MARYVILLE, TN., (9/19/2025) – On Friday, September 12th, Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. (NASDAQ Global Select: SWBI), a leader in firearm manufacturing and design, hosted a celebration in Maryville, Tennessee, to announce the grand opening of the Smith & Wesson Academy™. Held on the headquarters campus, the event drew hundreds of invited attendees, including local dignitaries, elected officials, law enforcement, veterans, local and national media, and industry partners who came together to commemorate this major milestone. The grand opening featured a series of training demonstrations, range sessions, a ceremonial ribbon-cutting, a formal dinner reception, and live entertainment.
The day began with tactical demonstrations from Maryville SWAT, showcasing the capabilities of their sniper team and tactical response unit in real-world scenarios. The spacious flex range and two-story immersive shoot-house were also highlighted during the demo. Following the demonstrations, patrons had the opportunity to participate in a range experience, testing Smith & Wesson revolvers, striker-fired pistols, lever-action rifles, and more. During the range session, guests accessed the Academy’s 65-yard pistol/carbine range designed for close-to mid-range drills, the dynamic 100×100-yard flex range engineered for multi-angle engagements and situational training, and the 300-yard rifle range built for long-distance precision and marksmanship.
As evening approached, a formal Ribbon Cutting Ceremony was conducted to officially inaugurate the facility. The event featured remarks from Smith & Wesson President & CEO, Mark Smith, along with distinguished elected officials including Senator Marsha Blackburn, Congressman Tim Burchett, Tennessee Speaker of the House Cameron Sexton, and Blount County Mayor Ed Mitchell. “This Training Academy represents more than just a building – it’s a living investment in those who protect and serve, and in the future of responsible firearms training. We are proud to open our doors in Tennessee, where Smith & Wesson continues its 170-year legacy of craftsmanship, innovation, and service to the American people,” said Mark Smith.
A notable highlight of the ceremony was the presentation of two All-Terrain Track Wheelchairs, one each to U.S. Marine Corps Veteran Corporal Neil Frustaglio and Law Enforcement Officer Adam Cothron in honor of their service and sacrifice to our nation and community. The presentation of these specialized wheelchairs that were designed to restore mobility and independence to wounded heroes was made on behalf of Smith & Wesson by event partners, The Independence Fund and FRAG (First Responders Action Group). The evening culminated in a dinner reception, expertly orchestrated by pit masters and Fox News guest contributors, The McLemore Boys, where visitors could enjoy premium BBQ and live country music.
At Smith & Wesson, our mission extends beyond the production of premium firearms – we are committed to empowering those who carry them. For more information on the Smith & Wesson Academy facility, courses, and training team, visit academy.smith-wesson.com.
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