Smith & Wesson Relocates From Massachusetts to Southern Red State

Recently, gun manufacturer Smith & Wesson relocated its headquarters from Springfield, Massachusetts, to Maryville, Tennessee, where a grand opening ceremony was hosted on Saturday. Following legislative uncertainty, the firearms company announced it would move operations to Tennessee nearly two years ago.

Smith & Wesson’s relocation plans include a $125 million investment and approximately 750 created jobs. The company had resided in Massachusetts since its founding in 1852, and executive leadership noted the decision to move was not an easy one. However, in the face of anti-gun legislation, Smith & Wesson had to act in the best interest of the company’s operations.

“This has been an extremely difficult and emotional decision for us, but after an exhaustive and thorough analysis, for the continued health and strength of our iconic company, we feel that we have been left with no other alternative.” Stated Mark Smith, President and Chief Executive Officer, citing legislation proposed in Massachusetts at the time that could prevent the company from manufacturing certain firearms in the state.

The chief executive continued, explaining the possible impacts of the proposed legislation. Smith claims the laws could prohibit the manufacture of basic firearms that are legal in practically every state. Such guns make up the vast majority of Smith & Wesson’s revenue, showing how the bills create a massive political risk for the company to continue operations in Massachusetts. Smith ultimately slams the legal initiatives as an infringement of the constitutional rights of Americans.