It is the time of year when trade shows and conventions dominate the shooting and hunting industry and new products are showcased for the coming year. At the same time SHOT Show was takiing place in Las Vegas, the annual Safari Club International (SCI) Convention was being hosted in Nashville, Tennessee. The event draws thousands of hunters, conservationists outfitters, and industry professionals from across the globe for a combination trade show, educational forum and social gathering and fund-raising event, which helps fund the promotion of world-wide hunting and wildlife conservation. SCI consistently provides a platform for manufacturers to showcase their latest innovations with more of a focus on hunting than some other trade shows. The 2025 edition was no exception, with a dazzling array of new firearms, ammunition, optics and accessories captivating attendees. In my time there, I was able to go “hands on” with several new rifles, optics and suppressors. Here’s a glimpse into some of this year’s most exciting debuts.   

Ammunition

Federal 7mm Backcountry: Federal’s team of engineers set out to design a cartridge that answers a market need that seemed unsolvable—magnum velocity out of shorter barrels without increasing recoil. They did, but in the process they produced true innovation, creating a new way to make rifle ammunition faster, flatter shooting and more powerful. Powered by Peak Alloy case technology, 7mm Backcountry can be loaded to higher chamber pressures than brass case counterparts. As a result, it produces higher muzzle velocities than comparable cartridges, retaining that velocity downrange for less drop and wind drift. This also allows hunters to shoot a barrel with a suppressor on it that is essentially the same length of a barrel without a suppressor on it, in a conventional round today. For example, shooting 20-inch barrels with 170-grain bullets, it can achieve 3,000 feet per second muzzle velocity. The five initial factory loads are 155- and 170-grain Federal Premium Terminal Ascent, 195-grain Federal Premium Berger Elite Hunter, 168-grain Federal Premium Barnes LRX Copper, and 175-grain Federal Fusion Tipped. Federal worked with some of the industry’s top gun companies during the development of the 7mm Backcountry. In total, more than 80 individual rifle models are already available in the caliber as of launch, with more coming soon. The 7mm Backcountry boasts magnum performance in a compact platform, with exceptional velocity and impressive energy retention at extended distances, all of which should make it an ideal choice for elk, mule deer and other large game. Learn more at Federal’s website.

Hornady .338 ARC Ammunition: Purposely designed for hard-hitting subsonic performance, the .338 ARC delivers 1.5 times more energy than the .300 Blackout Subsonic. The 338 ARC provides similar ballistic performance to the 8.6 Blackout when used in subsonic configurations, but without the need for the bulk and weight of an AR-10 platform. Engineered for consistent pressure, .338 ARC provides reliable cycling with both supersonic and subsonic loads, while also making it compatible with suppressors designed for smaller calibers—such as 9mm suppressors. Featuring the 307-grain SUB-X bullet in the Hornady Subsonic line and the 175-grain HP in Hornady BLACK, the .338 ARC represents a unique new .338 cartridge that fits in AR-15 or micro-bolt action rifles. With its low recoil and subsonic capabilities, the .338 ARC is an excellent choice for hunting mid-sized game within 200 to 250 yards. Learn more at Hornady’s website.

Hunting Rifles

Christensen Evoke Rifle: Christensen Arms unveiled the Evoke, a more affordable and versatile hunting rifle chambered in a wide range of popular cartridges. The Evoke features a Christensen Arms precision-machined receiver, detachable magazine, hybrid grip angle, premium adjustable trigger, 416R stainless steel suppressor-ready barrel with an RFR-style brake, integrated Picatinny rail, swivel sling studs, adjustable cheek riser and optic-ready
 base on select models. Its rich features at an affordable price should make it an excellent choice for a variety of hunting scenarios. Learn more at Christensen Arms.

Bergara BMR-X Carbon Rimfire Rifle: Bergara, known for its high-quality rifles, introduced the BMR-X, a bolt-action rimfire rifle designed for competitive shooting and small game hunting. Featuring the lightweight yet durable carbon fiber barrel, this rifle offers the ideal balance for field carry and quick, precise shots. The adjustable length-of-pull (LOP) stock, vertical grip, included 30 MOA rail and flat forend deliver unmatched control and customization, ensuring comfort and accuracy in every scenario. The BMR-X is likely to become a serious contender in the rimfire market. The MSRP starts at $819. Learn more at Bergara USA.

Q The Fix Rifle in 7mm PRC: Q, a renowned manufacturer of high-performance custom firearms, showcased a prototype of The Fix rifle chambered in magnum cartridges such as the popular 7mm PRC. This rifle is designed for long-range hunting and shooting and features a number of innovative design elements, including a 45-degree bolt throw and a lightweight modular chassis system. Learn more at Q’s website.

Optics

Leupold VX-6HD Gen2 Scopes: Leupold expanded its popular VX-6HD line with new Gen2 series with improved features like the SpeedSet Dial Technology that eliminates the need for tools, letting you adjust zero or swap dials quickly so you can stay locked in. These scopes are designed for demanding hunting applications, offering exceptional clarity, brightness and durability that Leupold scopes are known for. MSRP starts at $1,999. Learn more at Leupold Optics.

Swarovski Z5i Series Scopes: Swarovski showcased its latest advancements in the Z5i series of scopes, known for their exceptional image quality and rugged construction. New models in the Z5i series featured improved ergonomics and enhanced features, making them even more appealing to discerning hunters and shooters. With a 30mm main tube diameter, it provides increased adjustment range for precise targeting. The newly designed Ballistic Turret and advanced reticle options ensure optimal performance in any hunting situation. MSRP for the 3-18x50mm scope is $2,385. Learn more at Swarovski’s website.

Tract Optics Toric 4-25x50mm Eagleman Scope: Tract Optics, a relatively new player in the premium optics market, introduced the Toric 4-25x50mm Eagleman scope. This high-performance scope is designed for long-range shooting with SCHOTT HT glass and an ED lens along with the Eagleman Long Range Reticle and offers features like a Floating Center Dot, Wind Direction arrows, and 160-MOA elevation adjustment in the 30mm main tube diameter. Like all Toric rifle scopes, it was designed and engineered here in the U.S. and built in Japan by the world’s leading optical manufacturer. MSRP is $1,494. Learn more at Tract Optics.

Suppressors

B&T Print-X VERS36 Ti Suppressor: Silencer Shop featured a B&T’s new Print-X VERS36 Ti, a titanium suppressor designed for .30-caliber rifles. Its adaptable two-stage design and interchangeable end caps make it simple to reconfigure for different platforms, while its HUB compatibility expands mounting possibilities. Whether you’re using it for recreational plinking, hunting or tactical training, this suppressor provides excellent noise reduction, minimal blowback and dependable performance. MSRP is $999. Learn more at Silencer Shop.

HUXWRX FLOW RANGE 36 Ti Suppressor: Silencer Shop also showcased HUXWRX’s new Flow Range 36 Ti, a lightweight and compact suppressor built to tackle a wide variety of calibers, from 5.56 NATO to .338 Lapua. The Flow Range 36 Ti features a unique flow-through design, which results in reduced backpressure while also offering exceptional sound reduction and reliability in modern sporting rifles. Whether you’re hunting, training or hitting long-range targets, this suppressor is your ticket to an elevated shooting experience. MSRP is $969. Learn more at Silencer Shop.

Silencer Central Banish 9K Suppressor: Silencer Central, a leading manufacturer of suppressors, introduced the Banish 9k, a compact and lightweight suppressor designed for 9mm pistols. It is made from 100% high-grade titanium for amazing strength and lightweight. The 3D-printed 9K is just 4.1 inches long and has a diameter of just 1.3 inches, making it one of the most compact 9mm suppressors available. It weighs just 2.7 ounces, too. This compact size and super-light weight makes concealed carry a possibility with the Banish 9K suppressor.  The Banish 9k is easy to install and remove, making it a convenient option for everyday carry and home defense. MSRP is $699. Learn more at Silencer Central’s website.

Accessories

Boring Rifles SARV Bomber Hybrid Chassis System: Boring Rifles, a custom rifle manufacturer, unveiled its new SARV Bomber Hybrid Chassis system. This innovative chassis system combines the features of a traditional stock with those of a more modern chassis, providing an incredibly lightweight (only 30 ounces), comfortable and stable shooting platform for your Remington 700 barreled action. Or they can build you a complete fully custom rifle with the new SARV Bomber Hybrid Chassis system. MSRP for the chassis is $1,349, with pre-orders starting at $900. Learn more at Boring Rifles’ website.

Armageddon Gear Hunting Line: Armageddon Gear is known for their high-quality shooting bags, such as the Game Changer, as well as other precision shooting gear. In 2023, they launched a new line of hunting gear, including chest rigs, gun slings and travel cases. I was able to check it out in person for the first time at SCI this year, and it is all premium quality materials with a hand-crafted look. Learn more at Armageddon Gear’s website.

Beyond the Show Floor

The SCI Convention is more than just a trade show; it’s a celebration of hunting and outdoor culture. Attendees had the opportunity to attend seminars and workshops led by industry experts, listen to captivating presentations by renowned hunters and conservationists and connect with like-minded individuals who share their passion for the outdoors. It’s my favorite trade show because of the focus on hunting, and it’s the right size and relaxed environment where you can have real conversations with representatives at each booth.

As the industry continues to evolve, one thing remains certain: the SCI Convention will remain an important gathering place for hunters and outdoor enthusiasts alike. The innovative products showcased at the event demonstrate the continued evolution of hunting technology, and the unwavering dedication of manufacturers to providing hunters with the best possible equipment for success. Whether you’re an experienced hunter, a conservation advocate or simply curious about hunting and shooting sports, the SCI Convention presents a fascinating glimpse into a multifaceted industry and its positive impact on the world and wildlife around us. Learn more at safariclub.org.