The Insider Story with the New Thompson/Center Boss! — GMP #248

Published on August 30, 2024
Duration: 38:34

This episode details the fascinating journey of Thompson Center Arms, from its founding by Ken Thompson and Warren Center to its acquisition by Smith & Wesson and subsequent revival under Greg Ritz. The discussion highlights the brand's heritage, the importance of its original manufacturing processes, and the vision for its future, emphasizing a return to its core values and product lines. Greg Ritz, a former executive and now owner, shares his personal commitment to restoring the brand's legacy and connecting with its passionate customer base.

Quick Summary

Thompson Center Arms, founded in 1965 by Ken Thompson and Warren Center, was known for its quality manufacturing and iconic firearms like the Contender pistol and Hawken muzzleloader. After being acquired by Smith & Wesson and its factory closed in 2009, the brand has been revived under Greg Ritz, focusing on restoring its heritage and core values through private ownership and a return to its Rochester, NH roots.

Chapters

  1. 00:04Introduction to Guns Magazine Podcast
  2. 00:19Guest Introduction: Greg Ritz
  3. 00:49The Phoenix Rising: Thompson Center's Story
  4. 01:05Roy Huntington's Book: The Insider
  5. 02:25Greg Ritz on Thompson Center's Return
  6. 03:13Backstory: Founding of Thompson Center Arms
  7. 05:05Thompson Center Arms Established (1965)
  8. 05:17Iconic Hawken Muzzleloader Launch
  9. 05:33Vertical Integration and Quality Manufacturing
  10. 06:30Thompson Center's Role in Hunting Seasons
  11. 07:05Roy Huntington's Involvement
  12. 07:31Smith & Wesson Acquires Thompson Center
  13. 07:52Greg Ritz's Role Post-Acquisition
  14. 09:30Factory Closure in Rochester, NH
  15. 10:05Cultural Shift and Loss of Tribal Knowledge
  16. 11:46Smith & Wesson Shuts Down Thompson Center
  17. 13:01Greg Ritz Buys Thompson Center Back
  18. 13:15Selling Off Intellectual Property
  19. 14:17Glenn Butcher's Call to Action
  20. 16:01Contacting Smith & Wesson CEO
  21. 18:20The Transaction: Intellectual Property Purchase
  22. 19:01Relaunching the Encore Rifle and Muzzleloader
  23. 19:24The Passion Behind Thompson Center
  24. 20:03Phoenix Risen: A Venerable Brand's Return
  25. 20:31Personal Significance of the Revival
  26. 21:33Learning from Bob Guston's Leadership
  27. 22:04The 1998 Fire at Thompson Center
  28. 23:51Commitment to the Gun Community
  29. 24:08Rehiring Former Employees
  30. 25:02The Value of Privately Owned Companies
  31. 26:10Why People Love Thompson Center
  32. 27:01Thompson Center as a Community
  33. 27:25Engaging the Younger Generation
  34. 29:32The Next Generation of TC Members
  35. 29:52Future Plans and Timeline
  36. 30:05Encore Barrels Relaunch (October)
  37. 30:34Complete Encore Rifles and Muzzleloaders (November)
  38. 30:44Expanding the Platform: Contender and Icon
  39. 31:25Relaunching the Triumph Muzzleloader
  40. 31:36Plate is Full: Ambitious Timeline
  41. 31:42How to Find Out About Thompson Center
  42. 31:49Social Media and Website Updates
  43. 32:19Transparency and Direct Communication
  44. 33:10Listening to Public Feedback: Turkey Gun Example
  45. 34:33Bill Ruger Mindset: Instinct and Public Listening
  46. 35:36Passion and Gun People at the Top
  47. 36:03Engaging the Younger Generation
  48. 36:33Exploring Beyond Black Rifles
  49. 36:41Appreciation for Greg Ritz's Insights
  50. 37:00Conclusion and Excitement for TC's Future
  51. 37:13Audience Engagement: Comments and Subscription
  52. 37:21Housekeeping: Roy Huntington's Book
  53. 37:36Sponsor Mentions: Righton Optics
  54. 37:59Closing Remarks from Guns Magazine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the history behind Thompson Center Arms?

Thompson Center Arms was founded in 1965 by Ken Thompson and Warren Center. Center, a gun designer, developed the iconic Contender pistol. The company gained further fame with the Hawken muzzleloader in the 1970s, known for its quality manufacturing, including vertical integration from casting to woodworking.

Why did Smith & Wesson close the Thompson Center factory?

Smith & Wesson acquired Thompson Center in 2007. In 2009, they made the decision to shut down the Rochester, New Hampshire factory. This move was attributed to a difference in company culture and operational DNA, leading to the loss of specialized knowledge and the brand's unique entrepreneurial spirit.

How did Thompson Center get bought back and revived?

Greg Ritz, who had a history with Thompson Center, led the effort to buy the company back from Smith & Wesson after it was shut down. The revival focused on restoring the brand's core values and operational ethos, emphasizing private ownership and a return to its manufacturing roots in Rochester, New Hampshire.

What new products can be expected from the revived Thompson Center?

The revived Thompson Center plans to relaunch several iconic platforms. This includes Encore barrels with 5R rifling and threaded muzzles in October, followed by complete Encore rifles and muzzleloaders in November. The Contender, Icon bolt-action rifle, and Triumph muzzleloader are also slated for relaunch within the next year.

What is the future vision for Thompson Center Arms?

The vision for Thompson Center is to operate as a privately owned, family-run company that embodies traditional values, USA manufacturing, and strong customer community engagement. They aim to connect with both existing enthusiasts and a younger demographic by leveraging social media and focusing on quality, innovative products.

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