ZEV Technologies Escaping Washington State’s Hostile Political Climate

ZEV Technologies—manufacturer of performance handguns, AR-style rifles, components and the new Folding Defensive Platform (FDP)—is moving its headquarters and manufacturing operations out of Washington state to Utah’s Second Amendment-friendly business climate. The company’s relocation to Riverton, Utah, is occurring in waves. Some functions are already up and running at the site, which is in the Salt Lake City metropolitan area. The entire relocation is expected to be complete by May 31.

Utah’s skilled workforce and an infrastructure capable of supporting the intricate nature of firearm production made the new site an ideal location, according to the company’s announcement. ZEV Technologies will occupy a 40,000-square-foot facility in Riverton, expanding the company’s overall manufacturing capacity. The relocation aims to bring new jobs into the valley, including advanced manufacturing, engineering and operational roles.

“Due to the evolving political climate in Washington state, our company determined that it could no longer, in good conscience, continue operations in a jurisdiction where law-abiding citizens are restricted from purchasing and owning the products we manufacture,” said ZEV Technologies President Taylor Goode. “Relocating to Utah represents a strategic decision that not only expands our capacity for growth and scalability, but also strengthens our ability to invest in innovation, advanced manufacturing and product development. This transition positions ZEV Technologies to accelerate innovation and more effectively meet the evolving needs of our highly discerning customer base.”

Zev Technologies was officially incorporated in 2005 and originally operated in California. Its initial focus was on competitive shooters, pioneering the first drop-in replacement triggers for Glock. The company’s triggers are still considered among the best by competitors worldwide.

In 2017, the firm acquired Mega Arms in Centralia, Wash., and later moved its operations to that city. Over time, its customer base expanded from competitive shooters to elite military and law enforcement, and ultimately, into leading gun stores and ranges for every shooter. Today, ZEV offers its own award-winning lines of pistols and rifles in addition to providing the most comprehensive line of premium upgrade parts for Glock.