Happy New Year’s to all our readers! I sincerely hope that all of you had a wonderful holiday season filled with joy and happiness. Now that it’s January, I know that many of you are eager to learn about all the new guns and gear that will be coming out this year. As in past years, Shooting Sports USA will be sharing news about the latest product announcements from SHOT Show 2024 and beyond. Check the website often for updates and be sure to subscribe to the free Insider email newsletter.
January’s cover feature highlights Steel Challenge competition and how easy it is to get started in this popular discipline. With 13 different divisions, including nine divisions that incorporate common firearms, holsters and magazines that are used in USPSA, IDPA and ICORE competition, you likely already have the necessary guns and gear for Steel Challenge in your collection. Don’t miss Field Editor Chris Christian’s article that outlines how to gear up for Steel Challenge.
These days, there are more options than ever before for those looking to buy a suppressor. Field Editor Art Merill’s article “Translating Suppressors” includes a short history of the suppressor going back to the 1800s, along with a guide for anyone that requires help determining whether a suppressor is something they need and what kind to purchase.
Recently, Art Merrill purchased two classic rimfire rifles outside of the usual internet route. In part one of his article “Buying Throwback Guns,” he shares the interesting story of how he procured a vintage bolt-action J.C. Higgins Model 103.229 .22 rifle, along with a thorough examination of the gun. Be sure to read the first installment of his article, with part two coming in next month’s issue.
The NRA World Shooting Championship, presented by Walther Arms is making its triumphant return after a five-year hiatus and is poised to be the biggest one yet. This year’s match will take place at Camp Atterbury in Edinburgh, Ind., April 3-6. More than $250,000 in cash and prizes will be up for grabs at the competition, including a $25,000 check for the 2024 NRA World Shooting Champion. In addition, all firearms, optics and ammunition are provided to NRA World Shooting Championship competitors to level the playing field for this unique competition. Read my match update for stage details and additional information about this competition designed for both professional and amateur shooters.
Finally, you won’t want to miss our first look at Walther’s new PDP Match pistols. Available in steel frame and polymer frame variants, both PDP Match pistols are full-size 9 mm semi-automatics sporting slides that are cut for optics. Five-inch barrels, dynamic performance triggers and wrap-around grips complete the package. Be sure to check out Product Focus with our initial look at these exciting new pistols from Walther Arms.
John Parker
Editor-in-Chief, Shooting Sports USA
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