MARYVILLE, Tenn. (WATE) — Smith and Wesson cut the ribbon on a brand new training academy in Maryville. Company leaders said the academy will serve both professionals and the public with hands-on training and education.

The company said the new academy marks a major step in expanding training services for law enforcement and the community. The previous academy located in Springfield, Massachusetts closed in 2017.

"For decades, that was a staple in the firearms industry. Everybody in the country knows about Smith and Wesson Academy. We had countless law enforcement officers, military personnel, and civilians come learn from the best of the best in firearms training," said Smith and Wesson President and CEO Mark Smith.

Smith explained that after moving their headquarters to East Tennessee

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