Frank Brownell Passes Away at 86

GRINNELL, IOWA – The firearms industry is mourning the loss of one of its most influential figures, as Brownells has announced the passing of Frank Brownell, the long-time family patriarch and a driving force behind the company’s growth and values. Frank served as President, CEO, and later Chairman of the Board of Brownells, guiding the company through decades of transformation and impact.

For nearly 60 years, Frank Brownell’s vision, generosity, and passion helped shape not only Brownells into a household name among American gun owners and gunsmiths, but also left a lasting imprint on the broader firearms community. From the early days of marketing the now-iconic Latigo Sling at the 1964 NRA convention to elevating the role of the gunsmith into a respected profession, Frank was widely seen as a pioneer and champion of firearm culture and craftsmanship.

He was a fixture at industry events like SHOT Show and the NRA Annual Meetings, where many remember him warmly for greeting “long lines of friends” with his characteristic smile and thoughtful conversation.

In a heartfelt tribute, Ryan Repp, a longtime Brownells employee, shared:

“I’m saddened to learn of the passing of Frank Brownell. Frank wasn’t just a boss. Early in my career, he and I developed a fun relationship—bonding over everything from relationships and race cars, to rodeos and the written word. I have Frank (and Pete) to thank for their support and what we’re doing today. Frank was one of a kind. Godspeed, my friend.”

Frank’s influence extended well beyond his company. He helped solidify Brownells as a national legacy retailer in the gunsmithing and firearms parts space and played a pivotal role in building enduring relationships with gun media and industry partners.

Fredy Riehl, Editor-in-Chief of AmmoLand News, offered the following statement:

“Frank Brownell was more than an industry icon—he was a trusted friend and steadfast supporter of AmmoLand News from the very beginning. His warmth, integrity, and passion for the firearms community were unmatched. We shared many conversations over the years, always marked by his wisdom, his humor, and his genuine love for the Second Amendment. Frank leaves behind a legacy that will continue to inspire us. He will be deeply missed.”

Frank Brownell’s legacy lives on in countless workshops, gun counters, and shooting benches across America. Friends, colleagues, and customers are encouraged to honor Frank’s memory by supporting aspiring gunsmiths, sharing personal stories, or simply spending time at the bench—just as Frank would have loved.

For more on Frank Brownell’s legacy and ways to honor his memory, visit Brownells.com.