Jim Van Gorder assumes the newly created position of Sports ProductManager. Jim, a 14-year SKB employee and an avid hunter, fisherman and golfer, will be responsible for all staffproduct training, as well as expert level product training for dealer and distributor staffs and SKB's Sports sales representatives. He will carry the responsibility of knowing SKB’s products, competitors’ products and complimentary market products, thus being able to advise SKB customers on purchase and ordering decisions. Jim will also manage all trade show presence, and will be the primary catalyst for new productdevelopment.

Judy Gudmundson fills the newly created position of Senior Account Manager. She will look after all aspects of internal account management for multi-location retailers as well as managing SKB’s product availability at field warehouses in suburban Minneapolis, Minnesota and Easton, Pennsylvania. Joining SKB in 2003, Judy has 13 years in the sporting goods industry with seven years as the manager of the custom logo department at Daiwa Golf Corporation and four years as Customer Service Manager at Bennington Golf prior to joining SKB.

Providing greater consistency of communication and account supervision, Samino Ok has accepted the assignment of Hunting and Fishing Account Representative. She will mange all internal account services for distributors and independent retailersrepresenting SKB gun, archery and fishing products, as well as participate in telemarketing sales and promotionalactivities. Joining SKB in 2003, Samino previously worked at Bennington Golf.

New to the SKB Sports team is Jonathon Tipton. Jonathon join’s SKB as Golf Account Representative. He will manage all internal account services for independent golf retailersrepresenting SKB golf products, as well as participate in telemarketing sales and promotional activities. A highly charged golf enthusiast, Jonathon joins SKB after completing his assignment

JANUARY 2005 • VOL 5, ISSUE 2

SHOOTING SPORTSSPECIAL EDITION

Six Things to KnowBefore Buying a Case

"Six Things"

Categories I and II carryadditional specificationrequirements that youshould make sure yourcase meets if it is layingclaim to being an ATAcase. Those additionalspecifications include:

Light weight metalsand plastics.(includes rubber)

minimum 100trips by air

Leather, glass, wood,cardboard, fiberboard.(includes all materialsfrom Category 1)minimum 10trips by air

Not specified

expendable

Material

UsageRequirements

Category I Category II Category III

SKB InjectionMolded Case Offers Great

ProtectionWith an interior of layered, convoluted foam, the new 3I-1610-5B-L Pistol Case is molded of ultra high-strength polypropylene copolymer resin, features a gasketed, water proof and dust proof, submersible design (IP67), thus providing resistance to corrosion and impact damage. Additional features include a continuous molded-in hinge, patent pending “trigger release” latch system, comfortable, snap-down rubber over-molded cushion grip handle, automatic ambient pressureequalization valve (MIL-STD-648C), stack securely and the cases are pad-lockable with a customer supplied lock.

“The diversity of the markets that we serve enables us to draw and transfer expertise fromone division’s experiences to another,” offeredSKB Founder and President, Dave Sanderson.“Our new injection molded pistol case is a perfect example of this. Meeting the exacting standards of military and law enforcementagencies, SKB invested in injection molded machinery to expand our capacity to providewhatever molded case solution is required,”concluded Sanderson.

Each 3I Series case is backed by SKB’s exclusive “Million Mile” unconditional lifetime warranty. Available in black with a combination of layered and convoluted foam, the 3I-1615-5B-L is the ultimate solution for those requiring maximum protection.

SKB Introduces DurablePaintball Marker System

Recognizing the various elements that paintballers experience, SKB has drawn fromthe industrial division to develop the new 3I-2015-7B-D Paintball Marker System.Molded of ultra high-strength polypropylenecopolymer resin, the 3I-2015-7B-D case features a gasketed, waterproof and dust proof, submersible design (IP67) that is resistant to corrosion and impact damage.Additional features include a continuous molded-in hinge, patent pending “trigger release” latch system, comfortable, snap-down rubber over-molded cushion grip handle, and automatic ambient pressure equalization valve (MIL-STD-648C). The cases are completely stackable for easy display and storage, and each case is pad-lockable with a customer-supplied lock.

“Paint Ball is one of the most rapidly growingsports activities,” observes SKB ProductManager, Jim Van Gorder. “The game is intense and the conditions can be uncompromising. Competitors needed a case that was just as rugged as they are, so we turned to our industrial division’s military specification expertise,” added Van Gorder.“Measuring 20” x 15” x 7” deep, the case is compact enough to easily transport, and yet large enough to accommodate all of your essential paintball items,” Van Gorderconcluded.

The interior of the 3I-2015-7B-D Paintball Marker System has adjustable, padded dividers with rigid cores that allow the case interior to be configured to the needs of the individual competitor. The case will hold multiple markers, barrels, air tanks and accessories. Convoluted foam in the lid holds cargo firmly in place.

2SKB-5009 Double Rifle Case2SKB-4900 Single Rifle Case2SKB-4009 Double Rifle Transport2SKB-5014 Quad Rifle Case2SKB-5216 Double Rifle Case2SKB-4212A Shotgun Case2SKB-4212T Double Trap Case2SKB-1816 Pistol Case2SKB-6000 Single Bow Case2SKB-8000 Standard Crossbow Case2SKB-4214RC Deluxe Double Recurve Case2SKB-6002 Double Bow Case2SKB-5000 Small Single Compound Bow Case2SKB-5002 Small Double Compound Bow Case2SKB-4114S Double Rifle Case - NEW!2SKB-4114A Double Bow or Bow/Rifle Combination Case - NEW !

$1,500 Product InsuranceOffered on all SKB ATA Cases

SKB’s cases’ unsurpassed Unconditional Lifetime Warranty now has a new twist. All SKB ATA (Airline Transportation Association) 300 Category I Sports Cases now include unprecedented supplemental coverage up to $1,500 for any airline related damage that occurs to proper sports equipment transported in an SKB ATA Case.

“There is a lot of confusion in the market as to what does and doesn’t meet ATAspecifications,” offered Larry Huston, SKB Sports Division National Sales Manager.“Some refer to their products as ATA approved, when such a designation doesn’t even exist. Others refer to their products as military specs even though they have no business involvements with military contracts. Over the years SKB has drawn from our military/industrial division to incorporate production procedures and design elements that truly deliver a case of the highest quality meeting all ATA 300 Category I specifications. Putting ‘our money where our mouth is’ we are delighted to stand behind our cases with this unprecedented coverage,” Huston concluded.

SKB Sports cases are crafted to exceed the ATA 300 specification, category 1. This specification established a stringent standard for transport container design ensuring the product’s ability to withstand a minimum of 100 trips by air. SKB ATA rated cases are molded from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, the material specified by the U.S. military for cases and containers, which must withstand the toughest field conditions imaginable. The cases’ color runsthrough the material so scratches are invisible and the “poly” is impervious to all solvents, oils, fuels and acids.

Every case detail is purposefully designed to optimize function. The molded-in configuration of bumpers and ribs are designed to absorb shock and vibration as well as provide protection for exposed hardware. The ribs give the case superior rigidity and create the unique interlocking stacking patterns. The aluminum valance on SKB cases provides a reliable “valance matched” system where top and bottom valances are made simultaneously and then laser cut for the perfect fit and reliable case closure. Neopreneo-ring gaskets keep out harmful moisture. Heavy-duty, die cast locking latches areengineered for a lifetime of easy, smooth service, but are field replacement if required.

SKB’s $1,500 contentcoverage is availableon the following cases:

For additional coverage information, look for the $1,500 Gold Club Warranty Guarantee on each SKB ATA case, or contact SKB at (800) 654-5992.

Roster MovesStrengthen SKBSports Team

NEWWATERPROOF,SUBMERSIBLE

DESIGN

NEWWATERPROOF,SUBMERSIBLE

DESIGN

The internet has provided a wonderful tool for the instantaneous broadcasting of information worldwide. Our website, skbcases.com, has grown over the last few years to become a popular recourse for dealers, distributors and end users of our many product lines. For added convenience to our dealers, distributors and marketing partners SKB has established an FTP site that is easy to access and user friendly.

What is FTP?FTP of File Transfer Protocol, is another way to use the speed and convenience of the internet in order to access images and to transfer advertising materials or larger files without overloading company servers and across platforms or slowing individual computers.

Accessing the SKB FTP SiteThere is no need to purchase special software, rememberanother password or log on to a special browser. To access this convenient new site just bookmark the address,FTP://63.205.149.186/, into the browser of your choice and hit send. This will take you to Music, Sports and Industrial folders on the SKB site. Each folder contains hi resolutionproduct images, current ads, PDF’s of case dimensions and pertinent, up to date information for use in marketing communications and website development.

Proprietary files or any special requests for larger images can also be loaded to the SKB site for a short period of time, where they are monitored and removed as soon as the transfer has been completed.

New SKB FTP SiteProvides Easy Accessto Hi-Res Images andMarketing Materials

"Roster Moves"

Responding to new parallel limb bows recently introduced, and consulting with leading shooting and archery dealers and distributors, SKB is proud to introduce the new Parallel Bow/Double Rifle Case.

“The explosion of parallel limb bows made this an obvious product development,” commented SKB Product Manager, Jim VanGorder. “In the product development cycle, we are constantly consulting and evaluating new products that are quickly becoming new leaders within their product categories. The multiple utilization as a double rifle case, makes this a versatile solution for both hunters and shooters, and a SKU consolidator for dealers and distributors,”concludedVan Gorder.

The 2SKB-4114A Parallel Limb Bow Case and 2SKB-4114S Double Rifle Case have heavy-duty field replaceable locking latches, a spring-loaded end handle for comfortable towing and protection from damage, molded-in bumper protection to maximize impact resistance and quiet glide heavy duty wheels for easy transport. Secure “tie-down” loops for ATV transport are an added featureand stylish embossing that actually adds structural support to the lid. This innovative new ATA 300 Category I case has all of the features that SKB cases are noted for such as extended bumper protection and matched valance bending to insure perfect fit, case closure and maximum protection.

SKB Parallel BowDouble Rifle Case

FTP://63.205.149.186/

Exaggerated claims are abundant in all industries. So, in an effort to help you make accurate and informed purchase decisions for your stores, on behalf of your dealers or as a consumer, we thought we’d share an informal six-pack of things we think are important to know before buying a case.

1. What does “Mil Spec” mean?Mil Spec is short for Military Specifications. As a U.S. military and government vendor, we are awareof these very stringent specifications, as we must meet them when submitting samples and bids for specifically requested military projects. SKB ATA rated cases are molded from ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, the material specified by the U.S. military for cases and containers. If they aremade from a composite other than ultra-high molecular weight polyethylene, they cannot be considered“Mil Spec” regardless of their strength and durability.

2. What does ATA approved mean?First of all, there is no such thing as “ATA approved”. There is no review panel, no sanctioning board or any other approval process that the ATA (Airline Transportation Authority) provides. All the ATA does is publish a manual that indicates the specifications that must be incorporated into a product for that product to be used by the ATA.

3. So what are the ATA Specifications?Within the ATA 300 class for transport containers, there are two categories for reusable containers, and a third category for “disposable” containers. Following is each category’s specifications, and the durability definitions for each respective category.

Temperature extremes: -40 degrees F to 130 degrees F

Fasteners and Hardware: Fasteners shall be flush or recessed. Straps and buckles are not acceptable.Hardware shall be flushed or recessed with replacements readily available for repair/replacement.

Handles/Hand Holds: Expect for molded containers, where guarded handles are used, all handles handholds or grips, shall be recessed flush with the container. There are also requirements regarding the number of handles depending on the containers’ volume and weight.

There are also technical specification requirements for Drop Test, Water Spray Resistance, Shock Absorption and Vibration Tests. Again, to meet ATA specification, cases must surpass these ATA test requirements. SKB ATA 300, Category I cases do.

continued from page 1

continued on page 4

continued

Jim

Jonathan

Judy Samino

4. What is the “science” behind the design?Beyond ATA specifications, many design elements signify the quality of the case. For example, while ATA specifications require flush latches, all SKB cases ATAcases have extended bumpers. This guarantees that any hit that the case may take will first be inflicted on the plastic bumpers and not onto the cases latches or valance.

Speaking of valance, this is the backbone of the case. The fusion of the male and female valances guarantees a tight, secure and safe fit and closure. At SKB we make our male and females sides of the valance simultaneously. Unlike others who make a valance for the top half of the case and one for the bottom half of the case, SKB incorporates our unique “valance matching” procedure to form and bend the valance as one, and then laser cut the male and female halves. This is an extra procedure, but one that insures the tightness and security of your cases closure.

5. What is the warranty coverage?All companies calculate and historically report “failure rates”. How do you think automobile makers determine what length of warranty to offer? They have statistically determined what they can afford against the calculated period at which failures start to occur and increase.

If a manufacturer offers a 5-year warranty, it is because studies indicate that failure will occur in year six. If it is a one-year warranty…well, you guessed it. You may be buying a case for only a season.

All SKB cases have an Unconditional Lifetime Warranty. It breaks, we repair or replace it. No questions asked.

6. What about coverage for the equipment that you are protecting and transporting?Having already discussed ATA specifications, we have now added a new twist to SKB’s unsurpassed Unconditional Lifetime Warranty. All SKB ATA (Airline Transportation Association) 300 Category I Sports Cases now include unprecedented supplemental coverage up to $1,500 for any airline related damage that occurs to proper sports equipment transported in an SKB ATA Case. Should damage occur, complete an airline luggage damage claim form, contact SKB, and we’ll assist you in taking care of the rest.

In closing, don’t be fooled. We want you to make your purchase decisions from an informed perspective. There are many claims out there.Know the facts about what you are buying so that you do get the best available.

Following SKB President Dave Sanderson’s appointment of David Via as Senior VicePresident comes additional personnel hirings and appointments to strengthen SKB’s sales management team.

“We’re excited about the vision and leadership that David has brought to our Sports Division is such short order,” commented Sanderson. “Weare confident that we have positioned ourselves to better serve our various Sports Division dealers and distributors with these personnel assignments,” he concluded.

Reinforcing their Sports Sales Team, SKB announces the following roster appointments and additions:

As Senior Vice President,David Via expands his SKB responsibilities to include the management of the Sports Division. Aself-admitted sports-aholic, David has over 20 years of consumer productsexperience, including VicePresident of SKB’s Music Division since 2003. David has held positions with Yamaha Corporation of America and SABIAN Ltd., as District Sales Manager, Artist Relations Manager, and VP of Sales and Marketing. An accomplished international businessman, he has traveledthroughout Europe, Asia and South America opening new markets, including recentexpansion into Poland, Portugal, India, Israel, Bangladesh and Indonesia since arriving at SKB.

Larry Huston has joined SKB as the Sports Division’s National Sales Manager. Larry has been a sales representative for SKB’s hunting and fishing products for the past 11 years in Colorado and Utah. During this time he has worked with distributors, independent retailers,and multi-location retail accounts. His primary responsibilities will be interaction with SKB network of independent sales representativesand sales rep groups, plus managing field-services for our all SKB Sports Divisiondealers and distributors.

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