We are deeply saddened to hear of the passing of JB Hodgdon, co-founder of Hodgdon Powder Company.
JB was a true pioneer in the shooting and reloading community whose contributions shaped our industry and inspired generations. His legacy of innovation, integrity, and passion will live on through every handloader, marksman, and outdoorsman who benefits from the work he helped begin.
Our thoughts and heartfelt condolences go out to the Hodgdon family and the entire team at Hodgdon Powder. Thank you, JB, for a lifetime of dedication to the shooting sports.
— The Midsouth Shooters Supply Family
Tribute to John Brewster “JB” Hodgdon (1936–2025)
It is with heavy hearts that we gather to honor the life and legacy of John Brewster “JB” Hodgdon, who passed away on June 13, 2025, at the age of 88. A titan of the shooting sports and handloading community, JB’s contributions transformed the firearms industry, leaving an indelible mark on hunters, competitive shooters, and reloaders worldwide. His dedication to precision, innovation, and education in the shooting sports will continue to inspire generations.
A Lifelong Passion for Shooting and Hunting
Born on October 16, 1936, in Kansas City, Kansas, to Bruce and Amy Hodgdon, JB grew up immersed in the world of firearms and outdoor pursuits. His passion for hunting and shooting was evident in the extensive collection of hunting trophies and firearms displayed at his home and the Hodgdon Powder Company offices in Shawnee, Kansas. From Africa to Asia, Europe to South America, and across the United States, JB’s adventures in the field reflected his deep love for the outdoors, a passion he shared with the broader shooting community.
Building Hodgdon Powder Company
JB, alongside his brother Bob, carried forward the legacy of their father, Bruce Hodgdon, who founded Hodgdon Powder Company in 1947. What began as a family operation packaging surplus gunpowder in their basement grew into the preeminent supplier of smokeless and black powder substitutes for handloading and muzzleloading enthusiasts. JB’s contributions were pivotal in this transformation:
- Early Beginnings: As a young boy, JB weighed and packed gunpowder at the family dining room table, helping to fulfill orders for their fledgling business. His early involvement laid the foundation for a lifelong commitment to the company.
- Leadership and Global Expansion: After graduating from the University of Kansas in 1959 with a degree in business, JB joined Hodgdon Powder full-time. He became the face of the company at trade shows, building relationships with distributors and shooters nationwide. His leadership in international sales expanded Hodgdon’s global footprint, making its powders a staple for reloaders worldwide.
- Strategic Growth: JB served in various roles, including President and Chairman of the Board, until his retirement on December 31, 2024, when he was named Chairman Emeritus. Under his stewardship, Hodgdon acquired iconic brands like IMR Powder (2003), Winchester Smokeless Propellants (2006), GOEX (2009), and RCBS Reloading Tools (2024), significantly enhancing the company’s offerings for handloaders.
- Innovation in Reloading: JB’s commitment to precision reloading ensured Hodgdon powders, such as Varget, H4350, and HP-38, became trusted choices for achieving consistent, high-performance loads. The company’s Reloading Data Center and Annual Reloading Manuals provided reloaders with comprehensive, reliable data, empowering them to craft ammunition tailored to their needs.
Championing the Shooting Sports
JB’s influence extended far beyond the Hodgdon Powder Company. He was a tireless advocate for the shooting sports, particularly in fostering youth participation and safety:
- Youth Education: JB and his wife, Anne, through their charitable foundation, supported programs at Philmont Scout Ranch, Scouting America’s National High-Adventure Base in New Mexico. These initiatives emphasized firearms safety and introduced countless young people to the shooting sports, ensuring the tradition’s future.
- Industry Advocacy: A lifetime benefactor member of the NRA, JB also supported the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), Kansas State Rifle Association, Safari Club International, Pheasants Forever, Ducks Unlimited, and National 4-H Shooting Sports. His advocacy helped advance the interests of shooters and hunters, promoting responsible firearm use and conservation.
- Recognition and Honors: JB’s contributions earned him prestigious accolades, including induction into the NSSF Hall of Fame (2020), the NRA Publications Golden Bullseye Pioneer Award (2009, shared with Bob), and the Shooting Industry Academy of Excellence Award (2009). These honors reflect his profound impact on the firearms industry.
A Legacy of Family and Community
JB’s life was defined not only by his professional achievements but also by his devotion to family and community. A proud father of four sons—Phil, Jason, Drew, and Nick—and stepfather to Brian and Andrea Whitfill, JB leaves behind a loving family, including his wife of 28 years, Anne, four grandchildren, and seven great-grandchildren. His commitment to community extended to supporting first responders, Scouting America, and the classic car community, where he amassed a collection of nearly 100 vehicles from the 1920s to 1950s.
A Lasting Impact
JB Hodgdon’s legacy is woven into every cartridge loaded with Hodgdon powders, every young shooter inspired by his programs, and every moment spent in the field or at the range. His life exemplified faith, hard work, and an unwavering love for the shooting sports. As we mourn his passing, we celebrate a man who shaped the way we shoot, hunt, and reload, ensuring his influence will endure for generations.
Let us honor JB by continuing to embrace the traditions he championed—crafting the perfect load, teaching the next generation, and cherishing the freedom and joy of the shooting sports. Rest in peace, JB Hodgdon, and thank you for a legacy that will forever resonate in the firearms community.