History of SHOT Show and Its Growth Over Time

21st Jan 2025

Be sure to visit Derya Arms at booth 13822 to see some of the latest innovations in the industry.
Origins:
The Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show was first held in 1979 in St. Louis, Missouri. Originally conceived by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF), the SHOT Show was designed as a premier event for professionals in the firearms, ammunition, hunting, shooting sports, and outdoor industries to gather, showcase products, and conduct business.
Early Years and Rotating Venues:
  • 1979 - 2009: The SHOT Show rotated among various U.S. cities including Las Vegas, Orlando, New Orleans, and others. This rotation was intended to offer greater accessibility to industry members from different regions but also reflected the event's growing popularity and the need for more substantial venues.
  • Growth in Attendance and Size: Over the years, the show saw a steady increase in both attendance and exhibition space. For example, by the early 2000s, it was evident that the SHOT Show had become one of the top 25 trade shows in the United States in terms of size and impact.
Settling in Las Vegas:
  • 2010 Onwards: Since 2010, the SHOT Show has been held exclusively in Las Vegas at the Sands Expo, which was later renamed the Venetian Expo in September 2021. This move to a permanent location was partly due to the logistical advantages of hosting such a large event in one place, including the city's infrastructure for hosting major events, accommodations, and convention facilities.
  • Venue Expansion: The decision to stay in Las Vegas was also influenced by the need for more consistent and expansive space. The Venetian Expo offers over 630,000 square feet of exhibition space, significantly larger than many previous venues, allowing for more exhibitors, more products, and a more comprehensive industry showcase.
Growth Metrics:
  • Attendance: The SHOT Show has seen a significant increase in attendance over the years. By the time it settled in Las Vegas, it was regularly drawing over 60,000 attendees, making it one of the largest events of its kind.
  • Exhibitor Growth: The number of exhibitors has also expanded, showcasing not only firearms but a wide array of related products including optics, apparel, safety equipment, and more, reflecting the broadening scope of the shooting sports and outdoor industry.
  • Economic Impact: The economic impact of the SHOT Show has grown alongside its physical size. It brings considerable revenue to Las Vegas, not just from ticket sales but from hospitality, transportation, and local businesses benefiting from the influx of visitors.
Recent Developments:
  • 2025 and Beyond: The SHOT Show is contracted to remain in Las Vegas through at least 2027, indicating its established status as a key industry event. The 2025 SHOT Show, scheduled for January 21–24, promises to continue this tradition of growth, with highlights including new product unveilings, networking opportunities, and educational seminars.
  • Technological and Market Trends: Over time, the SHOT Show has adapted to include more technology-driven products, reflecting changes in the industry like the rise of smart firearms, advanced optics, and digital hunting aids.
Conclusion:
The SHOT Show has transformed from a regional industry gathering to an international event that not only reflects but also shapes the direction of the shooting sports, hunting, and outdoor industries. Its growth in scale, attendance, and scope mirrors the expansion and evolution of these sectors, making it an essential calendar event for professionals worldwide. The stability of hosting the event in Las Vegas has allowed for consistent year-over-year growth, establishing the SHOT Show as a landmark event in the industry's calendar.
And don't forget to visit Derya Arms at booth 13822 to see some of the latest innovations in the industry.
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