Stories

Learn how to use AI with clear prompts, store context, and smart follow-up questions to save time, stay compliant, and create marketing that actually works.

Stop being just another gun store by learning how to analyze your competition, sharpen your strengths, and create a shop customers remember.

Learn practical theft prevention strategies for gun stores, from smarter layouts and surveillance to staff training and secure displays.

Before you stock another box of ammo, make sure you understand the legal complexities, compliance resources, and expert guidance that can keep your business protected.

Most firearm businesses aren’t failing because of compliance or competition — they’re failing because they’re not tracking, measuring, and marketing like direct response pros.

EDC is just the gateway — premium knives are the upgrade, and retailers who stock better blades can capture bigger margins and more loyal buyers.

Learn how diversifying revenue, business units, and supply chains can help your tactical business reduce risk and stay resilient when conditions change.

From Black Friday to overlooked seasonal windows, this article shows how better timing can make your store promotions stand out and drive more sales.

Did you have a favorite story of 2025? As we head into 2026, we're looking back at the best Tactical Retailer had to offer this year.

Some advocacy groups are all about women’s rights — until it comes to the right to keep and bear arms.

Did you have a favorite story of 2024? As we head into 2025, we're looking back at the best Tactical Retailer had to offer this year.

Just out of college and working at a big-box gun counter, I happened into a straw purchase. What were the signs, how did we proceed, and what you can learn?

Updates from around the firearms industry: Kimber partners with Bill Hicks & Co., Liberty Ammunition teams up with Hillsdale College, WarBird Protection and USCCA become partners.

Selling to the new or uninitiated non-gun owner is all about reframing the narrative they might already have in their heads.

It’s not just the firearm background check data proving the popularity of concealed carry handguns; a truckload of new concealed carry handgun innovations and accompanying gear make the case as well. From handguns to holsters to ammo to RMR’s to other accessories, the concealed carry category of the firearms market continues to grow.

Your firearms retail store can benefit from partnering with local law enforcement. How?

What are the real numbers about firearms use?

Didn’t make it to the SHOT Show? Here are some trends we noticed and hot new products we couldn’t resist telling you about.