“shotshell”

Taurus has long been a name that's synonymous with the revolver—with models like the company's Tracker and Raging Bull in particular striking a cord with hunters. But there's a lot more to say about the company's 70-plus years of history.

There's no doubt about it, Winchester's Shot-Lok technology has been a full-fledged revolution. Though originally designed with turkeys in mind, the concept has expanded to upland loads and, for 2016, will enter a not-so-feathered market. Coyotes, hogs and varmints the world over will be testing their luck against Varmint X shotshells going forward.

The Winchester brand has had no shortage of new surprises for its consumers—like the new Varmint X shotshell—but, as SHOT Show 2016 kicks into high gear, the company will also begin a year-long celebration. Oliver F. Winchester introduced his now legendary brand to the world in 1866—and so, in 2016, Winchester celebrates 150 years of success.

There's no shortage of new ammunition options on the market designed to bring the hurt to a turkey at long range, but what if that same thunder chicken were to sneak up on you and get within 10 yards?

It's safe to say that the Benelli ETHOS was well-received. Heck, we gave it a Golden Bullseye Award for Shotgun of the Year. So it wasn't much of a surprise when Benelli continued to flesh out the ETHOS line last year with the introduction of a 20-gauge variant. For 2016, the company is taking things a step further and releasing a 28-gauge ETHOS.

Late in 2015, Browning shocked the industry with the announcement that it would be offering its own line of ammunition.

Here are four things you need to know about Winchester's new Varmint X shotshell.

Much like its Vista Outdoor companion Federal Premium, CCI piqued the interest of media members at SHOT Show 2016, thanks to the introduction of its new Big 4 handgun shotshell. Big 4 is designed to extend the range and capabilities of downsized shotshells, using a payload of No. 4 lead shot.

To celebrate Winchester's 150th anniversary, we've assembled 10 facts about the company's long history that may surprise you.