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Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence
2009 AWARD ENTRIES
The Award
From the Industry
For the Industry

Honoring Outstanding Achievement
Since 1992

Sponsored by Shooting Industry Magazine
Accessory of the Year
(Firearm related products: cases, cleaning products, holsters, frames,
mounts, reloading equipment and tools)
Please select up to three
    Birchwood Casey Perma Fin Professional Air Cure Gun Finish Kit
    BLACKHAWK!            SERPA Quick Disconnect System
    Brownells Three Gun Competition Ready Case
    Butler Creek Mini-14 LULA Strip Clip Loader
    Carson ScopeArmor
    Champion Traps & Targets DuraSeal Spinning Target
    Galco Gunleather Paddle Lite Holster
    Hornady Lock-N-Load AP with EZject System
    Innovative Technologies Digital Headspace Gauge
    Leupold & Stevens Mark 4 8-40 Adaptable Mount for Riflescopes
    Redding Reloading Equipment G-Rx Push Thru Die System
    Remington FAST Snap Gun Cleaning System (Rifle)
    Safariland Duty Gear MOLLE Locking System (MLS)
    SIG Sauer .22 Conversion Kit
    Sixell Innovations Never Quit Grip
    Winchester Ammunition Ballistics Calculator
    UCT Arms FailZero Tactical Upgrade AR15 Kits
    Vortex Optics Binoc-Loc
       
Hunting Product of the Year
(Non-firearm products, including
archery, clothing, lures, rangefinders and equipment.)
Please select up to three
    Ameristep Tom Taker Blind
    Bog Boots Classic Tall MT Three-Season Boots
    BLACKHAWK! Knoxx Axiom R/F Rifle Stock
    Browning Wing-Set Jack
    Bushnell BackTrack GPS
    Fieldline Aspen Ridge Waist Pack
    Hunter’s Specialities Scent-A-Way Deer Decoy Kit
    Shooters Ridge Deluxe Bi-Pod
    Stoney Point Scissor Six Bipod Shooting Rest
    ThermaCELL Earth Scent Mosquito Repellent & Cover Scent
    TRUGLO PWR-DOT Archery Sight
 
Self Defense Product of the Year
(Flashlights, laser sights, less-lethal sprays and equipment.)
Please select up to three
    American Defense System T2 Live Fire Tactical Training System
    Benchmade 1100-4 Tactical Pen
    Crimson Trace LG-431 Laserguard Model for Ruger LCP
    LaserLyte Laser & Flashlyte System/LL-1
    LaserMax Sabre Series Frame Mount Laser
    Leatherman Serac S3 LED Flashlight
    Leupold & Stevens MX-431 Modular Tactical Flashlight
    Protective Products International MFAB (Multi-Functional Armor Blanket)
    SIG Sauer STL-300J STOPLITE
    Streamlight Strion LED Flashlight
    SureFire E2D LED Defender Flashlight
    Viridian Green Laser Sights X5L Laser Sight & LED Light
 
Optic of the Year
(Scopes, sights, and binoculars)
Please select up to three
    Aimpoint CompM4 Red-Dot Sight
    AirForce Airguns TS1 Target Sight
    American Technologies Network Mars 4-WPT Night Vision Scope
    Bushnell Legend Ultra HD Binoculars
    Leupold & Stevens VX-3 3.5-10x50mm Riflescope
    Minox USA APO HG 10x43 Binoculars
    Nikon Coyote Special Riflescope 3-9x40 w/ BDC Predator Hunting Reticle
    Nitrex Optics TR1 3-9x42mm Riflescope
    Swarovski Optik Z6 3-18x50 Illuminate Ballistic Turret Riflescope
    Trijicon RMR (Ruggedized Miniature Reflex) Sight
    Vortex Optics StrikeFire Red Dot Riflescope
Ammunition of the Year
(Bullets, cartridges, shot shells, powders)
Please select up to three
    CCI Ammunition 22 Win Maxi-Mag TNT Green Cartridge
    Federal Premium 327 Federal Magnum
    Hodgdon IMR White Hots Gunpowder
    Hornady Critical Defense Ammunnition
    Nosler Custom Trophy Grade Ammunition
    Remington Premier AccuTip Bonded Sabot Slug 12 Gauge
    Winchester Ammunition Supreme Elite Dual Bond
 
Handgun of the Year
Please select up to three
    Kimber Ultra Crimson Carry II .45 ACP
    Para USA GI Expert Semi-Automatic
    Ruger Firearms Ruger LCR
    SIG Sauer P250 .45 Full Size Pistol
    Smith & Wesson Pro Series Model 1911 Sub Compact
    Springfield Armory XD(M) 9mm
    Taurus Judge Model 4510 Public Defender
 
Rifle of the Year
Please select up to three
    Browning BAR Longtrac Semi-Automatic
    FNH USA SCAR 16S Semi-Automatic
    DPMS Firearms 5.56 Panther “Sportical”
    Kimber Model 84M .257 Roberts
    Marlin Model 1895SBL Guide Gun
    Nosler Custom Model 48 Varmint 22-250
    Para USA Tactical Target Rifle (TTR) Semi-Automatic
    Remington Model 700 XHR (Xtreme Hunting Rifle)
    SIG Sauer SIG556 Classic Semi-Automatic
    Smith & Wesson M&P15 - MOE Semi-Automatic
    Winchester Arms Model 1895 Safari Centennial Lever Action
    Umarex USA Colt Tactical 22 Rimfire M4 OPS
 
Shotgun of the Year
Please select up to three
    Benelli Performance Shop SuperSport 12 Gauge
    Browning Maxus Semi-Automatic
    Connecticut Shotgun Mfg. RBL Professional 20 Gauge
    Franchi Highlander Color Case-Hardened 20 Gauge
    O.F. Mossberg & Sons 930 SBX 8 Shot Semi-Automatic 12 Gauge
    Remington Model 887 Nitro Mag
    Rossi Tuffy .410
    TriStar Sporting Arms Cobra Force 12 Gauge Pump
    Winchester Arms SXP Pump 12 Gauge
Knife of the Year
(Knives and specialty pocket tools)
Please select up to three
    Benchmade 585 Mini-Barrage Folder
    BLACKHAWK! CQD Mark 1 Type E Tactical Folder
    Browning Whitetail Legacy Model 249 Folder
    Buck Knives Model 498RWS-B Ergo Hunter PRO Fixed Blade
    LaserLyte Pistol Bayonet/PB-1
    Remington Elite Skiner Series II Folder
    SOG Specialty Knives & Tools Aegis Tanto (Digi Camo) Folder
    Triple Eight Professional WrightKnife Folding Fixed Blade
    William Henry Studio Spearpoint B12-TMW Folder
Safety Product of the Year
(Safes, safety devices, eye and ear protection. )
Please select up to three
    Benchmade Houdini AET (Automotive Escape Tool)
    BLACKHAWK! Small Pry Specialized Entry Tool
    GunVault BreechVault Shotgun Breech Loc
    Howard Leight by Sperian Genesis XC 3 Lens Pack Eyewear Kit
    Revision Eyewear Sawfly Shooter’s Kit Deluxe
    Triple Eight Professional Folding CopTool
Citizenship Award
(A company or dealership that most exemplifies the traits of service to the community through contributions, donations or volunteer hours.)
Please select up to three
    Ellett Brothers For continuing to support the American Cancer Society’s Relay for Life as the largest fundraiser in their local district, as well as support of local charities, and for working with UPS to deliver a tractor-trailer load of bottled water to Hurricane Ike victims. Also for support of the NRA-ILA and the National Youth Shooting Sports Alliance through a silent auction at its yearly dealer show.
    FNH USA For proving to be a generous corporate citizen. For holding a fundraiser at SHOT Show 2008 contributing to a soldier’s Battlefield Cross Memorial in Missouri. For supporting the Wounded Warriors Project and Redwing 19 Special Warfare Fund through its annual co-sponsorship and donation of proceeds from the Ft. Meade Long-Range Precision Shooting Competition. For contributing firearms and instructors to the NRA Women’s Wilderness Escape and for contributing an estimated $160,000 worth of guns to the NRA National Police Shooting Championships.
    Kimber For years of tremendous support of the shooting sports, gun owners and law enforcement through donations totaling $1,350,000. For donating $675,000 to the USA Shooting Team, making Kimber the largest donor of any firearms company in USA Shooting’s history. For donating $75,000 to the Los Angeles Police Department Memorial, and $600,000 worth of firearms to the NRA.
    Sports South For contributing $500,000 to Ducks Unlimited in the past year, and continuing a tradition of giving back, which exceeds $1,000,000 worth of contributions to benefit the shooting sports.
Manufacturer of the Year
Please select up to three
    ATK Commercial Products For implementing a progressive dealer program and support system in Premium Partners including new product innovation through FLITECONTROL, 338 Federal, 327 Federal Magnum, Fusion, Black Cloud and the RCBS R.A.S.S. bench. For establishing a leadership position in the shooting sports industry through active involvement in conservation and education programs and services as well as investing in the future of hunting and the shooting sports through 4-H, NSSF and multiple conservation group royalty programs.
    Benchmade For two decades of commitment to designing and manufacturing U.S.-made world-class sports cutlery and superior edged tools that deliver high-qulity performance and provide great value to customers. Also for a steadfast commitment to the independent dealer and what they do for the industry by treating them as true partners through the sharing of Internet sales profits.
    Buck Knives For investing millions of dollars in relocating to Idaho at a time when other manufacturers were shutting down their facilitates and moving to Asia. Also for following the same manufacturing principles and becoming a pioneer in committing to keeping manufacturing jobs in the U.S., preserving American jobs and a little of Americana.
    Crimson Trace For continuing to be the leader in laser sight technology innovations, bringing more new models to the market to fill the need of civilian consumers and professionals. For becoming the cornerstone for OEM sales in the marketplace with companies such as Smith & Wesson, Kimber, Ruger, Berretta, Nighthawk Custom, Charter Arms and others.
    DPMS For revolutionizing the AR market by bringing an economical, entry-level rifle to market in less than 30 days, followed by a large caliber version 90 days later. For tirelessly working to change the public’s perception of the AR-15/Black Rifle, educating the public as to the benefits and versatility of the AR platform and promoting the AR rifle as a viable hunting firearm with the addition of multiple larger caliber rifle offerings.
    Kimber For leading the 1911 pistol revival. For creating and manufacturing a full line of classic rifles of unequaled quality right here in America. For tremendous financial support of organizations including the NRA and the USA Shooting Team.
    Leupold & Stevens For continued innovation with the introduction of VX-3, the third generation of its flagship first introduced in the 1970s with the Vari-X III riflescopes. Also for maintaining its position as the leading American-owned and -operated optics company, employing more than 650 people in its Oregon plant while maintaining its sterling reputation for sales and customer support.
    Nikon Sport Optics For offering a product that fits the hunt, the hunter and the hunter’s budget, from the first-time hunter to the professional through its exclusive Lifetime Full Warranty on riflescopes, and No-Fault $10 policy on binoculars, spotting scopes, and fieldscopes. Also for revolutionizing the muzzleloading market with the Omega BDC riflescope, and the predator hunting market with the Coyote Special riflescope.
    Nosler For over 60 years of product innovation, including the recent progression into the rifle and ammunition market guided by three generations of Noslers who are committed to excellence. Also for standardizing the 280 Remington Ackley Improved, reinventing the custom rifle market, and for heightening the benchmark for manufacturing and customer satisfaction.
    O.F. Mossberg & Sons For remaining the oldest family-owned-and-operated firearms company in the U.S., celebrating its 90th anniversary in 2009 while continuing to expand proven shotgun platforms into tactical, military, law enforcement and less lethal markets. Also for continuing to provide consumers with quality firearms at an affordable price through a “More Gun for the Money” business philosophy.
    Savage Arms For leading the industry with accuracy innovation through Accu-Trigger, the standard by which all “new” triggers are judged and innovation that provides consumers with performance previously available only through custom rifles. Also for support of the Savage long-range shooting team who compete and win with off-the-shelf Savages at ranges out to 1,000 yards.
    Smith & Wesson For continued support of the firearms industry and shooting sports at the highest levels of NSSF, NRA and USA Shooting Teams as well as playing an instrumental role in the NRA’s Insure Your Gun Rights program by promoting industry wide participation. Also for driving business at the dealer level with the constant introduction of new products including M&P and Night Guard series products and for creating the largest consumer, dealer and distributor incentive program in the industry’s history.
    Sturm, Ruger & Co For continued innovation in product development, and enhanced communication with consumers, retailers and distributors through expanded Web presence featuring dedicated products-specific micro-sites and technical videos. Also for added sales support through increased distributor contact, greater product and process improvement through the implementation of Lean Design and Manufacturing systems as well as the ongoing Voice of the Customer program identifying products desired by consumers.
    Swarovski Optik For 60 years of demonstrating innovation and quality craftsmanship in precision optics, including binoculars, spotting scopes and riflescopes. For all models demonstrating innovation and quality craftsmanship. For believing in constantly improving what is good, surprising our customers with new demonstrations of excellence and exceeding their expectations. For revealing the beauty of the world with “the eyes of the hawk” to “see the unseen.”
    Taurus For being at the forefront of product innovation and quality with affordable introductions, including the 800 series, 3” Judge Magnum, 709 SLIM and .380 TCP. Also for offering superior customer support and safety with the Taurus Unlimited Lifetime Repair Policy and Taurus Security System as well as playing a vital role in protecting the Second Amendment by offering a free one-year NRA membership with new firearms purchases.
Distributor of the Year
Please select up to three
    Davidson’s For expanding on its strategy of generating consumer business for its dealers with its new GalleryofGuns.com E-flyer and product spotlight. For new services providing consumers the ability to receive instant quotes and immediately purchase featured firearms out of Davidson’s inventory from a Davidson’s Gold Dealer. For the promotion of an exciting lineup of new, exclusive firearms, and for continuing to strive to provide its dealers with more business.
    Ellett Brothers For taking great pride in serving and supporting the independent retailer for 76 years. For its continued work with manufacturers to develop new and innovative products. For its continued support of industry organizations and its commitment to the future of the shooting sports by working with organizations such as the Boy Scouts of America, and Youth Shooting Sports Foundation.
    RSR Group For leading the shooting sports industry with superior customer service, excellent product selection and a dedicated and knowledgeable sales staff. For offering retailers innovative electronic means to grow their businesses, including the first industry virtual trade show which allows dealers to attend a show and take advantage of opportunities without disrupting regular business functions. And for actively working to preserve the future of the industry and being the leader in the NRA’s dealer recruitment program.
    Sports South For continuing to show commitment to the shooting sports industry with the development of new technologies and unparalleled capital investment for the trade. Also for its recent completion of a new firearms distribution plan that has brought a new dimension to firearms logistics.
Shooting Industry Award
(Individuals who have made valuable contributions to the shooting industry through product design, industry representation or marketing expertise.)
Please select up to three
    Les de Asis, Benchmade For founding Benchmade Knife and establishing it as a premier company recognized for quality and originality that has earned him enormous respect within the shooting industry and beyond. For decades of dedication to the shooting sports through special productions, donations and participation in industry events. For co-founding the Pacific Northwest Defense Coalition and co-founding the American Knife & Tool Institute to ensure the future rights of knife ownership.
    Chuck Buck, Buck Knives For nearly 60 years of dedication to the family business, with time out for service to his country in the U.S. Navy. For leading Buck Knives to some of its most innovative advances. For his continued service to the industry and knife market by traveling thousands of miles a year to meet with dealers and consumers and to listen to their suggestions, while autographing thousands of their knife blades. For obtaining iconic status as a respected leader in the knife industry.
    Ryan Busse, Kimber For the development of Kimber’s dealer-direct sales program, which is considered the most successful in the industry.
    Lewis Danielson, Crimson Trace For continued leadership in establishing laser-sight systems as an accepted and reliable addition to firearms as well as creating a respected laser OEM program with firearm manufacturers.
    Mark W. DeYoung, ATK Commercial Products For serving on boards for the NSSF, HSSHF, SAAMI and WMI, and actively promoting youth education programs, including 4-H Shooting Sports. For effectively leading the largest ammunition manufacturing organization in the world to excellence across multiple product lines, with support of U.S. military, war fighters, law enforcement and homeland security with quality ammunition.
    Richard M. Hammett, Winchester Ammunition For attaining tenured ambassador status for his long-term dedication, foresight and tireless commitment to the shooting sports and hunting industry. For his intuitiveness in vital industry issues, support for conservation and strategies to introduce innovative, market-driven new products. For providing customer service that continues to keep Winchester at the forefront of all ammunition manufacturers.
    F. Hewitt Grant, Ellett Brothers For more than 40 years of dedication to the shooting sports industry as an advocate for gun rights and in establishing Ellett Brothers the leading distributor of shooting, hunting, archery and marine accessories. For supporting the education of legislators in the importance of concealed carry laws through the Congressional Sportsman’s Caucus. For his continued involvement with the NRA, The Youth Shooting Sports Alliance, and serving as vice-chairman of the National Association of Sporting Goods Wholesalers.
    JB Hodgdon, Hodgdon For over 50 years of dedication to the family business, co-owned by bother, Bob Hodgdon, and serving as its chairman of the board. For his untiring passion for the youth shooting sports and his devoted service on the boards of the Boy Scouts Philmont Ranch and National 4H Shooting programs. For being a long-time member of the NRA, SCI and DU, and for being a committed hunter, reloader, shooter and active member of the North-South Skirmish Association.
    Randy E. Luth, DPMS Firearms For building DPMS from a garage-based gun-parts business into the largest AR-15 manufacturer in the U.S. For tirelessly promoting the AR-15/Black Rifle as a viable hunting firearm and educating the public on the benefits and versatility of the AR platform. For being honored as one of the 2008 Outdoor Life 25 and the OL-25 Reader’s Choice Award recipients. For his continued, enthusiastic support of the shooting sports, the NRA, NSSF, Shooting Industry Masters, HAVA and more.
    Bob Nosler, Nosler For serving on multiple NRA advisory boards and establishing the John A. Nosler Endowment, which sponsors the NRA’s Basic Rifle Training Program. For strategically leading his company into a mass expansion that introduced a new line of rifles, brass and ammunition, while reinventing current products and adding to the already extensive line of bullets. For exhibiting an unwavering commitment to the shooting heritage, and for his personal devotion, which has had a positive impact on the future of the shooting industry.
    Linda Powell, Remington For her dedication, insightfulness and leadership in public relations, hunting sales and product development, resulting in expanded roles for women in the shooting sports industry.
 
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