Winchester keeps 10-gauge signal cannon blanks available after 120 years

Winchester is still producing 10-gauge signal cannon blanks for owners of its historic signal cannons, preserving a more than century-old American ceremonial tradition. The blanks remain available nationwide as interest grows ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. Why it matters: - Winchester 10-Gauge Signal Cannon Blanks keep a more than 120-year ceremonial tradition alive for yacht clubs, veterans’ events, holidays, regattas, community gatherings and family celebrations. - Continued production means historic Winchester Signal Cannons remain usable, not just collectible. - The availability of the blanks gives current owners a way to preserve a distinctly American tradition as interest in commemorations rises ahead of the nation’s 250th anniversary. What happened: - Winchester continues to produce 10-gauge Signal Cannon Blanks for the Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon. - Dunlap Cannon Company said the blanks remain available for the thousands of historic and modern signal cannons still in use across the U.S. - John Dunlap, founder and president of Dunlap Cannon Company, said collectors and prospective owners often ask whether ammunition is still available. - Dunlap said the answer is yes, and that Winchester continues to produce the blanks so owners can use their cannons as earlier generations did. The details: - Winchester has produced ceremonial signal cannon blanks for more than 120 years. - The blanks have supported uses that include yacht race starts, Independence Day celebrations, military observances and historic milestone commemorations. - For 2025–2026, Winchester updated the packaging for its 10-Gauge Signal Cannon Blank line to feature the Winchester Model 98 Signal Cannon. - Dunlap said the packaging update is the first time the historic cannon has appeared on a Winchester ammunition box. - Winchester 10-Gauge Signal Cannon Blanks are available through participating retailers nationwide and directly at WinchesterSignalCannon.com . - Winchester Signal Cannon information, blank ammunition details and historical context are also available at WinchesterSignalCannon.com . Between the lines: - The product’s longevity underscores a rare continuity in American manufacturing. - The combination of active production and updated packaging suggests Winchester is trying to keep a niche heritage product visible to both collectors and new owners. - The emphasis on ceremonies and family traditions points to a market built as much on cultural memory as on utility. What’s next: - Winchester Signal Cannon Blanks are expected to remain available through retailers and direct sales as ceremonial use continues. - Rising attention to America’s 250th anniversary could support more interest in signal cannons and related traditions. - Dunlap Cannon Company said it will continue manufacturing authentic Winchester signal cannons and related products under license. The bottom line: - Winchester’s signal cannon blanks are still in production, keeping a 120-year-old American tradition firing for a new generation.