Financial Data and Key Metrics Changes - First quarter sales were $85.1 million, reflecting a year-over-year decrease of $3.3 million or 3.7% [14] - EBITDA for the quarter was $8 million, indicating robust demand despite a seasonal slowdown [5] - Gross margin was 25.9%, down 1.5% from the prior year due to lower production absorption and tariffs [15] - The company reported a net loss of $3.4 million, translating to a loss of $0.08 per share [15] Business Line Data and Key Metrics Changes - Handgun shipments increased over 35% year-on-year, while long gun shipments decreased by 28.1% [5][6] - Average selling prices (ASPs) for handguns declined by 4%, and long guns saw a 13% decrease due to market conditions [6] - New products accounted for 37.3% of sales in the first quarter, highlighting the importance of innovation [9] Market Data and Key Metrics Changes - The market is viewed as relatively "normal" with cyclical trends and traditional seasonality [7] - Distributor inventory levels were down more than 13,000 units compared to the end of fiscal 2025, indicating strong retail demand [9] - The company expects a significant sales increase in the second quarter, projecting sales to be 3% to 5% below Q2 fiscal 2025 [17] Company Strategy and Development Direction - Innovation is a cornerstone of the company's strategy, with a strong pipeline of new products planned [9] - The company is investing in its facilities and enhancing brand support initiatives [10] - The reopening of the Smith & Wesson Academy aims to provide training for law enforcement and consumers, enhancing brand loyalty [11][12] Management's Comments on Operating Environment and Future Outlook - Management expressed cautious optimism about maintaining or expanding market share despite macroeconomic challenges [17] - The company anticipates a normal seasonal environment for the second quarter, with no significant inventory impact expected [17] - Gross margin for Q2 is expected to align with Q1 levels, with operating expenses projected to increase by 20% [18] Other Important Information - Cash used in operations was $8.1 million, significantly lower than the prior year due to a net working capital decrease [16] - The board authorized a quarterly dividend of $0.13, with payment scheduled for October 2 [17] Q&A Session Summary Question: ASPs in handgun and long gun markets - Management is pleased with ASPs and expects to maintain or increase them as the busy season approaches [20] Question: Opportunities in long gun business - The company is expanding its lever-action product line and exploring new market segments [22] Question: Impact of regulatory changes on NFA items - There is pent-up demand in the suppressor market, which is expected to grow with upcoming regulatory changes [23] Question: Performance of legacy products - Legacy products performed well, with the company gaining market share and focusing on inventory management [26][27] Question: Promotional activity in the back half of the year - Management does not foresee a need for increased promotional activity, expecting ASPs to hold steady [28][29]