If the decision seems a little confusing to you, you're not alone, because others have expressed disappointment at the change. However, the company issued a statement expressing its enthusiasm for the new direction:
The 164-year-old company’s president and CEO, James Debney, had this to say:
“We are excited about the results of today’s stockholder vote. We believe that American Outdoor Brands Corp. is a name that truly represents our broad and growing array of brands and businesses in the shooting, hunting, and rugged outdoor enthusiast markets.”
The problem, according to people who study such things, is that Smith & Wesson had become too closely associated with firearms, while the company needs to diversify its “portfolio” and focus on “brands and products that best meet the needs and lifestyle of our target consumers.”
Actually, the guns will still bear the Smith & Wesson name.
We're not sure quite what to think about the change because the new name doesn't have quite the same ring to it. We're relieved, however, that the guns will stay Smith & Wesson. What do you think of the change? Share your thoughts in the comment section below!
Article Source: Field & Stream
The 164-year-old company’s president and CEO, James Debney, had this to say:
“We are excited about the results of today’s stockholder vote. We believe that American Outdoor Brands Corp. is a name that truly represents our broad and growing array of brands and businesses in the shooting, hunting, and rugged outdoor enthusiast markets.”
The problem, according to people who study such things, is that Smith & Wesson had become too closely associated with firearms, while the company needs to diversify its “portfolio” and focus on “brands and products that best meet the needs and lifestyle of our target consumers.”
Actually, the guns will still bear the Smith & Wesson name.
A rose by any other name…
Protected by American Outdoor Brands Corp. Isn’t going to scare anyone !!!!!!
S&W betrayed firearm owners back in the `80s; voluntarily reporting every firearm purchase to the Federal government. I’ll never give them any of my money.
How do you order that drink?
Bowing before the kings of political correctness, capitulation to the liberal political agenda, I have purchased my last Smith&Wesson product. I shall not support further idiocy
The holding company that owns Smith & Wesson is changing it’s name. S&W will keep being S&W. Get the facts straight before you write an article dipshits.
American outdoor brands corp, you’re welcome
Y….thats stupid
Edward Tucker
Daniel Alexander Cañas Kinsey
As long as the firearms are S&W who cares about the name of the corp?
A new company now owns Smith and Wesson, the name will still be on the gun… Don’t waste your time clicking through the pages…
Smith & Wesson will be a a division of a larger sporting goods equipment empire that’s all. Don’t panic.
I will no longer purchase or own Smith & Wesson firearms, I prefer to do business with a company proud of it’s name and brand.
As long as the guns are still Smith and Wesson, I have no problem with it
Not smart to change iconic brand recognition.