Shiawassee River State Game Area spring birding tour canceled because of flooding; two more tours planned

Shiawassee SGA flooding 2026
Contact: Cameron Dole, 906-226-1352 or Matt O’Neill, 989-865-6211Michiganders can still explore wild wetland habitats with two birding tours at Nayanquing Point and Portage Marsh state wildlife areas

A birding tour planned for Saturday, April 11, has been canceled due to floodwater making the Shiawassee River State Game Area in St. Charles inaccessible, the Michigan Department of Natural Resources reports. Read more

Heckler & Koch Launches New VP9CC Micro-Compact Pistol

 

 

HK announces the latest addition to the VP9 line of polymer pistols, the VP9CC micro-compact. It is a no-compromise, fully-featured, micro-compact from our factory in Oberndorf, Germany.

“The best thing about the VP9CC is it is simply a micro-compact VP9, our most successful, best-selling pistol family,” said HK Director of Sales & Business Development Nathan Scheuth. “While the size is new, the design is not. You can trust it to perform like an HK.”

The VP9CC comes equipped with well-known ergonomic features like ambidextrous controls, a paddle magazine release, rear charging supports and a best-in-class trigger.

Surprisingly adaptable for a micro compact, VP9CC comes standard with six interchangeable backstraps for a truly custom fit. Optics-equipped models feature a mounted Vortex Defender CCW–Vortex’s newest, top-of-the-line, micro-sized closed-emitter pistol optic. Optics-ready models benefit from an innovative new mounting system that allows most optics to be mounted more than 40 percent lower than on standard adaptor plate systems.

As expected, HK’s legendary reliability and durability come at no extra charge. The VP9CC meets or exceeds all NATO and HK standards for pistols of all sizes. Additionally, The VP family’s unique Multi-Axis Safety System means you can trust it to be safe as well as reliable and durable.

You will find no polymer micro-compact pistol in the marketplace at any price that offers so much in such a small package.

VP9CC shipments have already begun. They are expected to be at all HK dealers by the end of April. Read more

New for 2026, Working Lever Action Essentials: The Chiappa 92 Core

Dayton, OH – The Chiappa 92 Core in the Wildlands series is built around one priority: a lever-action that stays simple, fast, and ready without drifting into range-toy excess. It is intended to be a working rifle that shoulders naturally, cycles smoothly, and carries the features that matter most when the moment is short and conditions are not ideal. Chiappa describes it as focused on “simplicity, instinct, and reliability,” which defines the Core: practical configuration, purposeful features, and a classic platform enhanced with Wildlands refinement.

Each Wildlands rifle brings a unique, practical approach to the lever-gun market. Designed for optimal usability and versatility, Wildlands Lever Action Rifles represent a balanced blend of useful and classic design. With modern additions, each Wildlands rifle addresses needs that traditional aesthetics did not fully accommodate decades, and in some cases centuries, ago. The 92 Core has an angle eject versus top eject action, allowing for an optional picatinny mount for the purpose of adding an optic. The forend of the handsome walnut stock features three integrated M-LOK slots for tastefully mounting modern firearm accessories.

The 92 Core is chambered in .44 MAG and feeds 8+1, pairing a proven lever-action format with a cartridge that remains well suited for woods distances, property use, and close-to-mid-range hunting. Its 16.5-inch (419mm) barrel keeps the rifle compact and responsive. Chiappa threads the muzzle 5/8×24, providing compatibility with modern muzzle devices where legal and practical. Read more

Bushnell Launches New A-Series Optics for a New Generation of Outdoor Discovery

Stylish, capable binoculars and monoculars built for travel, exploration, and everyday adventure

Bushnell, a Revelyst Inc. brand, today announced the launch of the new A-Series, a fresh outdoor optics line designed to make it easier for everyone to get outside and see more. Built for travelers, hikers, campers, and everyday explorers, the A-Series combines approachable performance, modern design, and reliable durability across a lineup that includes the A1 binoculars, A3 binoculars, A3 monocular, and A5 binoculars.

The A-Series was created for people who want optics that feel easy to bring along and rewarding to use. Across the lineup, Bushnell pairs bright, crisp views with a nature-inspired design language and features made for real outdoor use, including EXO Barrier® lens protection, IPX7 waterproofing, and Bushnell’s Lifetime Warranty. Select models also feature the Snap-Lock™ strap system for quick attachment and removal, while the A3 and A5 include protective cases for added convenience.

The launch is supported by Bushnell’s “Life’s a Trip” campaign, a creative platform that positions A-Series as the optics line for everyday wonder — from road trips and weekend hikes to park visits, campsites, and spontaneous moments outside. The campaign is designed to connect a new generation of consumers with optics that feel approachable, stylish, and ready to go wherever the day leads.

“The A-Series is about opening the door wider to outdoor discovery,” said Carlos Lozano, Head of Bushnell. “We wanted to build optics that feel relevant to the way people explore today — easier to carry, easier to use, and designed to fit naturally into everything from road trips and weekend hikes to everyday moments outside.”

The lineup gives consumers a clear set of options based on how and where they explore:

    • A1 Binoculars: Pocket-size performance in a compact form that is easy to carry anywhere.
    • A3 Binoculars: A balanced option that combines portability with added detail for travel and trail use.
    • A3 Monocular: Lightweight, one-hand viewing in a go-anywhere format.
    • A5 Binoculars: The flagship of the line, delivering larger 42 mm objectives and more immersive outdoor viewing.

Read more

Federal’s New Punch Jacketed Hollow Point 9mm Luger, 115 Grain

Federal Ammunition is currently shipping the new Personal Defense Punch, 9mm Luger, 115-grain load. It features a high-quality brass case with a primer seal and balanced performance across different platforms and through the most common barriers. The new lighter load rounds out Punch’s popular product line.

Personal Defense Punch

Punch draws from Federal’s decades of experience designing the world’s finest defensive handgun loads. This new Punch 115-grain Jacketed Hollow Point load is the result of many customer requests, specifically from those who like to train with 115-grain options, such as Federal Champion Training or Federal American Eagle Full Metal Jacketed (FMJ) 115-grain loads.

The bullets for each Punch offering are carefully selected and engineered to optimize the caliber’s terminal performance for the most common situations. Its quality brass and sealed primer deliver reliable feeding and ignition.

Part No. / Description / MSRP
PD9P2 / 9mm Luger, 115-grain, Punch JHP, 1,180 fps / $24.99 Read more

DNR watching water levels at the Cheboygan Dam

Water flows out of the Cheboygan Dam gates this afternoon.Michigan Department of Natural Resources Parks and Recreation Division officials are closely monitoring water levels in the Mullett Lake Watershed after recent weather events, including rain, snow and melting.

“We are experiencing very high water levels. All the dam gates are open, and we are passing as much water through the dam gates as we can,” said Rich Hill, DNR Gaylord District supervisor.

The DNR is working with local officials to manage the situation. A comprehensive plan is in place to help keep the public safe should high water conditions persist.

The outflow from Mullett Lake and the Black River feed the Cheboygan River behind the Cheboygan Dam, before the river flows through the town of Cheboygan and north to its mouth at Lake Huron.

The DNR has been checking water levels at Mullett Lake, along the Cheboygan River and at the dam over several days. The water level at the dam today measured 21.5 inches below the top of the dam.

Normal spring runoff, a significant recent snowstorm and rains have all contributed to the high water. Rain or snow are forecasted for the area tomorrow.

The Cheboygan Lock and Dam Complex is comprised of the Cheboygan Lock and Dam, as well as a privately owned hydroelectric facility. The complex is regulated by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission.

The watershed covers approximately 1,455 square miles.

Volunteer to protect Michigan’s spawning sturgeon along Black River this spring

April 7, 2026
Contact: Jim and Mary Paulson (Sturgeon For Tomorrow), 989-763-7568 or Neal Godby (DNR), 231-340-2621

Large lake sturgeon in the Black River (Cheboygan County).The Black Lake Chapter of Sturgeon For Tomorrow is working in partnership with the Michigan Department of Natural Resources and tribal governments to protect lake sturgeon from illegal harvest during their six-week spawning season. The organization is seeking volunteers in mid-April through early June to stand guard as mature fish head upstream to their spawning sites along the Black River in Cheboygan County.

Sgt. Mike Mshar, who leads the DNR Law Enforcement Division’s efforts on the river, said, “This program, which protects this iconic species when the fish are most vulnerable, is a model of how agencies and the public can cooperate to get needed work accomplished.”

Volunteers are assigned shifts along the river to stand watch and report suspicious activity to the DNR conservation officers patrolling the area. The program also uses aerial surveillance for additional monitoring. Read more

Springfield Armory Announces the Launch of the SA-35 4″ 9mm

 

GENESEO, ILL. – Springfield Armory® is proud to announce the launch of the SA-35™ 4″ 9mm, offering a unique new addition to this incredibly popular line of semi-automatic pistols.

Based on one of the most prolific and popular pistols in small arms history, the 9mm Springfield Armory® SA-35 gave shooters a modern take on a revered classic. Featuring subtle but significant upgrades to John Moses Browning’s original P-35 design, the SA-35 captured the appeal of the “wood and steel” era of arms making. With this new adaptation of the proven design, shooters have access to a pistol with all the benefits of the original SA-35 pistol, but now with a shorter and more compact barrel.

Like all SA-35 variants, the new 4” SA-35 is made in the United States and features rugged forged steel parts for strength and durability. This includes not only the slide and frame, but also the shorter 4” barrel. The barrel — as with all SA-35 pistols — features an improved feed ramp design for reliable functioning with today’s top defensive ammunition.

Further rounding out the design are the SA-35’s improved ergonomics and controls, such as a recontoured hammer to prevent the risk of “hammer bite” and an extended thumb safety. Additionally, the pistols employ modern sights made up of a white dot front and Tactical Rack black serrated rear sight. And lastly, a flush-fitting 15-round magazine ups capacity over the original design’s 13-round capacity, feeding into the pistol’s beveled magazine well.

The 4” SA-35 features an attractive matte-blue finish on its carbon steel slide and frame, complemented by a pair of checkered walnut grips contoured to enhance the pistol’s ergonomics and handling characteristics. MSRP is $799.

“The SA-35 proved to be an immediate success due to its combination of traditional design and modern enhancements,” said Steve Kramer, Vice President of Marketing for Springfield Armory. “This new 4” SA-35 offers all those same benefits and appeal, but now in a smaller and faster-handling version.”

 

  • SA-35 4″ 9mm | HP9204 | 706397980801 | MSRP: $799

Read more

Savage Arms Expands Model 110 Lineup with New Predator and Tactical Rifles

Savage Arms®, an iconic firearm manufacturer, introduces three specialized rifles in the Model 110 lineup: the 110 Core Predator110 Core Tactical and 110 Ultralite Predator. These models are engineered to meet the specific demands of tactical operators and predator hunters, offering advanced features for enhanced performance and adaptability.

In addition to the all-new AccuFit V2, these rifles feature a beavertail forend that incorporates an ARCA rail with M-Lok slots. The Predator and Tactical rifles also have higher capacity magazines, holding up to ten rounds.

“Hunters and precision shooters demand rifles that are adaptable, accurate and built for real-world conditions,” said RJ Contorno, Senior Product Manager at Savage Arms. “With these three new models, we’ve combined our proven 110 action with enhanced ergonomics, modularity and higher-capacity magazine capability to deliver platforms that perform whether you’re calling predators, shooting long range or covering miles in the field.”

110 Core Predator

The 110 Core Predator is designed for serious predator hunters, featuring a hunter green stock equipped with the AccuFit V2 system. This system allows toolless adjustments for the length of pull and comb height, ensuring a personalized fit. Interchangeable grip modules further enhance ergonomics and comfort.

The beavertail forend incorporates M-Lok® panels and an integral ARCA rail, providing a stable shooting platform and accessory attachment. The rifle boasts a Black Ink Cerakoted barreled action, a black jeweled bolt body with a threaded bolt handle and a user-adjustable AccuTrigger. Depending on the caliber, it is available with 16.5–22″ carbon steel barrels featuring medium contour straight fluting and threaded muzzles. The 110 Core Predator utilizes AICS magazines and is offered in left-hand configurations. MSRP for the 110 Core Predator is $1,099.

110 Core Tactical Read more

Trijicon Releases VCOG 1-8×28 Riflescope in Flat Dark Earth Finish

Wixom, MI – Trijicon®, Inc., a global leader in advanced aiming solutions for hunting, shooting, military, and law enforcement professionals, is excited to introduce the VCOG® 1-8×28 in a new Cerakote® FIR-265 Flat Dark Earth finish. Cerakote Gen II coatings are engineered for military small arms and crew-served weapons, providing NIR-compliant signature reduction along with exceptional durability, reliability, and corrosion resistance in accordance with MIL-DTL-44436.

The Trijicon VCOG® 1-8×28 is a rugged, variable-magnification riflescope engineered for both close-quarters battle and long-range precision. Built from forged 7075-T6 aircraft-grade aluminum, it is virtually indestructible. Premium glass delivers outstanding clarity, color fidelity, and zero distortion.

The new VCOG® 1-8×28 in FDE finish will be available in MOA, MRAD and SCO (Squad Common Optic) configurations that are optimized for multi-platform use, supporting a wide range of calibers, bullet weights, and barrel lengths. As a first focal plane design, all subtensions and holds remain accurate across the entire magnification range, enabling rapid and precise engagement at any distance.

Ruggedized electronics drive an LED reticle built for extreme conditions. Powered by a single AA lithium battery (included), the VCOG provides up to 633 hours of runtime at setting 6 and offers 11 brightness settings—2 night-vision, 8 daylight, and 1 super-bright.

An integrated dial fin allows smooth magnification changes, while near-constant eye relief eliminates the need for head or stock adjustments. The optic is fully waterproof to 20 meters (66 ft.), ensuring reliability in any environment. Read more

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