In observance of the Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. federal holiday we will not be publishing any wires on Monday, January 19. We will resume publishing of our SHOT Show Special Edition beginning with the morning edition on Tuesday, January 20.

The 41st annual Gun Rights Policy Conference will be held September 25-27, 2026, in Dallas at the Westin Dallas Fort Worth Airport hotel. Co-hosted by the Second Amendment Foundation and Citizens Committee for the Right to Keep and Bear Arms, the conference brings together Second Amendment attorneys, activists, and industry leaders for educational presentations and strategic discussions.

Professional Bass Angler Justin Hamner, the 2024 Bassmaster Classic champion, joins Skeeter's Pro Team for 2026 alongside Austin Cranford, Jace Lindsey, and Tyler Campbell. The anglers will compete in Skeeter FXR boats powered by Yamaha V MAX SHO engines throughout the season.

Steiner Optics announced support for a law enforcement and military giveaway running through January 30, 2026, featuring three prize packages valued between $4,500 and $8,000. The giveaway includes Steiner products such as the MPS, T1Xi, DBAL-A3, and binoculars, alongside contributions from Beretta, Daniel Defense, Surefire, Silencer Co, and other leading tactical brands.

The North Dakota Game and Fish Department offers hunter education courses for individuals born after 1961 who are 12 years or older. Hunter education coordinator Brian Schaffer discusses upcoming classes, registration procedures, and enrollment options through the department's website at gf.nd.gov.

NSSF released its 2025 Firearm Production report showing 8.5 million firearms produced domestically in 2023, a 15.4% decrease from 2022. The report indicates over 32 million Modern Sporting Rifles are in circulation, with NSSF President Joe Bartozzi highlighting the resilience of U.S. firearm manufacturing and continued demand for lawful purposes.

Check-Mate announced the appointment of David Blenker as Chief Business Development Officer to drive enterprise growth initiatives and expand strategic partnerships. Blenker, a proven executive with senior leadership experience at Taurus Holdings and Fiocchi of America, will lead cross-functional initiatives to accelerate growth and enhance Check-Mate's competitive advantage.

European American Armory Corp. is hiring an Inside Sales Representative in Cocoa, Florida to support the company's growth in 2026. The role involves customer support, account management, and sales support for the leading firearms importer.

The Rocky Mountain Elk Foundation supported 10 land conservation and access projects in 2025 that will open or improve public access to nearly 145,000 acres across 11 states. Working with partners including onX Hunt, ALPS OutdoorZ, Bass Pro Shops, Cabela's, and others, RMEF expanded public access to big game habitat through acquisitions and easements.

Gun Owners of America and Gun Owners Foundation won a landmark Department of Justice opinion declaring the federal statute prohibiting mailing of handguns unconstitutional under the Second Amendment. The OLC concluded the statute cannot be enforced against law-abiding citizens shipping handguns for lawful purposes including self-defense, target shooting, and hunting.

Buckmasters and Eastmans have partnered with PrecisionPay, a payment network designed for the Second Amendment and outdoor recreation community. The partnership integrates PrecisionPay's privacy-focused, low-cost payment solutions while collaborating on content and education to support outdoor businesses and consumers facing financial de-platforming.

Berger is expanding its Elite Hunter ammunition line with two new 7mm PRC cartridge offerings featuring 175 Grain and 195 Grain Elite Hunter projectiles. The ammunition delivers exceptional exterior ballistics and long-range terminal performance with industry-leading ballistic coefficients and Berger's precision J4 Hunting Jacket technology.

Smith & Wesson Brands, Inc. announces the M&P9 M2.0 Metal HD and Competitor HD pistols, featuring steel frames with stainless steel barrels, Night Fision and HIVIZ tritium sights, and C.O.R.E. optics-ready packages. Both models are chambered in 9mm Luger with 17+1 capacity and include enhanced grip textures and aggressive serrations for improved control.

Kestrel Ballistics has integrated Applied Ballistics' Custom Drag Factor (CDF) into the Kestrel 5700X with Weapon Employment Zone (WEZ), enabling precision shooters to fine-tune ballistic calculations for enhanced accuracy and consistency. The feature allows users to true their ballistic solutions to specific rifle and ammunition combinations while compensating for equipment wear over time.

Bear Edge Knives will debut three new EDC knife models at the 2026 SHOT Show, including the 4" Light Gray Aluminum Folder, 4¾" Dark Gray Aluminum Assisted Opener, and 4½" Tan G10 Assisted Opener. All models feature 440 stainless steel blades and are manufactured in the Jacksonville, Alabama factory.

Traditions Firearms announces the addition of 400 Legend caliber to its Outfitter G3 centerfire rifle lineup for 2026, designed for hunters in straight-wall cartridge states. The new caliber offers hard-hitting performance, manageable recoil, and flatter trajectory while maintaining the accuracy and reliability the Outfitter G3 is known for.

Lapua has expanded its True-Range Expanding (TRX) ammunition family with new offerings for 2026, including 30-06 Springfield and 300 Winchester Magnum cartridges. The polymer-tipped, solid-copper projectiles deliver industry-leading ballistic coefficients and exceptional terminal performance with nearly 100% weight retention for ethical hunting.

Remington Ammunition will introduce three new subsonic rifle cartridges in 2026: 360 Buckhammer 250-grain, 308 Win. 190-grain, and 45-70 Govt. 300-grain. Engineered for use with suppressors, these Boat-tail Hollow Point loads feature custom powders and enclosed base bullets to reduce lead buildup while preventing supersonic cracks.

FN America, LLC unveiled the next generation SCAR rifle featuring over two dozen upgrades including a hydraulically buffered bolt carrier, improved triggers, and suppressor capability. The company also introduced the FN QD Series suppressors, purpose-built for the SCAR platform in 5.56x45mm and 7.62x51mm calibers, debuting at the 2026 SHOT Show.

RETAY announced the RA1522 Pistol, a compact .22LR semi-automatic platform weighing 3lbs, 4oz with an overall length of 16 inches. The pistol features a polymer frame, aluminum M-LOK forend, and 25-round magazine capacity, designed for recreational shooting, tactical training, and competitive applications with an MSRP of $359.

Hi Mountain Seasonings celebrates National Fish Taco Day on January 25, 2025, with a Spicy Lime Taco recipe featuring their signature seasonings and ranch dressing. The company honors Rubio's Coastal Grill, which pioneered fish tacos in the U.S. in 1983 and has since sold over 200 million tacos.

Samson Manufacturing introduces the SXT Lightweight handguard for AR-15 and AR-10 rifles, featuring a free-float design with weight-reducing cuts. The 15" AR-15 model weighs just 11.85 ounces including barrel nut, offering M-LOK compatibility and skeletonized design for rapid cooling.

Weaver, an American manufacturer of optic rings, bases and mounts, will showcase new and legacy products at the 2026 SHOT Show in booth #14034 alongside parent company RCBS Reloading Equipment.

Revelyst Inc. will debut its Project Freedom initiative at the 2026 SHOT Show, uniting tactical brands Blackhawk, Eagle Industries, CamelBak, and Stone Glacier. Led by Vice President David Hein, the unified presence showcases integrated solutions across packs, hydration, holsters, and PPE for military, law enforcement, and first responders.

GOVIEW USA, founded in 2021, announces its inaugural appearance at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23. The optical brand will showcase its ZOOMR™ binoculars and monoculars at booth #11053, featuring affordable, technologically advanced observation devices with modern design and practical accessories.

FALCO Holsters will exhibit at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas at Booth #72920, showcasing new product developments including leather-lined Kydex holsters, hydrographic holsters, and pocket holsters. The company will host B2B meetings and a giveaway of 700 holsters to celebrate the year's success.

Adrenaline Research Labs will showcase its explosive target lineup at SHOT Show 2026, Booth #40421, including flagship AlphaCharge, Obliterator Series, and new AlphaBlast rimfire targets. CFO J. Curt Stafford highlights the company's commitment to reliable, reactive targets engineered for consistency, safety, and clear shot-impact confirmation.

Beretta USA will celebrate its 500-year milestone at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, featuring an invite-only Range Day on January 18th with partners including Sako, Tikka, Burris, Steiner, Norma, Langdon Tactical Technology, and Garmin, plus an in-booth anniversary celebration on January 22nd.

Wolfe Publishing Company will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23, at booth 10831. The company celebrates its 60th anniversary and will showcase its magazines including Handloader, Rifle & Handgun Magazine, Black Powder Cartridge News, and Varmint Rifles & Cartridges, plus its newest book, Propellant Profiles, 7th Edition.

Check-Mate, a U.S.-based manufacturer of high-reliability magazine systems and firearm components, will exhibit at SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas. The company will showcase new 2026 product introductions and OEM partnership opportunities at Booth #52343 in the Supplier Showcase and Booth #20113 on the main floor.

Steiner, a global leader in rugged optics trusted by military and law enforcement, will exhibit at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23. Attendees can visit booth #13227 to experience Steiner's premium optics lineup and learn about the brand's commitment to durability and precision.

BLACKHAWK will unveil new everyday carry tools, knives, and writing instruments at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas. The lineup includes Mini EDC Pocket Tools, GARRA III Karambit Sideliner and Fixed Karambit knives, mechanical pencils, and titanium roller ball pens designed for military and law enforcement professionals.

GSM Outdoors will present next-generation products from its 50+ brands at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23. Highlights include Stealth Cam's AI-enhanced trail cameras, Walker's SHOTSYNC shot timer and Razor Muffs, Command Cellular Control Module, Wildgame Innovations' Pumpkin Spice attractants, and Muddy's expanded DV8 apparel line with scent control solutions.

Dead Air Silencers will showcase three new suppressor systems at the 2026 SHOT Show in Las Vegas: the Nomad Ti OTB, CT5P, and RXD910Ti. These suppressors feature innovative designs for hunters, law enforcement, and recreational shooters, with the RXD910Ti developed in conjunction with Ruger.

Sierra Bullets and Barnes Bullets will exhibit together at the 2026 SHOT Show (January 20-23 in Las Vegas) in Booth No. 13012 at the Venetian Expo. Both manufacturers will showcase new product lineups and extensions developed for 2026, with VP Andrew Sparks highlighting their commitment to quality and performance for shooters and hunters.

Browning Trail Cameras will debut its 2026 trail camera and accessories lineup at SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23, in Booth 11438. The company will showcase products focused on clarity, reliability, and performance while connecting with retail partners and dealers.

SIGHTRON will showcase its state-of-the-art riflescope lines at the 48th annual SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20-23, 2026. The company will feature SV ED binoculars, S6 30mm and 34mm riflescopes, and S1 one-inch riflescopes at booth #72639 in Caesars Forum.

HeadHunters NW, an executive recruitment firm specializing in firearms and outdoor industries, will attend SHOT Show 2026 January 21-24 in Las Vegas. Following a record 2025 with placements across leadership and technical positions, President Shaylene Keiner will meet with companies seeking to strengthen their teams and scale operations.

Italian Firearms Group (IFG), the exclusive U.S. distributor of Italy's renowned firearm manufacturers, will exhibit at the 2026 NSSF SHOT Show in Las Vegas, January 20–23, at Booth #11235. IFG will showcase its portfolio including Pedersoli, F.A.I.R., and Tanffoglio brands, highlighting Italian craftsmanship and performance.

WE Knife will showcase its latest innovations in EDC, tactical, hunting, and outdoor knives at the 2026 SHOT Show (January 20-23) at the Venetian Convention Center in booth #10750. VP Marketing Seth Ercanbrack highlighted the company's elevated presence and new designs for dealers and distributors.

Orchid Advisors invites SHOT Show attendees to booth #72939 for hands-on ERP demonstrations, complimentary laser-engraved luggage tags via Laser Marking Technologies, and expert conversations on firearms industry compliance. Business Solution Partners, SPS Commerce, Flxpoint, and Laser Marking Technologies will also participate in an ERP luncheon and user group discussion.

Winchester Ammunition and White Flyer Targets will showcase new products at the 2026 SHOT Show in booth 11831, including premium centerfire rifle, shotshell, rimfire offerings, and a USA 250th Anniversary commemorative ammunition series. Winchester celebrates 160 years of excellence since 1866.

Phenix Knives LLC, a custom knifemaking establishment based in Bellville, Texas, has been named Raffle Sponsor for the 2026 HSCF Worldwide Hunting Expo & Convention scheduled for January 23–25, 2026. The hand-forged knife maker will support the convention's raffle program to enhance prize offerings and contribute to Houston Safari Club Foundation's conservation and education initiatives.

The Pennsylvania Board of Game Commissioners will meet January 23-24, 2026, to consider preliminary 2026-27 hunting seasons and bag limits. Key proposals include opening firearms deer season before Thanksgiving and allowing Sunday hunting during the 2027 spring gobbler season. Executive Director Steve Smith emphasized these changes aim to maximize hunter participation and access.

The Arkansas Game and Fish Commission will hold a public meeting on January 27 at Mayflower High School to update landowners and anglers on Lake Conway's five-year renovation project. The project, halfway complete, includes dam replacement, habitat improvements with gravel beds and artificial cover, and clearing of 29 miles of boat lanes. Fisheries supervisor Nick Feltz will discuss progress and upcoming habitat-building opportunities for public participation.

Outdoor Channel launches "Saltwater Saturdays," airing 8-11 a.m. ET with shows hosted by Kaylee Fordyce, Captain Rob Fordyce, Amanda and Emily Gale, and Carter Andrews. The lineup features action-packed saltwater fishing and hunting content from destinations worldwide, with past seasons available on MyOutdoorTV.

In a matter of days — hours, even — 53,000 of the top professionals in the firearm industry will convene at The Venetian Expo and Caesars Forum in Las Vegas for the 2026 SHOT Show®. Whether its perusing products from more than 2,700 exhibiting companies, attending a SHOT University™ session or networking with fellow professionals, there is a lot for attendees to see each day during the show.

As the day at the show draws to a close, there are countless after-hours entertainment options available for those staying in Las Vegas during SHOT Week®. Here’s a collection of some of the top live-performance acts taking place Sunday, Jan. 18 through Saturday, Jan. 24.

SHOT Show Networking Receptions

We’ll start with SHOT Show-specific events: Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday after the closing of the SHOT Show (from 5:30–6:30 p.m.), attendees will have the opportunity to converge on the Caesars Forum Great Outdoors Plaza for networking receptions — featuring a hosted bar each night and live entertainment Tuesday and Wednesday evening.

During the Tuesday Industry Welcome Reception, there will be an exclusive drone show in honor of America’s 250th birthday and to celebrate our freedoms and the start of the 2026 SHOT Show. You won’t want to miss this unforgettable celebration under the stars to kickstart another show.

Wednesday evening, attendees of the Industry Networking Reception will be treated to a free beer on the SHOT Show, as well as live music.

Lastly, Thursday’s Industry Happy Hour will provide one more large-scale networking opportunity to mark the coming conclusion of a successful show.

Concerts & Residencies

Las Vegas is synonymous with entertainment. During the week of SHOT Show, there are scores of musical acts — from legendary rock groups and country music stars to unique tributes — in and around the strip. We’ve uncovered a few for your consideration.

Eagles Live at Sphere: When it comes to music, it doesn’t get much bigger than the Eagles. When it comes to immersive venues, Sphere and its 16K x 16K resolution, 160,000 sq. ft. wraparound interior LED screen and 167,000 speakers stands on its own. Bringing the two together is an unparalleled experience. Eagles are performing Friday and Saturday after the 2026 SHOT Show concludes, so those sticking around have the option of taking in the spectacular. Limited tickets are available Friday; Saturday is virtually sold out.

Blake Shelton Residency: Country music mogul Blake Shelton’s residency at The Colosseum at Caesars Palace begins a week before most SHOT Show attendees will be in Las Vegas (Jan. 15) but will have performances running throughout SHOT Week — Sunday, Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Tickets are widely available for each of these dates. (Blake Shelton’s live music bar Ole Red is a 12-minute walk from the Colosseum and offers a commanding view of The Strip on the corner of Las Vegas Boulevard and Flamingo Road.)

Styx – At The Venetian Resort: Legendary rock band Styx will be performing at The Venetian Theatre Friday, Jan. 23 and Saturday, Jan. 24, at 8:30 p.m. For those attendees who are sticking around for a day or two after the show’s closing, this represents an easily accessible show with seats available both days.

Santana – Greatest Hits Live: It only takes a few seconds into a guitar riff to know its Carlos Santana behind it. The iconic guitarist celebrates more than a decade at House of Blues in Mandalay Bay with a short-run residency in 2026 — and part of it overlaps during the SHOT Show. “An Intimate Evening with Santana – Greatest Hits Live” kicks off Wednesday during SHOT Week (Jan. 21) and will run Thursday, Friday and Saturday beginning at 7:00 p.m. (Not many tickets are left, but as of this writing, there are some available for these four dates.)

Zayn Malik: Once of the popular boy band One Direction, Zayn Malik has flourished as a solo artist, and he’ll stage several performances in Dolby Live at Park MGM — performing Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday during SHOT Week. Tickets are widely available.

Ashlee Simpson: Just steps from the halls of SHOT Show, four-time platinum and rock-pop vocalist Ashlee Simpson will be performing at Voltaire in The Venetian Friday and Saturday. This intimate venue has availability for those staying in Las Vegas after the close of SHOT Show.

Tribute Acts

Tapping into nostalgia, a variety of tribute acts and bands perform nightly on The Strip.

Michael Jackson Tributes: There are two notable Michael Jackson tributes in Las Vegas. With nightly performances beginning at 7:00 p.m., MJ Live at Harrah’s features a high-energy show with a live band and outstanding choreography performing the King of Pop’s greatest hits. Another tribute presented in a different style, Michael Jackson ONE by Cirque du Soleil combines acrobatics from a vibrant cast of 63 performers with urban dance and dynamic aerial stunts. Shows will be held at Mandalay Bay at 6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. Thurs.–Sat. during SHOT Week.

Other Tributes: Additional tributes for Soul of Motown, Elvis, Frank Sinatra, The Rat Pack, Neil Diamond, Bee Gees, The Carpenters and more play regularly around Las Vegas. A quick Google search will yield more information about the acts, locations and times.

Other Live Performances

Awakening: Featuring a cast of 60 international artists, mind-bending illusions, dance, grand-scale puppetry and more, Awakening is a groundbreaking show staged at the Wynn. Set on a unique 360-degree prismatic stage and narrated by Anthony Hopkins, this show will run Sunday (4:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m.), Monday, Tuesday, Friday and Saturday (6:30 p.m. and 9:00 p.m.) during SHOT Week.

Cirque du Soleil Acts: In addition to the Michael Jackson ONE act, Cirque du Soleil has additional shows that run in Vegas, including “O” By Cirque du Soleil at the Bellagio (6:30 p.m. and 9:30 p.m. on Sunday, Wednesday, Thursday, Friday and Saturday) and KÀ by Cirque du Soleil at the MGM Grand (4:30 p.m. and 7:00 p.m., Sunday; 6:00 p.m. and 8:30 p.m. Monday and Tuesday; 6:00 p.m. only Wednesday).

Magic Acts: If the art and mystery of magic is of interest, two world-renowned magicians will be in Las Vegas during SHOT Week. David Blaine has a residency at the Wynn’s Encore Theatre, which will run Wednesday, Friday and Saturday at 8:00 p.m. Mat Franco will have a performance at the LINQ every night of SHOT Week, except Wednesday, with shows starting at 7:00 p.m.

Sphere: While this isn’t a “live” performance, Wizard of Oz at Sphere is a highly immersive, 4D cinematic experience. This is a one-of-a-kind journey down the Yellow Brick Road. There are multiple showings every evening of SHOT Week (other than Friday, when the Eagles come to town).

Comedy: If comedy is high on your priority list, there are several shows in venues around Las Vegas offering comedic showings throughout SHOT Week, including Las Vegas fixtures Penn & Teller (Rio), Jimmy Kimmel’s Comedy Club (LINQ Promenade), Brad Garrett’s Comedy Club (MGM Grand), L.A. Comedy Club (The STRAT Hotel), Las Vegas Live Comedy Club (Planet Hollywood) and much more.

Sports: If you’re a fan of ice hockey, the Vegas Golden Knights have a marquee matchup with the Philadelphia Flyers at 5:00 p.m. on Monday night before SHOT Show’s official first day. Home ice (T-Mobile Arena) is less than two miles from The Venetian Expo.

As you can see here, when it comes down to deciding what to do after the SHOT Show closes each day — options abound. If you are on a budget, make sure you take a moment and see our features on economical entertainment and dining. We’ll see you in Las Vegas, here’s to a successful show!

– Jade Moldae, Director of Content, NSSF

For more information on SHOT Show events and activities, visit the SHOT Show Blog.