Recognizing Bullet Tools

Floor Speech

Mr. RISCH. Mr. President, thousands of American businesses stem from simple ideas that are born in the living rooms, backyards, and garages of ambitious entrepreneurs. From humble beginnings, businesses mature to reach new customers and broader regions. I wish to recognize Bullet Tools, a small family owned business from my home State of Idaho, whose originality and hard work grew into a global success in a distinctive market.

In 1998, Bullet Tools started as a family operated assembly line in Dalen and Mary Gunn's double-wide mobile home in Hayden, ID. The words, ``It can't be done,'' fueled Mr. Gunn's determination to work through any obstacle. Seeking to advance the construction industry, Mr. Gunn discovered an enhanced method of installing flooring without the challenges associated with electricity, dust and constantly moving in and out of buildings.

Today, Bullet Tools is recognized as a world leading expert in fixed-blade cutting tools for the construction industry. The company has earned a worldwide reputation and serves an international market with unique custom installation needs. Fifty percent of its sales are exported to markets abroad, including Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, Russia and the United Kingdom with an expectation for further growth in other international markets.

Bullet Tools has grown more than 300 percent over the past 5 years. In 2012, Dalen and Mary Gunn's son-in-law, Ben Toews, became president of the company. Mr. Toews' business expertise has allowed Bullet Tools to streamline its product lines and build upon existing manufacturing relationships, while Mr. Gunn continues to focus his energy on researching and developing new products. Today, Bullet Tools boosts over 70 products that may be found both in store and online at Home Depot and other retail distributors across the globe.

Last week, I had the opportunity to meet with Mr. Gunn and Mr. Toews at their facility in Hayden, ID, with my colleague on the Small Business and Entrepreneurship Committee, chair Maria Cantwell. I was impressed by the company's strong commitment to its 25 employees and the greater Idaho community. Because of the team's dedication and the business's achievements, it is not surprising that the company has received various awards and endorsements. For example, Bullet Tools was selected as the recipient of the U.S. Small Business Administration's 2009 Northwest Small Business Administration Exporter of the Year Award, the 2010 Green Products Award by Building Products Magazine, the 2013 Pro Tool Innovation Award, and the Gold Hammer Award from Carpenter Magazine. In 2013, Ben Toews was individually recognized as one of North Idaho Business Journal's 30 Under 40 for his ongoing commitment to excellence as an executive setting the pace for outstanding achievement through his integrity and character.

Today, the Gunn's original mobile home continues to welcome visitors to the Bullet Tools' corporate office and manufacturing location, reminding us that with hard work and dedication, the American dream may be achieved in our own backyard. I congratulate the Gunn family and everyone at Bullet Tools on their continued prosperity, strong work ethic, and outstanding reputation for excellence. Bullet Tools epitomizes the finest characteristics of American innovation and is a tribute to both Idaho and the Nation.

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