** Jefferies lifts price target on law enforcement safety equipment maker Cadre Holdings CDRE.N to $45 from $40, reiterates rating at "buy"

** New PT shows an upside of 58.6% from the stock's last close

** Co on Monday forecast its midpoint for 2026 net sales above analysts' estimates

** Jefferies says co's backlog surged sharply on strong demand and acquisitions, with solid growth driven by defense contracts and protective gear

** Adds future growth is expected to be driven by strong opportunities in public safety and increased nuclear sector spending

** All of five brokerages rate the stock "buy" or higher; their median PT is $45- data compiled by LSEG

** As of last close, stock had fallen 30.5% YTD