Last updated August 2026 · By Nick Hall, SHOT Show 2024 attendee who reports firsthand on new industry releases
The 46th SHOT Show has just closed the doors in Las Vegas. And while the industry is under fire, it continues to grow with record attendance numbers and a series of awesome new product launches.
The Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show packed in to The Venetian and Caeser’s Forum over four days. More than 55,400 industry professionals and enthusiasts packed the halls, the invite only first day at the range and the live action areas.
Manufacturer launches are always a big part of the annual SHOT Show and this year was a doozy. Here are our top picks from the show.
Table of Contents
How we tested: Every pick here is ranked against our testing methodology. Minimum round counts, accuracy and reliability protocols, the failures that disqualify a gun. Where we have not shot a specific variant ourselves, we say so in that section.
1. Daniel Defense H9
The real surprise with the Daniel Defense H9 is that we’ve seen it before.
The company has built on the design of the old Hudson H9, which promised so much and yet underdelivered in terms of reliability and replacement parts.
If the makers of some of the best AR-15s on the market has figured out the recipe, though, then this could be a brilliant new take on a 9mm handgun.
This is a hybrid of a 1911 and a striker-fired pistol, combining the best of both worlds. It has a crisp and light trigger, a low bore axis, and a sleek design.
It offers Glock capacity, match-grade accuracy and incredible repeatability thanks to the low bore axis that brings the major components in line.
2. FN Reflex Micro Compact
The FN Reflex hopes to mark itself apart from the micro-compact 9mm crowd with an internal hammer, rather than the standard striker fired pistol approach.
Is a better trigger pull enough of a USP to make it in this ultra competitive market? It might be…
Check out the best micro compact pistols here.
3. Oracle Arms 2311
It is an aluminum framed 2011 that runs on Sig P320 magazines, or it’s the next generation of handgun, however you want to look at it.
After a troubled start, Oracle Arms is now ironing out the early issues with reliability and manufacturing. The 2024 SHOT show launch is basically a second coming, but the early reports are that this gun is finally ready to deliver.
Essentially it’s a lightweight 2011 without a beavertail grip safety, a linkless barrel design and other bonuses. Competitive shooters are starting to adopt them and you should take a look.
4. Laugo Arms Alien
This is a futuristic-looking pistol that has a fixed barrel and a gas-delayed blowback system, resulting in low recoil and high accuracy. It has a 4.8-inch barrel, a steel frame, and a polymer grip. It also has a top-mounted iron sight, a quick-change slide, and a modular trigger.
Now the price is insane, but the tech is intriguing. And it has been well received by gun enthusiasts and serious target shooters.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is SHOT Show?
SHOT Show is the largest firearms industry trade show in the world, held annually in Las Vegas. It is organized by the NSSF and features new product launches, industry meetings, and range demonstrations.
Can the public attend SHOT Show?
No. SHOT Show is a trade-only event restricted to firearms industry professionals, media, law enforcement, and military. You need legitimate industry credentials to attend. It is not open to the general public.
When is SHOT Show held?
SHOT Show is typically held in January at the Venetian Expo Center (formerly Sands Expo) in Las Vegas, Nevada. The show runs 4 days plus industry day at the range. Dates vary by year.
What happens at SHOT Show?
Manufacturers unveil new firearms, ammunition, optics, and accessories. Industry buyers place orders. Media covers product launches. The range day allows hands-on testing of new products before they hit retail.
How many people attend SHOT Show?
SHOT Show draws approximately 55,000 to 60,000 attendees annually, with 2,500 or more exhibiting companies. The show floor covers over 600,000 square feet of exhibit space.
What were the best new guns from SHOT Show 2024?
Highlights included new entries in the micro-compact carry market, expanding suppressor options following NFA changes, and next-generation optics integration. Check our SHOT Show coverage for specific model details.
Is SHOT Show in Las Vegas every year?
SHOT Show has been held in Las Vegas since 1979 and has remained there consistently. The Venetian Expo Center provides the massive floor space needed. There are no current plans to relocate.
How do I get into SHOT Show?
You need to work in the firearms industry as a manufacturer, dealer, distributor, law enforcement, military, or credentialed media. Apply through the NSSF website with proof of your industry role.
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