incredible feedback with staggering demand.

With the TICO LTV, you’ll experience a significant upgrade in your hunting and outdoor gear with the TICO LTV from ATN. This innovative thermal clip-on effortlessly converts your daytime scope into a high-performance thermal sight, offering unprecedented benefits for predator detection and observation. With versatile viewing modes including Black Hot, White Hot, and Color, the TICO LTV adapts to various environments and target detection needs, ensuring you never miss a moment.

The TICO LTV is engineered for simplicity and efficiency. It attaches quickly to your rifle scope using the Scope Mounting System (SMS) or Quick Detach Mount (QDM), providing a secure and swift connection. There’s no need for zeroing; just install, align with the reticle, and you’re ready to go. Despite its advanced features, including a 1024×768 OLED display, the TICO LTV remains lightweight at just 1.1 lbs and boasts an ultra-low power consumption for over 8 hours of continuous use. Read more

Optics

Hatsan Velox in OD Green

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Releasing in 2025, HatsanUSA will offer the Velox PCP semi-auto air pistol in OD Green. Functioning identically to the already popular black and FDE Velox, the new color is an addition that is sure to stand out.

Available in .22 cal or .25 cal, the Velox ensures an unparalleled shooting experience for enthusiasts of all levels. Its trigger system offers a light, smooth pull with a precise release. The adjustable fiber optic sights provide easy to see shot placement. A removable 55cc air cylinder with quick disconnect fitting and pressure gauge simplifies charging and pressure monitoring. Equipped with adjustable, removable fiber optic rear and front sights, the Velox integrates an optics rail supporting both 11mm dovetail and 22mm Weaver optic mounts. The Velox features a ½ UNF threaded muzzle tip, accommodating various sound moderators according to your preference.

A standout feature is a spare quick-change cylinder and magazine storage in the grip for always ready-to-go power. A custom hard case is included with the Velox OD Green, always providing safe and dedicated storage. This blend of power and technology continues to look great with the OD Green finish, available this 2025. Read more

Firearms

Springfield Armory Announces Coyote Brown and Tactical Gray SA-35 Pistols

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Springfield Armory® is proud to announce the release of two new variants of the popular SA-35™ 9mm pistol in Cerakote® Coyote Brown and Tactical Gray, featuring ruggedly durable G10 grips in complementary colors. The Coyote Brown variant will initially be a Lipsey’s distributor-exclusive model for 60 days upon its launch.

The U.S.-made line of SA-35 pistols takes advantage of modern materials and manufacturing techniques while still retaining the appeal of the original P-35 design. The pistols feature forged carbon steel frames and slides as well as cold hammer forged barrels for maximum strength and durability.

The pistols also feature numerous performance and ergonomic enhancements. These include subtle but significant changes to the barrel feed ramp to ensure the pistols will work with today’s cutting-edge defensive rounds. Further upgrades include a factory-tuned trigger, 15-round flush-fit magazine, beveled magazine well, recontoured “no-bite” hammer design, modern Tactical Rack sights, extended thumb safety and more.

Additionally, the choice was made to configure the SA-35 without the magazine disconnect as found in the original design. This brings it in line with the rest of Springfield Armory’s offerings and provides the ability for magazines to drop freely. Read more

Firearms

Reckless Lawsuits Against Firearm Industry Members SB 318

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Please Call Your State Senator Today!

SB 318 maliciously targets responsible, law-abiding firearm retailers and manufacturers with frivolous litigation intended to bankrupt and destroy them. This legislation opens all firearm industry members to “fishing expeditions” under the Unfair Trade Practices Act (UTPA) initiated by politically-motivated advocacy organizations and attorneys. Punitive damage awards for a violation are increased from $300 to a minimum of $250,000 (an 83,000% increase), but only for firearm industry members. Other industries will see penalties increase from $300 to $10,000 (a 3,200% increase).

Provisions & Concerns Include:

  • Proponents deceptively claim this legislation pursues firearm industry members who violate laws and who refuse to change heavily-regulated practices to somehow counter criminal conduct such as converting semiautomatic firearms to fully-automatic firearms. In truth, SB 318 will be used against all lawful firearm businesses that advertise in any manner in New Mexico because of the vague, subjective nature of the UTPA and dramatically increased potential winnings.
  • Incredibly, a violation of the UTPA includes any advertisement or statement that “may” or “tends to” be misleading. An ad that simply states that a modern firearm is “safe” or “effective” for self-defense is likely to trigger a suit because opponents of firearm ownership regularly claim that firearms are neither safe nor effective. Currently, maximum awards under the UTPA are set between $100 and $300. The vague law has not been a problem to date because there has been no financial incentive to abuse it.
  • Authorizes any citizen merely “aware of” a suspected violation of the UTPA to file an action against a member of the firearm industry (someone who has seen or heard an ad and disagrees with it). This is intended to allow advocacy groups like Giffords Law Center to encourage their members to pile on any claimed violation. In order to sue any other industry in the state, plaintiffs must show that they have been harmed in some manner.
  • Removes any disincentive against filing frivolous claims. SB 318 effectively eliminates the possibility that defendants will be awarded court costs and attorney fees if they prevail.

Take Action: Read more

Gun Control

Bid On the Premier Firearms From the Collection of Legendary Gunwriter Dick Metcalf

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From March 10th through March 23rd, GunBroker.com is offering collectors a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to bid on more than 80 firearms from the personal collection of legendary gunwriter Dick Metcalf.

For more than 40 years, Dick Metcalf was a cornerstone of the firearms media world. As a contributing editor to Guns & Ammo, Shooting Times, Petersen’s Hunting and Handguns, Metcalf was one of the most influential gunwriters of the modern era. Metcalf was a familiar face through digital channels as well as several shows on the Sportsman Channel.

With a PhD in history, Metcalf was able to frame both products and practices within a larger picture and built a legacy as an expert in handgun hunting, long-range handgunning, modern sporting rifles and general firearms design.

Over the course of his career, Metcalf amassed a significant collection of unique, custom, prototype and consecutive-serialed firearms. Revolvers from Smith & Wesson, Ruger and Dan Wesson stand out, as do custom handguns from Ed Brown, Richard Heinie, Mag-Na-Port and the Remington Custom Shop.

Highlights include:

Outstanding Smith & Wesson Revolvers

Given Metcalf’s close relationship with Smith & Wesson, it isn’t surprising that a number of very special revolvers from Big Blue came to live in his gun room. Examples include a lettered prototype (one of 12) Model 63 Kit Gun .22 LR, another Model 63 with an uncataloged six-inch barrel and ivory grips, a lettered Model 60-1 (one of 171) with a three-inch barrel, a Model 686-3 in Midnight Black, several .44 Magnums including a pre-Model (five screw) pre-Model 29, a consecutive pair of prototype Model 460 VXRs (one a Shooting Times cover gun) and a consecutive pair of Model 460 VXRs from the first producton run. Others with engraving, rare finishes and special features are included.

Group of 17 Rugers with VIP serial number 197

As a frequent writer on Ruger firearms, Metcalf was given his own VIP serial number. Each of the 17 rifles and handguns in this group of five rifles, six pistols and six revolvers all wear his VIP serial number ending in 197 number. All but one include its factory box.

Long Guns Read more

Firearms

Sit Comfortably in the Field, on the Sidelines with ThermaSeat D-Wedge

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Whether you’re running and gunning, trolling for trout, or catching a college game, the D-Wedge from ThermaSeat provides the portable support you need for long-lasting comfort.

This self-supporting seat boasts the best ergonomic position for extended sitting stints, a lightweight construction, and breathable mesh for added comfort. The D-Wedge is finished with waterproof SilentTouch fabric in Mossy Oak Camo, Realtree XTRA, Coyote Brown, or Black and sports an over-the-shoulder carry strap with side-release buckles. Built to last a lifetime, the durable D-Wedge features military-grade hardware, webbing, and a rubber-coated non-slip base.

To view the full lineup of ThermaSeat products, visit ThermaSeat.com.

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