Core Viewpoint - United States Antimony Corp. has initiated exploration and bulk sampling at the Stibnite Hill mine in Montana, having received necessary permits from the Department of Environmental Quality, marking a significant step in its operations [1][4][7]. Company Operations - The Stibnite Hill mine is adjacent to USAC's Thompson Falls smelter, which processes third-party ore into antimony products and precious metals, making it one of only two smelters in North America owned by the company [2]. - The Thompson Falls smelter has a production capacity of approximately 15 million pounds of antimony oxide or 5 million pounds of antimony metal annually, with ongoing expansion efforts to increase this capacity [3]. Mining Activities - With DEQ approvals, USAC can now process its own mined material, having already transported several loads of antimony ore to a flotation mill for crushing and sampling [4][6]. - The commencement of mining at Stibnite Hill establishes Montana as the base for USAC's first fully integrated antimony operation, with the company acquiring mineral leases and properties in the area [6][7]. Market Performance - Despite the positive developments, USAC's shares fell over 10% amid a broader market selloff, bringing the stock price down to $10.95 and the market capitalization to $1.52 billion [5]. Future Prospects - USAC had initially anticipated its first product from Alaska operations, which cover over 35,000 acres with 120 mining claims, but faced a five-month delay in state permit approvals [8]. - The company secured a $245 million contract from the US Defense Logistics Agency for the supply of antimony metal ingots for the national defense stockpile, indicating strong demand for its products [8].