Hunting and outdoors industry manufacturers and retailers from around the country gathered in Nashville, Tennessee, March 9-10, 2020, for a trade show geared exclusively toward the brick and mortar and online distribution of a staggering array of innovative products. In this, the inaugural year for the Hunting Retailer Show, more than 35 companies were on hand to say howdy, shake hands and show off their wares — despite a recent tornado and the early rumblings of the COVID-19 outbreak. Everything from archery equipment to firearms and accessories, retailer software solutions, hunting optics, hunting boots and so much more were on display.
Hosted by COLE Publishing, owner of Grand View Outdoors (GVO), the event was designed to fill the need for a hunting-specific trade show — the horsepower to promote and launch the event provided by GVO’s business-to-business titles: Hunting Retailer, Shooting Sports Retailer, Tactical Retailer, Recreational Retailer, Bait & Tackle Business and Archery Business.
Here are some of the products that were front and center at the 2020 Hunting Retailer Show.
Air ONYX Tactical Crossbow
Air Venturi, a leading manufacturer and importer of airguns and airsoft guns is pleased to showcase the ONYX crossbow, the industry’s first and only one-push cocking (OPC) crossbow. The ONYX features collapsible limbs for easier transport and an arrow speed of up to 330 fps. But the biggest differentiator is the one-push cocking system powered by a refillable high-pressure air tank. A simple touch of a button cocks and de-cocks the bow, erasing the safety concerns associated with traditional crossbows, which hunters often carry fully cocked and ready to fire. With the ONYX, hunters can automatically cock the crossbow when needed, immediately before shooting. MSRP: $1,749.99/Basic combo; $2,059.99/Premium combo; $3,199.99/Ultimate combo. Contact: www.airventuri.com
Alaska Guide Creations Kodiak C.U.B.
There are times when it is better to have more than not enough. Integrating simplicity and utility, the Kodiak C.U.B. (compact utility bag) delivers an optimal storage solution in a compact unit. In its main compartment, the C.U.B. will accommodate binoculars with up to 42mm objective lenses — most 8x42mm and 10x42mm models — measuring approximately 6.5 inches tall by 6 inches wide by 3 inches deep. It employs a hook and bungee closure system that allows for quiet and easy one-handed operation. For additional storage the C.U.B. also has spacious and secure front, side and rear compartments. MSRP: $99.99. Contact: www.alaskaguidecreations.com
Alpine Innovations Scope Slicker
The Alpine Innovations Scope Slicker is available in three weatherproof versions — the DX Ultralight, NX .5mm Neoprene and NX2 2mm Neoprene — designed to keep riflescopes protected from the elements. The ultra-light DX features retaining bands to keep it securely in place. Just flip up each end to view through the optics, then flip them back down to cover the scope. Each end includes a pocket with a microfiber cleaning cloth attached inside. The NX and NX2 offer all of the features of the DX with added neoprene impact protection. Models are available to fit and protect all commonly used hunting scopes. MSRP: $16.99-$29.99. Contact: www.alpineproducts.com
American Rebel AR-50 Gun Safe
Constructed entirely of pressure-formed American-made steel, the American Rebel AR-50 gun safe is built tough — designed and engineered to keep firearms safe and secure in a stylish unit. The AR-50 is the largest safe in the American Rebel lineup, with a capacity of more than 40 guns. It features stout 11-gauge steel walls (three times stronger than the standard 14-gauge steel used for many imported safes), 14 locking bolts, 4.5-inch double-plate steel plate door and 1.25-inch diameter door bolts. It also has interior LED lighting with a motion sensor. Available in three trim models, the AR-50 measures 40 inches wide by 72 inches high by 28.5 inches deep and weighs approximately 925 pounds. MSRP: $2,999.99. Contact: www.americanrebel.com
ATN THOR LT 160 3-6X Thermal Riflescope
ATN’s ThOR LT is the lightest thermal riflescope in its ThOR lineup, providing more versatility when mounting to a crossbow, air rifle or other shooting platform where weight is a critical factor. It is also the least expensive in the ThOR line, while upgraded with ATN’s new cutting edge 320x240 12um resolution sensor for optimum performance. The ThOR LT is easy to mount using standard 30mm rings and its intuitive controls shorten the learning curve and get hunters out in the field quicker. And they can stay there longer, too, because the LT 160’s internal lithium-ion battery has an incredible 10-plus hours of run time. MSRP: $1,199. Contact: www.atncorp.com
Celerant Cumulus Gun Shop Software
Celerant is a premier provider of gun shop software, including shooting range software, gun store POS systems and firearms dealer software in the United States, serving the firearms industry for close to two decades. Sportsman retailers can leverage its solutions integrated electronic A&D book, e4473 and digital waivers, easily import products from vendor catalogs such as Sports South, Zanders and RSR, and upload products to third-party marketplaces such as GunBroker, Guns.com and Amazon. As a preferred software provider of the NSSF and the NRA, Celerant supports the hunting, archery and outdoor industries and will continue to do so long-term with its gun store eCommerce and other retail management solutions. Contact: www.celerant.com
Coreware Corestore
Corestore from Coreware is a great point of sale solution for firearms dealers, and it is cloud-based so it can be accessed from anywhere. Dealers with multiple stores can see on one screen how all of them are performing. At the heart of Corestore is a powerful inventory control system with the ability to conduct all business transactions from one screen. Sales and returns, layaways, consignments, exchanges, trade-ins, special orders, estimates, rentals, work orders — it’s all here. And sales associates can be trained in a matter of minutes. Other features include the ability to scan a customer’s driver’s license and email receipts, easily import and export data, set up tiered pricing and much more. MSRP: $99-$199/per month, per location. Contact: www.corestore.info
EOTech Magnifiers
EOTech has added three weapon sight magnifiers to its 2020 product lineup. The G30, G43 and G45 join the existing G33, the magnifier used by members of U.S. Special Operations Command. The G43 is one of the most compact and lightweight magnifiers available. Its flip mount provides fast transitioning from 3X to 1X and the optic offers tool-free vertical and horizontal adjustments. The G45 5X magnifier has similar weight and dimensional properties as the G33 magnifier, but with an additional 2X magnification for precision aiming at greater distances. The G30 provides shooters with the same great magnification properties as EOTech’s G33 magnifier at less than half the cost. MSRP: $319/G30; $629/G43; $699/G45. Contact: www.eotechinc.com
Fort Scott Munitions Pack & Load Ammo
Shooters looking for an efficient and economical solution for auto-loading their magazines, need look no further than the Pack & Load “ammo box” — manufactured by the Right Tool Company and loaded with 30 rounds of Fort Scott Munitions Non-TUI/Non-Solid Copper range ammunition. The shooter doesn’t even have to touch the ammo. Simply remove the wrapper along the perforated edge located at the top and locate and pull the removable tab at the bottom of the ammo rounds. Place the Pack & Load cup on top of the magazine and place the index finger on top of the pusher saddle, with the thumb and middle finger on each end of the pusher. Firmly press downward, driving the rounds into the magazine. MSRP: $18.49. Contact: www.fortscottmunition.com
FosTech ECHO AR-II Trigger
The Echo AR-II trigger from FosTech is a drop-in design that allows the shooter to select from three different firing modes: Safe, where the firearm will not fire; Semi-automatic, where the firearm fires when the trigger is pulled; and Echo, where the firearm fires when trigger is pulled and also when the trigger is released. The Echo trigger is designed with safety being the utmost priority. When the shooter is in the Echo mode and depresses the trigger one round is fired. If the target moves, the shooter can move the selector to the safe position and a second round will not fire upon release. The ECHO is ATF approved and has a light, clean and crisp pull in the semi-automatic mode. MSRP: $479. Contact: www.fostech.us
Hunter’s Blend Coffee Original Roast
Hunter’s Blend Coffee Original Roast is a smooth blend of perfectly roasted Central American and East Asian coffee that will get hunters out of bed and into the woods in the morning. It’s made in small batches in Mechanicsburg, Ohio, roasted from direct trade sourced green coffee. And while many coffee importers support lobbyists who work against hunting and Second Amendment rights, by choosing Hunter’s Blend consumers are not only getting great coffee and gear made by hunters, for hunters, they’re also supporting the hunting community and its traditional way of life. MSRP: $14.50/12 ounces. Contact: www.huntersblendcoffee.com
JTS Group M12AR Shotgun
The JTS M12AR semi-auto tactical shotgun features the familiar controls of an AR-platform rifle in a 12-gauge format, giving the shooter the comfortable feel of an AR and the flexibility of adding optics and other accessories via its Picatinny rail. Designed to chamber 2.75- and 3-inch shotshells, it has a four-position adjustable gas system to accommodate a wide variety of loads. The M12AR accepts Rem. chokes and comes with two five-round magazines. It has an 18.7-inch chrome-lined barrel, removeable front and rear sights and an aluminum forearm with M-Lok compatible slots on the 3, 6, and 9 o’clock positions and two side plates. Overall length is 37.99 inches. MSRP: $599.
Contact: www.jtsgroup.us
Kenetrek Mountain Extreme Boots
Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boots give hardcore hunters the wherewithal to pursue their favorite high altitude big game species no matter what Ma Nature throws at them. They feature 10-inch tall 2.8mm thick premium full-grain leather uppers with one-piece vamp construction with no seams down the tongue for abrasion resistance and waterproofing. Reinforced double and triple stitching make them durable and they have 7mm nylon midsoles for extra support when packing heavy loads. Other features include a reinforced rubber sole guard for abrasion resistance, Windtex waterproof breathable flexible membrane and lightweight K-Talon outsoles for positive traction. Kenetrek Mountain Extreme boots are available in non-insulated and 400- and 1,000-gram insulated versions. MSRP: $465-$505. Contact: www.kenetrek.com
Klymit Cross Canyon Tents
Available in two-, three- and four-person models, Klymit Cross Canyon tents feature a rectangular freestanding design that allows for multiple sleeping configurations — a great weekend warrior tent built to deliver comfortable interior living space with exceptional storage options at a great value. The series features quality materials and premium aluminum poles. Two entry doors and dual overhead ventilation keep the tent cool and condensation free, and easy setup and takedown means less time spent working and more time spent enjoying the outdoors. A multi-anchor point front vestibule creates a spacious storage area protected from wind and rain and three overhead pockets and two corner pockets provide spacious interior storage options. MSRP: $199.95 to $249.95. Contact: www.klymit.com
Kolpin Rhino Grip XLR
Kolpin’s newest addition to the Rhino Grip family has been redesigned to have increased clamping functionality, stronger arms, stronger straps and the ability to move the arms independently to grab different-sized gear. With a weight capacity of 15 pounds and durable flexible grips that cushion and protect while providing a custom fit, they securely hold tools, firearms, bows, crossbows, fishing poles and other gear. A heavy-duty base system mounts to tubular or square bars or flat, drillable surfaces. A thumb-screw-actuated grip stabilizer allows 360-degree rotation and the grips can be easily removed from the base via a thumbscrew. Heavy-duty retaining straps, hardware and mounting plates are included. MSRP: $29.99/Pair. Contact: www.kolpinoutdoors.com
L&Q Tactical Laptop Backpack
The Laptop Backpack from L&Q Tactical comes equipped with padded air mesh shoulder straps and back panel and has a robust grab-and-go handle. It will safely transport up to a 17-inch laptop computer via its spacious main padded compartment with a rigid board for enhanced support and stability. It also features a zippered tablet pocket, a zippered pocket with an organizer/office panel and a kidney pad with a hidden, padded zippered pocket for a concealed weapon. An integrated rain fly keeps the backpack dry and stows away in the bottom. MSRP: $150. Contact: www.lqtactical.com
Mc3 Tradition Remington Stock
The Mc3 Tradition Remington hunting stock is the newest generation of high-performance rifle stocks designed, engineered and manufactured by McMillan. This classic hunting stock is modeled after McMillan’s best-selling hunting stock, the Game Scout, and is compatible with most short- and long-action Remington 700 rifles with a factory hinged floor plate and a molded barrel channel. It upgrades the original Remington 700 with a completely solid stock, constructed from a state-of-the-art proprietary polymer blend called Zenolite, resulting in a stronger, stiffer product. The Mc3 Tradition stock weighs 2.8 to 3 pounds, has a fixed LOP of 13.5 inches and includes a 1-inch McMillan recoil pad by Pachmayr, two front sling studs, one rear sling stud and three finish options. MSRP: $269-$319. Contact: www.mc3stocks.com
Mountain Lakes Custom Embroidered Caps
You design it and they will make it. Mountain Lakes high-quality custom hats are a popular and cost effective way to advertise any company or product. And it now has a special offer on custom embroidered caps in numerous fabric types in a rainbow of color choices. The price includes free setup and up to 10,000 stitches, choice of fabric and embroidery locations, pre-curved bill and proof sample by photo — or just pay shipping for a physical proof product. For an extra charge puff embroidery and a sandwich bill are also available. MSRP: $3.25 plus shipping/minimum quantity of 288; $1.98 plus shipping/large quantity of 10,000 and up. Contact: www.mloutdoors.com
Osprey Elite Series 1-12x26mm IR Riflescope
Osprey Global’s Elite Series 1-12x26mm IR riflescope offers a wide magnification range for close- to mid-range shooting, combining impressive in-the-field performance with a stealthy appearance. Designed with serious shooters in mind, it features a second focal plane elite reticle calibrated for 55-grain 5.56/.223 projectiles. Built with a sturdy 34mm tube, the Elite Series 1-12x26mm scope has an overall length of 10.6 inches and an eye relief of 4.72 to 3.5 inches. Other features include red, green and blue illumination, 94-7.9 foot field of view at 100 yards, 100 MOA elevation and windage adjustment and more. Uses one CR2032 battery. MSRP: $649. Contact: www.ospreyscopes.com
Pocket Shot 2.0
The Pocket Shot 2.0 has an aluminum chassis that operates on a gimbal allowing it to swing and pivot. The gimbal connects with the pouch to center the shot and makes it easy to aim. The result is the evolution of the slingshot. The Pocket Shot allows users to load and shoot different projectiles at two to three times the rate of a regular slingshot. It’s perfect for hunting and recreational use because its small size — 2.3 by 1.3 inches when closed — allows users to keep it in their pocket, tackle box or backpack while storing ammo in its watertight compartment. It generates speeds up to 350 fps and each unit includes aluminum rings, a silicone grip and PRO pouch. MSRP: $49.50. Contact: www.thepocketshot.com
Pulsar Digex N450 Night Vision Riflescope
The Digex N450 night vision riflescope from Pulsar uses a rugged and lightweight all metal 30mm scope housing with an anti-wear coating that will stand up to the elements and heavy use. Its excellent image quality comes via its 1280x720 HD imaging sensor and 1024x768 HD display screen, and the N450 includes a removable 850nm IR illuminator for nighttime operation. Three adjustable IR power levels help choose preferred effective range and illumination level of an object observed. The N450 features a built-in recorder that captures still images and HD-quality videos with sound, and footage can be transferred to a PC/laptop or mobile device via a wired connection or Wi-Fi. MSRP: $1,439.99. Contact: www.pulsar-nv.com
RUGID Weatherproof Duffel Bags
Big Stone weatherproof duffel bags from RUGID are engineered to protect clothing, gear and valuables from the harshest conditions. Every Big Stone duffel bag has a durable PVC exterior shell combined with a SCUBA-style fully waterproof zipper and double-stitched seams — an unmatched performance bag for heavy-duty field use. They are available in 40-, 70- and 90-liter sizes, providing options for any travel adventure, from a weekend getaway to a weeklong mountain expedition. Big Stone lightweight duffels can be handheld using the heavy-duty grab handles, shoulder slung, or worn as a backpack, providing hands-free versatility. They are equipped with waterproof internal and water-resistant external pockets to keep gear organized and dry. MSRP: $119.99- $159.99. Contact: www.rugidgear.com
Seal 1 Gun Cleaning Kit
National Tactical Officers Association member tested and recommended, Seal 1’s All Rifle and Pistol gun cleaning kit includes the supplies to thoroughly clean rifles and pistols from calibers .22 to .45 as well as .410 and 28-gauge shotguns. Each kit contains 25 .22-270, .270-.35, .38-.45, .410 and 28-gauge pre-saturated cleaning patches and 10 cleaning patches for those same bores, along with a 1-ounce jar of Seal 1 CLP Plus Paste, a 2-ounce bottle of Seal 1 CLP Plus liquid, two each cotton swabs, four each 6x6-inch pre-saturated clothes/wipes, one each 12x12-inch microfiber cloth and one each nylon tactical brush. Retail: $36.99. Contact: www.seal1.net
Sheffield Field Box
The Sheffield Field Box was redesigned and is now even better for protecting, storing and safely transporting ammo and other valuables in the outdoors. With a compression fit lid that resists water and dust, plus a molded lip for added strength and protection against contaminants, this sturdy field box has many uses. It’s ideal for hunting and fishing gear, electronics, tools and many other items. It features three locking options to guard against prying and tampering, providing peace of mind that belongings are safe and secure. A base-to-lid interlocking system reduces tipping and allows easy stacking to save space and enhance organization. The Field Box has a hefty handle for easy carrying and is available in a variety of colors. MSRP: $10.98. Contact: www.sheffield-tools.com
Sightmark Element Mini Solar Red-Dot Sight
The new Sightmark Element solar red-dot sight combines solar and battery power to provide a true dual-power system with uninterrupted operation. And forget messing with reticle brightness — an innovative Eclipse light management system auto dims and brightens the red-dot reticle based on the environment. Powered by solar cells positioned directly on top of the optic housing and a single CR2032 battery, the Element provides users the choice of which power source works best for their situation. Its 3 MOA red-dot reticle and 120 MOA elevation and 160 MOA windage adjustments make the Element ideal for a wide variety of shooting scenarios and distances. It includes a low Picatinny mount and absolute co-witness mount. MSRP: $239.99. Contact: www.sightmark.com
Sport Ear GS Extreme Ear Buds
Sports Ear delivers three products in one with its GS Extreme all-in-one ear buds. It’s like having Bluetooth ear buds, noise isolation headphones and electronic earmuffs all in one unit. Users can switch between hearing enhancement and protection mode to Bluetooth Audio mode or use both at the same time with independent volume controls to tune to the environment. Features include 6X hearing enhancement for normal hearing to moderate hearing loss, sound cancellation at 85 dB or louder and 5.0 Bluetooth audio for studio quality audio and hands-free communication. MSRP: $199. Contact: www.goaxil.com
Sports South Shooting Warehouse
Sports South maintains an industry leadership position through the relentless pursuit of innovation to drive long-term success and growth. With the nation’s largest single source of shooting sports products from leading manufacturers under one roof, Sports South can deliver unmatched distribution services to its customers. Its virtually live online inventory is available 24/7 — access to 37,000-plus products and many other retailer account features that will make day-in and day-out transactions effortless. Sports South also offers many web service APIs so customers can take advantage of the same data as its own website. Contact: www.theshootingwarehouse.com
Spot-Hogg Tuff Guy Release
The Tuff Guy bow release from Spot-Hogg features a single closed jaw that fully captures and secures the release to the string loop. And like all Spot-Hogg releases, the trigger delivers excellent accuracy due to its zero creep, no travel design. Trigger tension is fully adjustable and will satisfy both light and heavy trigger fans. The Tuff Guy’s micro-adjustable length, rigid connection fits a wide variety of hand sizes and allows the release to securely lock back out of the way when not in use. It is compatible only with bows that have a D-loop. MSRP: $129.99-$159.99. Contact: www.spot-hogg.com
T-Bird Archery Modular Arrow Saw
T-Bird Archery’s modular arrow saw is a versatile, quiet running arrow cut-off saw powered by an 8,000 rpm motor, ensuring quick cuts through any type of arrow shaft. Spin testers check for arrow shaft straightness and broadhead runout and a deburring tool chamfers the inside of the arrow shaft to allow easy insert installation. An adapter accommodates a vacuum cleaner to remove carbon dust and a built-in squaring device quickly and accurately sands the ends of the arrow shaft to make certain the nock and insert are perfectly aligned with the arrow shaft. The T-Bird Archery modular arrow saw is built for pro shop and home use and can be purchased as a basic model or upgraded with the new arrow squaring device. MSRP: $167.90/Basic; $180.85/Full kit. Contact: www.modulararrowsaw.com
Timber Creek Outdoors Enforcer Kit
Timber Creek Outdoors’ Enforcer kit features high-end performance parts and jaw-dropping looks. It’s perfect for sportsmen, competitive shooters, firearms enthusiasts and people who trust their lives to their equipment. When combined together, these parts improve usability, ergonomics and dependability of any small-framed modern sporting rifle — making the Enforcer kit one of the best investments a shooter can make to improve his or her equipment. The kit includes an Enforcer 15-inch hand guard and AR pistol grip, ambidextrous safety selector, AR billet dust cover, Enforcer ambidextrous charging handle, AR extended magazine release, quick disconnect end plate, low profile gas block, .223 Heart Breaker muzzle brake and an AR oversized trigger guard, takedown pin set, forward assist and buffer tube. MSRP: $749.99. Contact: www.timbercreekoutdoorsinc.com
Tri-Tech Systems AIM Software
Tri-Tech Systems’ AIM software is a complete business solution for firearms retailers. It has everything needed to maintain ATF compliance — integrated A&D book, 4473 form integration and Smartwaiver — to manage inventory from receiving to sales and to import products from industry-leading supplier catalogs such as RSR Group, Sports South and Lipseys. AIM also covers the basics, such as managing range memberships, lane usage and customer sales. Features include electronic A&D book, complete point of sale for firearms, class scheduling and billing, gunsmithing estimates, marketing solutions and more. Cost: $995/Basic package; add-on modules available. Contact: www.tritechretail.com/t-aim.aspx
WOOX Wild Man Precision Rifle Stock
The WOOX Wild Man is an aftermarket replacement for several OEM rifle stocks. Its traditional style integrates groundbreaking technology with a classic look and feel to offer today’s outdoors enthusiasts a solid rifle stock they can rely on — a great option for both a new build and upgrading a favorite hunting rifle. WOOX precision stocks have been tested with manufactures’ rifles and components and should not require any bedding or custom in-letting. Features include a high-quality aluminum chassis, forged monoblock body and vibration reducing hardwood. Available for long- and short-action Remington 700 BDL rifles. MSRP: $449. Contact: www.wooxstore.com
X-factor Outdoors Side Bar Mount
X-Factor’s Xtreme side bar mount features roller ball technology and is the only single adjust 365-degree side bar mount in the industry. Instead of using teeth to lock it in place, the X-factor side bar mount uses a single set screw that allows for unlimited adjustment. The 100 percent American made mount carries a manufacturer guarantee and comes with a black anodize finish. MSRP: $117.99/with bolted rear mount; $128.99/with quick release. Contact: www.xfactoroutdoors.com
Zone Invisible Hunter Insect Repellent
Odorless and long-lasting, Zone Invisible Hunter insect repellent spray was designed with the deep-woods outdoorsman in mind. Picaridin-based, odorless and providing 12+ hours of protection from mosquitoes, ticks, flies, fleas, chiggers, gnats and no-seeums, it is safe, effective and ideal for hunters who want to keep biting insects at bay without alerting game. According to Zone, Hunter repellent’s 20 percent Picaridin formula is more effective than DEET and is non-oily, non-greasy, non-sticky and goes on easy. Safe for the entire family, it won’t harm hunting clothing or gear. MSRP: $9.95/4-ounce spray bottle. Contact: www.zonerepellents.com
