About

About Jason Hornady NE

Jason Hornady has spent over two decades shaping the firearms and ammunition industry, combining business acumen with a passion for shooting sports. He is a highly accomplished executive with over 25 years of experience and success in management, marketing, and new business development of sporting goods operations.

As Vice President of Hornady Manufacturing Co., he has transformed his family’s business into an industry leader in bullet/ammunition manufacturing, reloading equipment, and security products. 

Under his leadership, the company has experienced remarkable growth while maintaining its reputation for innovation and quality. His contributions to conservation, shooting sports education, and community initiatives have cemented his reputation as a business leader and an industry advocate.

Early Years and Professional Development

Raised as a third-generation member of a bullet manufacturing dynasty, Jason’s career seemed preordained. His grandfather, Joyce Hornady, founded Hornady Manufacturing in 1949. However, his father, Steve, insisted he spend some time outside the company before coming home to work for the family business.

After earning a Business Administration degree in Marketing from the University of Wyoming, Jason jumped into the sporting goods industry with Sportco Marketing, Inc., where he was a manufacturer’s rep and managed over 200 dealers and distributors.

From there, he went to Redfield Riflescopes Inc. as Director of Sales and Marketing, directing all aspects of sales, marketing, and product development. This included managing global sales representatives, advertising agency, and public relations.

Redfield was eventually foreclosed on but provided Jason with valuable business lessons. He later moved to Dunkin-Lewis, Inc., where his results were theatrical — a 450% increase in sales to Cabela’s — and more than 100% revenue growth with Academy Sports.

Transforming Hornady Manufacturing.

In 2006, Jason joined Hornady Manufacturing Co., a firearm ammunition and bullets reloading equipment manufacturer based in Grand Island, Nebraska. The son of company president Steve Hornady and grandson of company founder Joyce Hornady, Jason joined the firm to oversee company operations and help transform Hornady from a small enterprise into a go-to industry leader. 

Jason made an immediate impact on the family business, providing the experience and insight Hornady needed to achieve not only significant growth quickly but also average double-digit sales for each of the past 16 years. Named Vice President in 2007, Jason led the introduction of more than 700 new products, vastly increasing the size and scope of the burgeoning ammunition brand while helping establish Hornady as a leader in the field.  

Jason’s marketing vision helped make Hornady a household name while attracting new customers and continuing to serve long-time customers in all segments – hunters, competitive shooters, and law enforcement.

Commitment to Advocacy and Conservation

Jason’s influence extends far beyond company leadership. He fiercely advocates for firearms rights, shooting sports education, and conservation. His involvement with the Congressional Sportsman’s Foundation (CSF) has enabled him to help steer legislation in support of hunters, sport shooters, and outdoor enthusiasts around the country. 

As the outgoing Chairman of the Congressional Sportsman’s Foundation (CSF) Board, he has helped shape legislation supporting hunters and sport shooters nationwide. His commitment to the hunting and shooting sports industry extends to his board membership of organizations like the Nebraska Game and Parks Foundation.

Jason has also long advocated for conservation, explicitly partnering with organizations that protect natural resources and promote sustainable hunting and fishing practices. He champions this cause because he believes responsible gun ownership is directly tied to wildlife conservation and outdoor education.

Recognitions and Industry Influence

Over the years, Jason has received multiple recognitions for his work in the firearms industry and as a business leader. Receiving “Rep of the Year” from nine separate manufacturers shows not only an ability to sell but also work with the industry in general.

His other notable achievements include:

Induction into the Nebraska Business Hall of Fame (2024) with his father, Steve Hornady, recognizing their contributions to Nebraska’s economy and industry.

The Mid-States Distribution Lifetime Achievement Award recognized Jason for his extensive business growth and leadership contribution.

Marking the occasion of Hornady’s 75th anniversary – a reminder of the company’s longstanding commitment to quality and performance.

His knowledge of the firearms industry has been published in various articles and interviews and seen in other industry-related events, ultimately crowning him as a reputable influencer.

Beyond the Boardroom – A Passion for Shooting Sports

Jason’s connection to the shooting and hunting community runs deep despite his demanding role as a leader in the industry. He is a passionate hunter and shooter who often competes and mingles with other like-minded enthusiasts. Jason’s love of firearms isn’t something he keeps to himself—it’s something he loves to share.

His interests reach far beyond shooting, as he cherishes time spent with family and friends, embarking on new adventures in the great outdoors, and being an active community member. He’s donated to organizations such as Hope Harbor, the Grand Island Community Foundation, the Grand Island Police Department K-9 unit, Nebraska Game and Parks, National Shooting Sports Foundation, Grand Island Public Schools, University of Wyoming, and First Light Child Advocacy, to name a few, because he believes in giving back.

Leading into the Future

Jason Hornady is an excellent example of an innovative leader who respects tradition. He recognizes that to remain a leader in the industry, he must adapt to market forces.

His continued push for innovation, education, and industry leadership will have implications not only at Hornady Manufacturing but across the firearms industry. Overall, Jason Hornady’s family story speaks to his passion, grit, and reverence for the traditions central to the great American shooting sports heritage!