In December 2016, Smith & Wesson fans were needled with news of a name change for Smith & Wesson Holding, the parent company of historic firearm manufacturer Smith & Wesson. Fears were dampened quickly when it became clear that the holding company, which became American Outdoor Brands, was the only entity affected by the change, and the Smith & Wesson name would remain unsullied. Now, it appears American Outdoor Brands is reversing course, effective June 1, 2020.
Starting that date, American Outdoor Brands will officially become Smith & Wesson Brands, and its ticker symbol will change from "AOBC" to "SWBI" at the market opening on June 1. This name change is part of the larger spin-off strategy of the holding company, which is preparing for a split between its firearm and accessories businesses.
In late summer 2020, a transaction will create two independent, publicly traded companies: Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. and American Outdoor Brands, Inc. Smith & Wesson Brands will encompass the firearm business, and American Outdoor Brands will encompass all outdoor products and accessories.