PROOF Research Expands Montana Plant, Adds Capacity for Barrels

PROOF Research, the Montana-based maker of carbon-fiber and precision steel barrels, cut the ribbon on a new 12,000-square-foot manufacturing and storage annex in Columbia Falls on Oct. 28, with Gov. Greg Gianforte on hand for the tour.

Key points

• New space: The annex adds 12,000 square feet to PROOF's Columbia Falls footprint, supporting barrel production, carbon-fiber stock work and complete rifle builds.
• Jobs and growth: PROOF currently employs 150 people in the Flathead Valley, plus an Advanced Composites Division in Dayton, Ohio, according to American Rifleman.
• State support: Gov. Gianforte toured the facility and called it an example of Montana manufacturers "putting Montana manufacturing on the map," per the governor's remarks to the Daily Inter Lake.
• Tech on display: The company highlighted its newer PXT barrel technology, with founder K.K. Jense saying the expansion reflects PROOF's commitment to Montana jobs and continued precision development.
• Live fire: The governor's visit included a stop at PROOF's indoor 100-meter range, where he shot an Elevation MTR FDX rifle chambered in 22 Creedmoor.

Quick take

This is the kind of story that doesn't change what's on your bench, but it matters if you run PROOF barrels or are watching where American-made precision rifle components come from. More floor space in Montana generally means more capacity and, eventually, more product reaching shelves. Worth a look if you're tracking the company or curious about state-level manufacturing growth in the shooting industry.

Read the full story: americanrifleman.org