After Action Review: SHOT Show 2026 | More Than Just Gear and Guns
We didn’t just fly into Las Vegas, grab a few free patches, and fly out. We loaded up the "Battle Van Galactica" and put over 4,800 miles of asphalt behind us. We drove out to SHOT Show with a clear objective: to engage the industry directly and demonstrate that Black Tiger is more than a creative agency—it represents a disciplined mindset and a way of operating.
We built Black Tiger for the tactical, outdoor, and motorsports communities. We are built for the people who wake up every day striving to improve—law enforcement, military, first responders, and the responsible civilians who take ownership of their skills, decisions, and impact. We are committed to authenticity, accountability, and readiness.
If you aren’t familiar with the After Action Review (AAR) process, it’s about analyzing what happened, why it happened, and how to sustain strengths and improve on weaknesses. This was a successful deployment for our small business. It was grueling, loud, and exhausting. But it was the good kind of tired—the kind that fuels your soul and reminds you that you’re alive.
Staccato Range Day: Setting the Tone
We started the week at the Staccato Ranch. We expected to just see the property and maybe get eyes on the new CX4, but the experience went far beyond a site survey. Staccato has built something impressive out there, a facility that commands respect.
While the location was top-tier, the real value was in the unexpected opportunities to interact with other vendors. We reconnected with a good friend, Anson Roberts (@nubgunner), who walked us through Trijicon’s new offerings. Getting hands-on time with duty-grade optics and seeing the innovation coming down the pipeline confirms that the industry isn't stagnant. The tools are getting better, which means the standard for those using them needs to rise to match.
We also connected with friend Rich Wilkins (@patriot.rich), who was holding it down at the Genesis Arms booth. Everyone and their mother wanted a turn on the mag-fed shotgun, and for good reason. It’s a game-changer.
The Iron Sights Podcast: No Scripts, Just Standards
Before we knew it, it was time to head to Treasure Island. Jack joined the crew at the Iron Sights Podcast for a special SHOT Show edition recorded right at the hotel. This wasn’t a marketing pitch. There were no scripts. It was a raw conversation about what brings us to SHOT, the realities of the industry, and the heavy lifting required to maintain culture and leadership.
Jack sat alongside some heavy hitters: Chris Kuras (Good Dude Concepts), Jon Dufresne (Kinetic Consulting), Blake Cook ,Bruno Fallon (Born Primitive Tactical)
If you listen to the episode, you’ll hear a common theme: Accountability.
The discussion went deep into the necessity of physical fitness in law enforcement, the importance of mentorship, and the concept of being a "Good Dude." As Chris Kuras put it, being a "Good Dude" isn't just about being nice; it's a stamp of approval that means you are safe, competent, and reliable.
Jack connected on a personal level regarding sobriety. He’s been in the chair. He chose sobriety years ago. Watching the group connect on that level—discussing the struggles of the job, the darkness that can creep in, and the discipline required to pull yourself out—was a full-circle moment for Black Tiger. It reaffirmed that we are on the right path. We aren't just here to sell media; we are here to push the culture forward.
You can listen to the full conversation here: The Good Dude Collectivefront on Iron Sights Podcast.
Boots on the Ground: The Show Floor
Once we hit the actual floor of the Venetian, it was time to talk shop. We weren’t interested in the fluff. We wanted to see the brands that are building gear for the end-user, not just the shelf.
We had meaningful conversations with brands that align with our ethos:
First Spear, Viktos, Q-Collar, Eagle Industries, Lowa Boots, Safariland, Spec Ops Water, Tech 10, Crye Precision, Palmetto State Armory, just to name a few.
These interactions weren't just about exchanging business cards. It was about identifying the companies that prioritize performance and durability. When you’re downrange or on a call, you don't care about the marketing budget; you care if the gear works. These brands get that.
The Mission: Warriors Heart and Front Line Healing
The most impactful moment of the trip wasn't about a gun or a piece of kit. It happened when we met Jordan and Josh from Front Line Healing Foundation.
This is the non-profit organization supported by the sales of our 11Bravo shirts. The donations go directly to supporting those who need Warriors Heart.
Later, we spent time with Tom Spooner at the GBRS fundraising night at the Leathernecks Club. This interaction got emotional for both of us. Tom’s story mirrors the story of my brother, Craig. Same timeframe stepping up to serve the country. Same MOS. And tragically, the very same struggles after the fact.
Tom is doing critical work. He is serving a mission to save lives far beyond what he could do on a battlefield. Shaking his hand and thanking him for that brought a piece of closure I have needed since my brother’s tragic passing in October 2024.
Jack connected with Tom’s story on a different level. As men who have chosen sobriety, watching them connect was powerful. It solidified our resolve to continue paying it forward. Warriors Heart is the safe place that so many of our warriors need, and we will continue to do everything in our power to support that mission.
The Return to Base
We put over 5,000 miles on the Battle van. The Black Tiger pups endured it all—Fifty Cal Al even took his first steps in the desert sand and saw the crazy sights of Vegas at just eight months old.
The trip home was no joke. The "southern snowpocalypse" decided our turnaround date had to be earlier than planned, forcing us into grueling hours of driving to beat the weather. But we wouldn't change a thing.
Sure, our backs are stiff, our feet hurt, and our knees are reminding us of the miles we walked. But instead of focusing on the soreness, we’re choosing gratitude. We had some of the best conversations with some of the best people in the industry. It’s hard not to be grateful for the smiles and the handshakes that make the exhaustion feel like a cakewalk.
SHOT Show, you sure know how to wear us out. But being tired like this means we’re living a damn good life and we are grateful for that!
