is anyone worried about winchester components?

[rvtrav]

Hello to all,

   The buzz about winchester shutting down production at the New Haven plant has got me concerned. How directly related are firearms manufacturing and their reloading components manufacuring?

   If they discontinue the rifles, will they discontinue brass and bullets for the wssm calibers?

   Or the production of calibers that only winchester makes, like the .38/55, .25/35, .375 and such?

  Anyone else a little ancy?

[George Foster]

Winchester ammo and components division is owned and operated by Olin Corp.  They are two completely different companys so I don't think there is any reason to worry.

[Questor]

Is Winchester guns moving production to, say, China?

[Lawful Larry]

Is Winchester guns moving production to, say, China?

Depends on who buys the licensing rights to the products from FN.   :wink:

[Graybeard]

Depends on who buys the licensing rights to the products from FN.

Not really. They were merely leasing the rights to the use of the name from Olin who is the actual owner. I think that Olin wasn't willing to renew them which is why the Winchester guns will no longer be available. FN is making the Browning guns but none of the old Winchester guns. Those were made in the US or Japan.

Since all of the old Browning patents have long since expired anyone who wants to can make the guns. BUT Olin owns the Winchester name so to use it they have to work out a deal with Olin to lease or buy it.

[.45 COLT]

I'm worried about their components. Not because of FN's decision to shut down production, but because of the news release on Winchester's website.

News and Press Releases
 
Winchester signs license agreement with Hodgdon Powder Company
 
1/30/2006
Winchester Ammunition and Hodgdon Powder Company, two great names in reloading, are proud to announce a license agreement that is sure to excite every handloader.  Winchester® branded reloading powders will now be licensed to Hodgdon Powder Company. Hodgdon Powder Company is the industry leader in supplying reloading powders.  This partnership positions Winchester brand powders to best support the reloading customers’ needs.  

You will still be able to find your favorite Winchester powder, from 231 to Super Target, with the consistent supply and support you are accustomed to from Hodgdon Powder Company.

After a brief transition period, Hodgdon Powder Company will assume responsibility for all orders, shipments, customer and technical service, including loading data for all Winchester branded reloading powders.  Winchester Ammunition will continue to be your full line provider of world class ammunition and reloading components.

Olin going to get out completely? I hope not, but that looks like possibly the first step towards it.

DC