APEX Tactical Specialities, commonly known as “Apex”, and known to most as the company that perfected the Smith & Wesson M&P handgun trigger, has announced that they are moving the company from Los Osos, California to Peoria, Arizona and expanding from 6,000 square feet to a new 50,000 square feet facility.

The company itself has an interesting history. Started by co-owner Randy Lee in 2000, the company was originally known (and still is, within those circles), as a go-to shop for revolver actions and custom gunsmithing. Expanding into design and manufacturing the company’s growth skyrocketed and included at least one move already from 500 to 6,000 square feet of today.

Per their press release, the move is needed to ensure the company has a stable growth path. While the facility was too small, the decision to locate outside the state was one driven by California’s recent changes in firearms laws.

Specifically, Proposition 63 bans the possession of standard-capacity and large-capacity magazines, both of which are fixtures of platforms that Apex manufactures their upgrades and accessories for. Further, California’s general business climate and costs hamper development.

“Getting out from under the restrictive and frankly punitive regulatory environment of California allows us to expand our R&D efforts as we continue to bring new products to market,” explained Folk. “The move is not only good for Apex but also our employees.”

California is consistently ranked as one of the worst states in which to run a business. By relocating to Arizona, Apex Tactical Specialties is not only able to reduce many operating costs for the business, but also expand opportunities for employees. In Peoria, Arizona the consumer prices are 18.03% lower than in San Luis Obispo, California. Rent prices are 40.20% lower and local purchasing power is 76.24% higher.

Good fortune to APEX we at TFB hope the move goes smoothly!