From Chaos to Clarity: How to Thrive at SHOT Show 2025

From Chaos to Clarity: How to Thrive at SHOT Show 2025

As January approaches, SHOT Show can feel like a tidal wave crashing over you—especially if you haven’t planned ahead. Come December 1st, it will feel as if you’re being hit with the full force of a firehose, drenching you with last-minute details and panic. If you want to make the most of this huge outdoor trade-only event, it’s essential to be prepared. Enough of the water puns? Let’s dive in. Okay, that’s the last one promise!

About the Show: What to Expect

So, what exactly is SHOT Show? SHOT stands for Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade Show, organized by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF). For 2025, SHOT Show will be held at the Venetian Expo and Caesar’s Forum in Las Vegas, Nev. January 21-24. The event attracts media, retailers, wholesalers, distributors, law enforcement, manufacturers and military personnel. It’s important to note that this is not a consumer show.

If you’re in the industry and haven’t signed up yet, you’re missing an opportunity to connect with thousands of professionals and enthusiasts eager to learn about your brand and offerings. It’s the largest trade show of its kind in the world, attracting buyers from over 100 countries and all 50 states. This event offers attendees a fantastic opportunity to network and discover the latest products and brands. The show runs Tuesday through Friday.

One highlight of SHOT Show is Industry Day at the Range, held on Monday, where participants can gain hands-on experience with your products. They’ll have the chance to shoot firearms, try out scopes, test ammo and more. Everything takes place at a large shooting range just miles out of the city in the desert terrain, making it an unforgettable experience! Want to sign up? There’s only a few remaining spots but you can do so here.

Getting Started: Marketing Preparation for SHOT Show

Begin by reaching out to publications to set up meetings with members of your team and the media. This will be essential for ensuring your company is able to get its latest updates and most exciting news on the radar during and after SHOT Show 2025. Speaking of your latest and greatest, be sure to send that info to SHOT Daily for consideration in their daily publication.
Some other very important things to consider include:

  • Booth Graphics | Take a moment to evaluate your current graphics and ensure they accurately showcase your latest offerings. Updating your visuals can make a significant impact on attracting attention and communicating your brand’s message effectively.
  • Content Creation | The content you gather from the show can be a valuable asset for promoting your products and advertising for next year’s event. It can also enhance your social media posts, website, and future projects. Capture photos, b-roll footage, and conduct interviews with publications to create engaging content that keeps your brand in the spotlight long after the show ends!
  • Booth Events | Looking to highlight your product and attract the interest of various publications and buyers all at once? Consider hosting a happy hour in your booth towards the end of the show floor day. It’s a fantastic way to create a relaxed atmosphere for networking and engaging with potential clients and media representatives.
  • New Product Debut | When planning out your new product debuts, consider which products to feature and how to effectively showcase them amidst the competition. Taking these steps will help you stand out and make a lasting impression!
  • Logistics | It’s important to plan your shipping logistics in advance to ensure a smooth presentation. With the right preparation, you can turn this overwhelming rush into a successful showcase for your brand! If you’re realizing you need more help, reach out to Murray Road!

What to Expect: Networking Strategies

Any seasoned attendee will tell you that it’s a massive event—there’s a lot to explore! With over 2,500 exhibits spread across 800,000 square feet, there’s plenty of ground to cover. Before the show kicks off, make sure you’re registered. If you’re managing your own booth, you’ll be busy, but carve out some time to wander the show floor. Here’s a pro tip: download the event app for a detailed map of the show. You’ll find a New Products section, a Supplier Showcase and even a new Archery Business Pavilion, among other features. There are thousands of things to see so plan accordingly. It’s easy to get caught up planning your next Christmas wishlist. Also, don’t forget to wear comfortable shoes—you’ll thank us later!

Expect to meet many attendees. Some who will be interested in buying or testing products. Others who will be interested in writing about, or collaborating with you and your brand. Be sure to have your business cards ready to share, along with a concise elevator pitch that covers your brand and your new products for 2025. After January wraps up, reconnect with those contacts to ensure your brand remains top of mind and encourage them to create content on your behalf, or partner on future projects.

Dining Recommendations: Where to Eat During SHOT Show

The Show may end at 5:30pm every day, but that’s not when the work is done. Having a drink or having dinner with other industry professionals is a great way to network and stay connected with other brands. Here are a few of our top recommendations to check out:

  • TAO for its atmosphere and delicious sushi
  • Smith & Wollensky for a classic steakhouse experience
  • Yardbird for a laid-back burger
  • LAVO for Italian cuisine
  • Estiatorio Milos for fresh seafood

During the day, you can grab a quick bite at the Grand Lux Cafe or enjoy a sit-down lunch meeting with some Mexican cuisine at Cañonita. For breakfast, there’s a Starbucks on-site, but don’t miss the chance to visit the iconic Carlo’s Bakery or the donut shop Donutique. Looking for a quick drink to network? The Venetian Circle Bar is best known for just that, and it has great
views of the casino floor.

Some new spots this year that are definitely on our list include COTE, HaSalon and WAKUDA. See the full list of Venetian restaurants here. These recommendations are specific to the Venetian, but there are plenty of other fantastic places throughout the city. After all, it’s Las Vegas! P.S. Try and book these reservations at least a month out (some allow up to 90 days in advance). They book up quickly for this week!

Here to Help: Marketing Support

SHOT Show offers countless opportunities for exploration, but if you’re feeling unprepared, don’t worry—Murray Road is here to help! As a marketing agency specializing in outdoor marketing, we offer support with events, public relations, content creation, media buying, social media and much more. Reach out to us today, and let’s make your experience a success! See you at SHOT!

META DISC OPTIONS:

Option 1: Get ready for SHOT Show 2025 with expert tips from Murray Road! Discover essential networking strategies, booth preparation advice, and top dining recommendations to
maximize your experience at the largest outdoor trade show. Elevate your brand and connect with industry professionals!

Option 2: Unlock the secrets to success at SHOT Show 2025 with essential tips, networking strategies, and dining recommendations from Murray Road, your trusted outdoor marketing agency. Elevate your brand in the outdoor industry and prepare for an impactful experience!