SHOT Show 2013 Sets Attendance Records

The Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade (SHOT) Show set several attendance records this year on its 35th anniversary after four days at the Sands Expo and Convention Center.

The 2013 SHOT Show drew 62,371 attendees, making it the fifth largest trade show in Las Vegas, organizers announced Friday. More than 2,000 media representatives covered the show.

The show, which is sponsored by the National Shooting Sports Foundation (NSSF) and managed by Reed Exhibitions, also drew more than 1,600 exhibitors for 630,000 square feet of exhibition space. The trade-only event brought industry professionals from 50 states and 100 countries.

The NSSF added significantly to its membership ranks at the show, pushing its overall total of supporters to more than 8,300. The show took place amid heightened national attention about firearms ownership and potential gun-control legislation.

"I don't think many of those who disagree with what we do appreciate the many things we've done to advocate personal responsibility with firearms," said Steve Sanetti, NSSF president and CEO.

"Ours is a responsible industry that makes and sells lawful products to law-abiding citizens," Sanetti added. "They exercise their constitutional right to own, use, and enjoy firearms safely and responsibly for lawful purposes."