Beretta USA launches its Multifield Performance Collection, a versatile apparel line featuring technical layers and outerwear designed to transition seamlessly from field and range to everyday wear. The collection includes pieces like the Cadet Flannel, Abisko Full Zip Fleece, Highland Heritage Windblock Sweater, and Halifax Sherpa Jacket, available through Beretta authorized dealers and online.
Canik USA's Prime Radian, developed in collaboration with Radian Weapons, won both Best New Handgun and Best New Overall Product awards at the 2026 NASGW-POMA Caliber Awards. Selected from over 100 entries, the Prime Radian was recognized by industry judges for its innovation, performance, value, and market impact.
PROOF Research's Elevation MTR FDX rifle earned Outdoor Life's Editor's Choice award for Best Hunting Rifle of 2026. Shooting Editor John B. Snow praised the rifle's build quality and performance, highlighting the innovative PXT barrel technology that achieved a 0.58-inch 20-shot group average during testing.
Ballistic's Best 2026 Hunting Edition Editors' Choice Awards, featured on Athlon Untamed, recognize outstanding hunting products across eight categories including All-Purpose Shotgun, New Spotting Scope, and Backcountry Precision Rifle. The selections highlight innovation and practical performance from Bleecker Street Publications' expert editorial team.
Federal Ammunition's 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak cartridge won the Caliber Award in the Best Ammunition New Product category from NASGW and POMA at the 2026 NASGW Expo. The high-pressure cartridge uses Peak Alloy cases and delivers 300 fps faster velocities while maintaining similar recoil in existing 6.5 Creedmoor rifles.
Century Arms received the Importer of the Year award from the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers (NASGW) at the 2026 Caliber Awards dinner in Phoenix. The recognition, voted by NASGW wholesaler members, honors the company's exceptional service, partnership, and support within the shooting sports industry's distribution channel.
The U.S. Court of Appeals for the Third Circuit affirmed that the federal government cannot impose a lifetime gun ban on Edward Williams based on his decades-old nonviolent DUI conviction. Firearms Policy Coalition (FPC) supported the case, with the court ruling that America's historical tradition permits disarming dangerous people, not permanently disarming peaceable citizens for nonviolent offenses.
Firearms Policy Coalition filed an appeal brief in Wehr-Darroca v. District of Columbia, challenging D.C.'s ban on magazines holding more than ten rounds. FPC seeks to overturn precedent that imposes heightened barriers on Second Amendment challenges, arguing gun owners shouldn't face felony prosecution to contest unconstitutional laws in court.
SLG2, Inc. is bringing its Shoot Like A Girl experience to Bass Pro Shops in Concord, North Carolina on October 17-18. The Grand Safety Tour features a mobile range with firearm safety training using FATS simulators, archery instruction, and demonstrations from brands including GTM Original and Black Rifle Coffee.
CCW Safe, a national leader in self-defense legal services, will participate as a featured panel speaker at The Great 2A Insurance Town Hall on October 17, 2026, in Petaluma, California. Director of Field Sales Jerome Vinet will represent CCW Safe alongside other firearm legal protection organizations to discuss coverage, legal preparedness, and responsible firearm ownership.
Silencer Central launched "Ship to Dealer," allowing customers to purchase suppressors online and pick them up at licensed dealers nationwide. The service follows ATF guidance eliminating NFA registration requirements for suppressors, available in 27 states alongside Silencer Central's traditional front-door delivery option.
Brownells reaffirmed its long-term commitment to the European market, with Chairman and CEO Pete Brownell stating the company is not leaving Europe. The company is finalizing its European distribution strategy and will announce additional details regarding products, ordering, and distribution partnerships through official channels.
Following an October 9 ATF announcement, the agency will no longer enforce NFA requirements for suppressors, short-barreled rifles, and related items. SilencerCo explains the implications for suppressor ownership, including federal non-enforcement of registration and interstate transport restrictions, while emphasizing state laws remain applicable.
Trijicon announces the new Credo 1-10x28 and RCR Combo, combining two proven optics with Q-LOC mounting technology for close-range speed and extended-distance precision. The system features a first focal plane dual red/green illuminated reticle and ruggedized closed-emitter red dot for extreme durability.
Trijicon introduces a new Standard Green Duplex reticle option for its AccuPoint 1-8x24 riflescope, featuring the company's battery-free tritium and fiber-optic illumination system. The versatile 1-8x magnification scope is designed for hunters and shooters preferring traditional duplex reticles with reliable performance across varying lighting conditions.
ZeroTech Optics USA introduces the Trace X 5-25x56 FFP – RMG 3 Illuminated riflescope, featuring an illuminated MIL grid reticle with a 30-mil vertical holdover scale, 34 MRAD elevation travel, and first focal plane design for competition, long-range shooting, and hunting applications.
ZEISS Outdoor expanded the ZEISS Conquest Apia spotting scope lineup with new 65S straight and 85A/85S models offering increased magnification up to 24-60x and enhanced eyepiece configurations. The compact, durable scopes deliver premium ZEISS optics performance for hunters and shooters with availability beginning in November 2026.
The National Rifle Association released a 30-second ad targeting Democrat U.S. Senate candidate James Talarico's support for banning assault weapons and standard-capacity magazines. The ad is part of the NRA's multi-million dollar investment to retain pro-gun majorities in Congress, supported by the Gun Bus tour and grassroots get-out-the-vote efforts across Texas.
Lipsey's, a major firearms distributor, is adding the Alpha Foxtrot Romulus to its catalog. Manufactured by Dasan USA in Duluth, Georgia, this American-made double-stack 1911 offers five barrel options, multiple calibers, and optic mounting configurations for recreational, competitive, and defensive use.
Flux Defense released the KOMPAKT Universal IWB Holster, the smallest light-bearing holster compatible with Glock, Sig Sauer, and Springfield Armory pistols. Made from glass-reinforced nylon, it features adjustable retention and a concealment claw for reduced printing.
Derya Arms unveiled the OBone, its first suppressor manufactured in Jacksonville, Florida. The .22 LR silencer is rated for full-automatic fire and priced at $199 MSRP, featuring user-serviceable aluminum baffles and a steel mount with no minimum barrel length requirement.
Wilson Combat launched match grade replacement barrels for Remington 700 pattern actions, precision button rifled from 416R stainless steel. Available in .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor with threaded muzzles and optional Armor-Tuff® finish at $399.95 MSRP.
Foxtrot Mike Products announces the ISU-9 Integrally Suppressed 9mm Upper Receiver, featuring eight years of patented suppressor development. The innovative system reduces recoil and reciprocating mass while delivering exceptional accuracy at an MSRP of $499, available through Foxtrot Mike Products, Primary Arms, and Silencer Shop.
Hornady announced its 2027 product lineup including new SBR Suppressed ammunition, expanded Subsonic and Frontier Cartridge lines, reloading equipment like the Lock-N-Load Classic Pro Accuracy Kit, and Hornady Security items including a 2-in-1 Dehumidifier Light and Square-Lok AR Upper Mount.
Zanders, a national distributor based in Sparta, Illinois, announced the CZ DUTY 4.0F 9mm pistol is now in stock and ready to ship. The full-size handgun features a 4-inch barrel, black finish, manual safety, and comes with 17-round and 19-round magazine options.
Taurus Holdings, Inc. announced the Brace-Ready TX22, the newest addition to its TX22 family, featuring the Strike Industries FSA Lite folding brace for enhanced stability and control. The optics-ready platform includes a threaded barrel, comes with two magazines, and pairs well with Taurus USA's new TTX22 titanium suppressor.
Federal Ammunition launched an updated Ballistic AE App featuring a modern interface and combined HUD and DOPE charts for improved user experience. The iOS ballistics calculator now supports Federal, Remington, Fiocchi, and Speer projectiles, including new Peak Alloy products like 7mm Backcountry and 6.5 Creedmoor +Peak.
ZeroTech Optics is offering free Vengeance 10x42 binoculars with eligible riflescope purchases from October 15 through December 31, 2026. The promotion applies to purchases from zerotechoptics.com or authorized USA dealers, with a $12.99 flat-rate shipping charge for dealer-purchase redemptions.
Athlon Untamed's Ballistic's Best Hunting Edition 2026 evaluated three big-bore hunting revolvers: Taurus Raging Hunter in .460 Mag, Smith & Wesson Performance Center 460 XVR in .460 Mag, and Ruger Super Redhawk in .454 Casull. Five experienced handgun hunters scored each revolver across nine categories to determine the best option for serious game hunting.
Montana's State Shooting Facilities and Improvements Development and Oversight Task Force will meet October 19 in Helena and via Zoom to discuss potential bills and finalize recommendations for shooting facility improvements across the state.
Montana Fish, Wildlife & Parks is seeking public comment on environmental assessments, including a proposal to expand the Glasgow Shooting Range through a lease agreement with the City of Glasgow to improve rifle and archery ranges for recreational shooting. Comments are due by October 23.
Bass Pro Shops announced plans for a new 110,000-square-foot destination retail location in Irmo, South Carolina, expected to open in late 2027. The store will mark Bass Pro Shops' fourth destination retail location in South Carolina and is expected to employ over 120 Outfitters to serve the greater Columbia region near Lake Murray.
Lyman Products will showcase its Sonicore Suppressors lineup at Suppressed Fest 2026 on October 17–18 at Ares Firearms Training Center in Leesburg, Florida. The event, hosted by the NFA Review Channel and sponsored by the American Suppressor Association, features over 40 vendors and 100 percent suppressed shooting across three ranges.
Maxim Defense, a manufacturer of precision firearms and suppressors, will sponsor and exhibit at CANCON West 2026 in Boulder City, Nevada from October 22-24, 2026. The event will feature hands-on demonstrations of Maxim's Quantum Series titanium 3D printed suppressors, including the Quantum 22K Rimfire Suppressor, alongside products from industry manufacturers.
Dead Air Silencers will serve as headline sponsor and exhibitor at CANCON West, October 22-24, 2026, at Boulder Rifle & Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada. The company will showcase its complete suppressor lineup including the CT5P, Lazarus 6, Mojave 45, and Nomad Ti OTB models.
Luth-AR and Stark's Metal Works of Menomonie, Wisconsin donated a new AR550 hardened steel White Buffalo target to the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, New Mexico. The 10-foot-wide target, positioned 1,123 yards downrange, replaces the historic original and is dedicated to Mike Benecke, a devoted NRA-ILA fundraiser who passed away in 2021.
Major League Fishing's Starlink Team Series Toyota Heritage Cup streams live on MyOutdoorTV from Manchester, Tennessee, October 18-23, 2026, featuring 12 two-man teams competing for $560,000 in prize money. Hosted by Experience Tennessee in partnership with local organizations, the event showcases Bass Pro Tour anglers with daily competition waters kept secret until anglers arrive at the boat ramp.
Springfield Armory has taken the Echelon line to a new level with the new Echelon Pro. After three years of development, the company has combined a series of custom features and performance upgrades to create what could be an ideal duty or everyday carry pistol.
As a longtime Echelon fan, I was excited to get my hands on the new Pro. The big question was whether these additional features would make a noticeable difference in a pistol I already liked.
Features
The newest Echelon is packed with custom features, but like previous Echelon models, it is built around the central operating group. Made of stainless steel, the serialized COG is easily removable and can be transferred between compatible grip modules and slide assemblies. This modular design is one of the defining features of the Echelon line, allowing shooters to configure their pistols to suit a range of different needs.
The forged slide combines familiar features from previous Echelon models with several refinements. Its protective Cerakote finish helps resist wear and corrosion. A trench cut forward of the action provides a natural indexing point, while the flared rear of the slide and forward serrations offer a confident grip when manipulating the slide from different angles.
The grip module features what Springfield Armory calls Light-Forged texture. Springfield laser-etches its Badlands pattern into the grip, creating an aggressive, cracked-earth texture designed to provide a secure hold and better control.
The grip module is also fitted with a removable magwell made from machined steel. Its flared opening helps guide magazines into the pistol during reloads, making them smoother and more consistent.
The Echelon Pro comes with the medium backstrap installed. It features a partial application of the Light-Forged Texture, while the included small and large backstraps do not have this additional texturing.
The front sight remains a tritium night sight, but Springfield has replaced the previous green ring with an orange ring. This provides a different visual reference when picking up the front sight.
Another improvement (in my book) is the new rear sight. Previous Echelons came with a white-outline U-notch rear sight, which worked fine. However, I much prefer the new serrated, blacked-out rear sight with its U-notch design. It provides a clean sight picture without the distraction of the white outline.
Another welcome improvement is the guide rod. Springfield has switched to stainless steel, adding forward mass and rigidity to the pistol. The additional weight helps manage recoil and reduce muzzle flip, making it easier to get back on target for follow-up shots.
Individually, these upgrades might seem relatively minor. Together, however, they give the Echelon Pro a more refined feel while addressing several areas that matter to shooters who spend considerable time on the range.
Variations
The new Echelon Pro is available in three configurations, giving shooters options based on their preferred size and intended use.
The Echelon Pro F features a 4.5-inch slide assembly and a full-size grip module. This is the largest version, making it a natural choice for duty use, range work, or those who prefer a full-size pistol.
The Echelon Pro FC combines a 4.0-inch slide assembly with a full-size grip module and a compact dust cover. It offers the shorter slide and barrel while retaining the longer grip of the full-size model.
Finally, the Echelon Pro C pairs the 4.0-inch slide assembly with a compact grip module. This configuration is particularly appealing to concealed carriers who want a shorter slide and a more compact grip.
Having three configurations makes the Pro family versatile enough to accommodate different preferences without abandoning the familiar Echelon platform.
Comped Performance
All three Echelon Pro models feature a compensated slide and barrel. The integral compensator redirects propellant gases upward to help reduce muzzle rise, improving control and making faster follow-up shots easier.
The barrel is hammer-forged. Its Melonite finish adds another layer of protection against corrosion and wear.
Compensators have become increasingly popular on defensive pistols. When properly designed, they can help reduce muzzle movement and improve control during rapid fire. The question is how much difference that makes when compared with a standard Echelon. I wanted to find out for myself.
Magazines
The Echelon Pro F and FC ship with three 20-round magazines, while the compact C model comes with three 18-rounders.
The removable magwell is another consideration when selecting magazines and accessories. Depending on the magazine’s basepad design, shooters may be able to use flush-fitting basepads with the magwell removed.
That flexibility is useful for anyone who wants to experiment with different configurations or tailor the pistol to a particular carry setup.
To VIS or Not to VIS
Like previous Echelon models, the Echelon Pro features Springfield Armory’s VIS — Variable Interface System — optic mounting slide cut.
The VIS allows shooters to mount more than 30 compatible optics directly to the slide without conventional adapter plates. By configuring the self-locking pins to match the optic’s footprint, users can get a low, direct mount without plates that helps provide a good sight picture and co-witnesses with many red dot optics.
There are exceptions, of course. Optics using the ACRO footprint require an appropriate mounting plate. That distinction would become relevant when I set up my test pistol.
The VIS remains one of my favorite features of the Echelon family. It gives you flexibility to use your preferred optic (or a range of them) without being locked into a single mounting pattern.
Holster Fits
One advantage of the Echelon Pro family is that all three models fit existing holsters designed for the corresponding Echelon configurations. For my EDC setup, I have been using the Safariland/Haley Strategic Incog-X holster. Since the Echelon Pro C has the same basic dimensions as the standard Echelon 4.0C, I was able to use my standard carry setup for this evaluation rather than having to change things.
Setup
For my test, I chose my favorite of the three Echelon Pro configurations: the compact C. I chose that because it’s very similar to the pistol I currently carry, the Echelon 4.0C. That made the transition straightforward and let me easily compare the two pistols.
After installing the ACRO plate and optic, I torqued the mounting hardware to the appropriate specifications using my Real Avid Smart-Torq tool. I then bore-sighted the pistol with my LaserLyte Laser Bore Sight Deluxe Kit. At the range, I verified its zero using a Ransom Rest.
I began with several Bill Drills from concealment, drawing from inside-the-waistband. This gave me an opportunity to evaluate the pistol in a setup similar to the one I use every day.
My presentation from concealment won’t win any competitions, but as I became more familiar with the new pistol, my performance improved. More importantly, I could feel the difference between the standard Echelon and the Pro as I worked through the drills.
The combination of the compensator and stainless-steel guide rod made a noticeable difference compared with my standard Echelon 4.0C. The pistol felt more manageable during rapid fire, and I found it easier to return to the target for follow-up shots.
That Light-Forged trip texture is also excellent in the hand. The additional grippiness of that aggressive Badlands pattern kept things solid even as my hands got sweaty.
The magwell proved useful beyond facilitating reloads. I also found that it also helped me establish a consistent hand position when gripping the gun.
Accuracy was on par with my standard Echelon. I didn’t find that the Pro was inherently more accurate, but that wasn’t what I expected from these upgrades. Instead, the improvements make the pistol more comfortable to shoot and helped me deliver faster, more consistent follow-up shots.
That matters. A defensive pistol doesn’t necessarily need to produce smaller groups from a rest to be an improvement. If it helps the shooter maintain more control, recover the sights picture faster, and deliver accurate follow-up shots, that makes a real difference in practical use.
Parting Shots
Even though I’m already a fan of the Echelon 4.0C, I am beginning to reconsider my previous views. The Echelon Pro C is a step up.
Yes, it’s slightly heavier than the standard Echelon. For some concealed carriers, weight will always be a consideration. But for me the additional features and refinements make that trade-off worthwhile. YMMV.
The most important question was whether these improvements would make a meaningful difference compared with the pistol I’m already carrying. After spending time with the Echelon Pro C, the answer is yes.
In the end, Springfield has taken a pistol I already liked and made it better. That’s not always an easy thing to do, especially when you’re dealing with a platform that already does so many things right.
