Benelli Invitational Surpasses $1 Million in Funds Raised

by
posted on October 21, 2025
** 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. **
LEDE Benelli Invitational

The Point at Pintail in Queenstown, Md., came alive on Sept 26 when shooters from across the country gathered for a day of competition, camaraderie and purpose at the 11th Annual Benelli USA Invitational. Two hundred and five participants—including many military veterans—participated in the event to honor and support America’s service members and their families.

For more than a decade, the Benelli USA Invitational has represented more than just world-class shooting—it has stood as a rallying point for the outdoor and shooting sports community to give back. The event’s mission is simple but profound: to raise funds for Freedom Hunters, an organization dedicated to providing life-changing outdoor adventures for veterans and their families. Thanks to the generosity of participants and supporters, the Invitational and its companion online auction raised $107,000 this year, funds that will further strengthen the connection between the shooting community and those who serve our nation.

“The Invitational is one of the most meaningful traditions we uphold at Benelli,” said Tom DeBolt, CEO of Benelli USA. “It’s a day filled with energy, friendship, and gratitude—directly supporting a mission that reflects our own values. With nearly a quarter of our team being military veterans, we are deeply honored to stand behind Freedom Hunters and the extraordinary work they do for our nation’s heroes.”

Founded in 2006, Freedom Hunters has provided outdoor experiences to veterans and their families, spanning 46 U.S. states and international destinations including Namibia, Canada and Mexico. In 2024 alone, the organization coordinated 127 outdoor adventures for over 1,190 veterans and family members, made possible by dedicated volunteers who contributed nearly 51,958 hours of service—valued at over $1,740,073 million.

The Benelli USA Invitational has been proud to help fuel this mission over the years, raising $1,009,000 to date. Behind every dollar raised are stories of resilience, fellowship,and unforgettable outdoor moments created for those who have sacrificed so much.

Benelli Invitational Results

  • First Place Team: Brandon Geweke, Marty Geweke, Joe Kukla, Joe Kukla Jr.
  • High Overall Male: Randolph Fung-A-Fat
  • High Overall Female: Amy Crow

Latest

590 R Chisel Olsen
590 R Chisel Olsen

#SundayGunday: Mossberg 590R Chisel

This week, we’re checking out the Mossberg 590R. While technically part of the company’s tactical shotgun lineup, the 590R would be a great turkey gun for any pump-action afficionado. The model we had in had, the 590R Chisel, a 3-inch chambered 12 gauge, comes with a beautifully Cerakoted polymer-ceramic receiver, which contrasts nicely with its black stock, barrel and heat shield. For more information, check out this exclusive video.

Range Review: Tandemkross TKX22 Light Rifle

Tandemkross (TK) has just launched the company's first in-house, semi-automatic .22 LR long gun. Dubbed the TKX22 Light Rifle, it blends the best of this company's Ruger 10/22 compatible race gun components into an impressively lightweight sporting rimfire package. Several companies claim their guns are lightweights, but TK delivers on its promise.

Tips for Bowhunting Birds

Want to shlock a big Tom with your bow this year? Want some tips on closing the distance? Mike Roux has been calling them and sticking them for decades. Read on for some great tactics from an old pro.

First Look: MDT Timbr Core Laminate Rifle Stock

MDT has released its Timbr Core Laminate Rifle Stock, expanding the Timbr Core lineup with a modern laminate option for hunters seeking an upgrade from factory polymer stocks with a classic look and feel.

American Hunter's 2026 Golden Bullseye Winners

A handful of the American Hunter staff's favorite things, from 2026.

Reloading 7mm Backcountry with Lee Precision Dies

Federal Premium’s latest cartridge innovation, 7mm Backcountry, is now being supported by Lee Precision and its set of reloading dies specially created for the new high-pressure round.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.