Bow and Handgun Hunting Steadily on the Increase

by
posted on October 11, 2024
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
Registration Numbers On The Rise For The 2025 ATA Show LEDE

A “2023 Special Report on Hunting,” issued by the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA), indicates archery and handgun hunting growth is on the increase, while post-pandemic participation with firearms remains relatively stable. Early registration for the annual Archery Trade Association (ATA) Show—which returns to Indianapolis at the Indiana Convention Center from Jan. 8 to the 10th, 2025—indicates the trend has not slowed, either.

According to OIA’s study, 14.7 million Americans hunted at least once in 2022 with either a firearm or archery equipment. The figure represents a one-percent increase compared to the previous year. Those with a handgun or bow, however, fueled that gain. Enthusiasts taking a rifle or shotgun afield remained relatively steady. 

The ATA show, like the Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show (SHOT), is open only to industry professionals. Registration opened Aug. 1 and more than 450 exhibitors and 700-plus retail businesses are expected to attend what is the world’s largest gathering of archery and bowhunting professionals.

“We expect a great turnout at the upcoming ATA Show,” said Jeff Poole, ATA president and CEO. “Feedback from the 2024 event was overwhelmingly positive. Attendees are excited to return to Indy to build on last year’s momentum. We look forward to kicking off the new year with all our members and partners at the 2025 ATA Show.”

Professionals in the archery, hunting and outdoor industries know the 2025 ATA Show is a go-to event to discover industry trends, conduct new product evaluations, grow their business and experience unmatched face-to-face interactions that simply can’t be replicated online or over the phone. Valuable educational sessions run throughout the show.

Manufacturers and industry professionals specializing in handguns for hunting—actually, any firearms or related-product—will gather later that month the SHOT Show, which takes place Jan. 23 to 26, 2025, in Las Vegas, Nev. With significant crossover in participants, the event will also attract many of the same firms at ATA.

Latest

LEDE Chest Pack Hoodie Pants
LEDE Chest Pack Hoodie Pants

First Look: Blocker Outdoors Finisher Series

Blocker Outdoors' Finisher Series is a one stop shop for turkey hunters looking to streamline their clothing and gear in the field. Read on for some of the top pieces in this lineup, designed to keep hunters cool and comfortable, while maintaining easy access to essentials.

Know How: Shed Hunting Hellholes

Mark Kayser's fascination with shed antler hellholes kicked off and continues today in whitetail country. Not satisfied with the occasional shed antler found in stubble fields, hay grounds and open pastures, he turned his attention to the thickest, steepest and nastiest geography in the whitetail woods. Here’s why you should consider putting on your big boy pants for a deep dive into the extremes for shed antler rewards.

New for 2026: Federal X Henry Birthday Boy Collector's Edition Ammo

For 2026, Federal Ammunition has partnered with Henry Repeating Arms to produce a collector's series ammunition. This limited-edition load was developed for Henry's commemorative .45-70 Government Golden Boy lever-action rifle, touted as the Birthday Boy.

New for 2026: Badlands Mag Turkey Vest

Badlands has released its Mag Turkey Vest, purpose-built for run-and-gun turkey hunters.

#SundayGunday: Spartan Vidarr Disc-Lok Bipod

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out a new entry from Spartan Precision Equipment that heralds a whole new line of gear from the innovative brand. The Vidarr bipod utilizes a brand new attachment system called Disc-Lok. Why create a whole new system, you ask? Well, if Spartan's MagnaSwitch is the ultralight QD system for hunters looking to travel light, the Disc-Lok adds a few more ounces in pursuit of extreme stability. Learn more about it in this exclusive video.

Public Opportunity on Private Land: Walk-in Access Programs

State game managers have come up with an array of walk-in access programs for private lands. These state-led initiatives partner with willing landowners to open thousands—sometimes millions—of acres of land to the public at little or no extra cost. Read on for some of the best options in the country.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.