SHOT Show 2016 News

[Editor’s Note: Click here for the SHOT Show 2020 coverage.]

Every year, GunsHolstersAndGear.com delivers the best SHOT Show coverage, and 2016 will be no different. Hundreds of thousands readers come to this site to catch all of the new gun announcements made at the show, and to see the latest new product rumors leading up to the big event.

SHOT is an annual trade show, and the general public is not allowed entry. However, the products announced and the deals made will set the tone for the industry in 2016.

The page is divided up, and the different sections are quickly accessible using the navigation menu. The new product sections are for officially announced and confirmed rumors only. For general and unconfirmed rumors, the pre-show rumor section is where you want to be.

Conversations and feedback are encouraged in the comments section below. While I will make every attempt to seek out the things readers request, please understand that the show is vast, and not every request can be honored.

New Handguns

New pistols and revolvers are announced every year at the SHOT Show. 2016 should again be a year of big things in small packages. Concealed carry handguns continue to drive much of the firearms market as we enter the new year, so I expect that all of the major companies will have new self-defense pistols in compact sizes.

All of the handguns in this section are announced products or rumors that have been verified.

SIG SAUER P320 Subcompact

SIG continues to grow its P320 line of striker-fired pistols. The above photo is of the subcompact with a medium sized grip. It is chambered in 9mm.

SIG SAUER P227 Equinox

As always, SIG had a great number of products on display for attendees to look at. Among them was this P227 Equinox. The pistol has the reverse tone slide and a tritium/fiber optic front sight. As with other P227 pistols, it is chambered in .45 ACP and uses the new(ish) E² grip enhancements that the P226 introduced a few years ago.

Smith & Wesson Shield w/ Night Sights

S&W had the newer versions of the M&P Shield on hand with night sights. No other changes – available in both 9mm and .40 S&W.

Redesigned Taurus with Wings

At the 2015 SHOT Show, Taurus showed a new TCP with “wings.” Even though I felt the idea was worth exploring, the wings were flimsy and difficult to deploy with any speed whatsoever. I talked with a Taurus rep about the design, and he was shocked that there might be any imperfections with the gun. This year, Taurus trotted out the gun again, albeit with some design changes. The top of the slide seems to have been scalloped to allow for easier access to the wings. Also, the wings themselves seem a little beefier. However, the updated design seems to remind me of something else…

Glock 17/19 MOS

The Glock 17 and 19 are now both available with factory slide cuts for red dot optics. It remains to be seen if these kinds of sights will revolutionize pistol shooting as they have done on rifles. Regardless, Glock is ready.

Browning BuckMark Plus Rosewood UDX

Browning was showing its BuckMark Plus Rosewood UDX at the show. The gun has laminated rosewood UDX grips that match the matte blue frame and barrel. The barrel has a target crown and hand reamed chamber. Up front, Browning uses a Marble Arms fiber optic sight while a Pro-Target click adjustable is in back.

Beretta PX4 Compact Carry

Beretta is now offering an updated PX4 for concealed carry. The new gun has Talon wrap around grips, Ameriglo night sights and lower profile safety. Additionally, the springs have been improved and the surfaces smoothed for better operation. Three 15-round magazines will ship with the 9mm pistol. No definitive word yet on pricing.

Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 without Thumb Safety

As we reported late last year, Smith & Wesson announced a new Bodyguard 380 without a thumb safety. If sales of the M&P Shield without a safety are any indicator, this should be a big seller for the company.

Carbon Fiber Kahr CW9

Kahr is now offering the CW9 pistol with a carbon fiber print frame. This is mostly flash as it is not a Gen2 gun or offers anything more than a little eye candy. But, there is nothing wrong with that.

Kahr Gen2 P9

Another of the company’s updated pistols is the Gen2 P9. This is a single stack 9mm pistol that has a 3.5″ barrel and 7+1 rounds. As with the other 2016 updates, this gun has a shorter, crisper trigger, an accessory rail and TruGlo TFX sights. I’ve liked Kahr pistols, but this one is very interesting to me. The trigger feels much improved, and I would really like to wring one out on the range.

KRISS Vector Gen II SDP

The Vector may be known for its original SMG design, but KRISS has evolved the gun to include pistol versions. Here is a look at a pair of them – one with an arm brace and one without. Both have 5.5 barrels and the company’s recoil reduction system. These are chambered in 9mm and uses Glock magazines.

SIG PMPX

The pistol version of the gun in the MPX line sports many of the same features found in the carbine and SBR models. For example, it has folding sights, a KeyMod rail and the full-size magazine.

Kahr P45 Gen2

Kahr began a Gen2 series of pistols at the 2015 SHOT Show. The new guns had a variety of features that made the guns more of a sporting gun than a defensive firearm. At this year’s show, the company released a few new Gen2 models including the new P45 (KP45R43). Among it’s new features:

• TruGlo TFX fiber optic sights
• trigger safety and enhanced trigger pull
• accessory rail
• matte stainless slide, polymer frame
• 6+1 rounds of .45 ACP

Ruger American Pistol

We spent some time with the Ruger American Pistol at Range Day. The guns were a nice build overall, but the triggers were somewhat a disappointment. The pull and reset were both very long when compared to other striker fired pistols like the Glock line of handguns. The .45 version of the pistol was incredibly accurate with 3-shot groups measuring less than 1″ at 15 yard hand held. The 9mm was less accurate with 2.5″ – 3″ groups at the same distance. The trigger pull and our experiences with other pistols likely factored into that.

Kriss Vector Handguns

We had a chance to shoot some of the Kriss handguns on the range. The system is pretty interesting for reducing recoil, but overall, we prefer it in the carbine/subgun form with a buttstock. If buying the pistol is your way of building a legal SBR, that’s understandable. As a pistol for its own sake, they are a little unwieldy and not as much fun as the rifles.

Avidity Arms PD10

Ever want a single stack Glock 19? Unless Glock pulls a rabbit out of its hat, this might be the closest thing you will find. Rob Pincus and three other industry veterans pooled their talents and formed a new company to bring us the PD10 pistol. Read the details here.

Kimber K6s Revolver

Kimber introduced a…revolver! The new 6-shot wheel gun is an interesting addition to the shooting world that has my attention. It may not be revolutionary, but it does appear to be refined. Read more about it here. (Note: The K6S page has been updated with photos from Range Day.)

Caracal Enhanced F Pistol

After an unprecedented recall of every pistol it ever made, Caracal is going to take another swing at handgun manufacturing. The Enhanced F pistol is said to correct the problems of the first gen guns while keeping the things people liked such as a low bore axis and low profile slide. The guns are made in the United Arab Emirates.

Taser Pulse

While not a firearm, the new Taser Pulse is a legitimate self-defense tool that is handgun shaped. This new ECD is intended for the concealed carry, not law enforcement, market. Additional details are here.

Springfield Armory XD Mod.2 – 9mm Tactical

Springfield Armory announced the company was now making the XD Mod.2 in a “Tactical Model” with a 5″ barrel that is chambered for the 9mm cartridge. The gun holds 16+1 rounds and weighs 29 ounces. It does not have a threaded barrel, but does have the infamous Grip Zone markings.

Walther PPS M2

Walther redesigned the PPS and introduced the M2 version. In addition to having a push button magazine release, the company also re-shaped much of the gun to make it sleeker – both visually and practically.

Springfield Armory XD-S with Crimson Trace Laserguard

This is a fairly minor announcement, but Springfield Armory will now be selling 9mm and .45 ACP XD-S pistols with factory installed Crimson Trace Laserguard units. Curiously, there are no CT options for the .40 S&W version that was just introduced.

Springfield Armory XD(M) – Threaded Barrel, FDE, .45 ACP

This is really more of a small variation on the existing firearms, but it is getting a new SKU. So, here it is. The new gun has a flat dark earth frame, black slide and a threaded barrel. It does come with a thread protection cap. Additionally, the sights are taller than normal to clear the body of an attached sound suppressor.

Springfield Armory Range Officer – Stainless

Springfield Armory announced the addition of a stainless steel version of the Range Officer 1911 pistol. The new gun is designed as an entry level competition gun. It has a fiber optic front sight, adjustable rear sight, match barrel and speed hammer. The guns will be available in both 9mm and .45 ACP.

Arex Rex Zero 1 Standard

Ok, the name is a mouthful. This SIG-looking pistol is ready to be imported into the United States. Initial US models will be chambered in 9mm and retail for less than $600. I have a full write-up here.

Springfield XD Mod 2 Subcompact FDE

This is not a huge announcement, but you can now get an XD Mod 2 subcompact pistol with a flat dark earth colored frame. The slide is matte black.

Springfield XD-S in .40 S&W

After several years of thinking “this is the year…,” Springfield Armory announced the XD-S will now be available in .40 S&W. The guns should ship by mid-February. See the details here.

Smith & Wesson SW22 Victory

When the Model 22A disappeared from the company’s catalog, I was a bit worried that Smith & Wesson had completely abandoned the target 22 market. Nope – not by a long shot. The company announced the new SW22 Victory line of pistols. They look like good shooters.

Colt Lightweight Commander

For 2016, Colt announced a new gun called the Lightweight Commander. The pistol has an aluminum frame and steel slide with a 4.25″ barrel. The gun will be available in both .45 and 9mm with magazines holding 8 and 9 rounds respectively. The MSRP will be $949.

Grand Power CP380

Although quietly announced at the NASGW show, Eagle Imports will be showing the CP380 pistol at the SHOT Show. This will be the first time that many American shooters will be able to see the new pistols. I have additional information about the guns here.

Colt Competition Pistol

Another 1911-style gun introduced by Colt is the Competition Pistol. This gun is available in both .45 ACP and 9mm and comes with a 5″ barrel. A fiber optic front sight and adjustable Novak rear sight are standard. The suggested retail price is $899.

Dan Wesson Bruin – 10mm Longslide

This one is bound to get some people interested. CZ through its Dan Wesson brand will show the new longslide 10mm 1911 at SHOT. The new guns are available in black and a bronze two-tone. Additionally, the company will offer a .45 ACP version. See additional photos and get more information in my article here.

Inland M1 Advisor Pistol

Inland Manufacturing will show a new handgun based on the M1 Carbine at the SHOT Show. The new gun is called the Advisor because chopped guns like this one were used by US “advisors” during the Vietnam War for clearing tunnels and bunkers. The gun takes standard M1 Carbine mags. It has a 12″ threaded barrel and walnut wood. Currently, the MSRP is set at $1,239.

Ruger 22/45 Lite in Green

Ruger announced the company would have a new green version of the 22/45 Lite pistols at the show. Right now, it looks like the color and types of barrel cuts are the only difference between this and the existing blue pistol.

Grand Power K22S and K22

Like the CP380 above, Eagle Imports will begin selling the K22S and K22 X-TRIM to the US market in 2016. The show will be the first chance many people will have to get their hands on one of these new .22 LR pistols. The K22S is designed to be a trainer for the K100, while the K22 X-TRIM is a competition styled pistol.

New Long Guns

Every year, new rifles and shotguns are introduced. This section has all of the information on the official announcements. From tactical rifles to shorting scatterguns, I report on them all.

Black Rain Ordnance Recon

Black Rain Ordnance was at SHOT with all of their cool AR toys. This one is from its Recon line of rifles. It is equipped with the company’s Maxim CQB stock, flash reducer and handguard.

Caracal 816 A2

As I’ve reported in the past, Caracal is making AR-style weapons. This one os the 816 A2 that uses a short stroke piston system. This rifle was made for the company by Wilcox Industries in New Hampshire. Caracal, it seems, has contracted with Wilcox to have many of their guns made by them in the United States. If the venture is successful, it will allow Caracal to avoid many of the hassles and delays associated with importation. Additionally, it might help with buyers by having a made in the USA label on the guns since Caracal is from a region of the world that doesn’t have a great record on freedom.

Troy M5 9mm

Troy Defense had its new M5 9mm carbine on display. The new gun is an AR-style rifle that runs Glock magazines. It has the company’s BattleAx CQB stock and TRX3 Revolution BattleRail in addition to the folding BattleSights. The gun has a 16″ barrel and will retail for $1,299.

FN 15 M4 Military Collector Series

FN is making a number of replica rifles in its Military Collector Series. This one is the M4 that replicates much of a mil-spec M4, though in semi-automatic only.

Angstadt Arms PDW

Angstadt Arms is showing its UPD-9 SBR at SHOT this year. The gun is a 9mm with a 6″ barrel that takes Glock magazines. With the PDW stock, it makes for a very compact package. I saw a different variation of the gun last year.

What is paricularly interesting is that the guns will now be offered in .40 S&W and .357 SIG. Out of a 6″ barrel a 125 grain SIG round should be screaming fast. Maybe 1450-1500 fps?

Angstadt Arms Carbine

Angstadt is also showing one of their 16″ carbines. This one has a camo pattern and a suggested retail price of $1,499. Optics, etc are optional.

SIG MPX Line

SIG is proud of its MPX line, and by the accounts I have read, they should be. In the line, there are a variety of configurations including a carbine, SBR and pistol. Here are a few of the guns that fall into the carbine/SBR categories.

KRISS Vector Gen II CRB Enhanced

KRISS has expanded its line of pistol caliber firearms to include this Gen II CRB Enhanced model. The part that looks like a sound suppressor is a flash suppressor that is permanently attached to give the barrel an ATF-approved 16″ length. The gun weighs 7.8 pounds and starts at $1,349. Cerakote options are available.

The model shown comes in 9mm with .40 S&W, .357 SIG and…wait for it…10mm to follow on later this year. For European customers, the 9×21 cartridge will be available to you instead of the 9×19.

KRISS Vector Gen II SMG

This is a quick look at the company’s 9mm SMG. The KRISS Vector started life as a .45 SMG, but has since evolved. The 9mm model take Glock magazines and have a 5.5″ barrel. For velocity purposes, I would love to see these guns with an 8″ barrel, but a 5.5″ combined with the folding stock gives a very compact package.

KRISS Gen II SBR

Chambered in 9mm, this Vector is a SBR with a flat dark earth Cerakote finish. The gun is equipped with a buttstock for increased accuracy when shooting, but is fitted with the same 5.5″ barrel that the company uses on its SMG – hence the SBR designation. The gun weighs about 7 pounds which should make for a soft shooting gun.

Caracal CC10 Carbine

Caracal is going to try to make another push into the US market after going through the troubles associated with a total recall of its pistol products. In addition to the updated model F pistol, the company is trying to generate interest in its 9mm carbine, the CC10. Writer Aaron said the gun shot fine, but the sights were less than optimal.

AK Alpha

Kalashnikov USA and CAA seem to have teamed up to produce a modern AK-style rifle called the AK Alpha. Click here for additional information.

Kriss Vector Rifle

We got to shoot this Vector rifle chambered in .45 ACP at Media Day. This gun has a full length barrel that is shrouded in a faux suppressor making it cool looking and not in need of an NFA stamp. Also, gray is a new color addition to the line.

LMT Compressor

LMT Defense announced a new PDW chambered in 5.56 NATO and 300 BLK. Get all of the information on these guns here.

Springfield Armory SOCOM 16 CQB

Built around the M1A/M14 concept, the SOCOM 16 rifles have been popular with many shooters. For 2016, Springfield Armory announced a CQB version that drops about 10″ from the overall length. As with the original, the guns are chambered in 7.62×51 and take 20-round magazines.

Aksa Arms T-12

Aksa Arms introduced a new 12 gauge shotgun upper for AR .308 lowers. Details on this one are still sketchy, but it looks like a detachable magazine feeds the gun (5+1 shells). We’ll try to get additional information on this.

American Defense Manufacturing UIC-10A-HR Heavy Reconnaissance

Looking for an AR-style rifle in 7.62×51? You might want to give the new UIC-10A-HR Heavy Reconnaissance rifle a consideration. Built by American Defense Manufacturing, the new rifle is a reasonably weighted .30 caliber rifle designed for precision shooting in a handy package.

The gun uses a 16″ barrel made of 416r stainless steel and treated with a nitride QPQ treatment. It has a 1:10″ twist and a M118 spec chamber. ADM stated it fits the gun with a rifle length gas system to “maximize accuracy potential with premium match loads.”

Unloaded and without optics or other add-ons, the gun weighs a hair over 8 pounds, 6 ounces. The suggested retail price on this rifle is $2,170.

American Spirit Arms ASA-16″ .308

American Spirit Arms (ASA) announced its new side charging .308 with a 16″ barrel. The AR-style gun uses a non-reciprocating charging handle on the left side of the rifle instead of the traditional charging handle at the rear of the upper. The rifle has a 16″ 1:10″ barrel, four pound trigger and Evolution handguard.

Adcor Defense Super-16

Adcor Defense announced a new rifle with a suppressor and KeyMod rails. Take a look at the gun here.

Adler Arms Lever Action “Tactical” Shotgun

Adler Arms is now offering a new “tactical” version of its 110 lever action shotgun. The new gun is all black with a short Picatinny-type rail on the underside of the synthetic forend. Chambered in 12 gauge, the gun will hold 5+1 shells.

POF-USA P300 in 300 Win Mag

Patriot Ordnance Factory announced a new AR-style rifle chambered for the 300 Win Mag. The new P300 rifle is a semi-automatic gun with all ambidextrous controls. The gun can be had with either an 18″ or 24″ barrel, a 14.5″ M-LOK handguard and Magpul furniture. The gun uses the company’s E² extraction system.

Hatsan Big Bore Carnivore – .30 Cal Break Barrel Airgun

Hatsan announced the introduction of the new Big Bore Carnivore that is a break action air rifle in .30 caliber. According to the company, this is the first .30 caliber break barrel airgun in existence. The gun has a Turkish walnut stock and an adjustable trigger. With a .30 caliber pellet, the company states the gun is good for 550 fps.

Navy Arms Lightning Deluxe

Navy Arms and Davide Pedersoli are making a new reproduction of the Colt pump-action rifle. The guns can be had with either a 20″ or 24″ barrel and are chambered in both .357 Magnum and .45 Colt. The rifles have checkered stocks made of Grade 1 American Walnut and color case hardened receivers. The octogonal barrels are a high polish blue. The MSRP is $2,499.95 for both versions.

Nosler M48 Rifle – New Calibers

Nosler announced that the M48 Custom, M48 Liberty and M48 Heritage will now be offered in 6.5 Creedmoor and the new 30 Nosler cartridges. Additionally, the custom models have the option of a Cerakote application to the metal.

New Savage Rifles in 6.5 Creedmor

Savage Arms announced the company is introducing nine new rifles chambered for the 6.5 Creedmoor cartridge. The rifles are from the 16 Lightweight Hunter, AXIS XP and AXIS II XP lines. I hope to have more information on these shortly.

Savage A22 Magnum

Savage Arms announced a new .22 WMR rifle called the A22 Magnum. It is based on the company’s existing A17 platform. It uses a delayed blow back system like the A17. There also appears to be a .22 LR version that will follow on.

Tracking Point 300HO Rifle

The HO stands for Hog Out and suggests the rifle’s purpose” feral hog eradication. Starting on Jan 31, Tracking Point will be selling the new 300HO rifle. It is an AR-style rifle chambered in 300 BLK, and it is equipped with the company’s tracking optic. Price? $12,995.

Merkel Practical 40E Field Grade Side by Side

Merkel introduced a new side by side that they are describing as the working man’s shotgun. The new 40E is functionally similar to the high end 47E, but does not have the hand engraving and fine finish. Even as a less expensive alternative, the gun is still extremely nice by any standard. It has an Anson & Deeley boxlock action, cold hammer forged barrels with cold bluing, a silver nitrate finished steel receiver and Turkish walnut stock. The gun will be available in 12, 20 and 28 gauge models and the suggested retail price will be $4,595.

IWI TAVOR in 300 BLK

IWI US announced the company would now be selling a TAVOR chambered in the 300 BLK. Also, the company will be selling conversion kits for the existing rifles. More details on the new TAVOR here.

Smith & Wesson M&P 15-22 Sport II – Updated Versions

Smith & Wesson updated its line of rimfire AR rifles. The new guns have been updated to include a slim M-LOK handguard and folding Magpul MBUS sights. Additional details can be had here.

Colt Expanse M4

Colt announced a new budget AR called the Expanse M4. This is a basic AR-style rifle with a MSRP of $699. Check out more details on the gun here.

Browning X-Bolt Hell’s Canyon Speed

A variant of the standard X-Bolt rifle, the Hell’s Canyon Speed has a composite stock, steel receiver and heavy sporter barrel with a target crown. The stock is finishes in A-TACS AU while a Cerakote burnt bronze covers the metal. A wide range of calibers will be available when the guns start shipping, including a rifle chambered the 26 Nosler that was introduced in late 2013.

SIG SAUER MPX 9mm Carbine

SIG is now ready to release the carbine version of the MPX in 9mm. The new guns will have a traditional 16″ barrel instead of the barrel/brake that the ATF and courts ruled as illegal last year. The weapon will have a full-length KeyMod hand guard, adjustable length stock and ambidextrous controls.

Auto-Ordnance Thompson Carbine – New Length

Auto-Ordnance (Kahr) announced the company will begin selling new Thompson carbines with a shorter barrel. The new guns will have a barrel with a permanently attached Cutts compensator that will measure 16.5″ long. This is a 1.5″ reduction in the length of the barrel assembly. The rifles will come with a single 20-round stick magazine and sell for $1,910.

Ruger 10/22 – M1 Carbine

TALO Distributors and Ruger have teamed up for a limited edition 10/22 rifle made with a M1 Carbine stock and styling. The gun should be ready to ship by the show and will carry part number 21138. The suggested retail price will be $415. Additional details on the gun are here.

Chiappa Triple Threat – New Gauges

At the 2016 show, Chippa is introducing two new gauges for the Triple Threat shotgun. The new gauges are 20 and 28. If you are not already familiar with the gun, the Triple Threat is a three-barreled shotgun. It is a break action just like a side-by-side, but with a third barrel centered above the two lower barrels. The suggested retail price on these new shotguns runs from $2,039 – $2,079.

Ruger SR-556 Takedown Update

Ruger introduced an update to the SR-556 Takedown that will be at the SHOT Show. The new gun uses a KeyMod rail instead of the heavy quad-rail. Read more information on it here.

Double Badger in 20 GA/22 LR

Chiappa announced a new Double Badger gun chambered in 20 gauge and 22 LR. These guns are an over-under design with the rifled rimfire barrel on top of a smoothbore 20 gauge. These guns have a wood stock and forend. Each barrel is fired independently and is selectable. Chiappa uses a Williams fiber optic front sight and a ghost ring rear. The suggested retail price is $499.

Noreen Firearms BN36 in 7mm Rem Magnum

Noreen Firearms announced the addition of 7mm Rem Mag to the company’s line of BN36 rifles. These rifles are DI guns in an AR-type configuration, but chambered for non-standard (for ARs) calibers including .30-06, .270 Win, 25-06 Rem and 300 Win Mag. Total weight with a 22″ barrel is about 9 pounds. The suggested retail price will be $2,595.99.

Weatherby Accuguard

Weatherby announced a new Vanguard rifle that adds the accuracy of the Accumark line. These new rifles come with a sub-1″ guarantee (using quality ammunition, of course.) The MSRP will be $1,099. The rifles will have hand laminated stocks, stainless steel fluted barrels and a user-adjustable trigger.

Chiappa Kodiak Cub

Chiappa announced a new takedown rifle called the Kodiak Cub. The Kodiak Cub is chambered in .22 LR and is clearly built to handle harsh conditions. I’ve got a complete write up on the gun here.

New Ammo & Accessories

Although guns are the main attraction, it is the accessories that actually dominate the SHOT Show. Relatively few companies build firearms, but it would seem that everyone makes some bit of gear to carry, accessorize or improve your gun. This section includes new ammunition, holsters, scopes, magazines, cases, tools, electronics and more.

Since this category is rather broad, I may break it into smaller sections as the trade show is underway.

Update: After the show, I assembled a huge list of the new ammunition announced for 2016 here.

Winchester USA Forged Ammo

Winchester Ammunition announced a new line of steel cased ammo that is indoor range safe and made in the United States. Since the show, I had a chance to review the new ammo here.

Trijicon AccuPoint 1-6×24 Scope

Trijicon released a new AccuPoint scope with a 1-6x magnification. The unit is designed to be very durable and is waterproof (not just ‘weather resistant’) to 10 feet. It has an illuminated reticle that uses fiber optics – not a battery – for lighting. It can be had with one of several different reticles including a pair of new ones: a circle cross and a MOA-Dot.

FLIR Scout III 640

FLIR introduced a number of improved, low-cost thermal monoculars at the show. Included was the above pictured Scout III 640. This unit has a 640 resolution with 30 Hz refresh rate. It is lightweight and weather resistant. Another model with a 60 Hz refresh rate was also introduced.

Magpul 21- and 27-round Glock Magazines

Magpul has been selling a proverbial truckload of 9mm Glock magazines that are designed as direct replacements for the G17 and G19 pistols. For 2016, the company is now selling higher-capacity 9mm mags designed for 21- and 27-rounds respectively. Assuming they are reliable, these will also sell quickly with suggested retail pricing of $19.95 and $21.95 each.

Magpul UBR Gen2 Stock

Another of the updated Magpul stocks is the UBR Gen2. The new stock weighs in at 1 pound, 5 ounces and is now available in carbine, A5 and SR25 sizes. It has a reversible storage compartment and QD points on both sides. MSRP is $199.95.

Magpul Gen 3 PRS Stock

Magpul displayed its third generation PRS stock. It is now available for non-rifle tubes to include A2, SR25, carbine and A5. It has M-LOK attachment points on the bottom and QD points front and back. It should be out in the late summer 2016. MSRP is $254.95.

SureFire R1 Lawman Intellibeam

SureFire has a new rechargeable flashlight out called the R1 Lawman Intellibeam. It is reated at 1,000 lumens with a 332 meter beam distance. No measurement for candela was provided. SureFire claims the unit has a 78 minute runtime on high. By way of comparison, the older Streamlight ProTac HL3 is rated at 1,100 lumens with a 379 meter beam distance and a two hour runtime. No MSRP has been set.

CRKT Tighe Tac Two Tanto

This is a folder designed by Brian Tighe for CRKT. The knife has a flipper deployment with a button lock. A Tighe ball bearing pivot system ensures smooth operation and positive lock. The knife uses a Tanto-style blade. The MSRP is $59.99 for this one.

Nightforce SHV 4-14×50 Scope

The new Nightforce SHV 4-14×50 scope is on display at the show. It is a first focal plane scope with a fairly broad magnification range. Scopes are available with the MOAR or MIL-R reticles (the MIL-R one is shown above.) It also has 12 levels of illumination. The MSRP is $1,290.

EOTech Vudu 1-6x Scope

EOTech is showing a new 1-6×24 scope that has an adjustment bar to allow for magnification adjustments while staying on target. It is a first focal plane scope with a 30mm tube and illuminated reticle. EOTech uses XC high density glass. The MSRP is $1,299.

Streamlight 2016 Products

Streamlight introduced a number of new products for 2016 at the SHOT Show. Click here to read my article on them.

PolyCase .38 Special Ammo

PolyCase announced the company is now loading its ARX bullet in .38 Special. The load uses a 77 grain projectile running at 1,116 fps. I was not able to determine what barrel length was used to obtain that velocity.

Berger Bullets .270 Cal Elite Hunter Bullet

Berger Bullets announced a new 170 grain .270 caliber EOL Elite Hunter bullet. The bullet is intended for custom rifles and handloads specifically developed for them. The bullet needs a twist rate faster than the standard 1:10″ rate.

Liberty Ammunition’s Animal Instinct

In late 2015, Liberty Ammunition announced it had developed a .308 load that drove a 100 grain copper bullet to 3,500 fps. The company has launched a new line of hunting ammo that uses the .308 round as its anchor offering. The company advises the round offers good penetration and low recoil.

Kurzzeit BMC-19 Chronograph

The BMC-19 is a new chronograph that uses screens with built-in infrared lights and will wirelessly connect with a computer without the need of drivers. If a computer isn’t handy, it will record all of your shots to a micro SD card for download later.

Precision Armament EFAB Hybrid Muzzle Brake

EFAB stands for Enhanced Flash Arresting Brake, which should tell you the intent of this muzzle device. According to the company, the device offer maximum recoil reduction while reducing the concussive blast to those nearby. It will be available in .223 and .308 calibers.

Alpine Innovations GunSlicker

Alpine Innovations makes a number of lightweight protective covers for scopes. Now the company offers the GunSlicker. This is a very lightweight, waterproof membrane that can protect your rifle or shotgun from rain, mud, snow and more. Two sizes will be available.

Streamlight ProTac HL 4 Flashlight

Streamlight released a new flashlight called the ProTac HL 4. The big news is the big light output: 2,200 lumens. Bring your sunglasses and read about it here.

Faxon Firearms Streamline Handguards

Faxon Firearms announced a series of new, low-profile handguards that are M-LOK compatible. Four lengths are available, from 7″ – 15″. The units are made of 6061 aluminum and have a hardcoat anodized finish.

ArmaDynamics ADF-MKII Charging Handle

ArmaDynamics is now selling a new AR-15 charging handle. The company advises the part reduces friction and the amount of force needed to run the bolt. The design allows for operation from either side, and the company states the force is not directed toward the pins. As a guy who has broken a roll pin in a charging handle, I can appreciate this.

Tyrant Designs AR-15 Grips

Tyrant Designs introduced two new AR pistol grips: the Nexus and the Titan 2.0. Both grips are CNC machined aluminum and use a skeletonized design. The grips are nearly identical with the Titan adding some knurling for a more secure grip. Both weigh less than 5 ounces. The Nexus is shown above.

Halo ZIR10X Laser Rangefinder

Halo announced a new laser rangefinder called the ZIR10x. The new unit is accurate to +/- 1 foot at 1,000 yards and can compensate for elevation changes. The unit has two modes – an instant spot check and a scanning check. The first measures a single distance and then deactivates the laser. The second allows you to scan several targets and measure the distance continuously. The unit has a 6x magnification factor and runs on a single CR2 lithium ion battery. It is weather resistant. The MSRP is $229.

ATN X-Sight II

ATN upgraded its X-Sight line with a new core and added functionality. The good news is owners of the existing X-Sight scopes can get a firmware upgrade that will add much of the same functionality to the old units. Read the whole thing here.

Apex Tactical Trigger for Walther PPQ

Apex Tactical announced a new flat-faced trigger for the Walther PPQ series of handguns. The new triggers are said to reduce overall trigger pull travel by about 40% without changing the actual pull weight. The triggers are considered drop-in replacements and will sell for $129.95.

Dead Air Armament Pyro

Dead Air Armament announced the new Pyro muzzle device. The device is designed to redirect the muzzle flash so that the shooter is less likely to be blinded when shooting in low light conditions. It uses the company’s QD system. The suggested retail price is $259.

New Cartridge: 30 Nosler

Nosler announced a new cartridge: the 30 Nosler. The new round attempts to combine the best aspects of the 300 Weatherby, 300 RUM, 300 WSM and the 300 Win Mag. With a 26″ barrel, the company’s factory 180 gr AccuBond runs 3,200 fps and the 210 gr AccuBond LR is good for 3,000 fps. The new cartridge has load data listed in its latest handloading book. Also, three versions of the M48 rifle will be chambered for the cartridge. The 30 Nosler is an extension of the company’s cartridge developments that started with the 26 Nosler.

Dead Air Armament Three Prong Flash Hider

Dead Air Armament announced its new three-prong flash hider that helps reduce muzzle flash and eliminates the “ping” sound sometimes heard with other flash suppressors. The MSRP is $89.

Swab-Its .50 Cal Bore-Tips

Swab-Its is now offering .50 caliber sized cleaning swabs that are good for centerfire and muzzle loaders and 28 gauge shotguns.

DeSantis Gunhide Quick-Chek

DeSantis announced a new holster with an internal locking system. Called the Quick-Chek, the leather rig appears to have some sort of dual wing with paddles on both sides of the holster that have to be engaged to release the gun. The rigs are made for the Glock 17-size and 19-size pistols. The MSRP is $79.99.

Starline .41 Special Brass

Starline announce the company was now producing brass for the .41 Special cartridge. The .41 Special is a trimmed down version of the .41 Magnum. I do not know of any .41 Special revolvers that were ever made, but Hamilton Bowen and others have made .41 Special revolvers from existing .357 Magnum guns. As one might hope, .41 Special can be used in .41 Magnum revolvers – which are still a relatively uncommon gun to find.

LaserMax Green Guide Rods for SIG

LaserMax announced new green laser guide rods for the SIG P226 and P229 pistols. The new lasers are not cheap at $449 (suggested retail), but they do not add any external bulk to the gun. So, no new holsters are needed.

Korth 9mm Conversion Kit

Korth is now making a 9mm conversion kit for the Smith & Wesson L-frame revolver. Want to run a rimless cartridge in that .357 Magnum? Check out the details here.

Volquartsen Barrels for SW22 Victory Pistols

Volquartsen introduced a pair of barrels for the new Smith & Wesson SW22 pistol. Full details on the barrels is on this page.

SIG SAUER 300 BLK Hunting Ammunition

SIG announced a new hunting load for the 300 BLK caliber. The SIG HT 300BLK cartridge uses an all copper 120 grain bullet loaded to 2,250 fps (from a 16″ barrel) to deliver deep penetration and reliable 1.8x expansion. The company is also expected to introduce a new 220 grain subsonic hunting round in the coming months.

Federal Micro HST 9mm

Last year, Federal introduced the Micro HST line in .380 ACP caliber. The ammunition was designed to work reliably in compact pistols while still providing adequate bullet penetration and expansion. For 2016, the company is expanding the line to include a 9mm option. The 9mm round will use a 150 grain HST hollow point. I know Speer has had a good deal of success with its Short Barrel loads in the Gold Dot line. I hope Federal is able to duplicate that success.

Federal Practice and Defense Combo Packs

Federal Premium ammunition is pairing American Eagle FMJ rounds with Federal HST self defense loads in combination packs. Calibers offered: .380 ACP, 9mm, .40 S&W and .45 ACP.

Plano Field Locker Pistol Case

Plano announced a new medium sized pistol case that they advise meets the mil-spec standards for immersion, vibration, dust and drop. The case seals tight with a Dri-Loc gasket and pressure release valve. The unit has foam inserts that allow you to custom fit the unit to your pistol. It is lockable and stackable. Plano already offers mil-spec Field Locker cases for rifles and for large pistols.

Federal 3rd Degree Shotshells in 20 GA

Federal Premium announced it was now selling a 20 gauge, 1 7/16 oz version of its 3rd Degree turkey hunting ammunition. The loads use a three-stage system to improve patterns at close range while still keeping things together farther out.

DeSantis Nylon Mini-Scabbard

DeSantis announced a new mini-scabbard for compact pistols made of nylon. The rig uses molded nylon (not the floppy stuff used in multi-fit kinds of rigs) and a tension screw for retention. The holsters will have an MSRP of about $40 and will fit:

• Glock 19, 23, 32, 36
• Glock 26, 27, 33
• Glock 42
• Glock 43
• Ruger LC9
• S&W Bodygyard 380 with Crimson Trace laser
• S&W Shield
• S&W J-frame revolvers (2-2.25″ barrel)
• SIG P938
• Taurus PT111, PT140
• Taurus 85 (2″ barrel)

Federal Power-Shok Copper

Federal is now loading a new subset of ammo in its Power-Shok line. As the name might suggest, the new Power-Shok copper line will use copper alloy hollow point bullets. Initial calibers include .243 Win, .270 Win, .308 Win and .30-06 Sprg.

Vortex SPARC AR Red Dot

For 2016, Vortex Optics introduced a new 1x red dot sight called the SPARC AR Red Dot (aka: SPC-AR1). The new sight appears to be similar to the Trijicon MRO or Aimpoint T-2, but priced closer to the Bushnell TRS-25. The sight uses a 2 MOA dot and is waterproof, fogproof and shockproof. It runs on a single AAA battery. The retail price on this will be $259.

Plano 1812 Magnum Field/Ammunition Box

Plano is now offering a new storage box that is 40% larger than the company’s Model 1612 Big .50 Cal Can. The new 1812 Magnum Can has a lift out tray and internal dividers to help organize all of your gear. The unit is made of heavy duty polymer and has a brass bail latch. The MSRP is $25, though I would expect them to sell for much less.

Lee Precision Auto Bench Prime

Lee Precision doesn’t come out with a lot of new products every year. Frankly, it is a company that knows what it does well and sticks at it. However, for 2016 the company is introducing a new bit of reloading gear: the Auto Bench Prime. This is a priming tool that mounts to the work bench. The MSRP is a reasonable $36.98.

Hoppe’s Gun Medic

Hoppe’s is releasing a new cleaner/lubricant called Gun Medic. This product will come in both bottle and aerosol form and in both 4 oz and 10 oz sizes. The product is described as a “quick fix.” Presumably, this will be intended for the range bag to keep a gun running when you are doing a lot of shooting.

SIG Expands Ammo Line

SIG SAUER jumped into the ammunition market a few years back. Since then, the company has expanded its offerings. For 2016 SIG will now make rounds for the .38 Special, .44 Special and .45 Colt. I am happy to see the expanded offerings – especially the .44 Special load with a 240 grain bullet.

American Eagle Syntech Ammunition

Federal is introducing a new line of ammo called the American Eagle Syntech. These new loads use a polymer jacket. Read more information about the line here.

CCI Copper-22

CCI Ammunition has a new .22 LR round called the Copper-22 that is designed to be “California legal.” The round uses a 21-grain hollow point bullet made of a copper and polymer mix. Muzzle velocity is rated at 1,850 fps. Several online shops have the new load listed at $8.00 – $9.50 for a box of 50.

Currently, the company offers a similar loading with an copper/polymer mix 21-grain bullet. The older load is designated “Short Range Green” and has a muzzle velocity of only 1,650 fps.

Browning Ammunition

Browning announced it will introduce a new line of ammo at the SHOT Show in January 2016. Details on the ammo are still limited, but it looks like the company will offer hunting ammo for both rifles and shotguns as well as personal defense and target loads. As I get more information, I will post it here.

New .308 From Cutting Edge Bullets

Cutting Edge Bullets announced the company will introduce a new 100 grain .308 caliber bullet in the Raptor line at the 2016 SHOT Show. The all-copper bullet has a flat base with polymer tip. When striking the target, four petals are designed to break off for additional wounding, while the solid core penetrates deeply. The bullet has crimping grooves for 300 BLK, 300 Whisper, .300 WT and .308 Win loads. The ballistic coefficient is 0.220, and it is projected to have a MSRP of about $60/50.

LaserMax Guide Rods for Glock 42/43

LaserMax introduced new guide rod lasers for the Glock 42 and Glock 43 pistols. Announced a few weeks before the show, the new red lasers do not add any weight or size to the guns. This means the pistols will fit all of the standard holsters. The suggested retail price on these will be $269.

Event Photos & Videos

General photography and video from the SHOT Show is listed here. This includes crowd shots, personality appearances, social gatherings, training events and more.

Pre-SHOT Show Rumors

In the days and weeks leading up the annual gun trade show, the rumors begin to fly. Details from dealer catalogs, leaked information from private briefings and my own contacts inside the various companies can provide a glimpse at what may be to come.

The information posted here may be completely speculative with, or without, any substantive information to support it. Some of the information may be completely a hoax ginned up by an overenthusiastic gun geek with good Photoshop skills.

If you are familiar with any new guns or other gear that has not yet been announced, or if you’ve heard a particularly good gun rumor, please contact me here.

Glock 17, 19 MOS

There are pretty strong rumors that Glock will introduce optics ready versions of the 17 and 19. The guns have not been officially acknowledged by the company, but there are multiple sites showing advertising, SKUs and more, so I expect this one to be confirmed as soon as the show starts.

Safariland 575 IWB Holster

Safariland may be ready to release an inside-the-waistband version of the 578 Pro-Fit holster. Rumors suggest the new model number would be 575 and it would have the same kind of multi-fit capability that the existing rig has.

Colt Python Reproductions

As I discovered at the NRA Show, F.LLI Pietta has been working on a reproduction Colt Python revolver. I’ve not been able to get any additional information about their work on this gun, but I would expect to see it at SHOT if it is anywhere near completion.

Ruger American Handgun

This one looks real, but Ruger is tight-lipped about it for now. Based on what I am hearing, this could be a huge deal for the company.

Rumor Confirmed: Full details on the gun here.

DB40FS

Diamondback Firearms may introduce a .40 S&W version of its full size pistol at the SHOT Show. The new gun, rumored to be called the DB40FS, would have most of the same dimensions as the existing 9mm version. However, magazines would hold 13 rounds instead of 15. Like the originals, the new pistols would have a polymer frame, be striker fired and have a 4.75″ barrel.

IWI Tavor in .308

Well, it seems that the folks at IWI US are teasing their fans. Recently, they published on Facebook that they could “neither confirm nor deny” rumors of a .308 chambered Tavor rifle. I guess we will just have to wait and see what becomes of this.

Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 380 Pistols – No Safeties

I’m getting from multiple sources that Smith & Wesson will finally release a couple of new Bodyguard 380 pistols that have removed the tiny thumb safeties. More information on them is right here.

Walther PPQ Q5 Match Pistol

Walther appears ready to release a new sporting pistol with a long slide/barrel and a variety of game features. One of the features is the slide is set up for red dot optics. Check out the photo and information here.

Kimber Micro 9

Osage County Guns is reporting that Kimber will introduce a new pistol series called the Micro 9. Similar to the existing Micro pistols chambered for .380 ACP, the new guns will be available as stainless, two-tone and a two-tone with Crimson Trace grips. Osage County Guns is reporting the MSRP will start at $654.

Chiappa AK-9

Wow. I’m not sure what to say, but here is an AK-style pistol that runs 9mm from Beretta 92 magazines. It’s not the prettiest thing I’ve ever seen, but maybe I’m wrong on this one. Read the article and let me know what you think.

Diamondback 308 Rifles

Diamondback will introduce a new line of AR-style .308 rifles to go with the one previously introduced at the 2015 SHOT Show. The base model will have a retail price that is expected to be significantly less than $900. These will be SR-25 magazine compatible.

Smith & Wesson M&P – Second Generation Pistols

It is no secret that Smith & Wesson will be competing for the new military pistol contract. It is also likely the company will go after the new FBI contract. However, one of the overlooked facts is the company stated in its most recent investor relations packet (p.18) that:

The next generation M&P pistol is just one key product in [the strategic product development] pipeline.

In the same document on p. 20, the company stated that the company would submit its “next-generation M&P pistol” for the U.S. Army Modular Handgun System Replacement and that the “new pistol will also serve the consumer market.”

Proposals for the U.S. Army program are due in January 2016, so I expect the company will also show the gun at the SHOT Show.

CZ Scorpion Carbine

I’ve gotten some pretty solid information that CZ-USA will introduce a new carbine version of the Scorpion pistol. A lot of people have been wanting a rifle version of this gun, so it seems like they will get it in 2016. It remains to be seen if they will offer an SBR version.

Update 11/27: Consider this rumor confirmed.

CZ sent Colion Noir some of the new CZ Scorpion carbines to run on the range. Take a look at his video:

Springfield Armory XD-S in .40

I personally think this one is overdue. I have no personal desire to have a subcompact .40 S&W, but there are many people who do. I am guessing that Springfield Armory would like to trade them a gun for their money, but we will just have to wait and see.

Update 1/7: Another rumor confirmed. See the new gun here.

Corbon Civic Duty in .45

Corbon announced its new Civic Duty ammunition in 2015. At the time of this writing, it is only available in 9mm. I expect to see it in .45 ACP at the January show.

CZ 805 Bren A2 Carbine

Like the Scorpion above, I am hearing that we will see a carbine version of the 805 Bren A2 for US customers in January.

Attendee Information

Attending the SHOT Show is a big deal for many people. Making the most of the event requires some planning and a good attitude. Because so many people are expected again in 2016, space will be limited everywhere: on planes, in hotels and on the show floor. Even getting into restaurants around town will be difficult.

The 2016 SHOT Show will be held at the Sands Expo in Las Vegas, Nevada. For those that are familiar with the event, the show will be held in the same location and you can rely on past experience to guide your preps. For the new attendee, Please read through this information – especially the tips section – to make your show as good as it can be.

Show Background

The SHOT Show is firearms industry trade show sponsored by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF.) The NSSF is the dominant trade association in the gun industry and has produced the SHOT Show since its humble beginning in 1979.

The first show was held in St. Louis, Missouri and had less than 6,000 attendees. Since that time, the show has grown and settled into Las Vegas as its regular home. The 2015 SHOT Show saw an attendance of almost 64,000 people, second only to the 2014 SHOT Show where more than 66,000 people attended.

2016 Show Dates

This year the SHOT Show will begin on Tuesday, January 19, 2016 and run through Friday, January 22. For exhibitors, the show floor will be open earlier and later for set up and tear down. If you’ve ever seen the loading dock before or after the show, you know you need to arrive as early as possible to ensure you will have everything delivered in time for a proper set up. The crew at the Sands does a good job, but the project is staggering.

Registration Information

Registration for attendees opened on Monday, August 31, 2015. Registration fees range from $35 – $350 depending on your business within the industry and when you register. Also, NSSF member companies receive a discount on attendee registrations. You can register for the show by clicking here.

Please note that the show is intended for members of the industry only. This is not intended to be a consumer show like the NRA Show. To qualify as an attendee, you will need a federal firearms license (FFL) or ownership of/employment at a company that deals with firearms and/or accessories.

Because of the size of the crowds inhibiting business interactions at the show the NSSF has been forced to closely examine who attends the shows. Hence the drop in attendance from 2014 to 2015. I would expect that fewer people will be at the 2016 show for this reason.

Where to Stay

The great thing about Las Vegas is that there are plenty of places to stay. The most expensive are, of course, the most convenient to the show: the Palazzo and the Venetian. Both of these hotels are attached to the Sands Expo and offer superior accommodations, service and internet service.

In close walking distance are Treasure Island and Harrahs. Both of these hotels are adequate, though overpriced, in my opinion. The service has been marginal at both locations in the past (Harrahs being the worst.) Internet speeds are pretty dismal at both of these hotels.

The farther out you go, the more variety in accommodations – both quality and pricing. Although the NSSF has a travel page, be sure to check other travel sites. I’ve always found better deals going through an outside source.

Attendee Tips

Planning and a positive outlook are your friends when going to the SHOT Show. If you’ve never been before, just understand that you are going to be overwhelmed. If you have the time, take one day to just wander around and soak it all in. The following day you will have some of the wonder out of your system and will be ready to work.

Here are a few things to consider if you will be at the show:

• comfortable shoes and dress – The show is a professional trade show, and you will need to wear something that represents your brand. You will be on your feet all day, so comfortable shoes are an absolute must. Also, if you are a bit out of shape, do a little walking in the weeks leading up to the show. You will be walking for miles every day of the show, and you don’t want to fall out.
• totes, backpacks, roller bags – You will pick up all sorts of brochures, catalogs and swag while at the show. You need some way to carry all of that. There are plenty of booths that will hand out totes, but these are only marginally useful. Bring a quality backpack. A pack is less professional than a briefcase or leather tote, but its usefulness more than makes up for it. Roller bags are a good idea until you actually hit the floor. The show is exceptionally crowded and the bags wind up being a pain to both you and everyone trying to get around you.
• water – Bring a bottle and fill it at one of the many fountains around the show floor. Las Vegas is very dry and you will be talking to a lot of people. Beverages are available from vendors, but they are stupid expensive.
• hand sanitizer – Veterans of the show can tell you about how illness sweeps through the industry in the days following the show. This does not need to be you. Carry and use hand sanitizer. I also recommend taking a few extra vitamins before and during the show to boost your immune system. I’m not a doctor and that is not medical advice. But, I’ve found it works for me.
• photography – If you are not a member of the media, you can be tossed out of the show for taking photos. So, if you want to take any photos, make sure you get permission from the booth personnel before whipping out your camera.
• purchases – No, you cannot buy any new guns at the SHOT Show and carry them home with you. However, there are some companies that will sell non-gun merchandise on the last day of the show because they don’t want to carry it all home again. Blackhawk used to do this before they were purchased by ATK (now Vista Outdoors.) I’ve managed to pick up some gear along the way doing this. Keep in mind these are cash deals.

Industry Day at the Range

The 2016 Industry Day will follow a similar format to that of the prior two years. The event will be by invitation only, with the morning open to media and the afternoon open to buyers and others. In years past, this was a media-only event, but the event has changed to meet the demands of some of the vendors, somewhat diluting its usefulness to those in the media.

As with the past several years, the Industry Day will be held at the Boulder Rifle & Pistol Club. The club maintains a great facility southeast of Las Vegas, near Henderson, NV. The above map is interactive and you can scroll in and get a great satellite view of the facility.

If you are invited to the event, and you will attend for the first time, you should be aware of a few things:

You are in the desert.

There will be many places to pick up complimentary bottles of water while at the range. I still recommend bringing an additional bottle of your own to keep as a back-up should the provided water disappear more quickly than the organizers planned on.

Wear eye pro with some sort of tinting and UV protection to cut down on the bright sun.

Chap stick is never a bad idea. The wind is always whipping out there.

Sometimes it rains, so having a lightweight poncho in your bag is a good idea.

Food

Availability of food has varied a great deal in recent years. Sometimes it has been a catered event, other times they’ve brought in food trucks. Regardless, it is always crowded and tough to find any kind of seating. I suggest taking advantage of whatever they might offer but also bringing a granola bar or two for a snack.

Clothing

Some years it is cold, and other times it has been mild. Dress in layers and make sure you’ve got something that will break the wind. As mentioned, it can rain in the desert.

Much of the range is paved with rocks. Not crushed gravel, mind you, but large rocks that can turn an ankle if you aren’t careful. Wear boots. The last thing you want to do is to twist an ankle on the range and then have an entire week of walking the show floor.

Transportation

Transportation to and from the range is provided via chartered bus. The busses are nice, but usually crowded. Also, they can be pretty hit and miss on the schedule once the day gets started. Be prepared to wait the later in the day you try to ride one (both to the range and back to the hotels from the range.)

The past couple of years, the event has seemed very well prepared to handle car parking. If you have a rental, I’d suggest driving as it allows you to come and go as you please.

Last Update: October 19, 2022