Our Story

Our Story
42 Years of Craftsmanship
Two Generations of Innovation

when opportunity
presents itself,
hesitation is not
an option.

Title

What began with the dream of an immigrant arriving in New York in 1963 with $7.00 in his

pocket has grown into a multi-tier business, now celebrating 42 years of innovation

and two generations of ownership.

The Foundation

Zeljko “Ziggy” Vesligaj fled his native Yugoslavia (now Croatia) as a young man with the same dream so many shared: a better life. Starting at the bottom in a New York tool shop, he mastered the art of injection mold making and production—a craft he still enjoys at 88 years old.

In 1983, Ziggy proudly launched his own molding company with just two machines and a determination to succeed. For decades, he partnered with the cosmetics industry, designing and producing containers and compacts—many of which remain in use today. His children spent summers working in the Long Island factory, unknowingly laying the foundation for the company’s future.

growth & innovation

Forged. Tested. Trusted.

A major milestone came in 1989 with a move to North Carolina and a shift toward contract manufacturing and product development. Ziggy’s two daughters soon joined the business after college, officially cementing Phoenix as a family-owned and operated enterprise. Over 30+ years, the company expanded twice and, in 2009, launched its flagship innovation: the legendary KickLite® Recoil Suppression Shotgun Stock.

the legacy continues

His daughters continue to lead the business with the same passion and dedication that started it all.

Now operating as Phoenix Outdoors Group, we remain rooted in craftsmanship and innovation. As we grow our product line and expand our reach, we’re excited to share what’s next.

Stay tuned—this story is just getting started.

Veiw our product