As part of its world domination quest, Vista Outdoor announced July 27 it will purchase hydration carrier manufacturer CamelBak for $412 million. CamelBak will join big name brands like Bushnell, Federal, Savage and Blackhawk! and brings the most recognizable brand in hydration systems to the growing portfolio of Vista companies.

Vista Outdoor is the hunting and outdoor sporting arm of the larger defense conglomerate Alliant Technsystems. 

“The acquisition of CamelBak greatly advances Vista Outdoor’s strategy to grow and strengthen our leading position in the outdoor recreation industry,” said Mark DeYoung, Vista Outdoor Chairman and Chief Executive Officer in a press release announcing the move. “CamelBak fortifies our presence in the mainstream individual outdoor recreation market, creating an opportunity to increase the scale, reach and growth of several current offerings through an expanded global sourcing capability and a broadened retail distribution network."

CamelBak was founding in California in 1989 and was one of the first companies ever to bring wearable hydration products to the outdoor market. The company basically invented the water bladder/backpack combination that has revolutionized how sportsmen keep hydrated during heavy activity. 

“CamelBak is enthusiastic about the opportunity to join the Vista Outdoor family of brands,” said Sally McCoy, CamelBak CEO. “Their successful platform will accelerate CamelBak’s growth as a global brand. Vista Outdoor supports our mission to continue to reinvent the way people hydrate and perform through innovative hydration products.”