Braxton Taylor
Del-Ton posted a note on its social-media accounts and its website in April informing readers and fans it was closing its doors. The company began operations in 1998 from a North Carolina garage, not far from the front gates of Fort Bragg. It expanded into a 26,000-square-foot facility roughly an hour south after its modern sporting rifle parts, accessories and complete guns became a popular choice among enthusiasts.
“As Del-Ton prepares to close its doors, we want to take a moment to express our deepest gratitude to the incredible people who have been part of our journey,” the note read. “Together, we’ve achieved so much, and though this chapter is ending, the memories, partnerships and friendships will remain. Thank you for being part of the Del-Ton story.”
The company was founded by Tony Autry and initially specialized in offering online such items as AR-15 accessories, kits, upgrades, optics and a variety of aftermarket parts. Orders increased significantly in 2004 when the Federal Assault Weapons Ban of 1994 expired, and so did the number of people inquiring if the company was ever going to add complete rifles to its catalog. The company’s first modern sporting rifle rolled out of the factory in 2007. It was a huge success, and it wasn’t long before Del-Ton increased its offerings.
Soon it was selling AR-15s and AR-10s. Chamberings included .556 NATO, .223 Wylde, .308 Win. and 7.62×39 mm. It also made a LIMA M-Lok pistol in 5.56 NATO and much more, including DIY modern sporting rifle/pistol kits.
Only last year it entered the handgun market, introducing the DT-20 pistol. Chambered in 9 mm, the semi-automatic’s magazine had a 12-round capacity.
The firm stood behind all its guns with a lifetime warrantee for the original owner. All the company’s firearms were produced here in the United States.
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