2016 Great American Outdoor Show Opens

by
posted on February 8, 2016
** When you buy products through the links on our site, we may earn a commission that supports NRA's mission to protect, preserve and defend the Second Amendment. **
gaos_x_gaos2016_pf-2-2.jpg
The 2016 Great American Outdoor Show presented by Outdoor Channel opens its doors Sat., Feb. 6 at the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex in Harrisburg, Pa. Showcasing the outdoor traditions treasured by millions of Americans and their families, the nine-day experience runs February 6-14, and is the largest consumer sports and outdoor show in the world. 



NRA President Allan Cors presided over the official ribbon-cutting ceremony announcing the official opening of the 2016 Great American Outdoor Show. Cors recognized the $73 million impact the GAOS has on the region, as the show continues to grow each year. Additionally, he said the NRA has contributed $100,000 over the past two years to great causes in central Pennsylvania.



In his introductory remarks, Director of NRA General Operations Kyle Weaver said the Great American Outdoor Show is a winter staple for sportsmen to celebrate their passion for the outdoor lifestyle. "We work hard to create a fresh experience at each year's show and we can't wait to show off our new events, activities, and all the big names we invited starting this weekend." He announced that more than 175,000 attendees from almost all 50 states, as well as 1,000 exhibitors from around the world would make up the attractions at the GAOS this year. Weaver also welcomed and thanked Justin Moon with Kahr Firearms Group (below), Pennsylvania’s newest gun manufacturer, after the company recently relocating operations from New York. 





Dock Dogs is one of the new exhibits attendees can enjoy at the Great American Outdoor Show.

The show sprawls over 650,000 square feet of the complex, featuring nearly 1,100 hunting, fishing, shooting sports, archery, boating, RV, and outfitter exhibits; more than 200 outdoor seminars and demonstrations; daily celebrity appearances; and more than a dozen special events and contests.






















Highlights of the 2016 show include NRA Country Presents: Justin Moore & LOCASH, the third annual NRA Foundation Banquet, UnMuzzled: Phil Robertson Talks God, Guns, and Country, and the NRA Foundation's Wall of Guns. Additional activities include the Family Fun Zone, NRA 3-Gun Experience, Pyramyd Air Air Gun Range, 3D Bowhunter Challenge, Kids Trout Pond, Bass University and more.

Parking for the Great American Outdoor Show may be accessed at the Farm Show Complex and several nearby lots, including the Harrisburg Mall, which provide free shuttle service during regular show hours.

Purchase tickets to the Great American Outdoor Show and see a complete list of events at greatamericanoutdoorshow.org.

Latest

Henry New SPD Models 01
Henry New SPD Models 01

Henry Introduces Two New Special Products Division Rifles: The CRUSR & PREDATOR

Henry Repeating Arms' Special Products Division expanded its offerings with two new rifles in the fall of 2025, the CRUSR and PREDATOR lever-actions.

Preview: Duracell 3000L Tri-Power Lantern

The company renowned for its Coppertop batteries now offers a high-tech take on traditional camp illumination.

Gun Of The Week: Colt Kodiak

The Kodiak, introduced in 2024, is based on the company’s iconic Anaconda design, which was brought back to the market in 2021.

The Armed Citizen® Dec. 12, 2025

Read today's "The Armed Citizen" entry for real stories of law-abiding citizens, past and present, who used their firearms to save lives.

The French Charleville: Workhorse Of The American Revolution

Often overlooked, the French "Charleville" infantry musket was one of the most significant longarms of the 18th and 19th centuries and was integral to the success of the Continental Army during the American Revolution.

Lisa Tuason Appointed Interim CEO of Armscor/Rock Island Armory

Following the unexpected passing of Armscor President and CEO Martin Tuason in November, Lisa Tuason was appointed as interim CEO in early December, ensuring continued family leadership.

Interests



Get the best of American Rifleman delivered to your inbox.