Thursday, January 8, 2026

Legislature is back and they are already in the weeds

Keeping You Informed
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Bernard --

The Legislature returned to the Statehouse this week, with new bills being introduced in both the House and Senate. 

Even though Vermont is facing profoundly serious issues that demand their full attention, there are some that still wish to further infringe on firearm rights.

An "Assault Weapons Ban" (AWB) has been introduced in the Senate (S.167), another was submitted into the House (H.604), and both of these would be in addition to an AWB bill submitted last session (H.381).  H.381 did not move last year, and as there are now cases before the Supreme Court of the United States (SCOTUS) dealing with the constitutionality of AWBs (more correctly referred to as Modern Sporting Rifles), it is unlikely that any will move.  We will be watching and if there is any serious movement on any of these:  Expect the Federation and our allies to call for a massive public response against.

The worst bill we have seen so far is H.606, a bill innocently named as "An act relating to firearm procedures."   It contains 5 parts. 

Part 1 makes it a Grand Larceny felony to steal a firearm of any value.  We currently have little to no concern with that section.

Part 2 has to do with increasing the penalties for 2nd or subsequent offenses for possession of firearms by prohibited persons.  Again:  Little to no concern by us.

Part 3 has to do with an attempt to align state law to federal law about prohibiting the possession of firearms by persons who have been found by a court to pose a danger to themselves or others because of mental illness.  We all know there is a nexus between mental health and violence.  We, however, have serious concerns about how a Right that is/was taken away can later be restored.

Part 4 prohibits the possession of machine guns as well as "rapid fire devices" that increase the rate of fire of a firearm.  At present, the language of this section appears to be identical to S.160 (just introduced by Senate Pro Tem Phil Baruth), and when we were initially made aware of this coming bill, we understood that this section would be an attempt to address the issue of Glock "switches" or devices which allow for a semi auto Glock to become full auto. 

By existing Federal Law:  It is illegal to make a fully automatic firearm.  If that were what this section would do, we would have little issues (we already live under Federal Law).

However, we see the following facts with Part 4:

  • Federal Law does not prohibit ownership of machine guns,
  • There is no existing state law in Vermont that bans the ownership of them by law-abiding Vermont citizens,
  • Owning a machine gun is tightly regulated and requires registration with both the ATF and local law enforcement in addition to being fingerprinted and undergoing a detailed background check,
  • All those legally owned machine guns were manufactured before 1968, which means they are usually historically significant, very collectable and extremely expensive,
  • There is no record we can find of ANY crime being committed in Vermont with a legally owned machine gun, and,
  • 37 other states allow them to be owned.

We are deeply concerned about this section, which, either by ignorance or design, will adversely affect a considerable number of law-abiding Vermonters.  We cannot support this section as written, but we believe we have already effected a positive change to this section, at least in the House bill.

Part 5 is PURE POISON.  It allows for "firearm industry members" to be held liable for damages in public nuisance lawsuits.

20 years ago, Congress passed the Protection in Lawful Commerce of Arms Act (PLCAA), a bill that was specifically designed to protect firearms manufacturers from liability if one of their products was used badly and they did nothing wrong.  PLCAA was specifically designed to protect an industry that could be, and was being, sued out of existence through frivolous lawsuits.

Consider a company that makes cars, and they did nothing wrong in building, marketing and selling their cars.  Would it be proper for that company to be sued when some idiot purposefully or even accidentally drives one of their cars into a crowd of people?

NO.

Part 5 is a direct and focused attack on one specific section of Vermont industry when PLCAA already protects that industry with full consideration of any misdeeds the manufacturer might do which should void that protection. This section cannot be seen in any light other than opening the door to "public nuisance lawsuits" that would put these Vermont companies, employing an estimated 300 Vermonters, out of business.  

At present, and after raising these concerns privately with specific parties, we have asked for assurances that Part 5 will be DOA.  If we cannot be given that assurance, then the Federation must and will commit to killing this abomination of a section, and we will be planning for a massive public response.  Stay tuned.

On a final note, I was very pleased to previously report that we were successful in fighting Burlington's Charter Change to Ban Guns in Bars (S.131) last session; it ended up being tacked to the wall.  Senate leadership however (who rushed it through the Senate even though Charter Changes historically are always handled first in the House), in addition to the Mayor of Burlington, are dead set on the idea that banning guns in bars in Burlington will save that city from the ruin it created and fosters.  We remain opposed to this bill as is the Governor, and we will continue to fight it as needed.  Again:  Stay tuned.

For a complete list of bills that we are looking at and will get involved with if they move, please see the main page of our website.  

If you like what we do to protect your rights, you can donate to our efforts using this pagePLEASE donate like your rights depended on it, and please forward this to your like-minded friends and family.

Yours in Freedom and Liberty -

Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs
https://www.vtfsc.com/

VT Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs · 454 S Main St, Northfield, VT 05663, United States
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Wednesday, November 19, 2025

72-Hour Waiting Period Challenge in the 2nd Circuit!!!

Keeping You Informed
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Bernard --

The Federation is pleased to announce that our appeal to the 2nd Circuit regarding the Vermont District Court's denial of our motion for a Preliminary Injunction/Temporary Restraining Order (PI/TRO) on the Vermont's unconstitutional 72-Hour Waiting Period is now in front of the 2nd Circuit Court of Appeals.

Our legal team has done an excellent job in presenting our case (you can read our appeal here), and in addition to challenging the District Court's denial, we have also filed a motion to have the 2nd Circuit hear this challenge "En Banc", meaning we have asked for all thirteen 2nd Circuit Justices to hear this case.

In presenting our arguments to the 2nd Circuit, I am incredibly pleased to report that an Amicus (Friend of the Court) Brief has been filed that supports our appeal, with this single Amicus Brief provided by five pro-2nd Amendment Groups that include:

  • Second Amendment Foundation (SAF),
  • Second Amendment Law Center,
  • National Rifle Association (NRA),
  • California Rifle & Pistol Association (CRPA), and the
  • Minnesota Gun Owner Caucus

You can read their Amicus Brief here.

A second Amicus Brief filed in support of our appeal was also just filed, this one from our friends at the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF).  You can read that Amicus Brief here.

While I admit being biased, both Briefs are killer.  They rip to shreds the stance of the Vermont District Court which either did not understand the Supreme Court's rulings in Heller, Caetano and Bruen; or it otherwise choose to pointedly ignore them.  Everyone who truly understands those decisions will know that to in order to Keep and Bear Arms you must be able to first Acquire Them, and there are simply NO historical laws which imposed any Waiting Period on the acquisition of a firearm.  None.

When we appealed the denial of our PI/TRO to the 2nd Circuit we knew that months would pass where we were just waiting.  As a result, we opted to curtail our fund raising for that time as it did not seem appropriate to solicit money when minimal legal expenses were occurring. 

THAT however has now changed, our Appeal is now moving in the 2nd Circuit, and just so you are aware:  To date we have spent over $200,000 in this legal battle with just under $30,000 being spent in the past 30 days.

My fellow PATRIOTS:  Now is the time to step up to help us to help you; we cannot do this alone.

Taking on the expense of filing a lawsuit to restore our rights was a huge undertaking for the Federation, but as one of my directors succinctly put it: 

"If not Us, Who?  If not Now, When?"

We need your financial support, and we need it urgently.  If you have already given to our lobbying and constitutional fights; PLEASE consider giving again.  If you have not given at all then PLEASE consider donating.

You can learn how to donate using this page.

PLEASE donate like your rights depended on it, and please forward this to your like-minded friends and family.

Yours in Freedom and Liberty -

Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs
https://www.vtfsc.com/

VT Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs · 454 S Main St, Northfield, VT 05663, United States
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Tuesday, November 18, 2025

Step and Repeat Banners Continue to Redefine Event Visuals and Brand Engagement

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

November 19, 2025

United States


The Step and Repeat banner, a distinctive visual element at gatherings worldwide, maintains its prominence as a fundamental tool for event organizers, businesses, and public figures seeking heightened visibility. Originating from the world of celebrity gatherings and photo calls, these branded backdrops have expanded their utility, becoming a staple across a diverse array of events, from professional trade shows to personal celebrations.

Step and Repeat banner features a repeating pattern of logos, sponsor names, or other brand elements, providing a consistent visual background for photography and media interviews. Its primary design purpose is to establish immediate brand visibility, allowing companies and individuals to maximize exposure through shared images and videos from their events. This repeated visual presence ensures that every photograph taken against the backdrop implicitly carries the event's identity or its sponsors' messages, creating numerous photo opportunities that extend brand promotion far beyond the physical location.

The versatility of the Step and Repeat banner extends to its construction. These backdrops are available in various materials and stand configurations to meet differing event needs and budgets. Vinyl banners, known for their durability and cost-effectiveness, are a frequent selection, particularly for outdoor use or settings where cleaning is straightforward. While vinyl surfaces can exhibit glare under flash photography, advances in printing technology have introduced matte finishes to reduce this effect. Conversely, fabric banners provide a premium appearance with a soft, non-glare finish, making them highly desirable for high-profile indoor events like Red Carpet Events and gala celebrations. Fabric options are often wrinkle-resistant, portraying a polished visual impact.

The physical support for these backdrops also presents choices. The banner stand is an integral component, offering portability and ease of assembly. Telescopic stands provide adjustable width and height, accommodating various space requirements and banner sizes. For a more seamless and taut presentation, pop-up banner stands, often utilizing tension fabric displays, create a smooth, wall-like effect, frequently referred to as a Media Wall or Logo Wall. These portable display systems simplify setup and breakdown, an advantage for event event planning teams.

Effective design remains central to a Step and Repeat banner's effectiveness. Custom design services specialize in arranging logos with appropriate spacing and repetition to ensure each brand mark is clear and unobstructed in photographs. High-quality printing is paramount, necessitating high-resolution graphics, typically vector files, to prevent pixelation when scaled for large format printing. Graphic design professionals guide clients in selecting suitable color modes and ensuring adherence to brand guidelines for a cohesive and professional presentation.

The application of Step and Repeat banners spans a wide spectrum of events. At Corporate Events and Trade Shows, they act as powerful tools for event marketing, attracting attendees and providing a consistent backdrop for interviews and company announcements. During Press Conferences, the repetition of logos reinforces sponsor recognition for media outlets. At private gatherings such as weddings or parties, personalized photo backdrops featuring monograms or themed graphics enhance the celebratory atmosphere and create memorable picture opportunities. Sponsorships are frequently highlighted on these banners, providing tangible value to contributing organizations through repeated exposure.

The continued evolution of digital marketing and social media platforms amplifies the value of Step and Repeat banners. Images captured against these backdrops are readily shared across social channels, generating organic reach and amplifying brand messages to broader audiences. This digital footprint extends the life of the event's visual branding, providing enduring returns on investment for advertising efforts.

Companies specializing in printing services offer a range of custom banners solutions, working with clients to determine the ideal materials, sizes, and stand types for their specific needs. From initial graphic design concepts to final large format printing and delivery, these providers help businesses and individuals translate their branding aspirations into a physical photo backdrop that makes a statement.

The Step and Repeat banner remains an indispensable asset for effective brand promotion and visual communication at any significant gathering. Its simplicity in concept belies its powerful capacity to elevate an event's profile and deliver sustained brand visibility in an increasingly visual world.


 Apex Display Solutions is a leading provider of high-quality event display products, specializing in custom Step and Repeat bannersMedia Walls, and trade show exhibits. With a focus on superior printing services and custom design, Apex Display Solutions helps clients achieve impactful brand visibility at Corporate EventsTrade Shows, and special occasions.  

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Wednesday, August 20, 2025

10th Circuit finds NM's 7-day Waiting Period Unconstitutional!

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Bernard --

As you likely know, our lawsuit challenging Vermont's High-Capacity Magazine Ban and the 72-hour Waiting Period are both currently on hold.  Our court case in Vermont Federal Court is on hold pending our Appeal of that court's denial of our motion for a Preliminary Injunction, and that Appeal is on hold in the 2nd Circuit while it drags it's feet on other 2A cases.
  
While we wait, the Good News that you need to be aware of is that the 10th Circuit Court of Appeals has just ruled on the case or Ortega v. Grisham which was a challenge to New Mexico's 7-day Waiting Period.  The 10th Circuit struck down NM's 7-day Waiting Period as being unconstitutional, and in their decision they made clear that ANY artificial delay on taking possession of a legally purchased firearm beyond a background check did not pass constitutional muster.
  
You can read the 10th Circuit's decision here.
  
You may also recall that the Federal District Court of Maine (in the 1st Circuit) ALSO found a 72-hour Waiting Period unconstitutional, with that decision here.
  
Our cause is just in challenging these laws, and it is only a matter of time before ALL courts follow the clear direction that the Supreme Court first gave us in Heller decision, followed by the Caetano, McDonald and Bruen decisions.
  
We are about 4 and 1/2 months away from our legislature reconvening, and with your support we will be front and center in continuing to challenge - and beat down - unconstitutional laws.
    
If you like what you read and what we do:  Please consider giving us a donation - Help US Help YOU!
  
Yours in Freedom and Liberty -

Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs
https://www.vtfsc.com/

VT Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs · 454 S Main St, Northfield, VT 05663, United States
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Monday, May 26, 2025

Phil Robertson, 'Duck Dynasty' Patriarch and Outdoor Icon, Dies at 79

United States – May 27, 2025 – Phil Robertson, the beloved patriarch of the "Duck Dynasty" family, founder of Duck Commander, and an outspoken voice for faith and family, passed away peacefully at the age of 79. The news of his passing was announced by his family, marking the end of a remarkable life that transformed a humble duck call business into a global phenomenon and etched his unique persona into the fabric of American culture.

Robertson had been battling Alzheimer's disease, a condition his son, Jase Robertson, publicly discussed in December 2024, noting his father's struggles. The family shared a statement on social media, including Korie Robertson, wife of Willie Robertson, expressing their profound love and gratitude for his life. "We celebrate today that our father, husband, and grandfather, Phil Robertson, is now with the Lord," the statement read, emphasizing his bold faith and desire to share the Gospel. While a private service for the immediate family will be held, plans for a public celebration of his life will be shared in due course, allowing the many admirers he impacted to pay their respects.

Born on April 24, 1946, in Vivian, Louisiana, Phil Robertson's early life was defined by the rugged beauty of the Sportsman's Paradise. He grew up hunting and fishing, a passion that would later shape his destiny. A talented athlete, Robertson earned a football scholarship to Louisiana Tech University, where he played quarterback. However, his true calling lay in the wilderness and the ingenious craft of creating duck calls. Disenchanted with the quality of existing calls, he meticulously designed and patented his own in 1972, meticulously replicating the precise sounds of a duck. This innovation marked the genesis of Duck Commander, a company he officially incorporated in 1973. From his modest home in West Monroe, Louisiana, which served as the initial factory, Phil and his wife, Kay Robertson, along with their children, began building what would become a multi-million-dollar enterprise.

The world was introduced to Phil Robertson and his distinctive family through the A&E reality television series Duck Dynasty, which premiered in 2012. The show followed the exploits of the close-knit Robertson clan, with Phil at its helm, showcasing their daily lives, their thriving business, and their unwavering adherence to traditional values and Christian faith. The series resonated with millions, achieving unprecedented viewership for a non-fiction cable program, and catapulting Phil and his family into national stardom. His signature long beard, deep voice, and often unconventional wisdom became instantly recognizable, turning him into an accidental icon.

Phil Robertson was as well-known for his deeply held conservative and Christian beliefs as he was for his duck calls. He consistently used his platform to share his faith and express his views on social issues, a stance that occasionally generated significant public discussion. A notable instance occurred in 2013 following remarks made during a GQ interview concerning homosexuality, which led to a temporary suspension from A&E. Despite the network's initial decision, a wave of public support from fans and prominent figures, including Sarah Palin and Ted Cruz, saw his reinstatement, reaffirming the strong connection he had forged with a segment of the American public. His family, while acknowledging his sometimes "coarse" language, stood by his biblical interpretations, emphasizing his character as a godly man.

His influence extended beyond television. Phil Robertson continued to be a prolific author and speaker on the Christian circuit, sharing his personal testimony and philosophy. His books, such as "Happy, Happy, Happy" and "UnPHILtered," offered further insights into his perspectives on life and liberty. More recently, his early life and conversion story were depicted in "The Blind," a 2023 film that further illuminated the transformative power of faith in his life, gaining widespread acclaim within Christian circles. He also continued to share his thoughts through the family's podcast, "Unashamed with the Robertson Family," where his health struggles were candidly addressed by his sons.

The legacy of Phil Robertson is multifaceted. He revolutionized the hunting industry with his innovative duck calls and built a family business that extended to other ventures like Buck Commander and Fin Commander. More profoundly, he cultivated a unique brand of rural masculinity and conservative Christianity that resonated powerfully with a vast audience. His bold faith and unwavering commitment to his principles, even in the face of controversy, left an indelible mark.

The Robertson family, including his wife Kay, sons Willie and Jase, and granddaughter Sadie Robertson, among others, has received an outpouring of support from around the world. Their statements reflect a deep faith and a commitment to continuing Phil's legacy of love for God and others. As the family prepares for a private farewell, the wider community awaits details for a public celebration, a gathering that will undoubtedly commemorate a life lived with conviction and an impact that reached far beyond the Louisiana swamps.

News outlets around the nation have reported on Phil Robertson's passing, reflecting the wide reach of his influence.

For those interested in the legacy of Phil Robertson and Duck Commander, products related to their iconic brand are widely available. These items allow fans to connect with the passion for the outdoors that Phil championed.

Phil Robertson's passing leaves a void in the hearts of his family and countless fans. His life story, from humble beginnings to reality television stardom, through faith and conviction, serves as a powerful narrative of American independence and a commitment to deeply held values. He will be remembered not only as the "Duck Commander" but as a man who lived authentically and inspired many to embrace their beliefs.

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Wednesday, May 21, 2025

S.131 - No Guns in Burlington's Bars

Keeping You Informed
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Bernard --

Yesterday, May 20, the House Committee on Government Operations took further testimony on S.131, which is Burlington's attempt to exempt itself from Vermont's preemption statute, 24 VSA 2295.  This Charter change was to ban "guns in bars".
 
Let me be immediately clear that the Federation fully understands that drinking alcohol to any excess does not mix with firearms.  We do not support that anymore than any of us would support mixing alcohol and vehicles.
 
An outright ban however blankets everyone who enters, even those that will not drink at all, or who would not drink to excess.  We've all heard of designated drivers, yes?
 
It is highly questionable what the 33% of Burlingtonians who voted in their 2025 Town meeting thought they were voting for.  Was it JUST "guns in bars?"  Did they know it would also effect restaurants that serve alcohol?  Did they think it would effect stores that sold beer? Did they know it would effect the 6 major hotels in Burlington, as well as the parking lots of those hotels and all bars and restaurants?
 
No.  That's because the initial version of S.131 was "constitutionally vague", just like their ballot item was.
 
The Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs and it's ally the Gun Owners of Vermont gave strong testimony in opposition to S.131 (VTFSC testimony is here), with video of the entire session here.

Beyond our testimony, we are pleased to report that at the Federation's request:  The Vermont Defender General was also invited to give testimony, who not only cautioned the Committee on the current unsettled nature of 2nd Circuit jurisprudence, they also were forced to correct misstatements made by a representative of the Giffords Group.
 
This evening, we are exceptionally pleased to report that Governor Phil Scott has stated his intention to veto this bad piece of legislation should this ever make his desk, while also clearly stating he would veto a state-wide version if that should ever rear it's ugly head (H.45 - introduced by Burlington Representatives).
 
This misguided bill wasted precious legislative time based entirely on the whim of 1.68% of Vermont's adult voters in a blatant attempt to back-door the otherwise clear language of Vermont's preemption statute.
 
Thank You Governor Scott and the 13 Senators who stand ready to sustain his veto if this is ever forced off the wall to waste even more time.
 
If you like what you read and what we do:  Please consider giving us a donation - Help US Help YOU!
 
Yours in Freedom and Liberty -

Vermont Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs
https://www.vtfsc.com/

VT Federation of Sportsmen's Clubs · 454 S Main St, Northfield, VT 05663, United States
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Tuesday, May 20, 2025

New Movement Empowers Cyclists and Motorcyclists to Personalize Their Journeys Through Custom Canvas Panniers

United States – May 21, 2025 – A rising wave of enthusiasm is sweeping through the cycling and motorcycling communities, as more riders embrace the art of sewing custom canvas bicycle or motorcycle panniers. This burgeoning movement allows adventurers, commuters, and tourers to craft personalized, highly functional luggage tailored precisely to their needs and individual style. Beyond the commercial options, riders are discovering the enduring satisfaction and superior utility of bespoke panniers, built with their own hands and designed for their unique travels.

The concept of custom-made gear for two-wheeled transport is gaining momentum, fueled by a desire for durabilitywaterproofing, and a perfect fit that off-the-shelf solutions often cannot provide. Enthusiasts are finding that the act of designing and constructing their own bicycle panniers or motorcycle panniers transforms their approach to travel, offering solutions optimized for specific bicycles, racks, and cargo requirements. This growing trend reflects a broader appreciation for craftsmanship and self-sufficiency within the riding community.

At the heart of this movement is the versatile and robust material: canvas. Known for its strength, timeless aesthetic, and ability to be treated for enhanced waterproofingcanvas offers an ideal medium for creating luggage that can withstand the rigors of the road and trail. Whether it is a rugged waxed canvas for classic touring bikes or a durable duck canvas for daily commutes, the choice of fabric allows for tailoring the panniers to the specific demands of each adventure. This material choice allows for an alignment with both the practical demands of transport and the aesthetic desires of the rider.

The process of creating these custom bags typically involves a dedicated sewing machine, often a heavy-duty or industrial model capable of handling multiple layers of thick fabric and strong threads. Crafting personalized patterns is a foundational step, allowing for precise control over the panniers' dimensions, internal organization, and external features such as pockets and closures. Many resources are now available, from online tutorials to dedicated workshops, guiding individuals through the DIY process, empowering them to transform rolls of canvas into essential travel companions. The rise of interest in this custom work emphasizes the increasing appreciation for designing gear that functions as an extension of the vehicle and the individual.

The construction of custom panniers also necessitates careful consideration of mounting systems. For bicycle setups, this involves integrating robust hooks and straps that securely attach to existing racks, ensuring stability and preventing interference with pedal stroke. For motorcycle applications, the rack and attachment points are even more critical, often requiring specialized hardware to account for exhaust heat, vibration, and higher speeds. The attention to detail in stitching and reinforcement is paramount, as these bags are subjected to significant stresses during touring or bikepacking expeditions.

This shift towards personalized gear speaks to the core needs of cyclists and motorcyclists who seek luggage that is not just functional, but also a reflection of their riding philosophy. Custom canvas panniers represent a fusion of utility and personal expression, ensuring that every piece of gear contributes to a cohesive and efficient journey. The freedom to select specific materials, dictate dimensions, and integrate unique features positions custom-made panniers as a superior alternative for those unwilling to compromise on their travel requirements.

The online sphere has become a nexus for this movement, with forums, blogs, and video platforms sharing knowledge, designs, and experiences. Individuals interested in exploring this avenue can find numerous resources to begin. Basic "bicycle pannier sewing pattern" searches on marketplaces like Etsy yield a variety of templates, often with recent reviews, indicating ongoing engagement. The availability of diverse materials online and at specialty fabric stores also supports this growing community, making it easier than ever to source a Heavy Duty Sewing Machinehigh-quality canvas, thread, and robust hooks for mounting.

The movement for sewing custom canvas bicycle or motorcycle panniers is more than just a hobby; it is a testament to the ingenuity and resourcefulness of riders who prefer to create their own solutions. It empowers individuals to develop luggage that not only performs flawlessly but also carries the unique signature of its maker, making every journey truly personal. As riders continue to seek tailored solutions for their long-distance travel and daily needs, the craft of custom pannier sewing is set to expand its influence, solidifying its place as a significant aspect of modern two-wheeled adventuring.

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