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Chris Avena 's Entries

206 blogs
  • 30 Jul 2018
    http://read.nxtbook.com/see_me_hunt/aon/summer_2018/a_man_and_his_mountain_back_t.html
    1001 Posted by Chris Avena
  • http://read.nxtbook.com/see_me_hunt/aon/summer_2018/a_man_and_his_mountain_back_t.html
    Jul 30, 2018 1001
  • 30 Jul 2018
    http://read.nxtbook.com/see_me_hunt/aon/summer_2018/tribute_to_a_friend.html
    488 Posted by Chris Avena
  • http://read.nxtbook.com/see_me_hunt/aon/summer_2018/tribute_to_a_friend.html
    Jul 30, 2018 488
  • 16 Aug 2017
                                                                           British Columbia Bans Grizzly Bear Hunting WASHINGTON, DC - Government officials, bowing to the bluster of anti-hunters, have closed the hunting of grizzly bears in British Columbia, Canada. This move ignores all sound science that supports a continuation of grizzly bear hunting in that Province. Safari Club International (SCI) is actively pursuing a number of different avenues to address this pressing issue, including a call to base all wildlife management decisions on sound science that supports sustained use of those renewable resources. In a letter to the Minister and Deputy Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, SCI stated, “We at Safari Club International are deeply troubled by the recent announcement of the closure of grizzly bear hunting in British Columbia. We feel this decision has been based on emotion and not science. Decisions of this magnitude must be made, using sound science-based conservation. There should have been stakeholder consultations before such drastic action was taken.” The actions in British Columbia follow elections earlier this year when the anti-hunters’ influence became more prevalent in the government. “Rather than an outright closure that will have many negative unintended consequences for society and the bears themselves, SCI recommends a simple regulation change that can ensure that all grizzly bears harvested be utilized by the hunter/outfitter, since that seems to be one of the sticking points. We feel that this regulation change will appease the majority of British Columbia residents, as well as being equitable for the industry and business-related constituents,” SCI stated in its letter to the British Columbia officials.
    457 Posted by Chris Avena
  •                                                                        British Columbia Bans Grizzly Bear Hunting WASHINGTON, DC - Government officials, bowing to the bluster of anti-hunters, have closed the hunting of grizzly bears in British Columbia, Canada. This move ignores all sound science that supports a continuation of grizzly bear hunting in that Province. Safari Club International (SCI) is actively pursuing a number of different avenues to address this pressing issue, including a call to base all wildlife management decisions on sound science that supports sustained use of those renewable resources. In a letter to the Minister and Deputy Minister of Forests, Lands, Natural Resource Operations and Rural Development, SCI stated, “We at Safari Club International are deeply troubled by the recent announcement of the closure of grizzly bear hunting in British Columbia. We feel this decision has been based on emotion and not science. Decisions of this magnitude must be made, using sound science-based conservation. There should have been stakeholder consultations before such drastic action was taken.” The actions in British Columbia follow elections earlier this year when the anti-hunters’ influence became more prevalent in the government. “Rather than an outright closure that will have many negative unintended consequences for society and the bears themselves, SCI recommends a simple regulation change that can ensure that all grizzly bears harvested be utilized by the hunter/outfitter, since that seems to be one of the sticking points. We feel that this regulation change will appease the majority of British Columbia residents, as well as being equitable for the industry and business-related constituents,” SCI stated in its letter to the British Columbia officials.
    Aug 16, 2017 457
  • 12 Jul 2017
    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   NEW BADLANDS ASCENT PACK DESIGNED TO CLIMB THE HILLS OR THE TREES   West Jordan, UT –  Part of the new pack lineup for 2017, Badlands is set to release the Ascent Pack as a mid-range, versatile, do-it-all workhorse. Over a year in development and testing, the Ascent Pack features new technologies and functionality never before seen on a Badlands pack. Built to be ideal for backcountry hunts or treestand hunting alike, the Ascent Pack will feel at home on the mountain or in the treetops.   Among the new features are the Badlands Bow-Wrap Carrier System, an internal padded spotting scope pocket, a reverse bucket lid opening for easy access and a new ventilated suspension. Other features and specs are as follows:   Included Rain Cover Built-In Rifle Boot Total Volume: 2430 Cubic Inches Weight: 4.5 lbs Hydration Reservoir Compatible Bow and Rifle Carry Compatible The Ascent pack is available in Badlands Approach camo and will be available fall 2017. The MSRP will be $249.99 and include the legendary Badlands Unconditional Lifetime Warranty.   Now in its 24th year, Badlands continues to focus on exceptional quality, continuing innovation, unmatched performance and as always the only unconditional lifetime warranty in the industry.
    1106 Posted by Chris Avena
  • FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE:   NEW BADLANDS ASCENT PACK DESIGNED TO CLIMB THE HILLS OR THE TREES   West Jordan, UT –  Part of the new pack lineup for 2017, Badlands is set to release the Ascent Pack as a mid-range, versatile, do-it-all workhorse. Over a year in development and testing, the Ascent Pack features new technologies and functionality never before seen on a Badlands pack. Built to be ideal for backcountry hunts or treestand hunting alike, the Ascent Pack will feel at home on the mountain or in the treetops.   Among the new features are the Badlands Bow-Wrap Carrier System, an internal padded spotting scope pocket, a reverse bucket lid opening for easy access and a new ventilated suspension. Other features and specs are as follows:   Included Rain Cover Built-In Rifle Boot Total Volume: 2430 Cubic Inches Weight: 4.5 lbs Hydration Reservoir Compatible Bow and Rifle Carry Compatible The Ascent pack is available in Badlands Approach camo and will be available fall 2017. The MSRP will be $249.99 and include the legendary Badlands Unconditional Lifetime Warranty.   Now in its 24th year, Badlands continues to focus on exceptional quality, continuing innovation, unmatched performance and as always the only unconditional lifetime warranty in the industry.
    Jul 12, 2017 1106
  • 24 Mar 2017
    Immediate Changes to South African Firearm Registration Guidelines for American Hunters The South African Police Services’ Central Firearms Desk has announced its decision to no longer accept United States Department of Homeland Security Certificates of Registration, commonly known as CBP Form 4457, if the date in the top right had corner of the form has expired. “We encourage all Safari Club members to complete a new CBF Form 4457 before embarking on any international travel with firearms,” said Larry Higgins, President of SCI. “While South Africa is currently the only country to make this decision, others will likely follow suit. Members should ensure their 4457 Form is valid before leaving the U.S.” This new form can be found online here. SCI members with questions should contact the Customs and Border Protection Information Center directly. The CBP INFO Center is open Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern time. You can ask your question via email or by calling (877) 227-5511. If you are outside the U.S. you must call 1 (202) 325-8000. Those needing additional assistance may contact SCI’s Office of Hunter Advocacy at (202) 543-8733 or may email hunteradvocacy@safariclub.org. SCI also encourages members to defer to the Professional Hunters’ Association of South Africa (PHASA) and their travel protocols when hunting in South Africa. PHASA recommends hunting clients pre-apply, through a reputable, registered meet-and-greet agency, for temporary import/export of firearms and/or transit permits.
    625 Posted by Chris Avena
  • Immediate Changes to South African Firearm Registration Guidelines for American Hunters The South African Police Services’ Central Firearms Desk has announced its decision to no longer accept United States Department of Homeland Security Certificates of Registration, commonly known as CBP Form 4457, if the date in the top right had corner of the form has expired. “We encourage all Safari Club members to complete a new CBF Form 4457 before embarking on any international travel with firearms,” said Larry Higgins, President of SCI. “While South Africa is currently the only country to make this decision, others will likely follow suit. Members should ensure their 4457 Form is valid before leaving the U.S.” This new form can be found online here. SCI members with questions should contact the Customs and Border Protection Information Center directly. The CBP INFO Center is open Monday-Friday between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m. Eastern time. You can ask your question via email or by calling (877) 227-5511. If you are outside the U.S. you must call 1 (202) 325-8000. Those needing additional assistance may contact SCI’s Office of Hunter Advocacy at (202) 543-8733 or may email hunteradvocacy@safariclub.org. SCI also encourages members to defer to the Professional Hunters’ Association of South Africa (PHASA) and their travel protocols when hunting in South Africa. PHASA recommends hunting clients pre-apply, through a reputable, registered meet-and-greet agency, for temporary import/export of firearms and/or transit permits.
    Mar 24, 2017 625
  • 02 Mar 2017
    HUNTERS REJOICE AT INNOVATIVE BADLANDS COMBINATION BINOCULAR/RANGEFINDER CASE DURING ANNUAL TRADESHOWS West Jordan, UT – Crowd control was key for Badlands at the 2017 ATA tradeshow as they unveiled the new Bino XR optics case. Utilizing Badlands Zip-No™ Magnetic Closure Technology, the Bino XR provides separate, easy-access compartments for a set of binoculars and a rangefinder. “Oohhs and aahhs” were frequently overheard as Badlands demonstrated the dual-carry capability of the new case. Features of the Bino XR include: · Badlands Zip-No™ Magnetic Closure Technology on both upper and lower compartments· Upper storage fits most 10x42 binoculars and smaller· Lower storage fits most rangefinder models· Built-in lens cloth· Tethers for binoculars and rangefinder· New zippered side pocket storage· Built-in (removable) rain cover for ultimate protection· New slimmer, ventilated 4-way shoulder harness system Badlands Supply Chain Manager Tim Shoaf said of the new case, “Honestly, this one is kind of pain in the you-know-what for me because demand is already through the roof.” He continued, “We’re working hard to fulfill all the demand and make sure everyone has one of these on their chest this spring.”The Badlands Bino XR will be available April 2017 for $149.99. Available color options will be Badlands Approach camouflage, Serengeti Brown and Gunmetal Gray.Now     in its 23rd year, Badlands continues to focus on exceptional quality, continuing innovation, unmatched performance and as always the only unconditional lifetime warranty in the industry.  
    662 Posted by Chris Avena
  • HUNTERS REJOICE AT INNOVATIVE BADLANDS COMBINATION BINOCULAR/RANGEFINDER CASE DURING ANNUAL TRADESHOWS West Jordan, UT – Crowd control was key for Badlands at the 2017 ATA tradeshow as they unveiled the new Bino XR optics case. Utilizing Badlands Zip-No™ Magnetic Closure Technology, the Bino XR provides separate, easy-access compartments for a set of binoculars and a rangefinder. “Oohhs and aahhs” were frequently overheard as Badlands demonstrated the dual-carry capability of the new case. Features of the Bino XR include: · Badlands Zip-No™ Magnetic Closure Technology on both upper and lower compartments· Upper storage fits most 10x42 binoculars and smaller· Lower storage fits most rangefinder models· Built-in lens cloth· Tethers for binoculars and rangefinder· New zippered side pocket storage· Built-in (removable) rain cover for ultimate protection· New slimmer, ventilated 4-way shoulder harness system Badlands Supply Chain Manager Tim Shoaf said of the new case, “Honestly, this one is kind of pain in the you-know-what for me because demand is already through the roof.” He continued, “We’re working hard to fulfill all the demand and make sure everyone has one of these on their chest this spring.”The Badlands Bino XR will be available April 2017 for $149.99. Available color options will be Badlands Approach camouflage, Serengeti Brown and Gunmetal Gray.Now     in its 23rd year, Badlands continues to focus on exceptional quality, continuing innovation, unmatched performance and as always the only unconditional lifetime warranty in the industry.  
    Mar 02, 2017 662
  • 07 Dec 2016
        Bipartisan Sportsmen's ActFinal Push: Your Immediate Action is Needed and Appreciated     The most important legislation in a generation for America’s hunters and target shooters is at a crucial stage. The U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives are in the homestretch and have just days to pass the Energy Policy Modernization Act conference report that includes the Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act prior to the end of the 114th Congress. Take this final opportunity to call the Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan and urge him to approve the Energy Conference report with the Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act. Please CALL TODAY before Congress takes up the Continuing Resolution this week to fund the federal government past Dec. 9. We do NOT want Congress to punt the Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act into the next congress that begins in January.  We have come too far to go back to “square one” and begin again. Please take this final opportunity to call today to help protect and preserve our cherished outdoor traditions. United States Capitol Switchboard: 202-224-3121
    649 Posted by Chris Avena
  •     Bipartisan Sportsmen's ActFinal Push: Your Immediate Action is Needed and Appreciated     The most important legislation in a generation for America’s hunters and target shooters is at a crucial stage. The U.S. Senate and the U.S. House of Representatives are in the homestretch and have just days to pass the Energy Policy Modernization Act conference report that includes the Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act prior to the end of the 114th Congress. Take this final opportunity to call the Speaker of the House, Paul Ryan and urge him to approve the Energy Conference report with the Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act. Please CALL TODAY before Congress takes up the Continuing Resolution this week to fund the federal government past Dec. 9. We do NOT want Congress to punt the Bipartisan Sportsmen’s Act into the next congress that begins in January.  We have come too far to go back to “square one” and begin again. Please take this final opportunity to call today to help protect and preserve our cherished outdoor traditions. United States Capitol Switchboard: 202-224-3121
    Dec 07, 2016 649
  • 02 Sep 2016
             
    672 Posted by Chris Avena
  •          
    Sep 02, 2016 672
  • 11 Aug 2016
                  ZEISS introduces new ZEISS Conquest® Gavia 85 spotting scope   NORTH CHESTERFIELD, VA., August 4, 2016 – Carl Zeiss Sports Optics, the world's leading manufacturer of high performance sports optics, is pleased to announce the new ZEISS Conquest Gavia 85 angled spotting scope, specially developed to meet the needs of sportsmen and wildlife/nature observers.   The powerful 60x magnification combined with a wide-angle field of view, the Gavia 85mm spotting scope makes tricky identification of wildlife no problem, even at great distances thanks to highly detailed image rendition. Outstanding optical performance and brightness along with an intuitive and dynamic focusing mechanism enables fast and smooth focusing during observation. The Gavia’s compact and light-weight design makes packing this spotting scope in remote locations comfortable and effortless.   Made in Germany, the Conquest Gavia owes its outstanding image quality and optical resolution to its 85mm objective design and its unique HD glass system. This phenomenal optical concept offers unrivalled low light performance. All external lenses are protected by LotuTec® coating for easy cleaning and clear visibility in any weather situation.   Specifications: Magnification                                                            30-60x Objective Lens Diameter                                          85 mm Exit Pupil Diameter                                                  2.8-1.4 mm Focal Length (Objective Lens System)                   494 mm Field of View at 1,000 yds                                      99-69 ft Close Focus                                                             10.8 ft Lens Type HD Coating                                             LotuTec® /T* Fogproof                                                                  Nitrogen Filled Waterproof                                                             400 mbar Lens Thread                                                            M 86x1 Length                                                                    15.6 in Weight (incl. Eyepiece)                                         60 oz Order Number (with Eyepiece 30-60x)                528048-0000-010 Retail Price                                                            $1,999.99
    785 Posted by Chris Avena
  •               ZEISS introduces new ZEISS Conquest® Gavia 85 spotting scope   NORTH CHESTERFIELD, VA., August 4, 2016 – Carl Zeiss Sports Optics, the world's leading manufacturer of high performance sports optics, is pleased to announce the new ZEISS Conquest Gavia 85 angled spotting scope, specially developed to meet the needs of sportsmen and wildlife/nature observers.   The powerful 60x magnification combined with a wide-angle field of view, the Gavia 85mm spotting scope makes tricky identification of wildlife no problem, even at great distances thanks to highly detailed image rendition. Outstanding optical performance and brightness along with an intuitive and dynamic focusing mechanism enables fast and smooth focusing during observation. The Gavia’s compact and light-weight design makes packing this spotting scope in remote locations comfortable and effortless.   Made in Germany, the Conquest Gavia owes its outstanding image quality and optical resolution to its 85mm objective design and its unique HD glass system. This phenomenal optical concept offers unrivalled low light performance. All external lenses are protected by LotuTec® coating for easy cleaning and clear visibility in any weather situation.   Specifications: Magnification                                                            30-60x Objective Lens Diameter                                          85 mm Exit Pupil Diameter                                                  2.8-1.4 mm Focal Length (Objective Lens System)                   494 mm Field of View at 1,000 yds                                      99-69 ft Close Focus                                                             10.8 ft Lens Type HD Coating                                             LotuTec® /T* Fogproof                                                                  Nitrogen Filled Waterproof                                                             400 mbar Lens Thread                                                            M 86x1 Length                                                                    15.6 in Weight (incl. Eyepiece)                                         60 oz Order Number (with Eyepiece 30-60x)                528048-0000-010 Retail Price                                                            $1,999.99
    Aug 11, 2016 785
  • 26 Jul 2016
                                                                        Smith & Wesson to Acquire Crimson Trace   Corporation Acquisition of Market Leader Provides Established Platform for Electro-Optics Business Smith & Wesson Establishes Fourth Division Closing Expected August 2016   SPRINGFIELD, Mass., July 25, 2016 -- Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC), a leading manufacturer of firearms and a provider of quality accessory products for the shooting, hunting, and rugged outdoor enthusiast, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Crimson Trace Corporation (Crimson Trace), the industry leader in laser sighting systems and tactical lighting for firearms, for $95.0 million, subject to certain adjustments, utilizing cash on hand.   Crimson Trace has long been a key supplier of laser sighting systems for Smith & Wesson. For more than two decades, Crimson Trace has provided consumers, military units, and law enforcement officers around the globe with the world’s largest selection of award-winning laser sight and tactical light products. Crimson Trace offers more than 225 products and is widely recognized as the world’s leading brand of laser sights for firearms. Its award-winning innovations include the Lasergrips®, Laserguard®, and Rail Master® platforms. The company’s product line also includes the Defender Series®, Lightguard®, and its new LiNQ™ wireless activation system. Based in Wilsonville, Oregon, Crimson Trace operates from a 50,000 square foot , leased facility where it engineers and manufactures its products.   Crimson Trace was founded 22 years ago and has organically generated a ten year compound annual revenue growth rate in excess of 10%. The company maintains a product development team that has an established track record of launching high-quality, innovative laser sighting products. As a result, its products maintain a premium position with hundreds of independent retailers as well as large sporting goods retailers, including Cabela’s, MidwayUSA, Nation’s Best Sports, and internet retailer Optics Planet, Inc.   James Debney, Smith & Wesson President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Crimson Trace provides us with an exceptional opportunity to acquire a thriving company that is completely aligned with our strategy to become a leader in the market for shooting, hunting, and rugged outdoor enthusiasts. As the undisputed leader in the market for laser sighting products, Crimson Trace serves as an ideal platform for our new Electro-Optics Division. Firearms purchasers frequently buy electro-optic accessories to enhance the capabilities and performance of their firearms. The growth that Crimson Trace has delivered is a testament to the high product quality and the robust product development capability that Lane Tobiassen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Crimson Trace, and his team have established. That capability, combined with Crimson Trace’s leadership position in the market for laser sights, provides a solid framework for organic and inorganic growth.”   Lane Tobiassen, who joined Crimson Trace in 2005, will serve as President of the new Electro-Optics Division of Smith & Wesson, and will report directly to Debney. The Crimson Trace management team and workforce, as well as its base of operations, will remain in Wilsonville, Oregon after the acquisition.   Tobiassen said, “It is a great honor to lead Crimson Trace into this exciting new chapter in our history by joining the Smith & Wesson team. Since 1994, we have designed and brought to market more than 225 products, all of which reflect the passion, dedication, and spirit of innovation of our design engineers, production workforce, customer service representatives, and marketing and sales professionals. As the new Electro-Optics Division of Smith & Wesson, we believe that our capabilities, combined with inorganic opportunities to acquire related technologies, will expand the reach of our existing market footprint. This makes us a great fit for Smith & Wesson, a legendary company with an iconic brand, world-class products, and markets that include consumer, law enforcement, and international channels. We look forward to offering consumers exceptional performance from two of the industry’s most trusted names.” Smith & Wesson will purchase all of the outstanding stock of Crimson Trace for $95.0 million, using existing cash balances. Crimson Trace is being acquired from Crimson Trace Holdings, LLC, which is owned by private equity firms Peninsula Capital Partners, LLC and VergePointe Capital, LLC; Lewis Danielson, the founder and Chairman of the Board of Crimson Trace; a small group of minority members; and certain members of management. Jeffrey D. Buchanan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Smith & Wesson, stated, “As a result of our strong balance sheet, we intend to complete the purchase of Crimson Trace with cash on hand and we expect the transaction to close in three to six weeks. After the closing date, we expect the acquisition to be accretive to Smith & Wesson’s earnings per share in fiscal 2017. Due to its anticipated timing, the transaction is expected to have no impact on Smith & Wesson’s operational and financial results for the fiscal 2017 first quarter ending July 31, 2016. As of the date of signing, Crimson Trace’s trailing 12 month revenue was approximately $44.0 million, of which approximately 25% was revenue from Smith & Wesson and would be excluded from our consolidated revenue. The purchase price represents an estimated multiple of approximately 5.9x the trailing 12 month adjusted EBITDAS of Crimson Trace. We look forward to providing additional details following the close of the transaction.” Cowen and Company, LLC is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Greenberg Traurig, LLP is acting as legal advisor to Smith & Wesson and its Board of Directors. Robert W. Baird & Co. is acting as exclusive financial advisor and K&L Gates LLP is acting as legal advisor to Crimson Trace and its owners.
    729 Posted by Chris Avena
  •                                                                     Smith & Wesson to Acquire Crimson Trace   Corporation Acquisition of Market Leader Provides Established Platform for Electro-Optics Business Smith & Wesson Establishes Fourth Division Closing Expected August 2016   SPRINGFIELD, Mass., July 25, 2016 -- Smith & Wesson Holding Corporation (NASDAQ Global Select: SWHC), a leading manufacturer of firearms and a provider of quality accessory products for the shooting, hunting, and rugged outdoor enthusiast, today announced that it has signed a definitive agreement to acquire Crimson Trace Corporation (Crimson Trace), the industry leader in laser sighting systems and tactical lighting for firearms, for $95.0 million, subject to certain adjustments, utilizing cash on hand.   Crimson Trace has long been a key supplier of laser sighting systems for Smith & Wesson. For more than two decades, Crimson Trace has provided consumers, military units, and law enforcement officers around the globe with the world’s largest selection of award-winning laser sight and tactical light products. Crimson Trace offers more than 225 products and is widely recognized as the world’s leading brand of laser sights for firearms. Its award-winning innovations include the Lasergrips®, Laserguard®, and Rail Master® platforms. The company’s product line also includes the Defender Series®, Lightguard®, and its new LiNQ™ wireless activation system. Based in Wilsonville, Oregon, Crimson Trace operates from a 50,000 square foot , leased facility where it engineers and manufactures its products.   Crimson Trace was founded 22 years ago and has organically generated a ten year compound annual revenue growth rate in excess of 10%. The company maintains a product development team that has an established track record of launching high-quality, innovative laser sighting products. As a result, its products maintain a premium position with hundreds of independent retailers as well as large sporting goods retailers, including Cabela’s, MidwayUSA, Nation’s Best Sports, and internet retailer Optics Planet, Inc.   James Debney, Smith & Wesson President and Chief Executive Officer, said, “Crimson Trace provides us with an exceptional opportunity to acquire a thriving company that is completely aligned with our strategy to become a leader in the market for shooting, hunting, and rugged outdoor enthusiasts. As the undisputed leader in the market for laser sighting products, Crimson Trace serves as an ideal platform for our new Electro-Optics Division. Firearms purchasers frequently buy electro-optic accessories to enhance the capabilities and performance of their firearms. The growth that Crimson Trace has delivered is a testament to the high product quality and the robust product development capability that Lane Tobiassen, President and Chief Executive Officer of Crimson Trace, and his team have established. That capability, combined with Crimson Trace’s leadership position in the market for laser sights, provides a solid framework for organic and inorganic growth.”   Lane Tobiassen, who joined Crimson Trace in 2005, will serve as President of the new Electro-Optics Division of Smith & Wesson, and will report directly to Debney. The Crimson Trace management team and workforce, as well as its base of operations, will remain in Wilsonville, Oregon after the acquisition.   Tobiassen said, “It is a great honor to lead Crimson Trace into this exciting new chapter in our history by joining the Smith & Wesson team. Since 1994, we have designed and brought to market more than 225 products, all of which reflect the passion, dedication, and spirit of innovation of our design engineers, production workforce, customer service representatives, and marketing and sales professionals. As the new Electro-Optics Division of Smith & Wesson, we believe that our capabilities, combined with inorganic opportunities to acquire related technologies, will expand the reach of our existing market footprint. This makes us a great fit for Smith & Wesson, a legendary company with an iconic brand, world-class products, and markets that include consumer, law enforcement, and international channels. We look forward to offering consumers exceptional performance from two of the industry’s most trusted names.” Smith & Wesson will purchase all of the outstanding stock of Crimson Trace for $95.0 million, using existing cash balances. Crimson Trace is being acquired from Crimson Trace Holdings, LLC, which is owned by private equity firms Peninsula Capital Partners, LLC and VergePointe Capital, LLC; Lewis Danielson, the founder and Chairman of the Board of Crimson Trace; a small group of minority members; and certain members of management. Jeffrey D. Buchanan, Executive Vice President and Chief Financial Officer of Smith & Wesson, stated, “As a result of our strong balance sheet, we intend to complete the purchase of Crimson Trace with cash on hand and we expect the transaction to close in three to six weeks. After the closing date, we expect the acquisition to be accretive to Smith & Wesson’s earnings per share in fiscal 2017. Due to its anticipated timing, the transaction is expected to have no impact on Smith & Wesson’s operational and financial results for the fiscal 2017 first quarter ending July 31, 2016. As of the date of signing, Crimson Trace’s trailing 12 month revenue was approximately $44.0 million, of which approximately 25% was revenue from Smith & Wesson and would be excluded from our consolidated revenue. The purchase price represents an estimated multiple of approximately 5.9x the trailing 12 month adjusted EBITDAS of Crimson Trace. We look forward to providing additional details following the close of the transaction.” Cowen and Company, LLC is acting as exclusive financial advisor and Greenberg Traurig, LLP is acting as legal advisor to Smith & Wesson and its Board of Directors. Robert W. Baird & Co. is acting as exclusive financial advisor and K&L Gates LLP is acting as legal advisor to Crimson Trace and its owners.
    Jul 26, 2016 729
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