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Iconic firearm manufacturer, Smith & Wesson, inaugurated its new 650,000-square-foot headquarters in Maryville, Tennessee, last week.
A New Chapter in Tennessee
Smith & Wesson, once rooted in Massachusetts, commemorated the opening of its expansive Tennessee headquarters with a ribbon-cutting ceremony.
The celebrated event marks the company’s strategic move amidst Massachusetts’ restrictive gun laws.
NRA Applauds Move
The National Rifle Association (NRA) lauded the move as a commitment to upholding America’s Second Amendment and firearm excellence.
Executive Director Tyler Schropp highlighted the event and the NRA’s instrumental role in the enactment of the Protection of Lawful Commerce in Arms Act.
“Congratulations to Smith & Wesson on their grand opening in Tennessee. This move is a testament to their enduring legacy, their commitment to firearm excellence, and to the importance of preserving America’s gun industry and Second Amendment rights in a fair environment,” Schropp told Fox News Digital.
Investing in Pro-Second Amendment States
CEO Mark Smith emphasized Tennessee’s gun laws and collaborative local leaders as pivotal factors in the seamless relocation.
Sen. Marsha Blackburn echoed the state’s unwavering stance on the Second Amendment, welcoming the significant investment in Tennessee’s economic development.
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“In Tennessee, we know that the Second Amendment is non-negotiable and are pleased to officially welcome Smith & Wesson to Maryville,” she said.
“Their significant investment in our state is a testament to our pro-business policies, and we look forward to their continued partnership to bolster our economic development and exceptionally skilled workforce,” she continued.
Record-Breaking Grand Opening
Congratulations, NRA World Champion @Jerry_Miculek! 🇺🇸🇺🇸🇺🇸 @Smith_WessonInc pic.twitter.com/AUrB7l2GFp
— NRA (@NRA) October 8, 2023
Celebrations peaked as competitive shooter Jerry Miculek astoundingly set an NRA record, hitting six steel plates in just 1.88 seconds.
The NRA saluted Miculek’s impressive feat, standing in unity with marksmen shaping the future of competitive shooting.
History and Future Align
Founded in Connecticut in 1852 and later moved to Springfield, Massachusetts, Smith & Wesson aligns its rich history with a forward-thinking move.
With the new headquarters nestled on 230 acres near McGhee Tyson Airport, the company anticipates building a museum and retail store in the future.
Considerate Employee Transition
While the move, announced in 2021, is profound, Smith & Wesson ensures substantial support for affected employees during the transition.
Employee relocation, financial, and logistical assistance, alongside enhanced severance and job placement services, were provided.
Navigating Through Changing Legislations
Smith cited proposed Massachusetts legislation that threatens the manufacture of certain firearms as a driving force behind the move.
Relocating 750 jobs and significant operations to Maryville reflects a necessity to preserve the company’s future amidst regulatory challenges.
Preserving History
In the juxtaposition of preserving history and navigating through legislative hurdles, Smith & Wesson finds a new home in Tennessee.
Amidst celebrations and a salute to marksmanship, the company engraves its legacy into the heart of a pro-Second Amendment state, ensuring the continuance of its iconic presence in America’s firearm industry. Congrats to S&W!
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Now they should cut off sales to these states that restrict your 2nd Amendment rights, piss on them.
All firearm manufacturers should have moved from blue/communist states long ago.
shouldn’t those kids be in school learning important things???
Heck…they probably learned their marxist BS in school by lunatic teachers.
dat b whyz i’z sayz importantisez thingz……..