Smith & Wesson / American Outdoor Brands
One of the oldest and largest US handgun manufacturers, maker of the M&P AR-15-style rifles
Overview
Founded in 1852 in Springfield, Massachusetts, Smith & Wesson is one of the oldest names in American firearms. In August 2020, the company split into two separate publicly traded companies: the firearms business retained the Smith & Wesson Brands name (SWBI on NASDAQ), while the outdoor products and accessories business was spun off as the new American Outdoor Brands, Inc. (AOUT on NASDAQ).
The M&P line of AR-15-style rifles has been used in multiple mass casualty incidents. The move to Maryville was announced September 30, 2021 and completed in 2023, citing Massachusetts' changing business climate for firearms manufacturing.
Key Personnel
Mark Smith
President & CEOHas led Smith & Wesson/American Outdoor Brands through the complex corporate restructurings and relocation.
Legislative Wins / Policy Impact
- PLCAA protection — shielded from Soto v. Bushmaster-type litigation since 2005
- Benefited from ATF rule reversals on pistol braces and suppressors