Commerce’s Presence at the SHOT Show Promotes Economic Expansion for Montana Communities
Montana’s presence at the annual SHOT Show, hosted by the Firearm Industry Trade Association, has become a cornerstone of the state’s efforts to attract innovative businesses in the firearm and outdoor recreation industries. With over 2,500 exhibitors and more than 50,000 attendees from all 50 states and 115 countries, the SHOT Show showcases innovations in shooting, hunting and outdoor trade. The 2025 SHOT Show, held from Jan. 21-24 in Las Vegas, once again proved to be a pivotal event for Montana’s thriving firearm and outdoor industries.
The Montana Department of Commerce leveraged the event to promote the state’s robust outdoor economy and business-friendly environment. The Commerce team highlighted Montana’s position as home to more than 150 firearms and ammunition businesses — the highest per capita in the country.
The state’s representation, along with attending Montana companies, emphasized the opportunities Montana offers to businesses, including access to a skilled workforce, strong government support and a unique lifestyle centered around Montana’s outdoor heritage.
According to a recent article in the Daily Montanan, Montana’s outdoor recreation industry is a pillar of the state’s economy. The story indicated that Montana’s outdoor recreation sector contributed $3.4 billion to sales in 2023, making up 4.6% of the state’s gross domestic product, the third highest percentage in the U.S.
Because of the industry’s significance in our state, the SHOT Show has consistently been a quality lead generator for Montana in previous years. In 2024, the attending Commerce team secured key business relocations and expansions that have contributed to the state’s economic growth.
Ultimate Defense Technologies, a leader in firearm safety systems, chose to relocate its headquarters from Arizona to Billings thanks to connections made at the 2024 SHOT Show. The company’s co-founder, Neil Oakshott, was inspired by Montana’s strong emphasis on supporting workforce development and its commitment to creating opportunities for veterans. Now producing its state-of-the-art Spartan Guardian system, Ultimate Defense Technologies has found Montana to be an ideal location to innovate and grow.
Another success from last year’s SHOT Show includes the relocation of Brixtel Defense, a global leader in munitions manufacturing. The company announced a $125 million investment in a new facility in Glendive, projected to create over 350 high-paying jobs by 2028. Andy Mansoor, CEO of Brixtel Defense, highlighted Montana’s values and supportive business environment as critical factors in their decision to expand to the state. He praised Montana’s collaborative approach to economic development.
Other companies, including Deep/Attic, Detac LLC and Archway defense have also made the move to Montana thanks to the state’s presence at SHOT Shows throughout the years.
The 2025 SHOT Show was no exception to Montana’s success at the event. Montana’s best in the outdoor and firearm business were showcased and leads were generated, promising more economic expansion to come. From smaller family-owned businesses to larger entities that generate millions in annual revenue, Montana welcomes entrepreneurs who share our passion for the outdoors and our commitment to support our communities.
“Economic development takes a village,” stated Frederick Van Den Abbeel, manager of Commerce’s business attraction team. “We wish to thank all booth companies, sponsors, economic development organizations and state leadership — including Governor Greg Gianforte, Commerce Director Paul Green and Attorney General Austin Knudsen— for their incredible support as we prepared for another year finding new expansion opportunities.”
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