The Rise of Concealed Carry: How Permitless Carry Is Changing Gun Shows

Over half of US states now allow some form of permitless (constitutional) carry. This seismic shift in firearms law is changing what buyers are looking for at gun shows — and vendors are taking notice.

The Permitless Carry Wave

Since 2010, the number of states with permitless carry has grown from a handful to over 27. The trend accelerated dramatically between 2021 and 2025, with major states like Texas, Florida, Ohio, and Georgia joining the list.

Impact on Gun Shows

Holster and Carry Gear Sales Are Booming

Vendors report that holster sales have become one of the hottest categories at gun shows. New carriers are looking for:

Inside-the-waistband (IWB) holsters
Concealment clothing
Carry belts and belt clips
Belly bands and ankle holsters
Purse and off-body carry options

Compact and Subcompact Handgun Demand

The most popular firearms at gun shows have shifted heavily toward concealed carry models:

Sig Sauer P365 — The gun that started the micro-compact revolution
Glock 43X / 48 — Slim frames with respectable capacity
Smith & Wesson Shield Plus — The perennial carry favorite
Springfield Hellcat — High capacity in a tiny package
Ruger MAX-9 — Budget-friendly micro-compact

Training and Education Interest

Gun show attendees are increasingly asking about:

Concealed carry classes and certifications
State reciprocity information
Self-defense ammunition recommendations
Legal liability and use-of-force education

Why Permits Still Matter

Even in permitless carry states, many gun owners still choose to get a permit:

Reciprocity — A permit from your home state may be honored in 30+ other states
Speed — Some states waive waiting periods for permit holders
Legal standing — A permit demonstrates training and lawful intent
Federal property — Some federal facilities recognize state permits

What This Means for Gun Show Attendees

If you're attending a gun show for the first time because of new carry laws in your state:

Take a safety course first — Permitless carry doesn't replace the need for training
Handle multiple options — Gun shows let you compare dozens of carry guns side by side
Don't forget the holster — A good holster is as important as the gun itself
Check show rules — Most gun shows still prohibit loaded firearms on the floor, regardless of carry laws

Find your next gun show in our show directory and explore our concealed carry education series.