Shooting for the Future

I know I don’t need to tell you how much the future of our business depends on a continual influx of new shooters, hunters, and firearms owners. Over the years, many different programs have been implemented in an effort to accomplish this. Among the best of these programs is the First Shots ® program originated and administered by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).

This year, thanks to this program, nearly 100 shooting ranges across the country will provide local residents with the opportunity to take their "first shots" with a handgun, rifle, or shotgun. Further support for the program comes from many firearm-industry firms and shooting-sports organizations.

Sponsors provide much-needed loaner firearms, training and safety literature, information on shooting and hunting opportunities, and promotional items. "I see First Shots as very important to building long-term growth for the industry," said Adam Wollander, vice president of sales and marketing with Crimson Trace, a maker of grip-integrated lasersighting systems.

Numerous other shooting-sports businesses contribute to the effort, along with arms makers Marlin, Smith & Wesson, Ruger, and Taurus. "All of these companies and organizations have stepped up to make sure that first-time shooters have a first-rate experience," said Cyndi Dalena, NSSF’s First Shots manager. "Their assistance plays a key role in First Shots’ success.

The program’s recent expansion to include rifles and shotguns means even more industry companies can be involved with this targeted effort to reach anew audience and build new customers. First Shots is hosted by independent shooting facilities, providing newcomers with a welcoming introduction to shooting at their local ranges. The seminars cover firearm safety, local ownership requirements, shooting fundamentals, hands-on instruction, as well as details on how and where to continue with the sport.

NSSF deserves our thanks and congratulations for increasing awareness of and participation in the shooting sports. For more information on NSSF, visit or look for more about this program in particular at Need Some Extra Cash? If you would like to turn your gunsmithing ideas and expertise into cash (we pay pretty handsomely), I would like to discuss your article ideas with you. Contact me, Keith Lawrence, Editor, at: American Gunsmith, Merritt Island, FL 32954; email voice fax Editor Keith Lawrence Technical