The Shooting, Hunting, and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show is the pulse of the firearms industry. Held this past January 21-24, 2025, in Las Vegas, it’s where manufacturers showcase their latest innovations, and enthusiasts get a glimpse of the hardware that will define the coming year. The sheer volume of new products can be staggering, reflecting a dynamic market constantly pushing boundaries in performance, ergonomics, and niche specialization.
This year, several trends were apparent: the continued refinement of popular platforms, the ongoing surge in demand for versatile lever-action rifles, the hyper-competitive micro-compact pistol market gaining new contenders, and the increasing integration of optics-readiness across all firearm types.
Choosing the absolute “best” is subjective, but certain firearms undeniably generated more buzz than others. We’ve revisited our initial list to provide a deeper look at ten standout guns from SHOT Show 2025 that captured significant attention:
1. HK VP9A1 Series (F & K): The Evolution of Excellence
- What it is: Updated versions of HK’s highly regarded VP9 striker-fired pistol – the full-size VP9A1 F and the compact VP9A1 K.
- Why it’s hot: HK clearly listened to user feedback. The most significant change is the deletion of the molded finger grooves, resulting in a flatter grip profile favored by many shooters for more consistent hand placement. Beyond that, the A1 series comes standard with optics cuts, ready for popular red dots. They’ve also enhanced the slide serrations for better manipulation, refined the already excellent trigger with a Nickel-Teflon coating for smoothness, and incorporated a wider magwell to speed up reloads under pressure. It’s a thoughtful evolution, making a great pistol even better.
- MSRP: Around $699, varying slightly by specific model.
2. Staccato HD P4: Duty-Ready Double-Stack
- What it is: A premium, duty-focused evolution of the 2011 (double-stack 1911) platform from a leading manufacturer in the category.
- Why it’s hot: Developed with input from law enforcement professionals, the HD (Heavy Duty) line prioritizes rugged reliability. The P4 makes two major shifts: it eliminates the traditional 1911-style grip safety for simplified operation and adopts widely available Glock-pattern magazines, a departure from Staccato’s proprietary mag design. The grip module is re-contoured (slimmer, higher beavertail) for enhanced ergonomics, and the updated HOST optic mounting system allows for direct mounting of certain red dots for a lower, more secure fit. Features like dual thumb index ledges, aggressive slide serrations, a forward-positioned rear iron sight, and a buffered flat-wire recoil spring round out this high-performance package.
- MSRP: Starting around $2,499.
3. SNT Motiv K2S: The Legend Arrives (Officially)
- What it is: The long-awaited US commercial import version of the iconic South Korean military rifle, the Daewoo K2.
- Why it’s hot: For years, US collectors and enthusiasts have desired the K2, known for its unique adjustable long-stroke gas piston system (often seen as combining AR and AK elements) and robust design. Its arrival stateside, imported via SNT Motiv, caused considerable excitement. Featuring an 18.3-inch barrel and side-folding stock, it offers a unique shooting experience and a piece of firearms history previously hard to obtain. Rumblings about its US arrival started early at the show and quickly became a major talking point.
- MSRP: Estimated to be around $1,500, but final pricing is TBD.
4. Palmetto State Armory JAKL 2.0: Piston Power Refined
- What it is: The next generation of PSA’s JAKL rifle, a platform using a long-stroke gas piston system (like an AK) but retaining AR-15 controls and magazine compatibility.
- Why it’s hot: PSA consistently brings intriguing designs to market. The JAKL 2.0 isn’t just a minor tweak; it features a new, proprietary lower receiver designed to improve the rifle’s overall look and feel. It also incorporates PSA’s new AXR stock, which is adjustable for length-of-pull and folds securely to the left side. Available initially in 5.56 NATO and .300 BLK, the JAKL 2.0 represents PSA’s continued effort to offer unique operating systems and configurations, often at very competitive price points. A braced pistol version is also expected.
- MSRP: Not specified, but expect it to follow PSA’s typical value-oriented pricing.
5. KelTec PR57: Radically Rotary
- What it is: An unconventionally designed, lightweight pistol chambered in the high-velocity 5.7x28mm cartridge.
- Why it’s hot: KelTec embraces innovation, often leading to unique firearms like the PR57. Its standout features include a rotary barrel locking mechanism (contributing to its reputation for minimal muzzle rise), and an internal 20-round magazine loaded via 10-round stripper clips inserted from the top. It’s remarkably light (reportedly less than half the weight of a G19) and compact. While the loading system is unusual for modern pistols, the flat shooting characteristics and high capacity in a small package make it one of the most talked-about, if quirky, handguns of the show.
- MSRP: Not specified.
6. Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter: Lever Action Goes Tactical
- What it is: A modernized variant of S&W’s successful Model 1854 lever-action rifle, tailored for accessory use and a tactical aesthetic.
- Why it’s hot: The lever-action revival shows no signs of slowing. The Stealth Hunter takes the solid foundation of the 1854 and adds features demanded by today’s shooters. It swaps traditional wood for durable polymer furniture and includes a forend with 15 M-LOK slots for lights, lasers, or grips. An extended Picatinny rail provides ample space for optics, while the threaded barrel (in .45 Colt, .44 Mag, or .357 Mag) welcomes suppressors or muzzle brakes. High-visibility sights (Hi-Viz H3 front, XS Sights adjustable ghost ring rear) complete the package, firmly planting this lever gun in the 21st century.
- MSRP: Not specified.
7. Henry Lever Action Supreme: Magazine-Fed Revolution
- What it is: A groundbreaking new lever-action rifle from Henry designed from the ground up to use detachable AR-15 magazines.
- Why it’s hot: This rifle addresses the traditional limitations of tube-fed lever guns. By incorporating a rotating bolt system similar to modern rifles and feeding from standard AR mags, the Lever Action Supreme allows for the use of spitzer bullets and significantly faster reloads. Chambered initially in .223 Remington (18″ barrel) and .300 Blackout (16.5″ barrel), both threaded, it maintains a classic Henry look with American Walnut furniture but adds ambidextrous controls and a tang safety. It’s a major step, blending traditional lever operation with modern rifle capabilities.
- MSRP: Not specified.
8. HK CC9: Micro-Compact Contender
- What it is: Heckler & Koch’s purpose-built entry into the extremely popular micro-compact 9mm concealed carry pistol market.
- Why it’s hot: This segment demands shootability, concealability, and capacity. The CC9 aims to deliver on all fronts with HK’s renowned quality. Measuring just under 1 inch wide, it boasts a 10+1 standard capacity (12+1 extended) and comes optics-ready with an RMSc footprint cut. HK engineers reportedly focused heavily on ergonomics and internal kinematics to manage recoil effectively, aiming for a micro-pistol that handles like a larger gun. It also features a crisp ~5 lb trigger pull and night sights.
- MSRP: $699.
9. OA Defense 2311: The SIG Mag Double-Stack
- What it is: A modular, double-stack, 1911-pattern pistol system designed to use SIG Sauer P320 magazines.
- Why it’s hot: Entering the popular “2011” style market, the OA 2311 offers a compelling twist by utilizing the widely adopted P320 magazine pattern, potentially appealing to shooters already invested in that platform. Available in multiple sizes (Compact, Standard, Pro Elite), it features ambidextrous controls, optics-ready slides (with multiple included plates for different footprints like RMR, DPP, RMSc), and aggressively textured grips. The high-end Pro Elite model boasts a V-ported barrel for recoil reduction and comes as a package with multiple magazines (three 21-rd, two 17-rd) and a custom range bag.
- MSRP: Standard models start around $2,700-$2,800, with enhanced models priced higher.
10. Savage Axis 2: Elevating the Entry Level
- What it is: A significant update to Savage’s highly successful and budget-friendly Axis bolt-action hunting rifle line.
- Why it’s hot: The original Axis introduced many hunters to the sport. The Axis 2 refines the formula with substantially improved ergonomics. The redesigned synthetic stock features a more vertical pistol grip with comfortable palm swells, better accommodating modern shooting stances and prone positions. It also includes Savage’s excellent, user-adjustable AccuTrigger as standard. Available in a huge range of calibers (from .223 Rem to .400 Legend), including compact and left-handed versions, the Axis 2 offers enhanced features while maintaining its position as a top value choice for a reliable hunting rifle.
- MSRP: Around $489 for basic models, $529 for the “Pro” version.
Looking Ahead
SHOT Show 2025 wasn’t just about entirely new guns; it was about innovative refinements, meeting market demands (hello, lever guns!), and integrating technology like optics more seamlessly than ever. The firearms highlighted here represent just a fraction of the innovation on display, but they provide a fascinating snapshot of where the industry is headed. From duty pistols to historical imports to budget-friendly hunters, the choices for shooters continue to expand and improve.
We’re eager to see how these firearms perform in the real world! What releases from SHOT Show 2025 are you most excited about? Did we miss one of your favorites? Share your thoughts in the comments!
(Disclaimer: Always ensure you comply with all federal, state, and local laws regarding firearm ownership and purchase. Check manufacturer websites for the most up-to-date specifications and availability.)
