Monthly gun sales reports based on NICS background checks are the widely accepted yardstick for gauging relative health of the firearm industry, but the consumer-based index is no measure of manufacturers’ dedication to harnessing the technology that fuels innovation and enhances safety. The annual Ballistics Conference—presented by the Sporting Arms and Ammunition Manufacturers’ Institute (SAAMI)—is a better barometer for that task, and this year’s record-setting attendance indicates enthusiasts have some cutting-developments to look forward to soon.
More than 110 industry professionals attended the 2024 Ballistics Conference, which was held Sept. 10 through 12 in Salt Lake City, Utah. When SAAMI held the event for the first time in 2014 it attracted 40 participants. Attendance has increased at a steady pace ever since.
“This year’s record attendance is a clear indication of the importance of this event to the ammunition and firearm development and testing community, as well as government and law enforcement test labs and procurement activities,” said Joe Bartozzi, SAAMI president and CEO. “It also is an important part of SAAMI’s commitment to the promotion of safety, reliability and interchangeability in firearms and ammunition for the shooting public.”
The 2024 conference included new topics on long-range ballistics and drag measurement, applications of additive manufacturing techniques, and measurement of physical dimensions of firearm parts and ammunition components by established manufacturers serving the industry. Presentations on the operation of piezoelectric pressure transducers and other electronic sensors and associated data acquisition systems are included at every conference and form the backbone of the agenda.
Representatives came from Canada, Mexico, New Zealand, Germany, Spain and, of course, across the United State to attend. Sept. 10 and 11 included full-day technical presentations.
The September 12 range day, which was new for the 2024 conference, featured a demonstration of the Infinition long-range radar system presented by Barnes Bullets; a demonstration of the Oehler System 89 for measurement of ballistic coefficient and time-of-flight presented by Oehler Research; a demonstration of the calibration system by the Modal Shop; and a chance to shoot variety of firearms provided by Browning Arms Company and H-S Precision.
