It seems like yesterday we were discussing 2019 product launches, declaring that there was no way 2020 would be better. Well, 2020 is here, and companies dole out highly-anticipated launches like Mike Tyson delivers knockout punches.
On the eve of SHOT Show 2020, companies like Colt, Federal Premium, GLOCK, Leupold, Ruger, Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, and Springfield Armory launched new guns. Some were applauded while a few others fell by the wayside. Now, in my humble opinion, product launches fall short, mostly based on consumer expectations. What we expect and what is delivered is often two separate things.
Yet, every once-in-a-while, companies deliver exactly what we’d love to see. The Colt Python is that gun. For years, fans of the legendary gun craved a fateful return, and Colt obliged. The Python we see in 2020 is far more than we could expect. If you ever wanted to own a Python, now is your time. With a stronger frame and stainless-steel construction, the 2020 Colt Python set the bar when it comes to re-releasing a gun, especially one with such a famed lineage. Learn more about the Python HERE.
Back to the other side.
GLOCK released the G44 a few months ago. In the coming days, the interwebs flooded with sour notes and criticism. I was elated with the launch of the G44. Who doesn’t love a .22LR? Especially one coming from a company that has never produced a .22LR. This is an entry point for youngsters and beginner shooters for our sport. Plus, for training, the G44 mimics the popular G19. I applaud the company for its forward-thinking and willingness to go out on a limb. Find out more about GLOCK G44 HERE.
A personal favorite of mine comes in long gun form. Sig Sauer was sneaky about this one. I first heard about the Sig Sauer CROSS at NASGW. This modern-day backcountry rifle is what I would build for a hunting rifle. Plus, Sig Sauer launches the gun in a new caliber, the .277 Sig Fury. This cartridge is on a different level. The 277 Sig Fury is a unique three-piece cartridge that took two years to develop. This came from a request from the military for a new belt-fed machine gun. Sig threw their hat in the ring for the contract, and thus the .277 SIG Fury was born. Learn more about the CROSS, HERE.
Leupold is known for launching innovative optics. Well, they are still known for quality optics, but now the company enters the eyewear market. Their launch of performance eyewear took a nationwide approach. Leupold hid hundreds of pairs across the country, giving everyone an equal shot at discovering the latest in eyewear. Give it a few days, more will be hidden, and I doubt this will be the only launch from Leupold. Check them out HERE.
In an unexpected launch, Ruger entered the 5.7X28 game with authority. To be honest, my familiarity with the 5-7 is limited. However, after shooting the Ruger 5-7 I’ve fallen head over heels with the round. The Ruger 5-7 is soft shooting, but with current ammo prices, it may limit the amount of range time spent with the gun. Ruger may have invigorated the ammo market with the launch. Hopefully, an influx of ammo for the 5-7 becomes available, lessening the price we pay at the counter. Find out more from Ruger HERE.
Improvements continue to be made to classics. Springfield Armory just launched the XD-M Elite pistols. Most shooters know the legacy of the XD-M. The XD-M Elite enhances upon the original with the Match Enhanced Trigger Assembly (META) Trigger, improved slide serrations, removable magwell, and many other upgrades. Initially available in four models, including an FDE Tactical OSP version.
Smith & Wesson Performance Center introduces the M&P M2.0 pistols, which include C.O.R.E. models with optics mounting kits. I already own one Performance Center M&P C.O.R.E., and I'm sure it won't be the last. If this round is anything like the originals, we are all in for a treat to shoot.
I don't know what the record is for the number of launches in any given year, but Federal Premium may set the mark this year. The ammo company is set to launch more than 130 new products at SHOT Show 2020. Yes, you read that correctly. Rather than run through the entire lineup, I will leave you with a couple highlights. Federal Premium Practice & Defend Packs, Swift Scirocco II, 6.5 PRC Gold Medal Berger Hybrid, Hydra-Shok Deep 380 Auto, Force X2, Terminal Ascent, and Punch.
Now, I am 100% positive we will see more than a few new launches from the companies above in the coming days.
The Gun Talk team is covering the show in various ways this year. Beginning this Sunday, Tom Gresham Gun Talk Radio broadcasts live from the Sig Sauer Range Day. Tom Gresham's Gun Talk® radio show airs live on Sundays from 2 pm-5 pm Eastern and runs on more than 266 stations every week. Listen on a radio station near you (http://bit.ly/GTRstation) or via live streaming (http:/ /bit.ly/GTRstream). All Gun Talk shows can also be downloaded as podcasts at http://bit.ly/GTRpodcast, Apple iTunes, and i-Heart radio, or through one of the available Apps: GunDealio on iPhone, GunDealio on Android, and the Gun Talk App on Stitcher. Gun Talk is also available on YouTube (http://bit.ly/GTRYT), Roku, Apple TV, Amazon Fire TV, and https://guntalk.com.
Each day you can tune in to our LIVE broadcast on YouTube, and Facebook beginning at 9:00 am PT. We will also have updates on our Instagram page. ~ KJ
Kevin Jarnagin
Kevin Jarnagin (KJ) hails from Oklahoma but quickly established Louisiana roots after joining the Gun Talk team. KJ grew up as a big game hunter and often finds himself in a bass boat. Whether it’s making his way to British Columbia for elk or training with pistols, Jarnagin always seems to find a gun in his hands and adventure on his mind.
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