Happy Platinum Anniversary, Hodgdon!

by
posted on January 24, 2017
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
hodgdon.jpg

Seven decades may seem like a long time, but not if you're Hodgdon, the preeminent supplier of gunpowder and blackpowder to handloaders and muzzleloaders. Although 2017 will mark the venerable company's seventieth anniversary, they're only just getting started. The Brand That’s True®, is pleased to recognize 2017 as the 70th Anniversary for the Hodgdon brand.

Bob Hodgdon, co-founder of the company, remembers, “Our first ad selling surplus powder appeared in American Rifleman magazine in November, 1947. Although we’ve grown over the last 70 years and our company has a lot of accomplishments to celebrate, in our hearts, we’re still a group of proud handloading shooters and hunters from Kansas. We are grateful to our employees who manufacture, package and ship the product and for our handloading and muzzleloading customers who appreciate what we do.” 

The Hodgdon story is, in essence, the story of a family. In 1947, Bruce and Amy Hodgdon, along with their sons JB and Bob, launched the company. In the beginning, they offered the first surplus powder available after the conclusion of World War II. Seventy years later, the company's family beginnings are still remembered and cherished. 

“Our father Bruce was drafted into the service during World War II, where he served as an aerial gunnery instructor for the Navy,” said JB Hodgdon, Hodgdon co-founder. “He used skeet to teach his students about the lead required to hit targets. He couldn’t get enough ammunition to teach skeet but could get components, so brother Bob and I would help him most nights loading shotshells so he could teach class the next day.”

Happy anniversary, Hodgdon—here's to many more!

Latest

Sydney Beiswanger Lede
Sydney Beiswanger Lede

Rising Shooting Stars: Sydney Beiswanger

“I plan to inspire juniors to get into this sport, and my goal is to be a role model for them,” Sydney said.

Throwback Thursday: The Revolutionary Kentucky Long Rifle

From its humble beginnings in the late 18th century to its enduring legacy in popular culture, the Kentucky Long Rifle stands as a testament to American ingenuity and craftsmanship.

Watch: NRA CEO Hamlin & President Bachenberg Hold Our First Virtual Townhall

"When President Bachenberg and I were elected, we pledged to rebuild the trust of our members, donors, and industry."

Reviewed: Daniel Defense 9mm Pistol-Caliber Carbine

Nimble, adjustable, accurate, and nicely outfitted, this PCC impresses.

From Pond to Pan, Frog-Hunting is Great Summer Fun

Get your gig, airgun, or .22 rifle and head for the water on a summer night and come away with some great eating!

First Impressions: CZ P-10 C Ported Pistol

Built for everyday carry and range performance, this new addition to CZ's lineup offers reduced recoil and other features new shooters will love.

Interests



Get the best of NRA Family delivered to your inbox.