One for the Record Books
The Hunt is On
Rockin the Outdoors
Project ChildSafe – Promoting Gun Safety
My interview with Joe Bartozzi from Project ChildSafe focused on promoting responsible gun ownership and secure firearm storage. Project ChildSafe is a nationwide program that provides free educational resources and firearm safety kits. The program partners with local law enforcement to distribute gun locks and safety information across communities in the United States. Its mission is to reduce firearm accidents, misuse, and theft through awareness and secure storage.
Since its launch in 1999, Project ChildSafe has significantly improved gun safety nationwide. Over the past 25 years, firearm accidents have decreased by 40 percent, a major achievement for the program. Originally called Project HomeSafe, the initiative began with federal funding under the George W. Bush administration. Today, Project ChildSafe continues its mission by offering free resources and safety materials to gun owners everywhere. Its long-standing success highlights the importance of education and responsibility in firearm ownership.
Bartozzi explained that Project ChildSafe now partners with more than 15,000 law enforcement agencies nationwide. The program operates across all 50 states and five U.S. territories, making it the largest initiative of its kind. Beyond law enforcement, it has also formed partnerships with about 13,000 local organizations. These include faith-based groups, gun shops, and safety instructors who help distribute firearm locks and educational content. This network ensures that safety information and resources reach as many people as possible.
We also discussed ways that communities can get involved with Project ChildSafe. Local organizations can share promotional materials, host educational events, and participate in fundraising efforts to expand outreach. By spreading awareness, communities strengthen firearm safety culture while preventing misuse, theft, and suicide. Bartozzi emphasized that Project ChildSafe was built by gun owners for gun owners, hunters, and shooters. Its focus remains on protecting families and communities by making secure storage a standard practice.
SCI’s Next Chapter with Jason St. Michael
In a recent interview, Jason St. Michael of Safari Club International discussed the organization’s mission and global structure. SCI supports ethical hunting, wildlife protection, and conservation efforts through 164 chapters and 50,000 members worldwide. Jason highlighted the importance of hunters working together to secure the future of wildlife and outdoor traditions.
Jason explained the challenges hunters face, including legislative restrictions and widespread misinformation. He described SCI’s work on conservation projects and youth education programs. The organization also focuses on outreach to non-hunters, helping them understand hunting’s role in effective wildlife management. Building awareness remains central to SCI’s mission.
Membership in SCI offers benefits beyond conservation and advocacy. Local chapters provide community, events, and international hunting opportunities for members. Jason emphasized SCI’s political advocacy, citing recent legislative successes that protected hunting rights and advanced conservation. Membership also fosters camaraderie and purpose among dedicated hunters worldwide.
Looking ahead, Jason outlined plans for chapter growth, membership expansion, and broader global influence. SCI aims to engage younger hunters through outreach and education. Conservation, advocacy, and community remain at the heart of their mission. With these priorities, SCI continues leading as a strong global voice for hunters.
Stone Cold Outdoors
Known worldwide as “Stone Cold” Steve Austin, the wrestling icon revealed a surprising passion for the great outdoors. Before the fame, Austin learned patience, discipline, and respect while exploring the wild brush country of South Texas.
In an exclusive American Outdoor News interview, Austin shared the side fans rarely see. Not the wrestler or TV star, but the hunter who finds peace in the mountains and fulfillment in the field.
Austin began hunting with his father and brothers at just eight years old. He harvested his first whitetail deer at thirteen and became hooked on the hunting lifestyle.
Now living in Nevada, Austin hunts mule deer and antelope with his brother-in-law, a seasoned guide. For Austin, time spent glassing rugged terrain, scouting from a Kawasaki side-by-side, and embracing nature defines true success. Follow along for the rest of the interview - Dont forget to Subscribe, Like & Review our episode.
SCI’s Hunter Information Services – What Everyone Should Know
The American Outdoor News podcast recently featured a conversation with Barbara Crown from Safari Club International’s Hunter Information Services. This episode highlighted SCI’s dedication to supporting hunters worldwide.
Barbara explained how Hunter Information Services provides free assistance for members facing hunting and travel challenges. She helps with firearm transportation, trophy importation, permits, and insurance. This service guides both new and experienced hunters through complex regulations both nationally and internationally. Barbara’s goal is to ensure members make educated and informed hunting decisions.
Safari Club International also offers extensive resources for members who prefer independent research. Barbara directs hunters to SCI’s website, connects them with trusted providers, and answers detailed hunting questions. Many hunters remain unaware of SCI’s full range of support services. Her role ensures every member can access guidance on travel, advocacy, and conservation.
Barbara also discussed the Women Go Hunting program, designed to build a community for women in the outdoors. The program provides networking, hunting experiences, and events like the Women’s Mix and Mingle. It also offers awards challenges and mentorship opportunities. Barbara encouraged women to explore hunting, writing, or media, showing diverse paths into the outdoor industry.
Sponsored by Underwood Ammo:
OUR PAST ISSUES
IS SPONSORED BY
