Federal Ammunition Turns 100 in 2022

Take a second and imagine Anoka, Minnesota in 1916, Federal was nothing but a dream at the time. Brothers Louis and Harry Sherman had just begun production of an ammunition factory. Unfortunately, by 1920 the factory sat idle—even though the brothers had experience in ammunition manufacturing. Due to unforeseen issues, it seemed that Federal was going to meet an untimely end.

Enter Charles Horn, a 34-year-old entrepreneur and owner of American Ball company in Minneapolis. Horn heard about the failing factory and wanted to purchase some of it to produce steel pellets for air rifles. After sale negotiations, Horn purchased the entire factory. He worked with T.W. Lewis and on April 27th, 1922, Federal Cartridge Corporation was born.

Over the years, Federal has gone through name changes, and changes in ownership, but they have always continued to innovate, manufacture, and produce high-quality ammunition for hunters and recreational shooters alike.

It is a momentous achievement to make it to 100 years as a company—estimates show less than one percent of all companies make it to this milestone. Federal kicks off the year by lighting up a 100th Anniversary sign on top of one its silos in Anoka and will continue to tout its accomplishment with limited-availability throwback packaging, special merchandise available on its website, an exhibit at the Anoka County Historical Society Museum, and much more.

“The entire staff of 1,500 hard-working Americans in Anoka, Minnesota is extremely proud to celebrate a full century of continuous and successful operation,” said Jason Vanderbrink, Federal’s President. “We appreciate those who came before us to make this possible and look forward to taking Federal into its next century.”

Make sure to check out Federal’s special-edition magazine, available now, and a coffee table book is also planned, along with many recollections online and via social media of the fun and interesting facts from throughout Federal’s history.

“Our workforce and business have never been stronger than they are today, and we owe it to a century of continuous innovation across every department in the company,” said Vanderbrink. “Many people and partners have contributed to our success and I’m proud to join the current team in making sure that tradition of excellence continues.”

For more information on all products and online services from Federal or to shop online, visit federalpremium.com