SHOT Show 2024: Day 1 Part 1

SHOT Show kickoff and Fostech .50 BMG drum mag

The video opens in a busy SHOT Show 2024 hallway, with the Classic Firearms crew standing in the middle of the main walkway, joking about being in everyone’s way and not feeling bad about it. Each host talks about what they’re excited to see: one mentions heading straight to the Fostech booth, another is eager to check out Flux Defense, and they briefly talk about a motorized LPVO that can electronically zoom in and out, which they first saw during range day coverage that’s already live on the channel. They also point out the Evike booth and joke that airsoft can be a gateway into real firearms for younger enthusiasts. The group then heads to Fostech, where Clint is shown holding a massive 20-round drum magazine designed for Barrett-style .50 BMG semi-automatic rifles. Fostech’s Dave explains that this is a prototype drum built for rifles like the M82 and M107, with a limited initial production run of about 250 units planned for the third quarter of the year. The hosts are surprised by how light the drum feels, and Dave notes that it’s machined from billet aluminum and will be anodized black for production. They discuss how visually impressive it will be to see the brass rounds moving through the open drum during rapid fire, and Dave mentions that a dedicated bag or cover is planned to keep dirt and debris out in field use. When asked about price, he says MSRP should be around $1,600, and the hosts immediately start talking about using a couple of these drums in future .50 caliber contest videos.

Fostech custom SIG P320 and ultralight .308 rifle

Staying at the Fostech booth, the hosts transition from the .50 BMG drum to a custom pistol build based on a SIG P320-style platform that leans into the high-end, customized handgun trend. The pistol uses a compact-length 3.9-inch 9mm barrel threaded 1/2x28, an aggressively lightened slide, and a Grayguns grip module that has been laser-stippled and branded with Fostech markings. Inside is a SIG Custom Works fire control unit paired with a single-pass, single-point technology rifled barrel, which Fostech emphasizes for reliability and accuracy. The crew and Dave talk about how the build balances aesthetics with performance and how it’s aimed at shooters who want a premium, competition-capable sidearm. The conversation then shifts to a new lightweight .308 rifle that Fostech has engineered to come in around AR-15 weight. The prototype is roughly 6.2 pounds and features fully ambidextrous, mirrored controls, with plans for multiple rail and barrel length options. Fostech is targeting a third-quarter release and is collecting sign-ups from interested buyers without taking prepayments. When asked about Echo trigger compatibility on the AR-10/.308 platform, Dave explains that any solution would require changes to the Echo trigger’s locking mechanism rather than modifications to the rifle itself, indicating that they’re exploring options but not promising a drop-in answer yet.

Colt carbon steel blued Python revealed

The video then moves to the Colt booth, where the hosts focus on a long-requested version of an iconic revolver: the carbon steel blued Colt Python. Colt representatives explain that customers have been asking for a deep, traditional blue finish for years, and this model finally delivers that classic look while keeping the internals and action identical to the current stainless Python. The revolver retains the same smooth trigger, refined action, and modern durability, but the rich blued finish gives it a vintage, collector-grade appearance reminiscent of older Colt wheelguns. The hosts handle the revolver, commenting on the finish quality, the feel of the trigger, and how it bridges the gap between a serious shooter and a display-worthy collectible. Colt staff emphasize that this is not a mechanical redesign; it’s a material and finish change aimed at enthusiasts who wanted the old-school aesthetic paired with the reliability and performance of the new-generation Python. They note that the revolver is suitable for target shooting, range use, and even hunting, depending on barrel length and configuration.

Colt CBX Tac Hunter lightweight hunting rifle

Staying with Colt, the hosts are introduced to the CBX Tac Hunter, a bolt-action rifle built on the CBX action and positioned as a hybrid between a precision range rifle and a practical hunting gun. Initially offered in .308 Winchester and 6.5 Creedmoor, the Tac Hunter uses an injection-molded polymer stock with an embedded aluminum block to provide rigidity and consistent bedding. The rear of the stock is fully adjustable for cheek height and length of pull, allowing shooters to dial in fit for different optics and body types. The forend is flat and rigid, with multiple sling swivel studs so users can run both a bipod and a sling at the same time. Weighing just under 7 pounds, the rifle aims to balance portability for field carry with enough mass for stability on the bench or in prone. Technical details highlighted include a flat-bottom receiver with an integral recoil lug, Remington 700 pattern drilling and tapping with 8-40 screws, AICS-pattern detachable magazines, a 60-degree bolt throw, a two-position tang safety, an adjustable trigger, and a sub-MOA accuracy guarantee. With an MSRP of $999, Colt positions the CBX Tac Hunter for hunters and precision-minded shooters who want many of the features of a custom rifle without the associated price tag.

Aimpoint ACRO updates and Faxon one-piece AR barrel

The crew then heads to the Aimpoint booth to look at updates to the ACRO P-2 line and a new magnifier. Aimpoint staff explain that the ACRO P-2 is now available in additional colors, including Flat Dark Earth and a gray tone, giving users more options to match duty pistols, competition guns, or personal builds. They also show a new magnifier that is similar in concept to the 3X-C but is ruggedized for immersion down to 25 meters of water. It retains ±2 diopter adjustment and windage/elevation centering, with an MSRP around $469, and is aimed at users who need a durable, submersible magnification solution for professional or hard-use applications. From there, the video transitions to Faxon’s innovative one-piece AR barrel system. In this design, the barrel extension, 45-degree gas block, and KeyMo-style muzzle device are all machined from a single piece of steel, using an AR-10-size barrel extension and bolt head. Feed ramps are cut directly into the extension, and the entire assembly is thermally fitted into a matching upper receiver. Developed in collaboration with Dead Air and Global Ordnance, the system is pitched as a robust suppressor host that maximizes concentricity, strength, and thermal efficiency while minimizing the risk of baffle strikes. The hosts and Faxon representatives discuss how this integrated approach reduces potential failure points and alignment issues compared to traditional multi-piece setups.

Global Ordnance Monolith and Ranch Rifle

The focus then turns to Global Ordnance, where the hosts highlight the company’s willingness to incorporate user feedback into new designs. They spend time on the Monolith rifle, a fully ambidextrous platform with mirrored controls, including an ambidextrous magazine release, bolt catch, and safety. The rifle features a paratrooper-style charging handle and an integrated folding stock attachment built directly into the lower receiver, eliminating the need for separate adapters. It uses a 16-inch one-piece barrel and an extra heavy-duty bolt, yet the overall package remains relatively light even when equipped with optics and accessories. The hosts comment on how solid the rifle feels while still being manageable for extended use. The conversation then moves to the Ranch Rifle project, which Global Ordnance developed over roughly three years. The rifle was repeatedly shown at trade events and demo days to gather real-world feedback from shooters, and that input drove refinements in ergonomics, controls, and reliability. The Ranch Rifle has proven popular enough that the company decided to offer it as a complete rifle package rather than just a lower receiver, reflecting strong demand for a turnkey, field-ready configuration aimed at ranch work, property defense, and general-purpose use.

Magpul T-MAG, translucent PMAG, and SIG P320 metal mags

At the Magpul booth, Dwayne introduces the transparent T-MAG, which he describes as the result of roughly 15 years of material science work. The goal was to create a translucent magazine with durability and chemical resistance on par with the Gen M3 PMAG. He explains that earlier clear magazines on the market often suffered from cracking, discoloration, or chemical damage, and Magpul refused to release a product until they could match their established standards. The T-MAG passes harsh drop, dust, and mud tests, addressing the historical weaknesses of clear magazines. A key feature is a white-painted spring leg aligned with side markings, allowing shooters to read round count accurately even when the cartridge stack is hidden inside the magwell. Magpul notes that the advanced translucent material used in this design did not exist two years earlier and that the specific formulation is protected as a trade secret rather than a patent. Consumer availability is targeted around March with an MSRP of about $23. The discussion then shifts to pistol magazines. Magpul staff outline the limitations of pure polymer pistol mags, including wall thickness and clearance constraints that can compromise feed geometry and reliability. Instead of forcing a polymer-only solution, they developed improved metal magazines for the SIG P320 platform, made from stainless steel with optimized springs and followers, laser-welded backs, full-length witness holes, and enhanced corrosion resistance. These P320 magazines are priced around $35 and are already shipping, with additional capacities and fitments planned through 2024 and beyond.

FN 509 CC Edge XL, compensator kit, and Full Size MRD

The hosts then move to FN’s booth to explore several additions to the 509 lineup. The FN 509 CC Edge XL is introduced as a hybrid of the CC Edge and LS Edge, combining a compensated slide assembly with a full-size 17-round grip frame. It includes weighted magazine base pads and a flared Magwell to support faster reloads and flatter shooting, targeting defensive shooters who want competition-style performance in a carry-capable package. FN also unveils an accessory compensator kit compatible with compact, midsize, and standard 509 models. Offered in black and Flat Dark Earth, the compensator uses a quick-detach, quarter-turn interface that avoids traditional threads, shims, and set screws, simplifying installation, removal, and cleaning. The hosts handle the kit and note how easy it is to take on and off for maintenance or when switching between suppressed and unsuppressed setups. Finally, FN presents a commercial full-size 509 MRD. This model features a full-size frame, 17-round magazines, and a 4.5-inch barrel, providing a longer sight radius and additional slide mass for recoil control. Originally a law-enforcement-only configuration, it is now being offered to the broader commercial market as a true full-size duty-style pistol with optics-ready capability.

LMT 300 BLK PDW concepts and Canik competition pistol

Attention then shifts to the LMT booth, where the hosts examine a compact 300 Blackout PDW concept. The setup pairs an 8.25-inch 300 BLK upper with an LMT PDW stock, creating a very short, maneuverable package that the hosts describe as ideal for use as a truck or backpack gun. They comment on its controllability, balance, and distinctive aesthetic. LMT representatives also reference the Estonian service rifle and a new piston-driven .308 configuration, issuing a playful challenge for users to try to break both piston and direct-impingement uppers on a full-auto lower, underscoring their confidence in the durability of the designs. The segment then moves to the Canik booth for a look at a new competition-focused pistol. This Canik model features an optics-ready slide, the company’s first factory compensator, a fluted barrel, and a very light, crisp trigger. Aggressive grip texturing and refined sights with a fiber-optic front are designed to support fast, accurate shooting. The pistol is intended to fit multiple USPSA divisions, giving competitors a ready-to-run platform straight from the box, with minimal need for aftermarket upgrades.

Canik TTI Combat pistol and Trijicon RCR enclosed red dot

The Canik lineup expands with a collaboration model customized by Taran Tactical Innovations. This pistol includes an optics-ready slide, a compensator, a fluted barrel, a light, short-reset trigger, and aggressive grip texturing, along with upgraded sights tuned for competition use. With an MSRP around $950, it is positioned as a high-performance yet relatively accessible competition gun compared to many custom builds. The hosts highlight its flat shooting characteristics and accuracy, noting that a similar base Canik platform helped Nils Jonasson win USPSA Nationals in 9mm. The compensator is removable, and an optional shorter barrel allows the pistol to transition from a competition setup to a more carry-oriented configuration. The video then heads to the Trijicon booth, where the new RCR fully enclosed pistol red dot is introduced. The RCR offers 10 illumination settings, including super bright and night-vision-compatible modes, and uses a top-loading CR2032 battery rated for about six years at a mid-level brightness setting. It mounts directly to RMR-pattern slides using inset caps and screws, preserving existing iron sight setups while providing the environmental protection of an enclosed emitter design. The hosts and Trijicon staff discuss how this addresses concerns about debris, rain, and lens contamination that can affect open-emitter optics.

Trijicon RMR HD and Credo 1-10 FFP with Q-LOC mount

Trijicon continues the presentation with the RMR HD, an evolution of the classic RMR pistol optic. The HD version features a larger window for improved field of view, a top-loading CR2032 battery, and an indexing ridge on the housing to aid consistent presentation and draw. A key innovation is the forward-facing light sensor tuned to the shooter’s eye, which adjusts reticle brightness based on target lighting rather than ambient light at the shooter’s position. This is particularly useful when moving from dark to bright environments or when activating a weapon light in low light, helping prevent the dot from washing out or becoming too dim. Users can choose a dot-only reticle or a dot with a 55-MOA circle and can bias the auto-brightness toward higher or lower output while independently adjusting contrast between the dot and circle. MSRP is about $849. The segment then covers the Credo 1-10 first focal plane scope, which builds on the Credo 1-8. At 1x it presents a segmented illuminated circle for fast acquisition, while at 10x it offers a fine illuminated crosshair dot for precision work. The optic uses a 34 mm tube, provides 100 MOA of elevation travel, includes a zero stop, and remains compact at roughly 10 inches in length and about 21 ounces in weight. It is shown on a new Q-LOC cantilever mount that supports multiple heights and allows mounting RMR or RMRcc red dots on the sides or top. The scope is priced around $2,200, targeting users who want a do-it-all LPVO for competition, duty, or general-purpose carbines.

Deep dive on Canik TTI Combat collaboration package

The closing portion of the video returns to the Canik TTI Combat pistol, described as a dream collaboration between Canik and Taran Tactical Innovations. With an MSRP of $949.99, it aims to deliver Taran-level performance at less than half the cost of many other TTI builds while remaining widely accessible. A standout feature is the specially developed low-profile optics plate designed specifically for the Trijicon SRO and the new Canik MO3 optic, enabling a proper co-witness despite the SRO’s large window and typical mounting height. The pistol includes a TTI plus-three base pad, an additional magazine with an aluminum base plate, redesigned Taran backstraps with aggressive texture, and a 90-degree break aluminum diamond-cut trigger. A bronze Cerakote finish with black shadowing, updated iron sights, and a ported, fluted barrel complete the look. The package ships in a travel case that also contains three backstraps, multiple magazines, a toolkit, a collectible coin, a punch, a speed loader, and a new competition holster with lines that match the gun’s contours and an adjustable retention screw. The hosts note that the total package stays under $1,100 and that magazines are cross-compatible with other Canik models, with anecdotal tests showing slide and barrel assemblies fitting on different frames. They close by discussing the broader collaboration between Taran Tactical, Canik, and retail partners, and they tease additional projects and coverage coming in Day 1 Part 2 of their SHOT Show series.