GUN CON 2025

GunCon 2025 was a whirlwind of a week. It also happened to be the hottest week of the year in Ohio, with the mercury hanging in the 90s and the humidity rising to unbreathable levels. But that didn't stop anything. Manufacturers, creators, and fans were out in full force. Cleveland and Northeast Ohio showcased the best of this industry.

The best part of an event like GunCon is that it gives manufacturers room to breathe. At events like the Shot Show, NRAAM, and the Great American Outdoor Show, large manufacturers such as Ruger, Smith & Wesson, and Sig Sauer dominate the scene, consuming the spotlight and making it challenging for smaller or newer companies to stand out. GunCon is different. The biggest names aren't there. Instead, companies that focus on innovation and create cool products that address real problems shine.

WHAT I SAW

Below are companies and products that offered something cool and unique to the long-range shooting space. Hopefully, in the future, some of these products may be featured on his blog, allowing me to provide you with real-world and practical experience.

Kelbly's: Kelbly's produces some of the finest actions in the world, and they are located right in my backyard in Ohio. While their custom rifles are stunning, it is the Nanook action that caught my eye. It features an integrated optic rail, a skeletonized body to cut weight by 7 oz, a .250" recoil lug, and an anti-shear bolt design. The action weighs 24 oz for the short action, 26 oz for the long action, and 26.5 oz for the .338 Lapua length action.

Kinetic Development Group (KDG): Known for SCAR accessories and parts, KDG is now making precision rifle solutions. Their KINECT line of M-Lok quick disconnect mounts now includes options for the Garmin Xero, allowing you to attach it to your rifle quickly. They also make a series of quick-disconnect optic mounts using similar technologies. However, my favorite item is the Optics Hub Spotting Scope case. This hub not only protects the optics but also allows the user to add accessories, such as a red dot, Garmin Xero, or Kestrel (and really anything you can think of that mounts to M-Lok). They also make a night vision attachment for the Hub.

Meprolight: an Israeli company known for its red dot sights, is now producing magnified optics. The MVO series of optics includes enticing features for long-range shooters. The magnification ranges are as follows: 1-8x28, 3-18x44, and 6-36x56. All models have reticles set in the first focal plane. As for construction, Meprolight utilizes German Schott, which provides the optics with 92% light transmission, low aberration, and edge-to-edge sharpness. With an MSRP of $1,799.99 for the 3-18 and $2,999.99 for the 6-36, these models align with other optics in their class.

RifleSpeed: Although not a precision rifle accessory, this could be beneficial for those shooting gas guns. The Rifle Speed system is a radial system that allows users to precisely dial gas for their rifle, ammunition, and combination. Turn the adjustment knob up or down to adjust the gas flow. If that still doesn't provide proper adjustment, you can quickly swap out to a different length plunger. For RifleSpeed, it's about optimization and quick adjustment.

Shaw Barrels: Carbon fiber is all the rage for creating a lightweight barrel. But what about titanium? Shaw barrels of Western Pa have designed a titanium-sleeved barrel. The core is made of 416R stainless steel, which has been fitted with a titanium sleeve. A small air gap is present between the materials to facilitate cooling. The demo rifle shot was chambered in 7mm Back Country. A hot new round developed by Federal Ammunition using a Peak Alloy case to turn pressures up over 80,000 psi. Cool stuff.

Pyramyd Air: Air Rifles are gaining traction in the U.S., and Pyramyd Air is at the forefront of bringing quality equipment to customers in the States. One brand is FX Airguns. These aren't your granddaddy's pellet rifle but are serious machines capable of tremendous precision. This includes an MDT partner model that features an ACC chassis. And, if you want something that can take down large game (like really large game), then the Seneca Dragon Claw II Tactical might be more of your persuasion. I have experience with the original model, which released a .50-caliber, 185-grain projectile on its prey. The Gen II ups the ante to 336 gr. It's still moving at 800 fps.

Tandemkross: I've already discussed Tandemkross on a recent Basement Builder series article where I built a precision 10/22. Then it's probably no surprise for them to be on this list. They are my favorite aftermarket rimfire company. Whether you are building a race gun or a competition rifle, check them out. My favorite product of theirs at the show was the Manticore LITE trigger assembly. It completely changes your 10/22 and makes it something totally different. And it's at a reasonable price compared to the competition.

ZOOMING OUT

I highly recommend attending some form of show, whether it's GunCon, NRAAM, or another; it's a rare opportunity to engage with the 2A community. However, I think GunCon is unique, which positions itself as one of the best. Where else can you mingle with your favorite creators, innovative brands, and others who share your hobby?