We’re fresh off the bus of SHOT Show 2023! And the amount of new guns and gear launched proved quite interesting. We arguably didn’t see the sheer volume of new introductions released in past years, but man were there some golden nuggets in the bunch. From truly revolutionary new launches to some tried-and-true designs from new manufacturers, SHOT Show, like always, lived up to the hype.
The Most Interesting Guns of SHOT Show 2023
Black Rain Ordnance Commando Series
This one right here blew us away. Developed with legendary Spec Ops warrior Craig “Sawman” Sawyer, the Black Rain Commando Series looks truly innovative. This bullpup design was shocking light and well-balance in the hands. We saw configurations ranging from CQB to PRS. And word on the show floor suggested a lot of trigger pullers out there are lining up for a closer look and testing with the Commando.
Bond Arms Lever-Action AR
Ok, we gotta admit, we didn’t see this one coming. The Bond Arms Cyclops presents a hybrid design. It’s sorta like an AR-15 upper riding on a classic lever-action lower. This proved to be one of the most talked-about items on the entire SHOT Show floor. The lever features a very short throw, based on a unique cam design. It offers AR familiarity in the controls, and basically offers an updated lever-gun design below a modern AR upper. The combo should prove extremely popular in locales where ARs are banned, including international sales. We know very little, but we’re hearing 9mm and .223 offerings are coming on this future release.
FoldAR Mobetta Multi-Barrel Weapon System
FoldAR keeps finding solutions to questions asked by the market. First off, it just might be the only game in town for non-NFA pistol-esque packability following the recent ATF Brace Final Rule.
Aside from that, the new Mobetta Multi-Barrel system enables shooters to build out on their folding AR cadre. Build out uppers chamberd in 6.5 Grendel, .300 BLK, and 5.56. It makes for a cool all-in-one defensive/predator/hunting combo, all in a folding design. (foldar.com)
Henry Homesteader
In yet another “Holy cow, we didn’t see this one coming!!” – we present the Henry Homesteader. The semi-auto, repeating, PCC carbine runs on box magazines. Word is Henry will offer a proprietary mag, but the system converts to run Glock, SIG and even S&W-pattern magazines.
We don’t know much about this one yet. It’s got kind of Ruger or Marlin Camp gun kind of vibe, with all the wood and blue going on here. But with more of an Auto-5 humpback kind of feel at the back of the receiver. Very interesting on all takes, and we expect an all-weather stock design in the near future. Another new gun we can’t wait to hit the range with soon. (henryusa.com).
Lone Wolf DUSK19
Much like the AR-15 and the Ruger 10-22, we now live in an age of Glock, and specifically, Glock 19 clones. Execution runs the gambit as well, but we think this latest G19-pattern pistol from Lone Wolf brings plenty of potential. Lone Wolf designed a new frame, slide barrel and trigger. It features a 19-degree grip angle, interchangeable back straps and a flared magwell to help you go even faster. With retail around $700, this one should compete. (lonewolfdist.com)
Matix Arms Dual-Pump Cage Handguard
The new Matrix Arms Dual-Pump Cage Handguard provides some serious utility for your AR-15. It comes in two versions: convertible, or single-shot. The Cage functions as both a charging system or a pump-action forend to work the rifle. Simply block off the gas block to convert to pump-action operation. In restrictive states, the pump-action-only device would bring back AR ownership options. A pretty unique design at first glance. We can’t wait to get one in for testing. (matrixarms.com)
POF Tombstone
The POF Tombstone caught the early lead in the race for exposure coming into SHOT Show. And with good reason. It’s truly an interesting design. One thing we learned at SHOT, the Tombstone takes the same magazine as the Phoenix. We don’t typically love proprietary mags in this day and age, but POF carries the 35-rounders, in stock, for $35. Doesn’t leave so much to complain about.
Initially launched in 9mm, we will no doubt see follow up chamberings added to the Tombstone line. The tactical lever-gun is clearly here to stay. (pof-usa.com)
Savage Arms A22 Takedown
OK, call us a sucker for the ol’ Takedown. But every year lately, it seems at least one company comes out with a new model or stocks built around a new takedown, usually of the 10-22 variety. In a breath of fresh air, Savage gives us the A22 Takedown. It comes with 10-round rotary magazines. An 18-inch carbon steel barrel comes threaded. The rifle wears low-profile sights, but a 0 MOA Picatinny rails with iron sight channel thru rail provides a great spot for a red dot. A synthetic, adjustable stock provides storage for three spare magazines. This is one fun, handy little sporter! (savagearms.com)
SHOT Show never fails to live up to the smoke! These are but a few of the most interesting new guns from SHOT Show 2023. Look for category reviews across the entire Athlon Outdoors network over the coming days, as we run down the best new rifles, pistols, shotguns, optics, gear and more!
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