SHOT Show Kicks Off with a Bang at the Range

The Industry Day at the Range event gives attendees the opportunity to shoot and test the latest product introductions and innovations from popular and emerging brands in the hunting and shooting industry.

While the vast majority of hunting-centric products will be on display on the show floor during Shot Show, NWTF staffers checked out various products featured during Industry Day at the Range, some of which outdoorsmen and women may enjoy. Here were a few of our favorites.

Savage knew what they were doing when they crafted this sleek lever-action takedown rifle. It is perfect for hunting small game, plinking, or for those who enjoy shooting a well-made firearm. While it was released last fall originally, it was refined with a threaded barrel and modifications that allows for loading the firearm’s tube without removing a suppressor. The Revel disassembles quickly for cleaning or for packing up to take into the backcountry. With it’s walnut-stock and satin finish, this gun is as enjoyable to look at as it is to shoot.

South Dakota-based suppressor brand Silencer Central had a lineup of quality suppressors to shoot at Industry Day at the Range, from pistols to long-range rifles, with the highlight being the new Banish 9K. This titanium, 3D-printed suppressor features 8 baffles in it’s four-inch design and is an absolute pleasure to shoot.

Whether it is saving your ears, improving your shooting posture or numerous other benefits reaped from hunting suppressed, Silencer Central has your needs covered. Not to mention, they make obtaining a suppressor easy. Keep your eyes peeled on this brand; they have some great new stuff on the horizon.

Turkish-made Spandau had a lineup of their quality shotguns on the range, including their S2 in Mossy Oak Bottomland.

This 28” shotgun is at home in the bottomlands chasing waterfowl but would perform just as well in the turkey woods. With its inertia-driven system, this gun cycled the rounds smoothly and effectively. Spandau's other shotguns were fun to shoot too.

Federal continues to push the envelope in ammunition innovation. Their products were being used by a variety of arms companies at the range — and for good reason.

With its Peak Alloy case, the load has increased chamber pressures, which increases energy and velocity far beyond what conventional brass casings can do. Coupled with Federal’s 7mm cartridge, a high-velocity round meant for shooting heavier grain bullets out of shorter barrels, this is a must try for long-range big game hunters.  

Originally released in early 2024, Aimpoint’s unique shotgun red dot can be utilized in a variety of situations. The sight differs from others by being placed further down the barrel than traditional sights by utilizing the vent rib. The sight, with its accompanying mounts, can fit on virtually all shotguns.

HEDS had their Direct Strike Red Dot sights on the range. While not typically used in a hunting application, mounting a reflex sight to a pistol slide has never been easier. No more need to have a pistol slide milled for mounting a sight thanks to use of a patented heavy-duty magnetic base. Also included in the full sight system, along with the magnetic base, is a rear-iron sight and a reflex sight of your choice, including a green or red dot, or multi-reticle sight.

Range day was an absolute blast, but thousands more products await as the floor for the 47^th annual SHOT Show opens up tomorrow. Stay tuned as we seek out the best products for turkey hunters, outdoor enthusiasts and recreational shooters.