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After 43 Years with Holland & Holland, Chris Bird Retires as Head Instructor

After an incredible 43 years with Holland & Holland, we are announcing the retirement of Chris Bird, our esteemed Head...
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News

Shotgun Life Announces “Shotguns for Sale” Free E-Letter

News

Wing and Barrel Ranch Announces the Wine Country High Tower Open — A One-of-a-Kind Shooting Experience

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Beretta Team Takes the Podium at World English Sporting Championship

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USA Clay Target League Launches Free Team Initiative

After 43 Years with Holland & Holland, Chris Bird Retires as Head Instructor

Bird 1

After an incredible 43 years with Holland & Holland, we are announcing the retirement of Chris Bird, our esteemed Head of Instruction at the Shooting Grounds.

Chris joined the business in 1982 and has since become one of the most respected and recognisable figures in the shooting world. Over the decades, he has shared his exceptional knowledge and passion for the sport with thousands of clients, from complete beginners to experienced shots, always with the same patience, skill and good humour.

His contribution to Holland & Holland cannot be overstated. Chris has been instrumental in shaping the standards of excellence we are known for, mentoring generations of instructors and helping to make the Shooting Grounds the welcoming, world-class destination it is today.

“As General Manager of Holland & Holland, I’m lucky enough to work with some very skilled, passionate and experienced people. One of them is Chris Bird, Anyone who has visited Holland & Holland shooting grounds would need no introduction to Chris, but for those that don’t know him, he’s simply a legend, he’s taught a phenomenal amount of people how to shoot, in a style that has become so familiar, you will often hear -” Ah, you were taught by Chris Bird”


Chris has been with the business for 43 years and today he retires from working life. His hope is to go and enjoy time with his wife and of course some shooting from time to time. Chris has been a fantastic servant to the brand and helped pave the way for Holland & Holland, the future is bright because of the people like Chris, who help drive this brand. I personally, have only known Chris for a short time but already class him as a dear friend, so we say a huge thank you to Chris, enjoy your retirement, you will always be a part of the H&H team and welcome here anytime.”
– John Henderson, General Manager of Holland & Holland

We are deeply grateful for Chris’ dedication, professionalism and friendship over the years and while we will miss him greatly, we wish him the very best as he begins this exciting new chapter.”

Please join us in celebrating Chris’s remarkable career and in thanking him for over four decades of outstanding service.

www.hollandandholland.com

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Shotgun Life Announces “Shotguns for Sale” Free E-Letter

Longthorne

August 7, 2025 – Shotgun Life, the first online magazine dedicated to the best in wing and clays shooting, has added the “Shotguns for Sale” e-letter to its roster. You can read Shotgun Life at www.shotgunlife.com.

“Shotguns for Sale” is distributed every weekday at 4:00 PM EST to opt-in subscribers. The free e-letter showcases a single shotgun per issue from bona fide dealers. The e-letter’s shotguns run the gamut from vintage to new and used modern sporting shotguns.

“We’re not dogmatic about provenance or price, but instead want to provide our readers with the most interesting wing and clays guns on the Internet from licensed retailers,” said Shotgun Life Publisher, Irwin Greenstein.

Although the shotguns presented come from multiple sources, every issue features an ad from Shotgun Life magazine advertisers.

Shotguns for Sale has been in beta tests since mid-July 2025. Individual e-letters have been averaging 1,631 impressions and 192 link clicks per shotgun, totaling 8,155 impressions and 960 clicks per week, that combined produce an above industry average click-through rate of 11.7 percent.

“The strategic advantage to Shotguns for Sale is that your firearms are not listed in “big box” sales sites or auctions,” Greenstein said. “Each shotgun makes its own case for purchase potential – often presenting enthusiasts with selections that may have never crossed their minds.”

For advertising and marketing opportunities contact:

Irwin Greenstein

Publisher Shotgun Life

229-236-1632

igreenstein@shotgunlife.com

James Dietsch

Sales Associate

405-415-5724

jamesdietsch@cox.net

About

Since launching in 2008, Shotgun Life continues as the leading online magazine for sporting shotguns, international wingshooting, recreational sporting clays and related educational editorial. It’s available at no charge at www.shotgunlife.com. Our fast-paced, ever-changing editorial draws loyal readers each and every day from around the world –  giving your products international exposure 24/7. Our advanced SEO platform generally ranks our editorial on the first page of Google results, often giving advertisers an evergreen resource to potential customers.

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Wing and Barrel Ranch Announces the Wine Country High Tower Open — A One-of-a-Kind Shooting Experience

Wing and Barrel woman

Set in the heart of Sonoma wine country, Wing & Barrel Ranch is where sporting tradition meets refined luxury. Our private, members-only club is a haven for outdoor enthusiasts who appreciate both the thrill of the field and the elegance of wine country living. With a world-class sporting clays course designed by Chris Batha, lush landscapes, and curated culinary experiences, Wing & Barrel Ranch offers an extraordinary blend of sport and sophistication. For one exclusive day, we invite a limited number of guests to step inside this world.

Introducing the First Annual —
Wine Country High Tower Open

September 12–13, 2025 | Wing & Barrel Ranch

Be part of sporting history in the heart of California wine country. Join fellow competitors and outdoor enthusiasts for the inaugural High Tower Open—a premier shooting event held at the only tower of its kind in California, expertly designed by England’s David Wing.

This exclusive, non-sanctioned shoot features soaring tower targets and will be led by a world-renowned shooting instructor to be announced soon. Stay tuned for more details on this rare opportunity to compete at the highest level in a setting where luxury meets tradition.

Top Competitors Will Take Home:

$5,000 + the Brass Top Shot Trophy

$2,500 – Second Place

$1,000 – Third Place

SCHEDULE OF EVENTS

FRIDAY, SEPT 12, 2025
Welcome Cocktail Party
Raise a glass to the start of an unforgettable weekend. Mingle with fellow shooters and sporting enthusiasts over handcrafted cocktails, light bites, and lively conversation—all set against the rustic elegance of Wing & Barrel Ranch.

SATURDAY, SEPT 13, 2025
Breakfast & Five-Stand Warm-Up
Begin the day with gourmet coffee, bites, and a warm-up session to get your eye in before the competition.

High-Tower Competition Begins
Two groups of 10 shooters will take on challenging targets launched from 60’ and 80’ towers—the only of their kind on the West Coast.

Scores Tallied + Sudden Death Round
Top shooters will move on to a thrilling final round with targets at 70’ and 80’.

Gourmet Lunch Reception
Enjoy elevated seasonal cuisine and vintner-member wines in the clubhouse while scores are finalized.

Awards Banquet
Gather for a celebratory dinner and the official announcement of winners, including the presentation of the Brass Top Shot Trophy and cash prizes.

LIMITED TIME OFFER:
$500 / per person

Any additional items, services, or activities will incur extra charges.

Fill out the form below or Contact sporting@WingandBarrelRanch.com directly to book today.

Beretta Team Takes the Podium at World English Sporting Championship

Beretta English

Accokeek, MD – Beretta USA proudly congratulates Team Beretta athletes Anthony Matarese Jr., Desirae Edmunds, and Connor Daniel on their impressive performances at the 2025 World English Sporting Clays Championship, held in England this July. The prestigious international competition brought together the finest clay target shooters from across the globe, and Team Beretta rose to the challenge with podium-worthy finishes.

Anthony Matarese Jr. clinched the title of Overall Runner-Up, reaffirming his place among the world’s elite sporting clays competitors with consistent high-level performance throughout the event. Desirae Edmunds earned Lady Runner-Up honors, showcasing her dedication, precision, and competitive spirit on the international stage. Zachary Kienbaum secured 3rd place in AAA Class, earning an Individual World Title and further cementing his reputation as a top-tier competitor. Connor Daniel captured the title of Junior World Champion, a testament to his skill and bright future in the sport.

“Watching our athletes stand among the best in the world is both humbling and inspiring,” said Trang Dam, Beretta USA Marketing Director. “Their performances reflect not only their personal dedication, but also the trust they place in their Beretta shotguns to deliver when it matters most.”

Beretta is proud to support top-tier competitors with firearms engineered for excellence, including the Beretta SL2DT11 L SportingDT11 Black DLC, and A400 XCel Sporting that are trusted by professionals around the world. For more information on Team Beretta and its competition firearms, visit www.beretta.com/en-us/team-beretta.

Stay connected with Beretta USA by following us on FacebookInstagramXYouTube and LinkedIn for the latest news, products, and updates.

About Beretta

Established in 1526, Beretta is the world’s longest-standing industrial dynasty, with a legacy spanning 16 generations of continuous family ownership. For nearly 500 years, firearms bearing the Beretta name have been trusted and used around the world. Beretta USA Corp. was established in 1977 and quickly became the provider of the most widely deployed sidearm in the U.S. Armed Forces. Today, Beretta USA is part of Beretta Holding Group, which includes over 50 global subsidiaries and 20 renowned brands. Beretta manufactures, distributes, and markets a complete range of firearms, accessories, and apparel. The company also owns and operates six Beretta Gallery retail stores worldwide.

For more information, visit www.Beretta.com.

USA Clay Target League Launches Free Team Initiative

USA Clay Target League

Wednesday, July 23, 2025 — The USA Clay Target League, the nation’s leading youth clay target shooting sports program, is very excited to announce a new initiative to help high schools and colleges across America start clay target teams for their students.

The Free Team Initiative provides new school-approved teams with free registration fees, free safety equipment, and more for up to five athletes. By adding more new teams and student athletes than ever before, the League will continue to broaden its mission to provide school-sponsored shooting sports to the education community.

“The League’s mission from day one has been to provide safe, school-sponsored clay target shooting sports participation opportunities to students, their families, and the education community as a whole.” Said John Nelson, President of the USA Clay Target League. “Making the start-up process as easy and affordable as possible while making sure everyone is safely equipped and educated is a key step towards fulfilling that mission.”

The League has never had an accident or injury in nearly 20 years of operation and hundreds of millions of shots fired.

“This is a great opportunity for existing teams in smaller, local organizations to experience the benefits and features that only the USA Clay Target League provides.” Drew Tri, Marketing Manager for the League, said. “No other program is 100% school-approved, and no other program provides athletes, schools, and families as many low-cost opportunities to participate. There are no benchwarmers in the League. That’s why the League is the largest and most successful youth clay target shooting sports program in America.”

Learn how to get your school involved with the League by visiting https://usaclaytarget.com/start-a-team

About the USA Clay Target League

With over 54,000 participating athletes in the 2024-25 school year, the non-profit USA Clay Target League is America’s largest clay target shooting organization. The League offers trap, skeet, sporting clays, and 5-stand leagues to secondary and postsecondary schools across the country.

The League the only 100% school-approved clay target shooting sport program in America. Every team must have school approval to participate. Most participating schools have lettering programs as well as yearbook inclusion for the teams. In addition, tens of thousands of dollars in scholarships are provided to qualifying seniors by the League and postsecondary institutions each year.

The League’s co-ed and adaptive nature are key attractions to schools nationwide: it’s fully Title IX compliant with both male and female athletes competing on the same team, and it’s an ‘adaptive’ sport, which allows students with physical disabilities to take part.

The League’s priorities are safety, fun, and marksmanship – in that order.

The League is the safest sport in school, with not one reported injury since the inception of the League in 2001. Each athlete must complete firearm safety certification before participation.

Visit http://usaclaytarget.com for more information.

Tom Beckbe x Ducks Unlimited Collection of Outdoor Gear Available Now

DU Bebcke

A portion of all sales from the collection directly supports DU’s mission to conserve wetlands and wildlife habitats

Tom Beckbe and Ducks Unlimited launched the Tom Beckbe x Ducks Unlimited collection of outdoor gear today.

This collection features a range of fine sporting apparel and outdoor essentials designed for men and women. At the heart of this exclusive collection are two custom-designed jackets, one for men and one for women, proudly made in the U.S.A.

Alongside these jackets, the collection includes premium shirts, layers, field gear and bags, all built with durability and functionality for waterfowlers and outdoor enthusiasts. A portion of all sales from the Tom Beckbe x Ducks Unlimited collection directly supports DU’s mission to conserve wetlands and wildlife habitats.

“Tom Beckbe is proud to partner with Ducks Unlimited and support its mission to conserve wetlands,” said Radcliff Menge, founder and CEO of Tom Beckbe. “Together, we have created a line of classic waterfowl apparel and gear that celebrates the American sporting tradition.”

The Tom Beckbe x Ducks Unlimited collection is available online at TomBeckbe.com and in Tom Beckbe’s five stores. Click here to learn more about the Tom Beckbe x Ducks Unlimited collection.

About Tom Beckbe
Founded in 2015 and based in Birmingham, Alabama, Tom Beckbe is the quintessential American sporting brand. Tom Beckbe’s fine outerwear and accessories are rooted in the traditional sporting aesthetic. From waxed cotton outerwear to fine shirting and leather goods, discerning outdoorsmen and women appreciate Tom Beckbe for its rugged, dependable style. With retail locations in Mountain Brook, Alabama; Oxford, Mississippi; Middleburg, Virginia; Franklin, Tennessee; and Tuscaloosa, Alabama, as well as fine retail partners across the United States, Tom Beckbe is the perfect marriage of tradition with a modern aesthetic. Learn more at www.tombeckbe.com.

About Ducks Unlimited
Ducks Unlimited Inc. is the world’s largest nonprofit organization dedicated to conserving North America’s continually disappearing wetlands, grasslands and other waterfowl habitats. Established in 1937, Ducks Unlimited has restored or protected more than 19 million acres thanks to contributions from more than a million supporters across the continent. Guided by science, DU’s projects benefit waterfowl, wildlife and people in all 50 states. DU is growing its mission through a historic $3 billion Conservation for a Continent comprehensive campaign. Learn more at www.ducks.org.

Winchester Launches Magnum Dove – With Custom Blended Shot

Magnum dove

EAST ALTON, IL, July 14, 2025 — Winchester Ammunition launches Magnum Dove™, a high-performance shotshell engineered specifically for dove hunting. Made in the U.S.A., Magnum Dove features heavy payloads, high velocity, and dense patterns that set a new standard for dove hunters that want the best ammunition in the field.

Available in 12- and 20-gauge, Magnum Dove™ shotshells contain a custom blend of #7 ½ and #9 lead shot. The premium, batch-blended shot is optimized for pattern density on doves.
“Dove season is a time-honored tradition for many hunters across the country,” said Kyle Masinelli, Senior Director of Product Innovation and Strategy for Winchester. “With Magnum Dove, we give wingshooters more confidence behind the gun and a competitive edge to fill limits.”
Key features of Magnum Dove™:

  • Premium, batch-blended lead shot – Clean and precisely sized shot provide consistent and dense patterns that doves can’t slip through
  • High Brass Magnum – High velocity blended payload with #7 ½ and #9 shot ensures high pellet counts for improved hit probability
BrandSymbolGaugeLengthVelocityPayloadShot SizeBox Size
Magnum Dove™MD127912 ga2 ¾”1400 fps1 1/4 oz#7 ½ + #925 rds
Magnum Dove™MD207920 ga2 ¾”1300 fps1 oz#7 ½ + #925 rds

For more information about Winchester new products, please visit www.winchester.com.

 About Winchester AmmunitionWinchester is the leading small caliber ammunition brand for hunting, recreational shooting, and law enforcement, and the largest supplier to the U.S. military. The legendary Winchester® brand, with its 159-year history, is founded on principles of integrity, hard work, and a strong commitment to its loyal customers. As a segment of Olin Corporation, Winchester shares Olin’s purpose to deliver materials and solutions that enhance and protect lives. Learn more about Winchester and the responsible use of its products by visiting Winchester.com or connecting with us on Facebook at Facebook.com/WinchesterOfficial.

Ruffed Grouse Society/American Woodcock Society Receive Grant to Improve 28,600 Acres of Habitat in the Northeast

RGS PR

June 5, 2025 by Ruffed Grouse Society

Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society (RGS & AWS) is proud to announce a major new investment in forest health and wildlife habitat across the Northeast. Through generous support from the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation’s 2025 Northeast Forests and Rivers Fund, we’ve been awarded a $274,340 grant to advance large-scale forest resilience and habitat management across 28,600 acres in northern New York and Vermont’s Champlain Valley. This work is part of a larger collaborative effort that leverages an additional $274,340 in matching contributions from partners and supporters.

At a time when Northeast U.S. forests are facing mounting pressures from fragmentation, invasive species and an alarming decline in habitat diversity and quality, this grant enables our team and our partners to implement proactive, science-based solutions at scale. Working through our long-standing partnership with Paul Smith’s College (PSC), as well as with the Trust to Conserve Northeast Forestlands, Vermont Agency of Natural Resources and Huntington Community Forest, we’ll advance landscape-level forest block planning, launch new habitat projects and engage hundreds of landowners, professionals and community members.

A Strong Foundation of Partnerships

This effort builds upon years of collaboration with public and private partners committed to restoring and stewarding the Northeast’s forests. RGS & AWS will work closely with PSC to enroll their 14,000-acre working forest in a comprehensive forest block plan, enhancing its role as a living laboratory for adaptive silviculture and habitat diversity. Together with PSC’s newly launched Institute of Forestry and its flagship Adirondack Watershed Institute, we will align fieldwork, student engagement and research to maximize impact.

State agencies, including the New York Department of Environmental Conservation and Vermont Fish & Wildlife Department, will provide vital support on public lands, helping to coordinate forest management efforts across key Wildlife Management Areas such as Fairfield Swamp and The Narrows in Vermont. Meanwhile, landowners surrounding these areas – representing over 57,000 acres already identified through NRCS’s Working Lands for Wildlife program – will continue to be engaged in habitat planning and restoration.

What This Project Will Deliver

With the support of NFWF and our funding partners, including the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Sylvamo North America LLC and the American Forest Foundation, this project will:

  • Improve habitat across 1,800+ acres, including 321 acres prioritized for Golden-winged warbler, American woodcock and ruffed grouse.
  • Reach 200 participants through field workshops, volunteer events and outreach efforts
  • Support two regional Master Logger trainings to promote professional excellence in sustainable forestry

Our work will strengthen habitat for at-risk species, improve water quality, support community forests and recreation and enhance climate resilience by managing for structural complexity and species diversity. This grant also helps catalyze additional resources and attention for conserving the Northeast’s iconic young forest habitat – essential for a range of declining wildlife.

Looking Ahead

RGS & AWS believes the best conservation outcomes happen when we align the needs of wildlife, forest ecosystems, landowners and local communities. This investment allows us to do just that – bridging science and practice, local action and regional vision. We extend our deep thanks to the National Fish and Wildlife Foundation, Sylvamo North America LLC, American Forest Foundation and all our project and funding partners. Together, we’re laying the groundwork for a healthier, more connected forest landscape that benefits wildlife and people for generations to come.

To learn more about our forest habitat initiatives in the Northeast, visit RuffedGrouseSociety.org/northeast-regional-page/.

Firearm Industry Veteran lan Harrison Joins F. Beesley as VP of North American Sales

London, UK / New York, USA – 27th May 2025 – F. Beesley, the historic and resurgent British gunmaker, is proud to announce the appointment of lan Harrison to spearhead the brand’s expansion into the North American market.

F. Beesley was founded in 1879, by Frederick Beesley. Known as the inventor of the London Gun Trade, Beesley filed some 25 patents, including the famous Patent 31, still used by James Purdey & Sons to this day.

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Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing Launches New Performance Maintenance Products

Cole grease

NAPLES, Fla. – May 19, 2025 – Cole Fine Guns and Gunsmithing, a leading premium firearms retailer, is excited to offer new performance maintenance products – Cole Performance BIO-CLP 20ml Squeeze, Cole Performance BIO-CLP 2oz Spray and Cole Performance Grease. These products are intentionally engineered to both clean and maintain firearms, ensuring that they remain in peak condition. Cole Gunsmithing understands the importance of proper firearm maintenance and is committed to providing customers with the highest quality cleaning products.

Regular cleaning and lubrication are essential in preserving a shotgun’s accuracy, reliability and longevity. Regular cleaning not only maintains performance, but this practice also helps prevent malfunctions and reduces the need for repairs over time. While it is generally recommended to clean your shotgun after every use, less frequently used firearms should still receive routine maintenance to prevent corrosion and ensure optimal condition. With the application of grease, firearms are further protected against wear and tear in harsh environments. With Cole’s BIO-CLP and Performance Grease, firearm owners have the tools they need to provide proper maintenance and ensure dependable performance and extended lifespan.

“At Cole Gunsmithing, we take great pride in every firearm that passes through our hands, and we know that our customers share that same level of care,” said Rich Cole, Owner of Cole Gunsmithing. “That’s why we have set out to offer our own line of premium maintenance products, designed to ensure our customers’ firearms stand the test of time. These products are a testament to our commitment to continued care of the guns that our customers value most.”

Cole Gunsmithing offers its Performance BIO-CLP (Cleaner, Lubricant and Preservative) in two different sizes, the 20ml squeeze and the 2oz spray. The Cole Performance BIO-CLP is a unique combination of biobased and synthetic fluids, engineered to outperform in harsh environmental conditions. This product covers all the essential steps of firearm maintenance by removing contaminants, reaching into surface disparities to prevent friction and wear, and providing a durable coating that displaces moisture and prevents corrosion and rust. Ideal for semi-auto shotguns, the Cole Performance BIO-CLP is an all-in-one solution for reliable firearm maintenance.

The Cole Performance Grease, offered in a 1oz size, is a unique non-melting premium quality grease created through a blend of high-quality petroleum oil and synthetic polymers. This combination works together to create a water-resistant, lubricating film that provides maximum protection against friction, rust, corrosion and oxidation. The Cole Performance Grease strongly adheres to metal surfaces to provide lubrication, preventing water washout and metal to metal contact under high temperatures and high pressure. The Cole Performance Grease comes in a distinctive red color to make it easy to identify throughout the application process.


For more information on Cole Performance BIO-CLP, Cole Performance Grease or the premium firearms offered by Cole Gunsmithing, visit www.colegun.com or contact the sales team at (800) 650-2653.

About Cole Gunsmithing Established in 1985, Cole Fine Guns & Gunsmithing is a family-owned and operated business serving shotgun professionals and enthusiasts across the United States and beyond. With a storied expertise in European shotguns, Cole has become a certified service center as well as a certified warranty center for multiple premium shotgun manufacturers. Cole’s team consists of some of the most experienced gunsmiths in the country, and their inventory of exclusive shotguns and parts is one of the largest and most diverse in the nation. Learn more at www.colegun.com.

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