GunCon is back and it’s shaping up to be bigger and better than ever. GunCon 2026 aims to showcase innovation, education, and hands-on experiences within the firearms industry, bringing manufacturers, media, and attendees together under one roof. At its core, the event focuses on highlighting new products, community, and Second Amendment activism.
Personally, it’s my favorite event of the year, not just because it’s close to home, but because of the event’s tentpoles—manufacturers, creators, and community. It’s all that makes this industry great under one roof.
What is GunCon?
So, what exactly is GunCon? At first glance, it’s more than just another industry show — it’s a central hub for conversation, collaboration, and real-world interaction. It’s not exclusive like SHOT Show, where only industry members can attend. And it’s more focused than The Great American Outdoor Show, which is also open to the public. GunCon really centers on the 2A community. Everything from firearm and optic manufacturers to 2A activist organizations, suppressors, comms, and more can be found here. What you won’t find are larger “outdoors” industry brands and items.
You won’t find the latest archery equipment or food plot products, nor will you find the latest in tents and hiking boots. This is for those who live and breathe the Second Amendment.
The Event
Attendees will enjoy a steady lineup of expert-led panels covering topics such as firearm design, training, and best practices, all paired with demonstrations and hands-on product experiences.
The speaker lineup features well-known voices from across the industry, including Jon Patton of The Gun Collective, Shawn Herrin, MrGunsnGear, and Kevin Dixie, as well as advocacy figures like Adam Kraut and Erich Pratt.
On the manufacturing side, over 50 brands will be present, showcasing both new and legacy products. Examples include 1st Phorm, Bul Armory, Century Arms, Extar, Harrington Arms, Hi-Point, Kelbly’s, NeoMag, Pheonix Trinity, Rost Martin, Shaw Barrels, TandemKross, and many more. That accessibility—both to people and products—is a key feature of the event. It’s what separates it from all others.
When & Where
GunCon 2026 will take place June 17 to 20 in Niles, Ohio, just outside Youngstown. If you’re traveling, you have access to three airports in the area: Pittsburgh International, Akron/Canton, and Cleveland Hopkins. Niles is a wonderful town with plenty of Midwest charm (I have to say that…my in-laws live in the area).
The schedule is structured to balance industry access with public engagement. The first portion of the event is geared toward media, manufacturers, and professionals, before opening up for a public-facing show day on June 20. That final day gives everyday enthusiasts the opportunity to get hands-on with new gear and experience the event in a more accessible format.
Zooming Out
GunCon is one of the best events in the industry. Why? Because it’s one of the few designed specifically for you. GunCon 2026 positions itself as a modern industry event focused on access, insight, and experience. By combining education, hands-on experiences, and direct interaction with key voices in the field, it offers something more meaningful than a typical show, giving attendees a clearer view of where the industry is now and where it’s headed next.
Tickets are currently available for $60 which covers admission for the day of the event, a T-shirt, and a free lunch. VIP tickets cost $250 but are currently waitlisted. Those tickets include access to an exclusive VIP Range Day and VIP Swag Gifts, in addition to the standard ticket benefits.
For travel information, including discounted lodging, click here. If you’re a brand or media member and are interested in signing up for this event, click here and scroll to the bottom of the page.