Robert “Bob” Nosler, the chairman of Nosler, Inc. and a defining force in the world of ammunition and firearms, passed away peacefully on Sept. 2, 2025, at the age of 79.
“It was with deep sadness that I learned of the passing of past board member Bob Nosler,” NRA EVP and CEO Doug Hamlin said. “I had the privilege of knowing Bob for over 35 years. He was a gentleman and passionate about the protection of the Second Amendment rights of all law-abiding citizens. My deepest condolences go out to Bob’s wife, Joan, and the entire Nosler family.”
A native of Oregon and son of Nosler founder John A. Nosler, Bob devoted his life to preserving and advancing the principles of uncompromising craftsmanship and purposeful innovation. His journey began in service to his country as a submariner in the U.S. Navy aboard the U.S.S. Nathan Hale during the Vietnam War. Upon returning home, he joined the family business as its sixth employee—starting on the production floor and steadily climbing the ranks to become CEO and eventually chairman.
Bob’s influence on the shooting sports industry was profound. Under his leadership, Nosler evolved from a bullet manufacturer into a full-line producer of bullets, brass, ammunition, rifles and proprietary cartridges. Among his accomplishments was restoring full family ownership of the company in 1988, a move that reinforced Nosler’s long-term vision and independence.
A dedicated steward of American manufacturing and traditional hunting values, Bob also served on the NRA Board of Directors starting in 2012 and, alongside his wife Joan, was named the NRA’s “Corporate Executive of the Year” in 2016. His generosity and commitment extended to organizations such as the Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation, The Camp-Fire Club of America, Oregon Hunters Association and the NRA Whittington Center in Raton, N.M.
In recent years, Bob added another title to his legacy: author. He published three fiction novels, showcasing the same focus and dedication that marked his professional life.
To those who worked with him, Bob was a leader defined by humility and purpose. Known for his “management by walking around” style, he preferred factory floors to boardrooms, listening to employees and ensuring the company’s mission remained rooted in trust and excellence.
“Bob was more than a leader of this company—he was a mentor, a friend and the living connection between the foundation laid by our grandfather and the future we continue to build today,” said John R. Nosler, president of Nosler, Inc. “We will honor his legacy by staying true to the principles he lived by—innovation with purpose, craftsmanship without compromise and a deep respect for the hunting tradition.”
Bob Nosler is survived by his wife, his family and generations of sportsmen and women who rely on the integrity of Nosler, Inc. products. His presence will be deeply missed, but his legacy will endure.
