Each January, the SHOT Show (Shooting, Hunting, Outdoor Trade Show) brings together the leading brands, buyers, and innovators in the firearms, hunting, and outdoor industries. As a full-service exhibit & experiential design firm, PG Exhibits understands what it takes to stand out at SHOT Show 2026 — so we’ve put together this guide to help exhibitors plan, compete, and shine.

Whether you’re a first-time exhibitor or a seasoned presence, this guide will walk you through key dates, logistics, attendance expectations, and how to maximize your impact with a booth that delivers.

Quick Facts About the SHOT Show 2026

• Dates: January 20–23, 2026
• Location: Venetian Expo & Caesars Forum, Las Vegas, NV
• Hours:
  Tuesday–Thursday: 8:30 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.
  Friday: 8:30 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
• Attendees: 54,000+ professionals from the firearms, hunting, law enforcement, and outdoor industries
• Exhibitors: 2,850+ companies across more than 800,000 sq. ft. of exhibit space
• Organizer: National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF)
• Official Website: shotshow.org

Important notes:

• The Supplier Showcase typically precedes or overlaps with the main show floor days, allowing material & service suppliers to connect directly with manufacturers.
• Industry Day at the Range is held leading into the show — giving media and buyers early access to test new firearms and products.
• SHOT Show eXtra provides an expanded opportunity for exhibitors — often in a secondary exhibit area — to show products not found in the main floor.

Top Trends to Watch at SHOT Show 2026

The SHOT Show is the global stage for product launches, networking, and innovation in the shooting sports and tactical space. Here are some key themes expected to dominate in 2026:

1. Next-Generation Firearms & Accessories
   From precision rifles to smart optics, exhibitors continue to push boundaries with advanced materials and integrated technology.
2. Tactical & Law Enforcement Innovation
   Expect to see expanded exhibits in the Law Enforcement Education Program (LEEP) — covering protective gear, communication systems, and training technologies.
3. Outdoor & Hunting Sustainability
   Eco-conscious product design, ethical sourcing, and sustainable manufacturing practices are becoming top priorities across the industry.
4. Digital Tools for Dealers & Manufacturers
   Inventory software, e-commerce integrations, and data-driven marketing tools are reshaping how brands connect with consumers and retail partners.
5. Cross-Industry Collaboration
   SHOT Show continues to blur industry lines, featuring crossover products for military, outdoor recreation, and security professionals.

For more information on the official show schedule, check it out here!

Tips for Exhibitors at SHOT Show

If you’re exhibiting at SHOT Show 2026, preparation is key — especially for large-format booths. Use these tips to maximize your ROI and attract steady traffic on the show floor:

• Plan Your Booth Design Early: Secure your floor space and begin booth design months in advance. Consider modular layouts that can adapt for future events.
• Prioritize Functionality and Flow: In a show this large, clarity is crucial. Incorporate open layouts, meeting areas, and interactive demos to guide visitors naturally through your space.
• Use Technology to Engage: Digital screens, LED lighting, and augmented-reality product demos stand out in the crowded halls of the Venetian Expo.
• Train Your Staff: Every team member should be prepared to greet visitors, qualify leads, and deliver your brand message confidently and consistently.
• Leverage Pre-Show Marketing: Promote your booth on social media, newsletters, and the SHOT Show app. Pre-scheduling appointments helps ensure you’re meeting the right buyers.
• Follow Up Promptly: Post-show follow-up is where most exhibitors win or lose ROI. Use CRM tools and thank-you emails to turn contacts into long-term clients.

How PG Exhibits Supports Your SHOT Show Success

At PG Exhibits, we bring deep experience in designing, fabricating, and executing high-impact exhibits for SHOT Show and other major trade events. Here’s how we can help:

• Custom booth design & storytelling: We translate your brand vision into immersive environments that attract foot traffic.
• Modular and scalable builds: Even large exhibits built for SHOT Show can be reconfigured for regional trips or other events.
• In-house fabrication & graphics: Streamlined quality control, faster changes, and consistency.
• Show services & logistics support: We manage shipping, union labor, installation & dismantle (I&D), under-carpet services, and on-site troubleshooting.
• Local regulatory & vendor relationships: Our team is versed in Las Vegas show rules, contractors, and show operations.
• Lead capture & activation tools: From interactive elements and meeting nooks to digital displays and tech integrations, we help you convert booth visits into measurable outcomes.

Whether you’re launching new product lines, showcasing tactical innovations, or strengthening relationships within the SHOT community, PG Exhibits is here to make your exhibit a polished, effective experience from concept to tear-down.

Practical Tips & Reminders

• Register early! Registration opens in fall 2025. Secure your badges early to avoid long lines and last-minute issues. Register here.
• Order your graphics and components early — lead times are long in the high-demand season.
• Bring versatile lighting and blackout options to adapt to variable booth conditions.
• Use exhibit maps and your scheduled appointments to map daily traffic flow.
• Train your staff to deliver your key message in under 10 seconds — that’s your “elevator pitch” for SHOT’s fast-moving floor.
• Prepare for reconfiguration — bring spare parts, extra lighting, or modular panels in case of damage or last-minute change orders.

Looking Ahead & Final Thoughts

SHOT Show is more than a trade show — it’s the apex event for the shooting, hunting, and outdoor industries. For companies that invest strategically in their exhibit, it offers unmatched exposure, deal flow, and brand positioning.

With the right partner — someone who understands custom exhibit design, Las Vegas logistics, and how to tell a cohesive brand story — your SHOT Show presence can deliver both immediate leads and long-term brand impact.

Ready to plan your SHOT Show exhibit? Contact PG Exhibits today to schedule a design consultation or request a virtual demo of our SHOT Show booth capabilities.