Recession? What Recession. Sales in ATK’s ammunition systems group increased by 15% to $381 million, compared to $331 million in the prior-year quarter. ATK Ammunition Systems is the nation’s largest producer of commercial and military ammunition. Part of their product line includes Military Small- and medium-caliber ammunition, propellants for tank tactical rounds, environmentally friendly ammunition and other applications. In the commercial sector, ATK provides Alliant Powder for reloaders and ammunition manufacturers, CCI, Speer, Lawman, and Blazer ammunition; Speer bullets for reloaders, Champion traps and paper, metal and clay targets, Federal Premium, Fusion, and Estate Cartridge ammunition, as well as other gear for hunters and shooters. Olin Corporation’s fourth quarter 2007 income from continuing operations was $29.6 million compared to $15.6 million in the fourth quarter of 2006. Winchester, which is part of Olin, earned $2.7 million in the quarter and completed its best year since 1994. During the quarter, Winchester benefited from higher selling prices and stronger than expected demand, which more than offset higher commodity and manufacturing costs. Oh, and if that’s good news the FBI awarded Winchester a second ammunition contract. Last year Winchester was tapped to supply the FBI with .40 Smith & Wesson loads. Now Hoover’s crew signed up for 9mm ammo. This 9mm contract is worth a $54 million, and the two contracts combined will be worth a maximum of $108 million over five years, making it the largest ammunition contracts in the history of federal law enforcement. If you are interested the 9mm service round uses a 147-grain, bonded hollow point bullet.