• S&W Begins Shipping Walther PK380 Pistols

• LaserLyte Develops Smallest Laser and Light Package

• Marine Tuf-Cloth by Sentry Solutions

• Supreme Court to hear Chicago gun cases

• Michigan State Shooting sports facility opens Oct 5

• Remington Mobile Exhibit Goes "On Tour" This Fall

• IL - Youth Firearm Deer Hunt Oct 10-11

• IL - Waterfowl hunting Digest Online

• IL Wingshooting Clinics

• MotorGuide VariMAX Kayak

• Michigan State to open new shooting sports facility Oct 5

• Weekly Great Lakes Water Levels for October 2, 2009

• Gander Mountain to Go Private

       Weekly News Archives

                         or

       New Product  Archives

S&W Begins Shipping Walther PK380 Pistols

SPRINGFIELD, MA -- Smith & Wesson announced that it has begun shipping the new Walther PK380 pistol. The design of the PK380 is engineered on one of Walther's most popular platforms, the P22. The new Walther semi-automatic pistol delivers the power of a .380 in a lightweight, ambidextrous firearm. Versatile, comfortable and nearly the same size as the P22, the PK380 carries on Walther's longstanding tradition of innovation and technical expertise.

Combining proven technology with familiar operating features, the PK380 is a versatile firearm suitable for personal protection or recreational shooting, and is available in four unique models.

� PK380 First Edition Model - The First Edition Model is available as a limited series of 2,000 units (serial numbers 1 - 2,000) and will be manufactured with the "First Edition" marking on the left side of the slide. Each First Edition Model will be shipped with a nylon holster, two magazines and is complete with a matte black finish to help reduce glare.

� Two-Tone Model - The new two-tone model is standard with a nickel-plated slide, black frame and is shipped with one magazine.

� Standard Black Model - The Walther PK380 is also available as a standard black model with a matte black slide and frame.

� PK380 Set - The black PK380 set comes complete with a rail-mounted laser.

All four models, with the exception of the First Edition, are shipped with one magazine, and share common features including an 8+1 magazine capacity, polymer grip along with a steel frame, slide and barrel. The PK380 is manufactured with a 3.66-inch barrel that contributes to an overall length of 6.5 inches. Additionally, all four models are standard with a Picatinny-style accessory rail for optional lights and lasers, external hammer, ambidextrous magazine release and an ambidextrous manual safety. To aid in precise shot placement, the PK380 features a solid steel white dot front sight and a drift-adjustable steel two-dot rear sight. The PK380 has an unloaded weight of 19.4 ounces and a narrow width of 1.2 inches. All four models of the Walther PK380 are manufactured in Germany.

LaserLyte Develops Smallest Laser and Light Package

Cottonwood, Ariz. �LaserLyte has paired its best-selling Subcompact V2 laser and new FlashLyte to create the smallest laser and light package available.  It is intimidation and recognition all in one; a must-have for any gun owner.

This amazing combo pack fits on all subcompact pistols with rails and any larger gun with rail. The system features three mounting options for maximum versatility. Additionally, the laser and light can be used individually or together.

About $199.95

About the FlashLyte

LaserLyte�s new FlashLyte is a practical railed flashlight that won�t break the bank. A first from LaserLyte, this weapons-mountable flashlight allows the user to keep both hands on the weapon and is simple and easy to use. The system produces 25 lumens � enough power to see a target in a room or garage.

The FlashLyte features an ambidextrous switch for easy activation and three super-bright LED powered by four A76 batteries that provide more than one hour of run time. This is the simple, easy and effective solution for home protection

needs.

About the Sub-Compact V2 Laser

The Subcompact V2 laser (V2) is the latest, smallest and most versatile railed laser yet. Weighing in at less than an ounce and shorter than an inch, this small unit is packed with the latest features and options.

The V2 features an integrated cross lock bar, hinge clamp system and a quick-detachable release. Additional features include adjustment for windage and elevation, rear activation switch and removable accessory rail. This laser is truly on the cutting edge of design, function and features.

 LaserLyte Laser and FlashLyte Specs:

- Product Number: LL-1

- Compatible Firearms: All firearms with rail systems

- Power Output: 5mw, 25 lumens

- Batteries: 4-A76, 3-393

- Battery Life: 1.5 hours plus

- Weight: 2.3 oz., 65.20 g

- Length: 1.80 in., 45.72 mm

- Width: 1 in., 25.40 mm

- Height: 180 in., 45.72 mm

- Laser Range at Night: 500 yd., 457 m

- FlashLyte Range at Night: 10 yd., 9 m

About $199.95

http://laserlyte.com/

Marine Tuf-Cloth By Sentry Solutions

Now NTOA Tested and Recommended

WILTON, NH �Sentry Solutions, the dry lubrication leader in the military, law enforcement, firearms, and outdoor sporting markets, has received an overall score of 4.95 out of a possible 5 for the Marine Tuf-Cloth in the National Tactical Officers Association (NTOA) Member Tested and Recommended Program ratings.

One of the testers, a police officer from the Gulf Coast of Florida commented, �I tested the cloth on several knives and firearms. The cloth worked great on all items. It worked very well on an old Remington 870, that's surface would rust in a desert. I used the cloth on all of the exterior surfaces of the weapon and returned it to my vehicle's trunk. I conducted no other maintenance on its surface for over two weeks. I also left it in a secure area outside for two days, during a stretch of rainy weather. The weapon was not directly soaked, but it did get plenty of moisture exposure. That old 870 is rust free and going strong with only one application with the cloth. All other items that the cloth was used on showed similar results.� His

final conclusion was a very high rating for the Marine Tuf-Cloth, �I would highly recommend this product. Even if you do not live in a saltwater environment, this cloth will be useful for protecting metal items from rain, sweat or other liquids that the items may be exposed to. I think its best application is for protecting items that may be stored for long periods of time.�

The Marine Tuf-Cloth was developed for the U.S. Navy SEALS using Sentry Solution�s proprietary formula of non-toxic, dry-film corrosion inhibitors and lubricants that provide a fast-drying, water-displacing, micro-bonding crystal barrier against rust, friction and wear. Based on the original TUF-CLOTH, Marine Tuf-Cloth is formulated with additional anti-corrosive ingredients to satisfy the Navy SEALs� request for saltwater corrosion protection. These special ingredients enhance protection of fishing tackle, dive knives and gear, boat and trailer accessories against the highly corrosive effects of saltwater and high humidity. Marine Tuf-Cloth also offers superb protection for gear that is stowed away long-term, keeping it rust-free and out-of-storage ready for your next adventure.

Sentry Solutions� Marine Tuf-Cloth comes in a handy, resealable, waterproof pouch and can be found at your local retailer for $8.95 or at www.sentrysolutions.com.

Supreme Court to hear Chicago gun cases

The Supreme Court announced September 30 it will hear a challenge to Chicago's gun restrictions that will determine if local handgun bans are legal. 

Last year, the high court ruled the 2nd Amendment gave individuals the right to possess firearms and struck down Washington, D.C.'s gun bans.  Left open was the question of whether states and local governments are required to do the same.

By agreeing to take up the cases NRA vs. City of Chicago and McDonald vs. City of Chicago, the high court potentially could set in motion a nationwide re-establishment of the right to bear arms. Those two cases challenge several Chicago gun laws, including the city's ban on handguns.

In the high courts decision in June of last year, it ruled 5-4 for

the first time that the 2nd Amendment  establishes the right to own a handgun for personal self-defense, not only as part of a state militia. Mayor Richard Daley immediately condemned the court's decision and vowed to fight any attempt to invalidate the city's now 27-year-old gun ban. Hours after the court's decision, the Illinois State Rifle Association sued Chicago and Daley in an attempt to overturn the ban.

One of the plaintiffs is Otis McDonald, an elderly man who last year lived in the Morgan Park area and told the Chicago Tribune he keeps a shotgun at home to protect himself from gangs that plagued his neighborhood.

After the court ruled in the Washington, D.C., case, Morton Grove, Wilmette, Evanston and Winnetka dropped their gun bans, in large measure to fend off costly lawsuits.

Michigan State Shooting sports facility opens Oct 5

EAST LANSING, Mich. � Target shooters and archers have a new location to learn, hone their skills and brush up on hunting safety, with the opening of Michigan State University�s John and Marnie Demmer Shooting Sports Education and Training Center.

Michigan State University will open its new $3.5 million, 24,000-square-foot shooting sports facility next week. The John and Marnie Demmer Shooting Sports Education and Training Center will allow the public to learn firearms safety and improve shooting and archery skills, in addition to housing MSU club shooting sports -- small bore, air rifle and archery. Other potential uses include academic programs in shooting sports, law enforcement and related curricula and NCAA competitive shooting events. NSSF provided financial support for the project

A public open house will be held 3-7 p.m. Oct. 2 at the Demmer Center, which officially opens Oct. 5.

The center will add capacity to university programs requiring firearm safety and education certifications, including ROTC training and recruitment, and the conservation officer specialization and environmental crime certificate programs offered through MSU. It also will accommodate Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer and MSU Police officer certification training, as well as state

programming and certification in firearm safety for all age groups.

Ground was broken for the center July 18, 2008. It is named in honor of MSU alumnus John Demmer, founder and chairman of the Lansing-based Demmer Corp., and his late wife, Marnie, also a graduate of MSU. The Demmers have been long-time supporters of MSU and have provided principal support for the building.

The Demmer Center will be one of the largest indoor shooting facilities in the Midwest, offering two indoor ranges and three outdoor archery ranges. The two indoor ranges accommodate small bore (.22 cal. rifle and pistol), air rifle and archery. The outdoor Becky and Bob Humphries Community Archery Park include beginner, field and competitive ranges. 

Archery, .22 firearm and air rifle equipment rental is available. Visit the facility�s Web site at http://demmercenter.msu.edu/ for range fees and other information.

The Shooting Sports Education and Training Center is located at 3365 E. Jolly Rd, Lansing, MI  48910, south of campus, midway between College and Hagadorn roads. For more info: http://demmercenter.msu.edu/       [email protected]  517-884-0550

Remington Mobile Exhibit Goes "On Tour" This Fall

Madison, NC � Remington is hitting the road this fall, showcasing its products at events, stores and gun clubs throughout Pennsylvania, Ohio and New York in a customized mobile exhibit, emblazoned  "Remington On Tour". Wrapped in colorful hunting scenes, you�ll know you�re in Remington Country when you see this conversion van rolling down the highway and into your town from October through December of 2009.

Once inside this mobile exhibit, visitors experience the Remington lifestyle with an exciting video hunting game,

prizes, give-a-ways and fast-paced video clips. An extensive

gun display, including the newest models, will allow visitors to handle and shoulder a variety of Remington shotguns and rifles and with helpful features and benefits provided, selecting the appropriate centerfire, shotshell and rimfire ammunition is made easier. On hand to answer questions will be Remington�s representatives or visitors can utilize the Tech Line cell phone to connect to knowledgeable consumer services representatives.

Visit www.remington.com to find out when �Remington On Tour� will be visiting your area.

IL - Youth Firearm Deer Hunt Oct 10-11

The Illinois Youth Either-Sex Firearm Deer Hunt is Oct. 10-11.  Permits for this season are available over-the-counter from DNR Direct license and permit vendors.  For a list of Illinois

public hunting areas open for the Youth Either-Sex Firearm Deer Hunt, check the IDNR web site at this link: www.dnr.state.il.us/admin/pdf/YouthDeer2009SitesOpen.pdf

IL - Waterfowl hunting Digest Online

The 2009-2010 Digest of Waterfowl Hunting Regulations is now available on the IDNR website at this link: 

www.dnr.state.il.us/admin/waterfowl/Digest_09.pdf . The hard copy of the digest should be available in October.

IL Wingshooting Clinics

The IDNR and participating partners sponsor wingshooting clinics at sites throughout Illinois this fall to help improve the shooting skills of participants. The Youth/Women's clinics are designed to teach participants basic firearm and hunter safety and the fundamentals of wingshooting. Hunter clinics are designed to enhance the wingshooting skills of hunters and provide sound wingshooting practice techniques.

For a complete schedule, check the IDNR web site at

http://dnr.state.il.us.

Upcoming clinics include:

Oct. 10-11 � Hunter Clinic � Jim Edgar Panther Creek SFWA (Cass Co.), 217-452-7741

Oct. 17-18 � Hunter Clinic � St. Charles Sportsmen�s Club (Kane Co.), 630-363-6180

Oct. 24-25 � Youth/Women Clinic � Ten Mile Creek SFWA (Hamilton Co.), 618-643-2862

MotorGuide VariMAX Kayak

LOWELL, MI -- MotorGuide's new VariMAX Digital Kayak trolling motors offer the finest in electric trolling motor performance in salt and fresh water, giving all small boat anglers better control and longer run times than have previously been available.

This special model V45 is a 12-volt, 45-pound thrust motor. Its VariMAX technology allows precise digital variable speed control with 3.5X more run time from a single battery charge than the common 5-speed transom-mounted trolling motors. A built-in BluVis multi-functional gauge indicates the speed level setting and the battery's charge status at a glance for quick reference throughout a day on the water.

VariMAX Kayak features a 20-inch stainless steel shaft for the perfect amount of trolling motor bite and clearance, making it ideal for mounting on the bow or transom of any small boat.

For bow operation, the motor's head can be easily reversed to pull the boat for the ultimate in front-of-the-boat control.

What really sets VariMAX apart from other small craft trolling motors is its variable speed versatility. Variable speed means there is a full range of infinite settings from low to high so the angler has total control in finding the perfect speed setting for the conditions at hand. Speed adjustments are made by simply twisting the motor's handle right to increase and left to decrease. The direction of thrust is just as intuitive in operation, pushing the handle forward to go forward, and pulling it back for reverse.

The trolling motor's construction is durable, stylish and functional. The VariMAX Kayak model is built on MotorGuide's proven 3.5-inch lower unit and features the brand's legendary Great White corrosion protection for saltwater use, meaning this motor can also endure any freshwater fishing application.

The VariMAX Kayak model retails for under $300, and is available through traditional sporting goods stores and marine dealers. For more information, visit www.MotorGuide.com.

US relinquishes control of the internet

Icann ends agreement with the US government,

Move will give other countries a prominent internet role

After complaints about American dominance of the internet and growing disquiet in some parts of the world, Washington has said it will relinquish some control over the way the network is run and allow foreign governments more of a say in the future of the system.

Icann � the official body that ultimately controls the development of the internet thanks to its oversight of web addresses such as .com, .net and .org � said today that it was ending its agreement with the US government.

The deal, part of a contract negotiated with the US department of commerce, effectively pushes California-based Icann

towards a new status as an international body with greater representation from companies and governments around the globe.  Icann had previously been operating under the auspices of the American government, which had control of the net thanks to its initial role in developing the underlying technologies used for connecting computers together.

But the fresh focus will give other countries a more prominent role in determining what takes place online, and even the way in which it happens � opening the door for a virtual United Nations, where many officials gather to discuss potential changes to the internet.

The new agreement comes into force immediately. It replaces the old version which had been in place since 1998 and was scheduled to expire September 30.

Michigan State Shooting sports facility opens Oct 5

EAST LANSING, Mich. � Target shooters and archers have a new location to learn, hone their skills and brush up on hunting safety, with the opening of Michigan State University�s John and Marnie Demmer Shooting Sports Education and Training Center.

Michigan State University will open its new $3.5 million, 24,000-square-foot shooting sports facility next week. The John and Marnie Demmer Shooting Sports Education and Training Center will allow the public to learn firearms safety and improve shooting and archery skills, in addition to housing MSU club shooting sports -- small bore, air rifle and archery. Other potential uses include academic programs in shooting sports, law enforcement and related curricula and NCAA competitive shooting events. NSSF provided financial support for the project

A public open house will be held 3-7 p.m. Oct. 2 at the Demmer Center, which officially opens Oct. 5.

The center will add capacity to university programs requiring firearm safety and education certifications, including ROTC training and recruitment, and the conservation officer specialization and environmental crime certificate programs offered through MSU. It also will accommodate Michigan Department of Natural Resources conservation officer and MSU Police officer certification training, as well as state

programming and certification in firearm safety for all age groups.

Ground was broken for the center July 18, 2008. It is named in honor of MSU alumnus John Demmer, founder and chairman of the Lansing-based Demmer Corp., and his late wife, Marnie, also a graduate of MSU. The Demmers have been long-time supporters of MSU and have provided principal support for the building.

The Demmer Center will be one of the largest indoor shooting facilities in the Midwest, offering two indoor ranges and three outdoor archery ranges. The two indoor ranges accommodate small bore (.22 cal. rifle and pistol), air rifle and archery. The outdoor Becky and Bob Humphries Community Archery Park include beginner, field and competitive ranges. 

Archery, .22 firearm and air rifle equipment rental is available. Visit the facility�s Web site at http://demmercenter.msu.edu/ for range fees and other information.

The Shooting Sports Education and Training Center is located at 3365 E. Jolly Rd, Lansing, MI  48910, south of campus, midway between College and Hagadorn roads. For more info: http://demmercenter.msu.edu/       [email protected]  517-884-0550

Weekly Great Lakes Water Levels for October 2, 2009

Weather Conditions

Seasonably cool temperatures moved into the Great Lakes basin this week.

There is a chance of rain across the basin this weekend. Cool temperatures and a chance for some light showers are on tap as we head into next week. The showers will gradually diminish into next weekend, bringing clearer skies and warmer temperatures.

Lake Level Conditions

Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, and Erie are 1, 7, 4 and 4 inches, respectively, higher than their levels of a year ago.  Lake Ontario is 1 inch below its level of year ago.  Lakes Superior, Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, Erie and Ontario are expected to decline 1, 2, 4, 4 and 6 inches, respectively, over the next 30 days.  Over the next several months, Lake Superior is predicted to be near its level of a year ago. Lakes Michigan-Huron, St. Clair, and Erie are forecasted to remain at or above last years levels over the same time period.  Lake Ontario is forecasted to be near or below its levels of a year ago over the next six months. See our Daily Levels web page for more water level information.

Current Outflows/Channel Conditions

In September, the outflow from Lake Superior through the St. Mary's River and the outflow from Lake Michigan-Huron

through the St. Clair River were below average. The Detroit

River and Niagara River carried near average flows during September. The outflow from Lake Ontario through the St. Lawrence River was above average in September. 

Alerts

Users of the Great Lakes, connecting channels and St. Lawrence River should keep informed of current conditions before undertaking any activities that could be affected by changing water levels. Mariners should utilize navigation charts and refer to current water level readings.  

Gander Mountain to Go Private

Gander Mountain has announced its intent to cease its public company status. The company plans to cease the registration of its common stock with the Securities and Exchange Commission under the Securities Exchange Act of 1934. As a result, the shares of common stock will cease to be listed on the Nasdaq Global Market.

Gander Mountain's board of directors decided to pursue taking the company private after concluding that the disadvantages of remaining an SEC-reporting company, including the costs associated with ongoing regulatory requirements, outweighed the benefits of public company status to the company and its shareholders. Greene Holcomb & Fisher LLC, independent financial advisor to the special committee, determined that the cash-out price of fractional shares is fair from a financial point of view to those shareholders who would be cashed out in the proposed transaction.

Gander Mountain, headquartered in Saint Paul, MN, is the nation's largest retail network of stores for hunting, fishing, camping, marine, and outdoor lifestyle apparel and footwear, products and services. Established in 1960, the Gander Mountain brand has offered an expanding assortment of outdoor equipment, technical apparel and footwear, as well as gunsmith and archery services. The stores feature national, regional and local brands as well as the company's owned brands. Focused on a "We Live Outdoors" culture, Gander Mountain dedicates itself to creating outdoor memories. There are 116 Gander Mountain stores in 23 states and three outlet stores. Customers may also shop at www.GanderMtn.com. For the nearest store location call 800-282-5993 or visit www.GanderMtn.com. Gander Mountain is also the parent company of Overton's (www.overtons.com ), a leading catalog and Internet based retailer of products for boating and other water sports enthusiasts.

Public Access Committee meets Oct 14

The Natural Resources Advisory Board�s Public Access Committee will meet on Wed., Oct. 14 from 5-8 p.m. at the IDNR Region 2 headquarters, 2050 W. Stearns Rd., Bartlett. 

The meeting is open to the public and is part of the preparation for the new Illinois Conservation Congress, meeting Oct. 24-25 in Springfield.  For more information, check the IDNR web site at www.dnr.state.il.us/nrab/cc.htm.