Inside SHOT Show: The Ultimate Guide for First-Time Attendees

Attending SHOT Show for the first time is both exciting and overwhelming. With thousands of exhibitors, miles of aisles, private meetings, networking events, and product launches happening all at once, it’s easy to feel unprepared. This guide is designed to give first-time attendees a complete, insider-level understanding of how to prepare, what to expect, and how to maximize every minute on the show floor.

Whether you’re a retailer, media professional, content creator, manufacturer, distributor, or industry professional, this guide will help you walk into SHOT Show confident, organized, and ready to make the most of the experience.

What Is SHOT Show?

SHOT Show—formally known as the Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade Show—is the largest trade event of its kind in the world. Hosted annually in Las Vegas, SHOT Show brings together tens of thousands of industry professionals from around the globe.

This is not a consumer event. SHOT Show is strictly for qualified industry professionals, media, and invited guests. It is where new products are launched, dealer relationships are formed, trends are established, and business gets done for the entire year ahead.

Where SHOT Show Takes Place

SHOT Show is held in Las Vegas, Nevada, primarily across large convention spaces such as:

• The Venetian Expo
• Caesars Forum
• Additional connected venues and meeting spaces

The show floor alone spans millions of square feet, making planning and navigation critical for first-time attendees.

Who Should Attend SHOT Show?

SHOT Show is designed for professionals within the shooting sports, outdoor, tactical, and related industries. Typical attendees include:

• Retail store owners and buyers
• Manufacturers and product designers
• Distributors and wholesalers
• Media professionals and journalists
• Content creators, influencers, and reviewers
• Law enforcement and military procurement professionals

If your business or career touches this industry in any professional capacity, SHOT Show is one of the most valuable events you can attend.

How to Register for SHOT Show

Registration for SHOT Show is handled through the official SHOT Show website. You must apply and be approved, as credentials are verified. Be prepared to provide:

• Business information
• Industry affiliation
• Professional references or credentials

Register early. Approval can take time, and hotels near the venue fill quickly.

Booking Hotels and Travel

Las Vegas becomes extremely busy during SHOT Show week. Booking early is essential.

Hotel Tips

• Stay within walking distance or on the Venetian side if possible
• Plan for higher-than-normal rates
• Consider travel time between venues

Flights

Arrive at least one day early if possible. Delays during SHOT Show week are common, and you don’t want to miss opening day.

What to Bring to SHOT Show

Preparation is everything at SHOT Show. Bring tools that help you work efficiently.

• Comfortable walking shoes (non-negotiable)
• Business cards or digital contact tools
• A notebook or note-taking app
• Portable phone charger
• A lightweight backpack or bag

You will walk several miles per day. Dress professionally but comfortably.

Navigating the Show Floor

The SHOT Show floor is massive. Attempting to “see everything” is a mistake.

Plan Your Route

Before arriving, review the exhibitor list and floor map. Identify must-see booths and prioritize them by day.

Schedule Appointments

If you are attending for business purposes, schedule meetings in advance. Many exhibitors operate on back-to-back meetings all day.

Allow Buffer Time

Moving between halls can take 20–30 minutes. Always plan buffer time between meetings.

Product Launches and New Releases

SHOT Show is where many companies debut their newest products. You’ll often see innovations months before they hit the market.

This makes SHOT Show invaluable for:

• Retail buying decisions
• Content creation and reviews
• Trend forecasting

Networking at SHOT Show

Some of the most important conversations happen off the show floor.

After-Hours Events

Manufacturers, distributors, and media companies host private events throughout the week. These are excellent opportunities to build relationships.

Be Intentional

Introduce yourself clearly, explain what you do, and focus on building long-term connections—not just quick pitches.

Media and Content Creation Tips

If you are attending as media or a content creator:

• Book interviews ahead of time
• Bring proper audio and video equipment
• Have a content plan before you arrive

SHOT Show content performs extremely well online, especially when published during or immediately after the event.

Common Mistakes First-Time Attendees Make

• Trying to see everything
• Wearing uncomfortable shoes
• Not scheduling meetings ahead of time
• Underestimating travel time between halls
• Failing to follow up after the show

Following Up After SHOT Show

The real value of SHOT Show often comes after you return home.

• Send follow-up emails within one week
• Organize contacts and notes immediately
• Review products and opportunities discussed

Consistent follow-up is what turns SHOT Show conversations into real business results.

Why SHOT Show Is Worth It

SHOT Show is more than a trade show—it’s where the industry connects, evolves, and sets the tone for the year ahead. For first-time attendees, it can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation and mindset, it becomes an incredibly powerful experience.

Plan ahead, stay focused, build relationships, and treat SHOT Show as an investment in your professional future.

If you approach it with intention, SHOT Show will quickly become one of the most valuable events you attend year after year.