Apex Introduces Dove Stratified Loads in Lead and Steel

Apex dove

July 16, 2026, Columbus, Miss. – Apex Ammunition is excited to introduce dove loads in its Stratified™ line of hard-hitting, superior patterning shotshells. Featuring layered shot sizes of either L3 high-antimony lead or S3 steel pellets, the Dove Stratified series is designed to deliver optimal performance at variable ranges – with dense close- and mid-range patterns and increased terminal energy at longer distance – to bring down those speedy highfliers.

“Our move into lead and steel dove loads is the result of tremendous demand from retailers and our customers in the upland community who want Apex’s consistent quality and performance in loads for smaller, more fragile game birds like dove and quail,” said Jason Lonsberry, President and CEO, Apex Ammunition. “We are excited to now offer affordable, high-quality lead and non-toxic steel options for these hunts.”

Features of Apex Dove Stratified:

  • Layered Shot Payload – Optimized for both close birds and long-range fliers
  • Deadly Pattern Density – Increased pellet count on target
  • Customer-Driven Innovation – Built on real-world feedback from the field
  • Assembled in the USA – Premium components, loaded for peak performance

Dove Stratified L3 Lead

Available in 12- and 20-gauge loads, the Apex Dove Stratified features L3 high-antimony lead shot for a harder, rounder pellet and enhanced pattern efficiency.

MSRP per 25-round box:

12 Ga, 2 ¾” 1 ¼ oz #7 and #8 L3 Lead Shot $19.99

12 Ga, 2 ¾” 1 ⅛ oz #7 and #8 L3 Lead Shot $18.99

20 Ga, 3″ 1 ⅛ oz #7 and #8 L3 Lead Shot $18.99

20 Ga, 2 ¾” 1 oz #7 and #8 L3 Lead Shot $16.99

Dove Stratified S3 Steel

The 12- and 20-gauge Dove Stratified S3 Steel shotshells are loaded with premium S3 zinc-plated steel to ensure pellet consistency and superior pattern performance.

MSRP per 25-round box:

12 Ga, 2 ¾” 1 oz #6 and #7 S3 Steel Shot $18.99

20 Ga, 2 ¾” ¾ oz #6 and #7 S3 Steel Shot $16.99

All Apex shotshells are produced under heightened quality control processes designed to ensure the most consistent performance possible from shot to shot.

About Apex Ammunition: What started in 2017 with a few handmade shells for a hunting trip with friends has become an obsession to provide wingshooters with the absolute best performing ammunition possible. Founded by U.S. Veterans and hunting enthusiasts in the great state of Mississippi, Apex Ammunition pioneered the commercial application of ultra-high-density Tungsten Super Shot to create the hardest hitting, most accurate shot loads in the business. The driving principle behind the company’s continued quest for innovation and better performance is its commitment to delivering a hunting experience like no other. For more information, visit ApexAmmunition.com.

Benelli and Steve Gould Shatter Clay Shooting Distance Records

First Shooter Ever to Crush a Clay Target at a Certified 201 Yards with a Shotgun

200

July 2026, Accokeek, MD — Benelli is proud to announce a groundbreaking achievement in the world of shotgun performance as professional exhibition shooter Steve Gould shattered multiple long-distance clay target records, culminating in a historic and unprecedented shot that broke a 110mm clay target at a certified 201 yards—the first time any shooter has ever accomplished the feat.

The record-setting performance showcased the extraordinary capabilities of Benelli’s ETHOS SuperSport A.I. shotgun, featuring the company’s revolutionary Advanced Impact (A.I.) barrel technology, paired with premium Federal ammunition. Independent third-party analysts utilizing a state-of-the-art Trimble Surveyor-Grade Total Station verified each distance, ensuring complete accuracy and certification of the results within fractions on an inch.

Record #1

The record-breaking session began with Gould successfully breaking a clay target at 130 yards using standard target loads—equaling and surpassing distances once considered nearly impossible for traditional target ammunition.

Record #2

Steve then pushed the limits even further by breaking clay targets at 160 yards with Federal Prairie Storm loads.

But Gould saved the most remarkable accomplishment for last.

Record #3

Using Federal Heavyweight TSS #7 loads and the Benelli ETHOS SuperSport A.I., Gould shattered a clay target at an astonishing 201 certified yards, eclipsing his previous world-record mark of 180 yards and establishing a new benchmark in shotgun shooting history.

“This is more than just a new record,” said Gould. “This is proof of what can happen when groundbreaking shotgun technology, premium ammunition, and relentless determination come together. We believed 180 yards was pushing the limits of what a shotgun could accomplish. To break a target at 201 certified yards is simply incredible.”

The achievement highlights the revolutionary performance of Benelli’s Advanced Impact technology, introduced to maintain downrange velocity, tighter and more consistent patterns, along with superior retained energy compared to conventional shotgun barrel systems. Benelli’s engineering team designed the Advanced Impact barrel and choke system to maximize pellet performance at distances previously thought unattainable for shotgun shooters.

Federal’s Heavyweight TSS ammunition also played a key role in the historic accomplishment. Tungsten Super Shot (TSS) is among the densest and most effective shotgun payloads ever developed, providing exceptional energy retention and pattern performance at extreme distances. The same technology previously helped Gould establish the 180-yard world record, but the combination of Federal Heavyweight TSS and Benelli’s Advanced Impact platform elevated performance to an entirely new level.

Gould is no stranger to rewriting the record books. In 2021, he surpassed his previous 160-yard record by breaking a clay target at 180 yards, a feat many believed would stand for years. This latest accomplishment not only surpasses that milestone by more than 20 yards but establishes Gould as the first shooter in history to crush a clay target at a certified distance exceeding 200 yards.

For Benelli, the achievement serves as a powerful demonstration of what modern shotgun technology can achieve.

“Records are meant to be broken, but milestones like this redefine expectations,” states Benelli USA CEO, Tom DeBolt. “Steve Gould’s achievement is a testament to innovation, dedication, and the relentless pursuit of performance. The ETHOS SuperSport A.I. was built to push boundaries, and today it helped make shotgun history.”

With a certified 201-yard target break now officially recorded, Steve Gould has once again expanded the limits of shotgun shooting—and in doing so, secured his place as the first and only shooter to accomplish one of the most extraordinary feats the sport has ever witnessed.

For a full review of Steve Gould’s record-breaking shots, click on the link.  https://youtu.be/RozH8OmzBI0?utm_source=Press+release+&utm_medium=digital+&utm_campaign=World_Record_Release_AI&utm_id=World+record+

For more information on Benelli USA’s full line of premium shotguns and centerfire hunting rifles, visit BenelliUSA.com.

About Benelli

Benelli, headquartered in Accokeek, Maryland, offers the largest selection of semi-automatic shotguns in the world, as well as a variety of rifles. Since the company’s inception, Benelli has led the world in innovative firearm technology, including the ground-breaking Benelli Inertia Driven system, Advanced Impact barrel technology, effective recoil-reduction systems, and the BE.S.T. anti-corrosion coatings. Because of this commitment to innovation, Benelli is recognized as the world’s leading manufacturer of premium firearms for competitive shooters, hunters, and defense professionals.

# # #

Kent Announces Southern Reserve Dove High-Performance Shells

Kent

July 13, 2026 — Kent Cartridge introduces Southern Reserve™ Dove, a purpose built load designed for fast shooting and uncompromising performance on dove fields.

Built with high brass heads and Kent’s proprietary Diamond Shot, Southern Reserve™ Dove is designed for hunters who demand consistency when the action is fast. Diamond Shot is graded beyond standard lead shot and polished through a proprietary process to create highly uniform pellets that deliver exceptional pattern consistency. Combined with balanced payloads and tuned velocities, Southern Reserve™ Dove produces dense, even patterns, strong ignition, and dependable cycling shot after shot. Whether birds are crossing hard, dropping into the field, or streaking overhead, it provides the repeatable performance dove hunters can trust.

Balanced payloads and tuned velocities deliver dense, uniform patterns that stay effective on fast, high flying birds. This is controlled, repeatable performance that holds together when birds cut angles and opportunities come and go in seconds.

Southern Reserve™ Dove stands apart as a true top shelf load. It is built for shooters who expect consistency, demand performance, and know the difference when it shows up on target.

Available loads include:
12ga 2 3/4″ 1 1/8 oz 7.5 shot at 1350 fps
20ga 2 3/4″ 1 oz 7.5 shot at 1255 fps
28ga 2 3/4″ 3/4 oz 7.5 shot at 1300 fps
410 bore 3″ 2/3 oz 7.5 shot at 1150 fps

A load worthy of the experience.

Founded in 1997, Kent® Cartridge produces several lines of high-quality shotshells for hunters and competitive shooters, including Fasteel®2.0, FastLead®, Kent Bismuth®, Kent Elite®, ProTrial® Field Blanks, Steel Dove®, TealSteel®, Tungsten Matrix®, and Ultimate® Turkey. For more information, visit the Kent Cartridge website at www.kentcartridge.com.

Welcome to Grouse Camp, Registration is Open

Grouse Camp

September 18-20

Trees for Tomorrow
519 Sheridan Street | Eagle River, WI 54521

Are you interested in grouse and woodcock hunting, but not sure where to start? Grouse Camp is the event for you! The Ruffed Grouse Society & American Woodcock Society staff, members and partners will be on-site and ready to introduce you to the grouse woods. Expect opportunities for mentored hunting, how-to demonstrations and new connections. Space is limited to the first 100 participants.

Event Ticket Includes:

  • Friday Dinner | Saturday Breakfast, Lunch and Dinner | Sunday Breakfast and Lunch
  • Friday and Saturday Campfire Socials
  • Seminars
  • Mentored Hunting

Attendees are responsible for purchasing a Wisconsin Hunting License and abiding by the laws set forth by the state of Wisconsin.

To register as a Hunting Mentor or to sponsor Grouse Camp, please contact: Luke Statz at LukeS@RuffedGrouseSociety.org

Attendees are responsible for booking their own lodging. Area pet friendly accommodations listed below.

  • Hiawatha Lodge & Resort: (888) 479-4442
  • Days Inn by Wyndham Eagle River: (715) 477-7025
  • Edgewater Inn & Cottages: (715) 479-4011 
Grouse Camp 2
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Benelli Unveils a Tribute to America with a Super Black Eagle 3 250th Anniversary Edition

Benelli

July 2, 2026 — Benelli announces the Super Black Eagle 3 Anniversary Edition, a limited-run firearm created as an expression of gratitude and respect for the nation whose sporting traditions have shaped generations of hunters and shooters.

Built on the trusted inertia-driven Super Black Eagle 3 platform, this edition pairs proven performance with detailed, commemorative craftsmanship. Production is limited to just 250 total shotguns, 125 in 12-gauge 3″ and 125 in 20-gauge 3″, with each firearm featuring its own custom sequential serial number.

The shotgun is fitted with hand-selected AA-grade walnut, delivering a clean, heirloom-quality look and feel. The receiver showcases deep, detailed engraving accented with gold inlay, bringing together iconic symbols of America in a presentation worthy of the nation’s 250-year milestone. Rich in patriotic detail, the artwork captures the spirit, sacrifice, and strength that define the United States.

Prominently featured are the American flag, the enduring words of the Declaration of Independence, and a striking gold 250th Anniversary emblem created specifically for this commemorative edition. At the center of the design is a custom artistic interpretation of the U.S. seal, highlighted by an eagle carrying olive branches on one side and arrows on the other—a timeless symbol of peace through strength and the enduring resolve of a nation forged in freedom.

This offering stands as one of the most exclusive Super Black Eagle editions produced, built for collectors, patriots, and dedicated Benelli customers looking for a meaningful addition tied to a historic moment.

The Semi-Quincentennial Anniversary Traditional Edition will be available in extremely limited quantities through select authorized dealers.

For more information on Benelli USA’s full line of premium shotguns and centerfire hunting rifles, visit BenelliUSA.com.

About Benelli: Benelli, headquartered in Accokeek, Maryland, offers the largest selection of semi-automatic shotguns in the world, as well as a variety of rifles. Since the company’s inception, Benelli has led the world in innovative firearm technology, including the ground-breaking Benelli Inertia Driven system, Advanced Impact barrel technology, effective recoil-reduction systems, and the BE.S.T. anti-corrosion coatings. Because of this commitment to innovation, Benelli is recognized as the world’s leading manufacturer of premium firearms for competitive shooters, hunters, and defense professionals.

Duck Commander Announces the Commander Cut: America 250 Limited Edition Call

Duck call

June 23, 20226 — Duck Commander, a world-renowned leader in duck call manufacturing, is proud to announce its new duck call, made specially in celebration of America’s 250th birthday. A limited run of only 50 calls, the all-new Commander Cut: America 250 can be found exclusively on Duck Commander’s online store.

Featuring a patriotic design, the call is finished in blue with red and white accents and proudly displays the commemorative phrases “250 Years of America” and “In God We Trust.” Designed to mark this historic milestone, the limited-edition call serves as both a collectible keepsake and a high-performance hunting tool for waterfowlers who value tradition, craftsmanship and country.

“For many hunters, time in the blind is about more than the hunt itself. It’s about family, tradition and the values that connect generations,” said Duck Commander Brand Manager Jacob Mayo. “As we celebrate 250 years of America, we wanted to create a call that reflects that heritage while delivering the performance hunters expect from Duck Commander.”

This special edition call pays homage to the classic PS Olt calls from Illinois, modified for hunting in the public timber of South Arkansas and Northern Louisiana. It features a .14 mil reed and an upslope J-frame design, delivering a raspy tone with deep bass in the middle and lower ranges. The call is engineered to produce a loud, piercing tone to attract high-flying ducks and offers a loose feed for chatter, enhancing its effectiveness in finishing birds.

The Commander Cut: America 250 exemplifies a balance of power and volume, while maintaining the finesse and back-pressure necessary for the distinctive Cajun squeal. This design reflects Duck Commander’s commitment to quality and innovation in waterfowl hunting equipment.

For more information about Duck Commander’s leading line of waterfowl hunting products, visit www.DuckCommander.com and follow the Duck Commander team on InstagramFacebook or YouTube.

About Duck Commander: Duck Commander was founded by Phil Robertson in West Monroe, Louisiana, and grew from a small family operation making handcrafted duck calls into a recognized outdoor brand. The Robertson family later became widely known through the A&E series Duck Dynasty, while continuing to develop and sell Duck Commander products to customers worldwide. Today, the company remains based in West Monroe and continues to celebrate the hunting, fishing and outdoor traditions that have been central to its story from the beginning. To learn more about Duck Commander and the Robertson family, visit the Duck Commander website.

Beretta Introduces the New A400 L Field

400

June 16, 2026 — Accokeek, MD – Beretta USA introduces the new Beretta A400 L Field, the latest evolution of the renowned A400 platform. Combining the competition-proven performance of the revolutionary A400 action with refined aesthetics and premium craftsmanship, the A400 L Field delivers an elevated shooting experience for discerning hunters and clay target enthusiasts alike.

Built for shooters who appreciate both beauty and performance, the A400 L Field features a striking nickel-plated receiver adorned with intricate scroll and floral engravings, paired with a highly figured Grade 2.5+ walnut stock and forend. Designed with enhanced ergonomics, enlarged checkering surfaces, and an ambidextrous palm swell, the new stock configuration provides superior comfort, control, and instinctive handling in the field or on the range.

“The A400 platform has become one of the most trusted and proven semi-automatic shotguns in the world,” said Caleb McMillen, Beretta USA Sr. Product Manager for Long Guns. “With the new A400 L Field, we wanted to create a shotgun that delivers the advanced performance shooters expect from the A400 while elevating the craftsmanship and visual appeal for those who appreciate a truly refined sporting firearm.”

At the heart of the A400 L Field is Beretta’s innovative B-LINK® gas operating system, engineered to deliver up to 36% faster follow-up shots while reducing recoil and enhancing overall shooting comfort and stability. The system is paired with a DLC-coated bolt assembly and enlarged operating controls, including an oversized bolt handle, extended bolt release, and enlarged loading port for fast, intuitive handling in all shooting conditions. The A400 L Field also incorporates Beretta’s exclusive Steelium® Plus barrel technology, designed to optimize shot patterns while significantly reducing felt recoil for smoother swings and decisive on-target performance.

Additional premium features include:

  • Full nickel-plated receiver engraving with intricate scroll and floral patterns
  • Grade 2.5+ walnut stock and forend with enhanced ergonomics
  • Steelium® Plus barrel technology for superior pattern performance
  • B-LINK® gas operating system for fast, reliable cycling
  • DLC-coated bolt assembly and enlarged operating controls
  • Aluminum trigger guard for added durability and refined styling

Already favored by competitive shooters worldwide, the Beretta A400 platform is known for its speed, reliability, and natural handling characteristics. The new A400 L Field builds on that legacy with refined styling and premium details that make it equally at home in the uplands or at the sporting clays course. For more information on the new Beretta A400 L Field, visit Beretta.com or contact your local authorized Beretta dealer.

Stay connected with Beretta USA. Follow us on FacebookInstagram,XYouTube 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 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.

Beretta Introduces 687 Silver Pigeon 500 Years Limited Edition

500

Beretta celebrates the iconic 680 platform, a symbol of reliability and timeless style, chosen by over one million hunters and shooters. Produced in a limited edition of 1,526 hunting shotguns and 1,526 sporting shotguns, the 687 Silver Pigeon 500 Years is a tribute to a true Italian legend: a tireless icon at the side of generations of enthusiasts around the world.

Featuring a dedicated serial number, selected Grade 3 walnut wood and a classic floral engraving enhanced with gold details — including the Beretta 500 Years logo on the bottom of the receiver — this limited-edition shotgun combines refined aesthetics with the renowned performance of the Beretta 680 platform.

Its flawless locking system, characterized by the iconic trapezoidal shoulders and dual conical locking lugs, ensures strength and reliability, while the Beretta Steelium® barrels with an 80 mm double progressive forcing cone deliver outstanding ballistic performance.

Main Features:

  • MicroCore® recoil pad
  • Grade 3 walnut wood
  • Dedicated serial number: 1,526 hunting pieces, 1,526 sporting pieces
  • Laser floral engraving with gold details
  • Gold 500 Years logo on the bottom of the receiver
  • Rounded fore-end
  • Steelium® barrels: profile with 80 mm double progressive forcing cone
  • Optimachoke® HP chokes
  • Hunting: 6×6 mm top rib; Sporting: 10×8 mm top rib

More information at https://tinyurl.com/26x954un

Birchwood Casey Introduces a New Generation of Firearm Maintenance Solutions, All 100% Biodegradable

Bio

June 12, 2026 — Renowned for delivering high-quality gear and accessories for firearm training, cleaning, and transport, Birchwood Casey has announced the expansion of its product lineup with the introduction of several new gun cleaners, all 100% biodegradable.

Dedicated to helping hunters, shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts protect their most valuable gear since 1948, the brand stays true to its roots with the launch of its Synvex™ Copper Cutter, Synvex™ Carbon Cutter, Synvex™ CLP-X Oil, and Synvex™ Bore Wash, a lineup of biodegradable gun cleaners delivering powerful, modern formulations designed to remove fouling with the efficiency of traditional petroleum-based solvents.

Synvex™ Carbon Cutter dissolves heavy carbon and powder buildup on bolts, brakes, and more, and is safe to use on metal, polymer, and coated surfaces. The formula also stays on surfaces long after application, so there’s no need to worry about rapid evaporation.

Synvex™ Copper Cutter offers the simplest way to remove stubborn copper and lead fouling, while also preventing future fouling buildup on everything from bore steel to other sensitive finishes.

Synvex™ CLP-X Oil cleans, lubricates, and protects in one simple step, quickly penetrating the metal surfaces on any firearm, leaving a moisture-displacing, rust-preventing shield that reduces both friction and wear. The synthetic-based formula is also MIL-PRF-63460F-rated, making it appropriate for use on U.S. military weapons.

Synvex™ Bore Wash is safe for use on everything from Cerakote and hydro printing to plastic and wood, breaking down oil, grease, and grime without leaving unwanted residue behind.

“This new line of gun-cleaning products provides a more environmentally responsible way to maintain firearms,” said Jeff Mcnail, VP of Brand Management. “Each is non-corrosive, low-odor, formulated to be safer on skin, and also breaks down naturally over time, which is a win for hunters and shooters alike, regardless of level.”

Created for shooters who demand both reliability and accountability from all their gear, the new lineup proves firearm maintenance can be effective, efficient, and environmentally mindful all at once.

For more information about Birchwood Casey products, visit www.BirchwoodCasey.com.

You can also learn more and check out the entire family of GSM brands at www.gsmoutdoors.com.

About Birchwood Casey: The premier provider of gear and accessories tailored to training, cleaning, and transporting firearms, Birchwood Casey has been serving shooters—from competition-caliber to collectors and gunsmiths—since 1948. Dedicated to seeing both novice and experienced shooting enthusiasts through the full spectrum of learning to handle and maintain their firearm, as well as advance their technical and tactical shooting skills, the brand boasts an extensive assortment of innovative products ranging from holsters, cases, and gun-care equipment, to benches, throwers, targets, and more, all with a long-standing commitment to quality.

Delta Waterfowl Celebrates Introduction of the Great American Outdoors Act 250

250

June 11, 2026 — Delta Waterfowl today praised House Natural Resources Committee Chairman Bruce Westerman, R-Ark., and Ranking Member Jared Huffman, D-Calif., for introducing The Great American Outdoors Act 250 to reauthorize the Legacy Restoration Fund, a critical funding tool used to address deferred maintenance across federal public lands and waters. The investment in infrastructure would provide $95 million per year for five years.

Since its creation, the Legacy Restoration Fund has provided substantial funding for infrastructure improvements on lands managed by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, National Park Service, Bureau of Land Management, and U.S. Forest Service. These projects have enhanced habitat management, improved public access, and ensured sportsmen and women can continue to enjoy America’s public lands and waters.

“We’re grateful for Chairman Westerman and Ranking Member Huffman for their bipartisan leadership in taking steps to reauthorizing the Legacy Restoration Fund,” said John Devney, chief policy officer for Delta Waterfowl. “The Legacy Restoration Fund has delivered meaningful benefits for ducks and duck hunters by helping USFWS refuge managers and other federal land managers address long-overdue infrastructure needs which directly support enhanced wetland habitat management and public access. Reauthorizing the Legacy Restoration Fund will ensure that the backlog on infrastructure on refuges and other public lands can be addressed.”

Across the country, national wildlife refuges provide critical habitat for breeding, migrating, and wintering ducks and represent important access for waterfowl hunters. Yet, the National Wildlife Refuge System currently has a $2.6 billion deferred maintenance backlog, which means pumps, water-control structures, dikes, and other essential habitat management features need repair.

“A well-managed National Wildlife Refuge System is fundamental to a brighter future of ducks and duck hunters,” Devney said. “Reauthorization of the Legacy Restoration Fund has been one of Delta’s highest priorities for this Congress and has been a centerpiece of our Restore Our Refuges Initiative.”

In 2025, Delta formally launched Restoring Our Refuges, an impactful advocacy campaign to secure enhanced public funding to revitalize the health and waterfowl value of federal refuges and state-owned wildlife management areas throughout the United States.

Delta Waterfowl will continue to work closely with members of the House of Representatives and Senate toward reauthorization of the Legacy Restoration Fund.

Delta Waterfowl is The Duck Hunters Organization™, a leading conservation group founded in 1911 that uses science-based solutions to produce ducks, conserve prairie wetlands, and ensure the future of waterfowl hunting in North America. Visit their website.

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