PROOF Research Opens 12,000-Square-Foot Annex as Montana Governor Cuts Ribbon

PROOF Research has expanded its Columbia Falls facility with a new annex adding 12,000 square feet of storage and manufacturing space, and Montana Gov. Greg Gianforte attended the ribbon-cutting, Yahoo reported on November 1, 2026. The firearms manufacturer employs 150 people, according to Sales and Marketing Director Sean Murphy.

Inside the PROOF Research Annex Opening

Gianforte spoke to a crowd of employees alongside Proof Research Director of Special Projects Greg Hamilton. "This expansion in Montana means more investment in our communities, more opportunities for Montanans and more good-paying jobs right here in Flathead," Gianforte said.

Hamilton said the carbon composite barrels remain the only product of its kind used by the U.S. Military. "They are utilized by all of our customers to save weight when the shot counts," he said. "This performance came from years of work, rigorous testing and a willingness to prove the technology under the most demanding conditions from the beginning."

Following the ribbon cutting, Gianforte toured the manufacturing facility and shooting range. Murphy described quality control throughout the manufacturing process, from rifling stations where barrels are drilled from steel bar and coated with carbon fiber to final painting and shipping. The company is hiring across all lines of production and all shifts. "If you're willing and able, we can teach you," Murphy said.

PROOF Research's PXT Barrel Technology

According to akta.pro company records, PROOF Research launched its PXT (PROOF Exponential Twist) rifling technology in 2024, a proprietary innovation reducing throat wear by 95-98%, increasing barrel life 30-100%, and reducing group sizes 20-50%, integrated into new Elevation FDX and MTR FDX rifles. The same records show the company was founded in 2012 and sells through international distributors in more than 20 countries, including Australia, Canada, France, Germany, Japan and the UK/Ireland.

Earlier PROOF Research Barrel Launches

In May 2026, PROOF Research launched the PROOF Exponential Twist (PXT) barrel technology, which aims to address issues related to high chamber pressures in modern ammunition, according to Ssusa. Americanhunter reported the same month that the PXT rifle barrel technology enhances durability, accuracy and performance through innovative rifling design. In June 2026, all4shooters.com reported that PROOF Research introduced the Exponential Twist (PXT) barrel technology designed to enhance the performance of high-performance ammunition.

What Comes Next for PROOF Research

Hamilton said the company is engaged in multiple U.S. government projects that range from small arms to cannon barrels. "We designed this with growth in mind, growth in capability, capacity and the kinds of projects we take on," he said.