Ruger Accuses Beretta of Plotting Stealth Takeover

America's largest gunmaker alleges Italian rival is seeking control through 'self-serving demands'

Published on Mar. 9, 2026

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Sturm Ruger & Co., the largest U.S. gunmaker, has accused the parent company of Italian arms firm Beretta of trying to stealthily seize control of the Connecticut-based business through 'self-serving demands' such as cut-price stock buys and veto-like board power. Ruger claims Beretta has quietly built a large stake, refused to halt purchases during negotiations, and sought perks that could break U.S. antitrust laws.

Why it matters

The feud between the two major firearms manufacturers highlights growing consolidation in the gun industry and the potential for anti-competitive practices. Ruger's accusations raise concerns about foreign companies seeking to dominate the U.S. gun market, which could impact consumer choice and pricing.

The details

Ruger claims Beretta's chair indicated a long-term plan to combine the two companies, but made no formal proposal. Beretta has slowly built a nearly 10% stake in Ruger and recently announced plans to nominate four new members to Ruger's nine-member board. Ruger responded by implementing a 'poison pill' defense to make a takeover more costly and dilute Beretta's power.

  • On Sept. 22, 2025, Beretta filed a Schedule 13D, revealing a 7.7% stake in Ruger.
  • In October 2025, Beretta later upped its stake to about 10%, prompting Ruger to implement a 'poison pill' defense.

The players

Sturm Ruger & Co.

America's largest gunmaker and the target of Beretta's alleged takeover attempt.

Beretta

A 500-year-old Italian arms firm that has been slowly building a stake in Ruger and seeking 'operational and strategic collaborations' between the two rivals.

Todd W. Seyfert

The CEO of Sturm Ruger & Co.

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What they’re saying

“At that meeting, Beretta's chair indicated a long-term plan to combine Ruger with Beretta but made no formal proposal.”

— Sturm Ruger & Co. (usa-times.news)

“Beretta's chair also indicated that he had no interest in the status quo and that he would find a way to increase his position if Ruger remained resistant.”

— Sturm Ruger & Co. (usa-times.news)

What’s next

Ruger has implemented a 'poison pill' defense to make a takeover more costly and dilute Beretta's power. The two companies are expected to continue negotiations over Beretta's demands and potential board seats.

The takeaway

This feud highlights the growing consolidation in the gun industry and the potential for foreign companies to seek control of major U.S. firearms manufacturers. It raises concerns about anti-competitive practices that could impact consumer choice and pricing in the American gun market.