SHOT16: New Defensive Ammo and More from Freedom Munitions

Idaho based Freedom Munitions held their first annual Product Launch Party last night and they didn't disappoint. Though they are best known for their remanufactured ammunition they've been making inroads in complete lines (read about their American Steel ammunition here, for example).

Freedom Munitions isn't ignoring their large base of reloaders though. They announced new casings, big bore projectiles at reduced costs, and even reloading kits that consist of primed cases and projectiles so reloaders won't have to hunt so hard for individual components.

We were advised that there was a name change of one of their lines. From this point on, what was previously known as SuperMatch is now Pro Match. No major worries though, as nothing else has changed in this line sans the name and corresponding packaging.

Cowboy action shooting can get expensive, and not just because you have to buy costumes and whatnot. Freedom Munitions announced a line of low pressure full-lead projectile ammunition called Leadville. This ammunition is low powered, not only for competition use but also so you can take granddad's worn lever action out without worry of excessive pressure damaging you or the gun. It will be available in .38spl, .357, .44mag, and .45 Colt.

Next they announced Boar Buster ammunition. It's specifically designed for deep penetration and crushing through bone. Yes indeedy, it shares a name with the new EraThr3 carbine for a reason. It will be available as a 64gr .223, 168gr .308, and 168gr Win Mag.

Of course, the defensive ammunition. I suspected something like this was coming down the pipe. They're calling it XSD for X-Treme Self Defense (don't worry, I've already called it XDS about 15 times already). It meets all FBI criteria regarding penetration and it maintained weight very well during testing. It's noteworthy that it will be sold in quantities of 50 rather than the 20 or 25 that many modern defensive rounds are sold. But price per box is supposed to be similar. Initially it will be available as a 124gr 9mm, with more calibers in the future.

They also announced some collaborative projects will some industry partners. The first is a little fun piece done with Black Rifle Coffee Company. K-Cup compatable single servings, with an ammunition theme. I'd have tried them already if my hotel room had a K-Cup machine.

Of course, we already discussed the EraThr3/Freedom Munitions collaboration. But last but not least: Seekins Precision and Freedom Munitions also have a collaboration:

We'll have full specifications for this rifle as soon as we get them.

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What is the NSSF SHOT Show?

The NSSF SHOT Show (Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade Show) and Conference is an annual event held by the National Shooting Sports Foundation. Typically attended by thousands of people from all 50 states and over a hundred countries, it is (quite rightfully) described as the “…world's premier exposition of combined firearms, ammunition, law enforcement, cutlery, outdoor apparel, optics, and related products and services.

Imagine the Worlds' Fair, but packed with everything from mini-guns and every breed of body armor, bows and boots; from eye pro and ear pro to optics and ordnance, socks to swords…you get the idea. If you'd like to see a sampling of the companies who will be showing at this year's SHOT, there's a live map right here, though it doesn't reflect the organizations set up elsewhere, in hotel suites, etc

View imagery from our coverage of last year's SHOT Show right here.

2016 SHOT Show

January 18 — Media on the Range (numerous shooting facilities in and around Las Vegas)
January 19–22, 2016
Sands Expo and Convention Center
Las Vegas, Nevada
Hours:
Tuesday, January 19 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Wednesday, January 20 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Thursday, January 21 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
Friday, January 22 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.