The financial advice to “diversify your portfolio” is being followed in an unusual way by some in the firearm industry. Participating companies haven’t abandoned their core business—or dedication to enthusiasts—but they are exploring innovative expansions.
RV
Recreational Vehicle sales exploded during the pandemic and—although purchases cooled slightly—they continue to be an extremely popular choice. They are not a small investment, which makes them a lucrative target for carjackers and thieves.
Last month, a couple stopped at a rest area in Nebraska only to be attacked by a criminal demanding keys to the Jeep they towed behind their RV. The husband died from stab wounds. His wife is recovering from her injuries.
Despite the value of an RV, fifth wheel or travel trailer, safe storage for a personal-defense handgun in one has been virtually non-existent until recently. The Headrest Safe, made by The Headrest Safe Company, will be a standard feature on all Grand Designs Lineage C-Class motorhomes.
“We couldn’t be more excited about this new partnership,” said Louis Tuck, COO/CFO of The Headrest Safe Company. “With this key partnership, RV owners will now have a safe and secure way to travel and store their firearms and valuables while on their next great adventure.”
It could signal a huge shift in an RV/camper industry that has traditionally shied away from shooting sports and self-defense. Nebraska’s tragedy drives the point home that it’s long overdue.
Vending Machines
Suddenly discover you’re out of ammo on the way to the range and there are no sporting goods store nearby? If you’re driving by a Fresh Value grocery store in Alabama or Super C Mart in Oklahoma, stop by. There's a chance it has a vending machine that offers ammunition.
The system is convenient, fast and cutting-edge. Before loads are dispensed, AI software reads an ID, verifies age and then scans the customer’s face to ensure it matches the identification. It makes those candy vending machines look like dinosaurs.
“The store is a real inspiration for it,” American Rounds CEO Grant Magers said in a promotional video. “They knew their customer base and came to us and thought this would be a really good opportunity for their customer base. This is a hunting community here in Pell City, and they thought their customers would love the opportunity to buy ammunition here at the store.”
Touring With Guns
Desert Wolf Tours, an Arizona-based firm that began as Tomcar ATV Tours in 2006, offers trips into the Sonora Desert in a variety of flavors. The half-day adventures in the backcountry are popular, but so are the others that include firearms, machineguns and suppressors.
It’s little wonder, considering some of the industry’s finest signed on as official sponsors. The list includes Primary Weapon Systems, Axil Hearing Protection, Euro Optic and, most recently, Vortex Optics. “We are thrilled to partner with Vortex Optics,” Hunter Corbier, an executive at Desert Wolf Tours, said in the announcement. “This collaboration will provide our guests with enhanced visual experiences, ensuring they don't miss any breathtaking views or desert wildlife during their adventures.”
He might have added it’ll keep them sub-m.o.a., but we can’t expect wholesale changes overnight. It’s an interesting time for the industry as it explores non-endemic, non-traditional channels to promote sales and brand recognition.
