By Dave Workman
Editor-in-Chief
Virginia just added another casualty to its restrictive gun control policies, as Rideout Arsenal is reportedly investing $22 million in a new manufacturing facility located in Thomasville, Ga., according to an announcement by Georgia Gov. Brian Kemp.
Over the next few years, Kemp’s announcement reveals, at least 120 new jobs will be created in Georgia.
According to Kemp’s news release, “Rideout Arsenal is an American firearms company focused on innovation, precision engineering, and performance-driven products. From custom firearms and accessories to branded apparel and lifestyle gear, Rideout Arsenal delivers equipment built for reliability, durability, and modern shooters who demand uncompromising quality.”
The Daily Signal is reporting the new Rideout facility will be located within Thomasville’s Plantation Oak Industrial Park.
The relocation announcement amounted to an economic slap in the face to Virginia Democrats and Gov. Abigail Spanberger, judging by the quote the Daily Signal attributed to Travis Rideout, co-founder of Rideout Arsenal.
“This relocation was not something we originally planned to pursue. The reality is that recent anti-gun legislation in Virginia created a significant uncertainty for our company and ultimately forced us to look for a state where we could continue operating, investing, and growing with confidence,” Rideout said. “We are excited to bring new jobs and manufacturing investment to Thomas County and are grateful for the warm welcome we have already received.”
As noted by the Daily Signal, the announced move comes after Spanberger signed “a slew of gun control measures.” The new law banning so-called “assault firearms” and magazines is already being challenged in court.
While Spanberger appears to remain mum, remarks from Kemp and business leaders in Georgia underscore the significance of this move, both in losses to Virginia and gains in the Peach State.
“Georgia attracts job creators from all over the country and world because we work with them, not against them,” Kemp said. “Our state’s pro-business approach, skilled workforce, and enduring support for constitutional freedoms make us an ideal home for manufacturers like Rideout Arsenal, and we look forward to their success here in the No. 1 state for business.”
“Today we welcome Rideout Arsenal to Thomasville. This includes new highly skilled jobs, new partnerships, new careers and new momentum for our community,” added Thomasville Mayor Scott Chastain. “Most importantly, we welcome the Rideout family to our community.”
“Every new industry represents new jobs, and every job supports a family that can thrive in Thomasville,” noted Shelley Zorn, president and CEO of the Thomasville Payroll Development Authority. “The arrival of new industry is also a sign that our community is moving forward, attracting new investment, innovation, and opportunity.”
“We are excited by companies like Rideout Arsenal that locate in rural Georgia where they are welcomed such as Rideout Arsenal choose to grow here,” GDEcD Commissioner Pat Wilson confirmed. “Georgia’s workforce training and development for companies of every size and across every industry is one of the key reasons businesses choose Georgia. Investments like this also strengthen integrated supply chains, creating additional opportunities for local businesses, workers, and communities throughout the region. We’re excited to see the positive impact this project will have both locally and across Georgia’s manufacturing ecosystem.”
