Savage Arms to support Canadian University Shooting Foundation

The Canadian University Shooting Foundation (CUSF) has landed a major sponsorship deal with Savage Arms. This week, Savage announced a plan to supply firearms to the grassroots education program.

The partnership will supply the CUSF with both rifles and shotguns for three years. That's a significant investment, although the announcement did not specify exactly which material Savage would provide for the CUSF. Savage is probably best-known for its hunting- and target-focused bolt-action centrefire and rimfire rifles, but the company does also sell a line of shotguns, most of them re-badged and foreign-built. Although the company is based in New England, Savage produces its rimfire rifles in Ontario. Savage bought the Lakefield rimfire manufacturing facility in 1990, and has produced those designs ever since.

Although it will certainly cost Savage some money, the company no doubt sees this as an opportunity to invest in the future.

“Savage is committed to supporting shooting sports, and it is honored to be able to partner with the CUSF,” said Beth Shimanski, Savage's chief marketeer. "Savage continues to lead the industry in innovative new firearms that help competitive shooters do what they do best. The Canadian University Shooting Foundation’s mission dovetails perfectly with that of Savage Arms, and we’re excited to introduce a new audience to the potential of Savage’s rimfire rifles and shotguns."

As for the CUSF, president David Fahlman said "Partnering with industry helps lower the barrier of entry and ensures a young, vibrant shooting community for years to come. Our student members are grateful for the generous support!"

It's very good news for the CUSF, as last time we talked to them, members specifically mentioned their lack of firearms as a hindrance to the program. In December of 2020, the CUSF announced its expansion to the east coast, but the new Nova Scotia University Marksmanship club was limited by lack of firearms. The only shotguns or rifles in the club's inventory were the personal firearms of members, which they'd take with them when they graduated from university. Savage's support means the program can become more self-sufficient.

Currently, there are CUSF chapters in British Columbia, the prairies, Quebec, Ontario, and Nova Scotia. The CUSF is a non-profit organization aimed at promoting the shooting sports among university students. Founded in 2018, it manages the Canadian University Trap and Skeet League, with 14 university teams across the country. You can find more details on the program, and learn how you can donate or get involved otherwise, at the Federation's website. Warning: The site appears to still be under construction.