By Mark J. Bartlett

The 2025 Annual Industry Day at the Range kicks off this January 20, 2025, setting the stage for the much-anticipated SHOT Show. Held at the sprawling Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club in Boulder City, Nevada, this premier event is where innovation meets precision, providing a hands-on preview of the latest advancements in firearms, ammunition, and outdoor gear.

A Gateway to the SHOT Show

As the official prelude to the SHOT Show—the largest trade show for professionals in the shooting, hunting, and outdoor industries—Industry Day at the Range plays a critical role. The event allows media representatives, influencers, and industry professionals to experience new products in action before they hit the trade show floor.

The Boulder Rifle and Pistol Club’s location is pivotal for hosting an event of this scale. Its expansive layout, equipped with multiple ranges and specialized areas for testing various types of gear, provides the perfect backdrop for showcasing the industry’s innovations.

Bridging the Gap: Industry Day and SHOT Show

Industry Day at the Range complements the SHOT Show by offering live demonstrations and interactive experiences that provide invaluable insights. Unlike the bustling trade show floor, which focuses on networking and business deals, the range day emphasizes hands-on testing and real-world performance. This synergy allows participants to see, feel, and hear the capabilities of products before delving into technical discussions at SHOT Show booths.

“This event gives us a chance to engage with products directly,” remarked Sarah Jenkins, a prominent firearms reviewer. “It’s a rare opportunity to connect with manufacturers and test their claims firsthand.”

Highlights from the 2025 Event
The 2025 Industry Day at the Range was a showcase of cutting-edge technology and craftsmanship. Notable exhibitors included:
• Smith & Wesson unveiled their new M&P5 line, featuring enhanced ergonomics and a modular platform designed for adaptability.
• Federal Ammunition introduced their EcoDefense series, a biodegradable ammunition line emphasizing sustainability without compromising performance.
• Vortex Optics demonstrated their Razor HD Gen III scopes, offering unparalleled clarity and precision.
• SIG Sauer premiered their revolutionary MCX-SPEAR LT, a lightweight rifle platform gaining attention for its versatility.
Live-fire demonstrations drew significant attention, with brands showcasing everything from precision rifles to advanced suppressors. Participants praised the event’s immersive nature. “Getting to test these products on the range adds a layer of understanding that’s impossible to achieve through brochures or videos,” said influencer Alex McKnight.

Hands-On Experiences

One of the standout features of Industry Day at the Range is the interactive opportunities provided by exhibitors. Attendees could:

• Test the recoil and accuracy of new handguns on the pistol ranges.
• Experience the performance of long-range rifles on specialized setups with targets exceeding 1,000 yards.
• Engage in live demonstrations of suppressor technology, highlighting noise reduction advancements.
• Participate in virtual reality shooting simulations, blending technology with traditional firearms training.

For example, Beretta’s booth featured a live demonstration of their A400 Xtreme Plus shotgun in action, allowing attendees to test its new Kick-Off Mega recoil reduction system.

Emerging Trends and Innovations

Several key trends emerged from the 2025 event, pointing to the future of the industry:

• Sustainability: Federal Ammunition’s EcoDefense series is part of a broader movement towards environmentally friendly products.
• Smart Optics: Companies like Leupold and Vortex introduced scopes with integrated rangefinders and ballistic calculators, streamlining precision shooting.
• Lightweight Platforms: Innovations in materials and design are producing firearms and gear that are lighter without sacrificing durability.
• Customization: Modular designs are becoming the norm, allowing users to tailor firearms to their specific needs.

“The industry is moving towards smarter, greener, and more adaptable products,” noted Michael Simmons, a veteran in the firearms trade.

Attendee Insights

Feedback from attendees underscored the event’s value. Influencers appreciated the content creation opportunities, while retailers gained insights into emerging market trends.

“As a retailer, this event is invaluable,” said Paul Roberts, owner of a regional outdoor gear chain. “It gives me a head start in understanding what customers will be asking for in the coming months.”

Media professionals, including writers and videographers, highlighted the importance of first-hand experiences in crafting authentic and engaging stories. “Shooting the gear and seeing its capabilities allows me to create content that truly resonates with my audience,” explained journalist Emily Carter.

Networking and Relationship Building

Beyond the products, Industry Day at the Range is a hub for networking. Attendees forged connections with manufacturers, distributors, and fellow professionals. Informal conversations often led to collaborations, product reviews, and marketing opportunities.

“It’s not just about the gear—it’s about the relationships,” emphasized Chris Hall, a marketing executive for a leading optics company. “Events like these are where partnerships are born.”

Capturing the Excitement

Dynamic visuals captured the energy and excitement of the event:

• Live-Fire Demonstrations: Images of participants testing rifles against distant steel targets, their concentration evident as they gauged precision and performance.
• Exhibitor Booths: Close-ups of innovative products, like the intricate mechanisms of the new Glock 47.
• Interactive Displays: Photos of attendees trying out VR shooting simulations, a crowd favorite.

Building Momentum for the SHOT Show

As the Industry Day at the Range concluded, excitement for the SHOT Show reached a fever pitch. With its blend of live demonstrations and in-depth trade show presentations, the SHOT Show promises to build on the momentum generated at the range.

For more information about Industry Day at the Range, visit www.shotshowrangeday.com. To explore the SHOT Show, head to www.shotshow.org.

Reflecting on a Premier Event

The 2025 Annual Industry Day at the Range proved once again why it’s a cornerstone of the shooting, hunting, and outdoor industries. By combining innovation, precision, and hands-on experiences, the event set the tone for another successful SHOT Show.

Whether you’re an industry veteran or a newcomer, this event is an unmissable opportunity to witness the cutting-edge developments shaping the future. Mark your calendars and prepare for the next evolution in shooting sports and outdoor gear.