I bought back into S&W at $1.95 in November after all of the mutual funds were dumping the stock for the mutual funds year-end closings...the lowest price was $1.53 on 10/20/08.
Based on current price of $5.70, stock has increased +146% since January 2nd. Ruger (RGR) stock is about +115% since January.
I listened to the 3rd quarter S&W executive conference call with stock analyst on March 12th.
S&W "current" backorders are $123 million up from $22 million since the elections in November. S&W is at FULL CAPACITY PRODUCTION for the balance of the year. They are using their Thompson Center facility for all M&P15 barrels which are hot! Overall sales increased 27% for the quarter. Revolver sales for the quarter were +45% which normally experience nominal increases...CCW revolvers went through the roof. M&P pistols were +77% and M&P15 were +111%. On hand cash is $21 million and balance sheet is much stronger after reducing debt. Hunting rifles remain soft.
Probably the most bullish comments made were on their new "22" version of the M&P15 as well as the new "auto" M&P M4 (for police & military) both coming out later this year...these were major hits at the SHOT show. All new products at the January SHOT show are not reflected in the $123 million of back orders because they are just receiving the initial orders! Gun distributors & dealers are flushed with cash so account receivables look good!
I sold last Monday at $4.55 --- looks like I jumped the gun, but, as ever, who knew? It was nevertheless a profitable buy at early November price. Now the question is, where's it going?
These 2 stocks generally move after 2:00 pm when the "mutual fund buyers" step into the market. Ruger busted through $12.00 and S&W is at $6.23 this morning.