Written by HLRBO Staff|
Last updated
New rifles, optics, packs, boots, trail cams, and ammo… the annual SHOT Show in Las Vegas is a mecca for hunting gear. This year, the HLRBO team was on the show floor to meet with brands. We scoped a few top picks of gear to watch for this upcoming hunting season.
Benchmade – Hunting knife that uses two different steels along its edge.
The Benchmade Codex87 Horizon Edge introduces a bi-metal blade design for longer edge retention. The company uses a laser-based fusion process to integrate two steels into one heat-treated blade (rather than layering or bonding separate pieces). The knife is designed for big game processing and field work and is made in the United States, with final retail specifications and pricing still to be announced.
FHF Gear’s chest panel add-on.
Made in the USA, the $45 Mini Chest Panel from Montana's FHF Gear (FHF = Fish, Hunt, Fight) is a new, more streamlined base for its modular chest rig systems. It pairs with the Airframe Harness for a lightweight chest harness setup with MOLLE compatibility that offers quick accessory attachment. The low-profile panel is built for hunters and other outdoor users seeking a customizable, lightweight front carry system that keeps bear spray, a pistol, maps, snacks, and other items available and easy to grab at any time while on the move.
Wiley X – Protective sunglasses built to handle hard use in the field.
The WX Alpine from Wiley X has a lightweight frame with built-in vents designed to reduce fogging during activity. The lenses are thicker than standard sport sunglasses and meet U.S. military ballistic impact standards. The line launches in spring 2026 starting at $150 and is available in multiple lens colors, with prescription options.
Vertx – Redesigned everyday carry packs.
Vertx’s updated Gamut Series includes five sizes ranging from 18L to 32L, offered in both sling and backpack formats. The bags feature a dedicated concealed-carry compartment, interior organization, laptop sleeves, and external attachment points for additional gear, all while maintaining a low-profile exterior. The line, officially launched in November 2025, focuses on faster access, internal layout updates, and details like luggage pass-through panels and durable YKK zippers.
Coast – 5,000-lumen spotlight that can reach up to 1KM.
The Coast Longshot L50R combines a long-range spotlight with a built-in floodlight for close-range use, and both beams can operate at the same time. It includes a kickstand and hanging hook for hands-free lighting and carries an IPX67 water-resistance rating, with the added ability to float. A smaller 2,500-lumen version is also planned, and both models are expected to retail for under $100.
SPYPOINT – Trail cam with cellular & satellite built-in.
SPYPOINT introduced its 2026 line of trail cameras, led by the FLEX-RANGE model. Designed for remote areas, it uses cellular transmission with a satellite backup feature intended to keep images flowing to the SPYPOINT mobile app when cell coverage drops out. The FLEX-RANGE sits at the top of the company’s new product lineup, which includes several models scheduled to arrive in 2026.
Franchi – An expanded line of inertia-driven shotguns.
Franchi is adding 15 new models to its Affinity lineup for 2026, offering more choices in gauge, barrel length, and finish. The shotguns feature a slimmer fore-end, more aggressive grip texturing, adjustable length-of-pull recoil pads, and updated controls designed for easier operation in the field. Models range from compact synthetic 20-gauges to walnut sporting versions and camo upland variants, with MSRPs starting at $999.
Hollow – Made in the USA (with baby alpaca yarn!)
Hollow’s Hunt Over-The-Calf socks are designed for hunters spending extended hours in a tree stand. They use a heavyweight knit that blends alpaca, nylon, and elastane for insulation and stretch. The socks rise roughly 15 inches from heel to calf and are rated by the company for use in temperatures from about -10 to 40 degrees F.
Savage – Upgrade to Model 110 rifle line.
Savage came out with a new version of its Model 110 rifle with features that usually only the most expensive rifles have – adjustable stock, exchangeable grip, carbon barrel. They won’t break the bank, either, starting at about $1,000. The refreshed lineup includes multiple models and calibers, all available in left-hand versions, and features a new system for tool-free customization of length of pull, cheek height, and palm swell.
Federal – New ammo options (7mm Backcountry cartridge).
It was evident at the SHOT Show that the hunting industry seems to be adopting the 7mm cartridge from Federal. Several firearm companies now offer flagship rifles in this cartridge. Additionally, Federal added three new loads to its BC cartridge to give hunters a wider selection for the field. The promise of the 7mm Backcountry is a flatter trajectory and more knockdown power at the point of impact, all out of shorter rifles ideal for hauling the long distances required on backcountry hunts.