Gun industry data suggests the multi-year industry slump has shown signs of reversing itself, but the improvements seemed to bypass Sturm, Ruger (NYSE: RGR), which reported fourth-quarter earnings on Feb. 19 showing net revenue fell 13% year over year.
As the biggest pure-play firearms company, the results may seem incongruous since the rising tide of demand should lift all boats, but there were a number of factors working against the company, and they kept Ruger's sales depressed. However, the gunsmith still remains well positioned for when the industry recovery begins in earnest.
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