SHOT Show 2026
I’m back from SHOT Show 2026 in Las Vegas, and before I disappear back behind the work table, I wanted to share a few candid takeaways. There was plenty to look at this year, but not everything that draws a crowd deserves your money—or your trust.
One pistol that generated a lot of conversation was the Shadow Systems Axio. On paper, the steel chassis had my attention. In practice, the trigger system immediately killed the interest. A proprietary pre-cocked striker design using a Timney-style return spring is a red flag for me, especially at that price point. The trigger itself felt like a Glock GPT that desperately needed lubrication—uninspiring and unfinished. When you factor in the buy-in cost compared to something proven like the ZEV OZ9, and Shadow Systems’ hit-or-miss history, I’m not impressed. That one’s an easy pass.
Another platform people couldn’t stop talking about was the PSA AXM. It’s an odd hybrid—RXM-style chassis ideas mixed with SIG/Flux-inspired PDW accessories. This one will sell, and it will sell in big numbers. That said, the trigger felt like pulling an office stapler. Heavy, vague, and completely disconnected. In short: it very much needs my work, and I expect plenty of them to land on my bench.
Lastly, a genuine thank-you to everyone who made it out to SHOT and took the time to say hello—and an even bigger thanks to those who took advantage of the special pricing on the Heisenberg Daily and Critical Mass systems. Coming back from SHOT, I’m going to be buried catching up, and I wouldn’t have it any other way. You are the elite, and I’m honored to build for you. Now, back to the work table—there’s a lot to do.
I also want to extend a sincere thank-you to Grit Grips for having me in their booth during SHOT.It was great spending time with people who are clearly focused on doing things the right way. Keep an eye out for their upcoming GG43X frame, which is shaping up to be an excellent foundation. It’s exactly the kind of platform where a Peacemaker Extreme Carry system belongs—clean, controlled, and purpose-built for those who take concealed performance seriously.
