The Heavyweight Hitters: What SHOT Show 2026 Did for High-End Gun Enthusiasts

Key Takeaways:

• Tradition Got a Serious Tech Upgrade: SHOT Show 2026 proved that classic firearm designs aren’t stuck in the past. Henry’s SPD Predator transformed the humble lever-action into a sub-MOA precision rifle, while Smith & Wesson brought optics-ready capability to their iconic 686 Plus revolver. It’s not about abandoning heritage, it’s about respecting it enough to make it better.
• Modularity Is the New Premium Feature: Palmetto State Armory’s AXR ecosystem shows where the industry’s heading. One serialized fire control unit that works across pistols, rifles, PDWs, and shotguns? That’s not just clever engineering, it’s a fundamental rethinking of what firearms ownership can look like. Expect more manufacturers to chase this concept.
• Premium Prices Reflect Genuine Innovation: Yeah, these firearms aren’t cheap; we’re talking $1,700 to $4,000 for most of them. But the pricing reflects real engineering breakthroughs, not just marketing hype. When you’ve got titanium actions, carbon-fiber components, hydraulic buffers, and sub-MOA guarantees on a 4-pound rifle, that premium starts making sense. You’re paying for the absolute pinnacle of what’s currently possible.

Let’s get started

You know that feeling when you walk into a gun show and immediately know it’s going to be special? SHOT Show 2026 had that energy from the moment the doors opened. This year’s event in Las Vegas didn’t just showcase incremental updates or minor tweaks to existing platforms. Instead, we got a genuine parade of innovation, with manufacturers pushing boundaries in ways that left even seasoned collectors reaching for their wallets.

Let’s be honest: the firearms industry can sometimes feel like it’s stuck in a holding pattern, churning out the same AR-15 variants and polymer striker-fired pistols year after year. But 2026? This was different. From lever-actions that shoot like precision rifles to folding pistols straight out of a spy movie, the show floor delivered exactly what high-end enthusiasts have been craving: firearms that blend heritage with cutting-edge engineering.

So what did the top manufacturers bring to the table? Let me walk you through 10 of the most impressive high-end firearms to debut. These aren’t your run-of-the-mill range toys. We’re talking about precision-engineered pieces that represent the absolute pinnacle of what’s possible when craftsmanship meets innovation.

When Tradition Meets Technology: Henry’s SPD Predator

Here’s something I didn’t expect to see in 2026: a lever-action rifle that can genuinely compete with modern precision bolt guns. Henry Repeating Arms unveiled their SPD “Predator,” and honestly, it’s kind of mind-blowing.

This isn’t your grandfather’s lever gun. Sure, it’s got that classic lever-action profile we all love, but Henry basically rebuilt the concept from the ground up. They’re chambering it in .223 Remington/5.56 NATO, feeding it with AR-style magazines, and, get this, they’re guaranteeing sub-MOA accuracy. That’s a bold claim for any lever-action, let alone one that weighs just 5.5 pounds.

The engineering here is pretty clever. They’ve wrapped an 18-inch match-grade barrel in carbon fiber and threaded it for suppressors. The stock is a lightweight, laminated wood with an adjustable comb, and a carbon-fiber Picatinny rail runs along the top. They even threw in a Harris bipod. It’s like Henry asked, “What would happen if we took a lever gun and gave it everything a modern precision rifle has?”

At around $2,510, the Predator isn’t cheap. But considering what you’re getting, custom-shop-level engineering, ambidextrous controls, a crisp 4-pound trigger, it starts to make sense. Predator and varmint hunters who’ve always loved lever-actions but needed better accuracy? This might just be your dream rifle. And based on the buzz at SHOT Show’s range day, where shooters were consistently hitting sub-MOA groups at 100 yards, Henry’s delivered on their promises.

The Legend Returns: FN’s Next-Generation SCAR

Remember when rumors started swirling that FN might discontinue the SCAR? Well, FN had the last laugh. They didn’t kill the SCAR; they completely reimagined it.

The next-generation SCAR lineup (spanning the 16S, 17S, and 20S models) represents over two dozen upgrades while keeping that iconic silhouette everyone recognizes. What’s changed? Almost everything internal. The new two-piece bolt carrier with hydraulic buffer dramatically cuts felt recoil, making follow-up shots noticeably faster. The triggers got a complete overhaul, single-stage in standard models, two-stage in the 20S DMR version. Everything’s fully ambidextrous now, and FN finally made these guns properly suppressor-ready with standardized threads and dedicated QD suppressors.

The receiver’s been extended with additional M-LOK slots at multiple positions, giving you more accessory mounting options and better handguard rigidity. Despite all these enhancements, FN kept the legendary reliability intact; they claim these rifles can run 16,000 rounds without parts failure. That’s the kind of durability that justifies the $3,500 to $4,000 price tag for a base SCAR 17S in 7.62.

Range Day feedback was overwhelmingly positive. Shooters noted the smoother recoil impulse immediately, with many saying the Gen2 SCAR feels like shooting a caliber down from its actual caliber. One reviewer summed it up perfectly: “It keeps the iconic look but with noticeable performance leaps.” For high-end civilian enthusiasts who want battle-proven performance, this is the SCAR we’ve been waiting for.

PSA’s Wild Card: The AXR Modular Ecosystem

Palmetto State Armory tends to occupy the budget-friendly end of the market, so their AXR series announcement turned more than a few heads. This isn’t just a gun; it’s an entire ecosystem built around a single serialized fire-control core.

Think about it: one Modular Fire Control unit that you can swap between a full-size pistol, compact carry pistol, 9mm PDW, rifle, and even a shotgun. No additional paperwork. No extra serialized lowers. Just one ATF Form 4473 and you’ve got the foundation for multiple firearms. It’s like SIG’s P320 concept, but PSA took it way further.

The AXR SSP (Short-Stroke Piston) rifle is particularly interesting. It’s a bufferless AR-style upper in .300 Blackout or 5.56 that mates to an MFC-equipped lower, giving you a folding-stock carbine with an adjustable gas piston system optimized for suppressed fire. The same MFC drops into different handgun grip frames—full, compact, or micro, accepting Glock 17 mags, SIG P320 mags, or PSA’s own, depending on configuration.

PSA even hinted at a suppressor-ready tactical shotgun upper (the “570” series) that’ll work with the system. We’re talking endless configurations here, and SHOT enthusiasts were genuinely excited about the possibilities. Yeah, PSA hasn’t announced final pricing yet, but given their track record for aggressive pricing, the AXR might make high-end modularity accessible to a much wider audience. That’s pretty revolutionary.

The Briefcase Gun Goes Legit: ZEV’s FDP-9

Some concepts float around the firearms community for years, never quite making it to production. The folding pistol was one of those ideas, cool in theory, but seemingly too complicated to execute well. ZEV Technologies and Magpul proved everyone wrong with the FDP-9.

This thing folds around its action to create a compact rectangular package that looks more like a radio than a firearm. But pop it open, and you’ve got a fully functional 9mm pistol-caliber carbine ready to fire. It ships with two 21-round Magpul GL9 magazines, and yes, you can even fit a 33-rounder while it’s folded (with slight adjustment).

What’s impressive isn’t just the folding mechanism; it’s that ZEV built this to actually shoot well. There’s a full-length Picatinny rail for optics, integrated flip-up iron sights, and ambidextrous controls. The locking joints maintain zero with an optic despite repeated folding and unfolding. Testers at SHOT Show came away saying it “feels controllable and fast,” and that it’s “built to be shot, not just folded and admired.”

At $1,699, the FDP-9 isn’t competing with budget PCCs. But for vehicle carry, backpack carry, or any situation where a conventional PDW is too large, this folding pistol makes genuine tactical sense. It’s aimed at forward-thinking civilians, security personnel, and anyone who needs firepower that can be stowed inconspicuously. After more than a decade of anticipation (stemming from Magpul’s famous FMG-9 prototype), ZEV delivered.

Staccato’s Carry Comp: The HD C4X

Staccato has built its reputation on competition-grade 2011 pistols, and the HD C4X brings that race-gun DNA into a carry-sized package. This is a 4-inch barrel 9mm with an integrated compensator, 15+1 capacity, and, surprisingly, Glock magazine compatibility.

Let’s talk about what that means in practical terms. The built-in comp reduces muzzle flip noticeably, letting you get back on target faster than a standard carry gun. The 2011 platform gives you that crisp single-action trigger we all love. Fully ambidextrous controls mean lefties aren’t forgotten. And because it’s optics-ready with a redesigned grip module that improves recoil management, you’re essentially getting a custom-level pistol out of the box.

Now, we need to address the elephant in the room: the price. At $3,499 for the base configuration (reaching $3,899 with custom options), the HD C4X is firmly in ultra-premium territory. As one reviewer joked, “For those asking for an ‘affordable’ Staccato… this isn’t it.” But for concealed carry practitioners, plainclothes officers, or IDPA competitors who want a compact pistol with full-size performance, the HD C4X delivers something you simply can’t get anywhere else.

SHOT Show attendees who tested it reported it was remarkably flat-shooting for its size. The Glock magazine compatibility was a smart move, too; you’ve got cheap, reliable mag options for a 2011. Staccato continues to blur the line between competition and carry, and the HD C4X might be their best expression of that philosophy yet.

Caracal’s SMG Alternatives: CMP9 and CMP9K

Caracal USA doesn’t have the same name recognition as some American manufacturers, but their CMP9 series made a strong case for attention. These are large-format 9mm pistols with serious PDW characteristics—think MP5 vibes but with AR controls.

The CMP9 sports a 9-inch barrel while the CMP9K (“K” for Kurz) has a 6-inch barrel. Both feed from 30-round MP5-pattern magazines, come threaded for suppressors (1/2×28), and feature ambidextrous everything, safety selector, mag release, and charging handle. The 7075-T6 aluminum handguard features M-LOK slots and Picatinny rails for accessories. Despite all this, both versions stay under 5 pounds.

What makes these interesting is how Caracal merged the best aspects of different platforms. You get MP5 magazine compatibility (widely available and proven), AR-style controls (familiar manual of arms), and a modular rear that accepts various stocks or braces. For home defense, these offer the controllability of a pistol-caliber carbine with compact dimensions. For recreational shooting and competitions, they’re just plain fun.

At $1,833 for either model, they’re positioned in the upper tier of 9mm pistols. The solid build quality and thoughtful feature set justify the price, though. Caracal smartly leveraged well-liked features from other platforms, and SHOT Show attendees appreciated the ambi ergonomics and robust construction. It’s a strong entry in the civilian SMG/PCC space.

Benelli Supercharges a Legend: The M4 EXT

The Benelli M4 has been the gold standard for tactical shotguns since the U.S. Marine Corps adopted it. So when Benelli announced the M4 EXT variant, people paid attention.

The upgrades are exactly what users have been requesting for years. Full-length magazine tube for 7+1 capacity with 2¾-inch shells? Check. Five-position collapsible stock for better length-of-pull adjustment? Yep. Oversized bolt release and bolt handle for faster manipulation? Got it. Integrated Picatinny rail for mounting optics? Of course.

It still uses Benelli’s proven ARGO system, those dual short-stroke gas pistons that cycle everything from light loads to magnum slugs without adjustment. The M4 EXT handles up to 3-inch magnums and maintains Benelli’s reputation for reliability in harsh conditions. You can get it in three factory finishes: H2O (nickel plated) for corrosion resistance, Flat Dark Earth, or Multicam Black camo.

At around $2,599 MSRP, the M4 EXT is an investment. But for law enforcement, military users, home defenders, and 3-Gun competitors, it’s the ultimate semi-auto shotgun with no compromises. Previous M4 models with collapsible stocks were limited editions, so having these features standard is a big deal. As one commentator noted, it’s “the same battle-proven M4, but now with more of everything that matters.”

Beretta’s Tech Showcase: The AX800 Suprema

Beretta went all-in on technology with the AX800 Suprema, their flagship 12-gauge for 2026. This gas-operated semi-auto is designed for demanding hunters who face extreme conditions and need absolute reliability.

The B-Link Pro gas system is self-regulating, cycling everything from light target loads to heavy 3½-inch magnums. The Steelium Pro barrel has an extended 17.7-inch forcing cone for tighter patterns and more downrange energy. Here’s where it gets interesting: Beretta’s Kick-Off Pro system, an oil-damped shock absorber in the stock, reduces felt recoil by up to 70%. If you’ve ever spent a day shooting magnum waterfowl loads, you know how much that matters.

The polymer receiver cuts weight and resists harsh weather. Enlarged controls, loading port, bolt handle, bolt release, trigger guard, work with gloved hands in freezing conditions. Available in 26-inch, 28-inch, and 30-inch barrel lengths, with an adjustable shim system for custom fitting, the AX800 is thoroughly modern.

Between $2,499 and $2,599, the Suprema competes with other premium Italian semi-autos. But Beretta even managed to lower prices on some models compared to previous iterations despite all these upgrades. For waterfowl hunters facing brutal conditions or sporting clays shooters wanting competition-grade features in a field gun, the AX800 delivers. Early reviews praised its combination of soft recoil and reliable action, exactly what Beretta promised.

Weatherby’s Mountain Machine: The Mark V Backcountry Capra

Ultralight rifles always involve compromises, right? Either they’re uncomfortable to shoot, or they sacrifice accuracy, or they cost more than a used car. Weatherby’s Mark V Backcountry Capra challenges all those assumptions while weighing as little as 4.0 pounds.

The engineering here is remarkable. Titanium action (available in short and standard lengths). Thin-contour, fluted barrel with a “double helix” spiral pattern, then tension-wrapped in a carbon-fiber sleeve. A new Peak 44 “Bridger” carbon-fiber stock with skeletal cut-outs and no floorplate (blind internal magazine saves weight). To manage recoil from such a light rifle, there’s a 3D-printed HexGrid recoil pad with crushable honeycomb structure, plus a lightweight aluminum AccuBrake ST muzzle brake.

Despite all the weight savings, every Capra carries Weatherby’s sub-MOA accuracy guarantee. That’s impressive considering we’re talking about a sub-5-pound rifle. Available in chamberings from 6.5 Creedmoor and .308 Win to Weatherby Magnums, the Capra is purpose-built for mountain and extreme-terrain hunting.

At $3,499, it’s expensive. But custom ultralight rifles often cost significantly more, so Weatherby’s essentially democratizing this technology in a production model. For hunters who count every ounce during backpack hunts, sheep, goat, and high-country mule deer, the Capra delivers ballistic performance without the fatigue. SHOT Show attendees were amazed by handling such a light rifle that still shoots sub-MOA. It’s a new benchmark for backcountry guns.

Smith & Wesson’s Modern Wheelgun: Spec Series R Model 686 Plus

Revolvers don’t usually steal the spotlight at SHOT Show, but Smith & Wesson’s Spec Series R 686 Plus managed exactly that. This is a 7-shot .357 Magnum revolver with 21st-century features that wheelgun enthusiasts have been dreaming about.

The standout feature? It’s optics-ready, one of the first production revolvers to include factory mounting for a red dot sight. The 4.13-inch barrel is ported with a PowerPort muzzle brake to tame .357 Magnum recoil. Stainless steel construction with black accents, a tuned action, upgraded grips, and the L-frame’s perfect balance of size and shootability make this a thoroughly modern revolver.

The 7-round capacity (versus traditional 6-shot) gives you that extra round, and the cylinder is likely cut for moon clips to facilitate fast reloads. Smith & Wesson refined the double-action trigger at the factory, and the single-action breaks cleanly for precision work. With target sights, contoured controls, and ergonomic grips, it’s basically a Performance Center revolver with contemporary upgrades.

Around $1,099 (estimated MSRP as part of a deluxe kit), the Spec Series R 686 Plus targets collectors and enthusiasts who want a top-tier revolver for defense, target shooting, or competition. At SHOT Show, revolver fans were excited to see the platform get optics-ready capability and porting. The fact that Smith & Wesson is embracing red-dot sighted revolvers indicates they see a real future here. It’s a “halo” revolver demonstrating S&W’s craftsmanship for 2026.

The Takeaway

SHOT Show 2026 proved that the high-end firearms market isn’t just alive, it’s thriving. From Henry’s precision lever-action to PSA’s modular ecosystem, from ZEV’s folding pistol to Weatherby’s 4-pound mountain rifle, manufacturers are pushing boundaries in every category.

What ties these firearms together isn’t just premium pricing or exotic materials. It’s the willingness to challenge conventional thinking about what’s possible. Yeah, these guns aren’t cheap. But for collectors and enthusiasts who demand the absolute best, who want firearms that represent the pinnacle of current technology and craftsmanship, 2026 delivered in spades.

The firearms industry sometimes gets criticized for playing it safe, for endless AR-15 variants and polymer pistols that all look the same. This year’s SHOT Show was the perfect counterargument. Innovation is alive and well; you just have to look at the high end to see where the industry’s really heading.

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