Shot Show is always an exciting experience. New products, night life, hanging out with industry friends, and making new friends. 2026 Shot Show was unique for me as my work load tripled!
New Duties
At the end of 2025 I became the importer, dealer, and service center for Spohr and Sport Target Pistol of Germany. This tied me to a booth for a large portion of the time. Meeting with customers, making sales, and signing up new dealers. Spohr and STP saw great growth with our massive change in sales tactics and the future looks bright.
Range Day
I helped with Industry Day at the Range last year as well. This year was a little different with my new role. Tons of people cycled through the booth trying out Spohr and STP products. I did get a few minutes to get away and shoot a few guns. More on that later.
Away from the Booth
I did manage to take a day away from the booth. There was all this media hype about a few new products from companies. For the most part new (or reintroduced) firearms from manufactures doesn’t excite me much. After spending a couple decades fixing and tuning up those guns it takes something special to draw me in.
The Python
One of the HHA writers is trying to do a review of the new Python clone by Pietta. Called the Blacktooth it is in fact a good clone of the Python. This gun is made like the original which is more likely to have the trigger characteristics that made the Colt famous. The new production Colts lack that distinct action feel.
An old Favorite
On range day the Team Steyr shooter made their way into our booth. Of course I had to ask where Steyr was and if they brought an AUG with them. Within a few minutes I was mag dumping at distance with one of the new 1/7 twist AUG. It didn’t take long and my mind was made up, I had to hit the booth on the show floor and place an order. I will be using an AUG for optics reviews and possibly two gun matches this year! Nothing like running an iconic rifle, one that is just as iconic as our M-16.
Die Hard
The AUG had a role in the first Die Hard movie, so why not continue that theme. Right next to our range day booth was Zenith Firearms. They make their own version of the MP-5 and man was it a blast to shoot! One of these is on my short list to pick up soon! Pair one along with a Beretta M9 and you have a movie classic!
Hot Pick for Shot Show 2026
Double Alpha always has new competition gear and this year they knocked it out of the park. Their new Edge Shot Timer has a ton of features. Programmable, can trigger target actuators for movement, an audible tone that is perfect, and more! This thing will be in my range bag shortly!
Night Life
With all the fun from the range day and the show, what could top it? Fremont Street did just that! Wednesday night made the show a little rough on Thursday but it was a blast! Street performers, good drinks, great food, and Thomas Spohr coming out of his shell. I introduced this unknowing German to the delight we know as a long island iced tea. Three, four, or maybe five of those and it tends to liven up the party.
Wrap Up
Shot Show 2026 was full of good times. Both business and free time. Getting a chance to do some shooting on range day was a huge plus. Meeting with industry partners is what makes Shot Show worth it every year. And making new friends is always a bonus. All of those awesome display Spohr and STP handguns are in the webstore and ready to go home with you! I am already looking forward to Shot Show 2027!
