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Since Hornady's inception, it has developed numerous handgun and rifle loads, in popular calibers, that proved to be top performers across a wide range of ballistic pursuits—target shooting, competition, hunting and self-defense. Similar to these loads were the company's time-tested bullets—the renowned XTP for handgun cartridges, and the accurate hollow points and boattail hollow points in the rifle loads. Developed in the late 80s, the XTP bullets were the first hollow points on the market that gave consistent, reliable terminal performance, thus becoming the centerpiece for Hornady's American Gunner Ammunition line. The line features proven loads, made from quality components, but offered at a price that presents a real value to shooters. Check out this videofrom a recent episode ofAmerican Rifleman TVwhere Joe Kurtenbach visits Hornady to test the American Gunner Ammunition line.
In 2024, former owner Gregg Ritz purchased Thompson/Center Arms. Now the company has introduced a modern take on its classic Contender/Encore concept: the ENCORE PROHunter.
While it's certainly a saturated marketplace these days, the AR-15 has never been more popular with American firearm enthusiasts, and many manufacturers are continuing to feed the need with new options loaded with new features.
Like any hobby or pastime that is in any way even vaguely related to machines or technology, firearms attract a (possibly) disproportionate number of “right-brained,” STEM-oriented personalities who like numbers.
Slingshots are fun, but they can also be a legitimate backup defensive tool—in 2023, a 13-year-old Michigan boy saved his 8-year-old sister from being kidnapped by using a $3 slingshot to fire a marble and a rock at the assailant, striking him in the chest and head.