Ruger Recognized for Innovation and Leadership

Sturm, Ruger & Company, Inc. (NYSE: RGR), the nation's largest firearms manufacturer, received several awards presented by Shooting Industry magazine's Academy of Excellence at the 2004 National Rifle Association annual meeting in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania. On April 16th, Sturm, Ruger received two top awards from the Academy of Excellence and was a top-three finalist in two other categories.

The Ruger M77 Mark II Target Rifle, chambered for the exciting new .204 Ruger cartridge, was named "Rifle of the Year" by the Academy of Excellence. The Target Grey® KM77VT MKII is one of five newly introduced rifles from Sturm, Ruger chambered for the new .204 Ruger. As a further indication of the success of this new cartridge, the Academy of Excellence also presented its "Ammunition of the Year" award to Hornady Manufacturing Company for the development of the .204 Ruger.

The Academy's prestigious "Shooting Industry Award" was presented to Sturm, Ruger President, Stephen L. Sanetti. This award is given to "individuals who have made valuable contributions to the shooting industry through product design, industry representation, or marketing expertise."

The plaque presented to Sanetti includes the following inscription: "For his work in effectively defending against countless ill-conceived lawsuits by individuals, municipalities, and anti-gun organizations. Also for his efforts to support legislation protecting the rights of companies and individuals within the firearms industry for future generations."

In his acceptance of the "Shooting Industry Award," Sanetti noted, "My contribution was very small compared to the efforts of hundreds in the industry and many thousands of concerned shooters, who recognize important principles when they see them - that in America, the law abiding majority are not supposed to be punished for the criminal actions of a lawless few; and that elected legislators, not judges, are supposed to make our laws." He continued, "This award really goes to all of you, and I humbly accept it on behalf of the law-abiding, responsible citizens who make up our industry and our customer base. I am truly honored. Good luck to all of us, and keep up the good fight."

Shooting Industry Editor Russ Thurman said, "People in the industry realize what Steve Sanetti has done for the entire industry. His long-term involvement in the legal issues has not been pleasant or glamorous, but it is important. We need people like Steve and the other nominees in this category - all strong leaders that have worked hard to preserve the Second Amendment and our heritage."

The Ruger New Model Single Six Hunter single-action revolver, chambered in .17 HMR, was a top-three finalist for the "Handgun of the Year" award. Sturm, Ruger was also a top-three finalist for the "Manufacturer of the Year" award.