So you’re going to your first SHOT Show? Awesome. You’re in for a treat. I’ve been going for ten years now, or maybe 11? I don’t remember. Those are rookie numbers compared to some of my friends, but enough to help my fellow writer. Not just writers but new content creators. You can be a video guy, a photo guy, a social media guy, or a gun writer like myself and benefit from this article.
It’s a small niche of folks for sure, but I wish I had this type of guide when I first went to SHOT. In fact, it took me a few years to find my groove and to really make my bones with the show. Please feel free to learn from my experience. I might not have pro status, but I take the show seriously. I often find two types of content creators who go to SHOT.
You have the miserable, jaded, gun-writer type who will complain about everything. Then you have the lost newbie who’s excited but confused. I’ve been going for a decade now, and I still enjoy the show. I miss my family, but SHOT is still a good time for me. As someone who’s both experienced and still enjoys the show, allow me to provide you with a little advice.
Your First SHOT Show – Know What You’re Going For
Are you going to SHOT to capture the show for your audience? Are you trying to get hands on with as many new products as possible to show your followers? Your readers? Your viewers? Perfect. You and I are in the same boat. If I’m taking time away from my family, I’m doing it to work.
Are you going to see famous guntubers? That’s fine. It’s the place to do it. Follow their socials, and they will likely be doing a meetup.
Are you going to get drunk at various parties? That’s fine. It might not be my thing, but there are lots and lots of fun parties and networking opportunities. I’m socially awkward and anxious, so I prefer to stick to the hardware.
The point is that you should know what you’re trying to do at the show. Your first SHOT Show can be confusing, but before you can do anything, decide the level of work and play you want to indulge in.
Have a Plan
SHOT Show is huge. I spent about three years getting lost on the floor. Here’s my suggestion: make a plan. The NSSF releases the SHOT Show floor layout online with a phone book-like listing of each booth, their number, and where they are. Make a list of booths you know you want to hit. I always hit the big ones, but I do them in order.
If I have to hit Ruger and they are in the Caesar’s Forum, and then I want to hit Bear Creek Arsenal, and they are in the first floor ‘dungeon,’ I’m in for a long walk just to hit two booths. Instead, I’m hitting everything I want to see on the first floor, starting at one side and working my way to the next. I have a written list of where I’m going and why. This maximizes my time, and along the way, I see most of the show anyway and can stop as necessary.
Wear Good Shoes and Socks
You’ll be walking a lot. I typically do over ten miles per day during SHOT Show. Bring comfy shoes and wear good socks. Merino wool is fantastic and comfortable. Good broken-in boots are my go-to. It’s mostly because Vegas is disgusting, and I want the protection boots offer. Don’t bring anything you need to break in.
A Messenger Bag is Better
A bag to carry your stuff and the stuff you’ll pick up is a must-have. Backpacks are fine but a real pain at times. It’s easy to swing your backpack into another person and a pain to keep taking it on and off. I suggest a messenger bag. It rides in front of you and out of the way; it’s easy to access and less obnoxious. Trust me, the messenger is the way to go at SHOT Show.
Drink Water
It’s Vegas, baby! You’ll be tempted to have a few beers or drinks and go ahead and imbibe, but drink water. You don’t want to deal with dehydration and death on the show floor. Keep yourself hydrated and wash your hands!
Dress For the Range
I love it when it’s windy and wet at the SHOT Show range. It scares away the guys that aren’t about that life. With that in mind, beanies, a jacket, and good pants are a must-have. You can get ears and eyes at the range, but I’d suggest you bring your own. Go digital with the ear pro so you can hear presentations and get answers to your questions.
SHOT Show Survival
That’s it, that’s the tricks and tips I’ve developed going to SHOT. If it’s your first time, wake up early, stay late, and put in work!
