2022 got off to a hot start with several big firearms industry acquisitions. Multiple companies launched the new year with major news, bringing in new technologies and competencies. Wilson Combat, EOTECH, and Horizon Firearms all announced major acquisitions to start the new year.
Wilson Combat Acquires Lehigh Defense
The first of the firearms industry acquisitions comes from Wilson Combat. The legendary 1911 manufacturer adds Lehigh Defense to their list of companies. This includes Chip McCormick Custom, Circle WC Ranch, Khumba Bush Camp, Scattergun Technologies, and Wilson Custom Ammunition. Lehigh Defense started up in 2009, and now specializes in solid brass and copper projectiles. Under the acquisition, a new manufacturing facility will open in Texas in Q3 of 2022. At that point, some operations will relocate to the new facility.
EOTECH Acquires Intevac Photonics
Strategic firearms industry acquisitions are somewhat unusual, but that’s the case with EOTECH’s purchase of Intevac Photonics. EOTECH specializes in optics, however Intevac Photonics produces digital sensor systems used in aircraft. Nonetheless, EOTECH is excited about the opportunity.
“Naturally we’re looking forward to combining our teams to strengthen our service to the US military as well as our service to the governments of allied nations. The cultures of both companies are tailor-made for that kind of teamwork.” said Matt Van Haaren, CEO of EOTECH, “But we’ll also be working in parallel to develop great new product lines that elevate the performance expectations of digital visual augmentation systems for the soldier, the civilian, the vehicle driver, the aviator, and many other users around the world.”
Horizon Firearms Acquires Stiller’s Precision Firearms Assets
Lastly for firearms industry acquisitions news, we have the Stiller Precision buyout. Kaspar Outdoors/ Ratliff Traditions LLC is the parent company of Horizon Firearms, iota Outdoors, and TX Ammo. They announced the acquisition of Stiller’s Precision Firearms assets.
“Kaspar Companies was established in 1898 and has a long, rich history that combines American craftsmanship with lean manufacturing to develop product solutions that meet customer needs.”
Jason Kaspar, CEO of Kaspar Companies continued, “As we continue to expand our position in the Precision Firearms Industry, we are excited Stiller will join Horizon Firearms, iota Outdoors, and TX Ammo as an integral part of our growing family of outdoor brands.”
Additionally, from Derrick Ratliff, president and founder of Horizon Firearms:
“Stiller was one of the first companies we worked with when we started building custom rifles and they’ve been a great partner. We are not only looking forward to what this purchase means for Horizon Firearms production, but also increasing overall production to service rifle manufacturers and builders across the country with quality product, innovation, competitive pricing, and reduced lead times.”
In related news, GSM Outdoors also acquired SOG Knives, which we have covered previously.
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