According to a national survey that the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service conducts every five years, of the approximately 11.5 million licensed hunters in the U.S., 90% are male and 97% are Caucasian. There is a growing movement within the outdoor industry to provide equitable access to underrepresented communities and diversify hunting, so it more closely represents American demographics today. Motivated by these disproportions, The Nature Conservancy (TNC), New York Backcountry Hunters and Anglers, Hunters of Color, New York Department of Environmental Conservation and the National Deer Association (NDA) came together to host a “Field to Fork” mentored hunting event for aspiring hunters from the Black, Indigenous and People of Color (BIPOC) community in November 2021. The event was hosted on TNC’s Hannacroix Preserve, roughly 30 minutes outside Albany. Participants ranged in age from 34 to 62 and were given the opportunity to go through New York Hunter Education, learn about deer biology and behavior through NDA’s Deer Hunting 101 online course, gain experience shooting, go on multiple hunts with an experienced mentor by their side, and enjoy the fellowship and camaraderie found in many New York deer camps each fall under a safe and welcoming environment. This video is a documentary of that hunt.

https://youtu.be/mj7QZAQhb8o

“Our ultimate goal is that [Field to Fork hunt participants] self-identify as a hunter, to say ‘I am a hunter, this is something can do and I’m gonna do it’,” said Hank Forester, NDA Director of Hunting. “But what creates that is the community, camaraderie and the social support that pushes them along in their journey as a hunter.” Plans are underway for more events that will help lower barriers to women and minorities and increase deer hunting participation through representation. Financial support for this video was provided by the NSSF^® Hunting Heritage Trust Grant Program — A first-of-its-kind grant program that works directly to support NSSF’s mission of promoting, protecting and preserving hunting and the shooting sports. It is designed to distribute funds to organizations that focus on innovative ways to reach traditional as well as nontraditional audiences by improving access to and participation in hunting. Organizations welcoming those who want to get involved in the shooting sports are critical to the future of these pastimes. So far the grant program has distributed $300,000 in funding to 17+ outdoor organizations funding recruitment, retention and reactivation programs just like this "field to fork" hunting event. Join the +ONE Movement NSSF encourages all current hunters to take the +ONE Pledge. Reach out to someone new—someone outside your circle of friends and family who hunt—and teach them what you know about hunting, conservation and the deeply meaningful ability to put food on the dinner table that you harvested yourself. Talk with your local game wardens and state game agency professionals or reach out to NDA’s Field to Fork program and others like it and let them know you’d like to serve as a mentor. There are thousands of people out there who want to hunt for their own food and don’t know where to turn to get started. With +ONE and programs like Field to Fork, you’re the solution to that problem.   You may also be interested in: https://www.letsgohunting.org/articles/adults-learn-to-hunt-with-the-field-to-fork-program/  

NSSF has announced an initiative designed to strengthen ties between all excise tax-paying manufacturers—firearms and ammunition, archery equipment, marine and sportfishing equipment—and the state agencies that use these funds to conserve wildlife and habitats through the Wildlife and Sport Fish Restoration program of the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. This new web resource and video series will highlight industry contributions to this partnership. To help everyone get a better understanding of where these excise tax dollars are used and how they benefit all. The Fifth video highlights the success of the Sport Fish Restoration Act in South Carolina. In this video industry and conservation representatives speak to the irreplaceable industry-paid excise taxes that yield science-based fisheries management and increased angler-boater access.

https://youtu.be/6lHopTG4Gu0

Enacted in 1950, the Sport Fish Restoration Act (also known as the Dingell-Johnson Act), collects a 10-percent tax on select fishing tackle from manufacturers and a percentage of tax on motorboat fuels.  The money is apportioned to the state fish and wildlife management agencies under the auspices of WSFR for the benefit of fisheries conservation and restoration, aquatic education, and boating and fishing access. Paul Wilkes, the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service’s Southeast Region Regional Manager for the WSFR program, said the 72-year-old partnership between the tackle industry and state fish and wildlife management agencies has been transformational for fisheries management—and, in short, made fishing better. Glenn Hughes, President of the ASA, describes opportunities for anglers that would not be possible without these critically important funds. Among other purposes, these funds pay for the maintenance of over 6,000 boating access sites to lakes, rivers, ponds and streams across the country, as well as the stocking of 1.3 billion fish each year of over 70 species of fish. The Partner with a Payer initiative was developed to help generations of employees in the firearm, archery and angling industries, state agencies and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service to better understand their, and each other’s, roles in conservation. More info and resources at https://www.nssf.org/partner-with-payer/ See other Partner with a Payer Videos: https://www.letsgohunting.org/articles/how-do-excise-taxes-benefit-hunter-education-clark-county-shooting-complex/ https://www.letsgoshooting.org/articles/how-excise-taxes-benefit-shooting-ranges-ben-avery-shooting-facility/  

 

Footwear manufacturers expect to be able to deliver more goods in the coming year.

During the second year of Covid 19, high demand for footwear outpaced production as limited space at western port facilities reigned. Compared to the U.S. and some Asian countries, European factories struggled with intermittent closures. On the manufacturing side, obtaining raw materials was a challenging task across the category. Although demand was high throughout the segment, retailers were hampered by inventory selection. But the coming year promises increased retail traffic as consumers continue to set records for spending time outside. Meanwhile, they’ll be searching for what’s new on your shelves. Here’s a look at some of what they may find.

5.11 Tactical

The 5.11 Tactical A/T 6-inch no zip boot is a warmer-weather boot constructed of nylon with high abrasion air mesh and a water-resistant suede upper. The high-traction outsole lets you run headlong into the day’s challenges. In addition, the All-Terrain Load Assistance System (A.T.L.A.S.) is a force multiplier for those who carry heavy weight on long shifts.

These boots were developed to align with your “work weight,” as the Echo Foam uses high rebound/energy-return poly-urethane (PU). The Force Foam lightweight PU improves impact and cushioning. Available in coyote regular. Sizes are 5 to 14; half-sizes are 9.5 to 11.5. SRP: $155.

Danner

Inspired by traditional styling, the Recurve Moc Toe boot draws design and technology cues from Danner’s best-selling hiking boots. The classic Moc Toe boot delivers outstanding performance for upland birds or mid-terrain big-game hunting.

The Recurve Moc Toe features a Vibram SPE midsole and TPU heel cup to ensure long hours of comfort on pre-season scouts and extended treks. With seven inches of height for ankle support, it will keep you in the wild and on the hunt longer.

Waterproof versions sport a full-grain leather and nylon upper combined with Danner Dry, the company’s proprietary waterproof system. A super-breathable mesh lining works in tandem with Thinsulate Ultra insulation, and a cushioning open-cell OrthoLite footbed is welded to a Vibram SPE midsole for maximum rebound, comfort, and support. The nylon shank and TPU heel frame enhance support and stability. Finished with a Vibram Recurve outsole, its Megagrip technology uses adaptive lugs and flex lines for stability in wet and dry terrain. Available in sizes 7-14 (half-sizes 7.5–12), in brown and olive. SRP: starts at $200.

Garmont Tactical

Built for law enforcement, military personnel, and tactical personnel who demand high-performance, versatility, and full-ankle support, the Garmont Tactical all-weather mid-cut T4 Groove G-Dry boot can handle every step of the trail, hillside, or concrete.

The ultralight boots use Garmont’s proprietary technology, including its G-Dry breathable and waterproof construction. The 1.6mm suede-leather upper features a liquid rubber toe cap and seamless TPU heel cap for light-weight protection. The A.C.E. sole system provides all-day comfort. The GTF OPALE rubber outsole has an exceptionally large contact area for dependable traction, added foot support, and cushioning. Colors include black and coyote. Sizes are 4 to 14 (half-sizes are 5.5 to 13.5). SRP: $160.

Haix

Wildland firefighters subject themselves to one of the most physically demanding jobs in the world. Certified NFPA 1977-2016 for wildland firefighting, the Haix Missoula 2.1 women's firefighting boots are up to that task. The tough European split bull leather is water-resistant, hydrophobic, and breathable. The Missoula 2.1’s lighter weight helps alleviate leg fatigue while on long hikes. The newly designed, heat-resistant (up to 572 degrees F.) Vibram anti-slip sole offers greater footholds across dynamically different terrain. The special heel design offers strong footholds on steep and uneven surfaces.

In addition, the sturdy and stable midsole ensures shock protection. A built-in bootjack at the boot’s rear makes it easier to remove after a long day. The two-zone lacing system allows separate tension adjustment for the upper and the lower parts of the boot. For downward descents, tighten the upper and the lowers evenly. For upward ascents, leave the upper a little looser to prevent shin constriction. The two-zone lacing aids in preventing potential ankle injuries out on the line. The new roller-ball eyelets on the lower part of the lacing system offer mini-mal friction, reducing wear and tear on the flame-resistant Nomex laces. Women’s sizing includes half, narrow, medium and wide widths from 5 to 10. SRP: $325.

Kenetrek

When some hunters hear the words “light hiker,” all they can think of is “under performance.” Not in this case. Weighing in at only 3.2 pounds per pair, the Kenetrek Corrie Hiker is built for long, arduous hauls while delivering excellent agility and control.

The word “Corrie” is Scottish and means “a half-open steep-sided hollow on a mountainside.” Its Grapon outsoles delivers excellent traction, and the K-Straps tie the base of the heel to the seven-inch, double- and triple-stitched padded upper, pro-viding complete comfort and control.

The Corrie boasts a waterproof and breathable Windtex membrane with a 5mm full-length nylon midsole and a reinforced toe and heel atop Kenetrek’s supportive footbed. This 7-inch-tall light hiker becomes a serious tool for those who trek the high ground for elk and deer.

Sizes are 5 to 13 (half-sizes are 5.5 to 11.5) in medium and wide widths. SRP: $300.

LaCrosse

Combining high-quality, scent-free rubber with naturally insulating neoprene, the LaCrosse Alpha Burly Pro is a staple among seasoned hunters. This year, LaCrosse has added a solid brown option to this popular family of rubber boots. It features hand-laid premium rubber over a 3.5mm neoprene core for flexible, waterproof, scent-free comfort.

The embossed liner increases air circulation inside the boot and wicks moisture, making them quick to dry. In addition, an adjustable neoprene gusset helps with easy on and off. Available in non-insulated and insulated versions with 1,600 grams of Thinsulate Ultra. Sizes are 6 to 15. SRP: $160-$190.

Lowa

The Lowa Maddox Warm GTX Hi is a cold-weather boot with an elastic lacing system over the instep/forefoot and two Velcro closures on the cuff, all of which make it very easy to put on and take off the boot. As an added plus, the lined boot is toasty warm, thanks to Gore-Tex Partelana and the DynaPU midsole with Monowrap construction. The Lowa Kid Winter Trac lugged sole provides reliable traction on wet surfaces. The upper fabric is synthetic. The insole is Lowa’s cold-weather DynaPU midsole. The easy-to-wear-all-day boots are green with orange trim and designed for children. SRP: $150.

Merrell Tactical

Warm, supportive, and grippy on slick surfaces, the Merrell Thermo Rouge Tactical Water Ice+ makes Merrell an ideal choice for anyone who needs a tall, supportive, tactical boot in cold, icy conditions. The footwear features a full-grain leather upper with M insulation. It’s combined with a waterproof membrane for exceptional breathability and waterproof performance. Metal hook and eyelets secure lacing, and a generous thick tongue helps keep debris out.

Below, a molded nylon arch shank meets Merrell’s FLEXconnect dual-directional flex-groove EVA midsole for agility. A Vibram Arctic Grip Dura ice outsole provides generous shock absorption and superior adhesion to icy surfaces. Available in men’s medium and wide widths from sizes 7.5 to 15. SRP: $220.

Reebok Duty

Reebok, which revolutionized cross training, brings its versatility and resistance to the tactical market in the Nano Tactical series. Constructed for high impact, it’s one of the lightest shoes of its kind on the market.

The 6-inch tactical boot offers breathable uppers, roomy toe boxes, and a minimal drop outsole. The upper uses microfiber and mesh with a soft toe. A moisture-wicking liner is welded to a MemoryTech removable cushion footbed on a slip-resistant sole. The zip allows for a perfect fit and quick on and off.

Reebok has co-branded the Nano Tactical with the Navy SEAL Foundation. Every boot sold supports Navy SEALs and their families as they return and adjust to civilian life. Sizes are 8 to 16 in medium and wide widths (half-sizes are 8.5 to 11.5). SRP: $123.99.

See more content like this in the 2022 SHOT Show Day 1 SHOT Daily

Check out some of the hottest products from the 2022 SHOT Show

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