TriStar Arms Celebrates 30th Anniversary

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posted on September 22, 2026
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Tristar

TriStar Arms was founded in 1996 and has grown into one of the firearm industry’s most respected names in value-driven products. Today, the company offers an extensive lineup of shotguns, rifles and pistols.

Under the leadership of CEO Gus Bader, who continues to be involved in the company, TriStar Arms experienced remarkable growth. Over the past two decades, its annual firearm sales increased more than twentyfold. The number of employees has expanded fivefold, and the firm’s headquarters grew.

“Thirty years is a significant milestone for our company and one that wouldn’t have been possible without the loyalty of our customers, dealers, distributors and industry partners,” said Ryan Bader, president of TriStar Arms. “We’re grateful for the trust they’ve placed in TriStar over the years. As we celebrate this anniversary, we’re just as focused on the future as we are proud of our past, and we’re excited to continue delivering the quality, innovation and value that people have come to expect from TriStar Arms.”

Throughout its history, TriStar has built a reputation for products that meet the needs of hunters, clay target shooters and recreational firearm owners alike. By working closely with manufacturing partners and listening to customer feedback, the company has continually refined its product lineup while expanding into new categories and providing exceptional value.

The company was established by the father-and-son team of Gus and Ryan Bader. At first, they focused exclusively on importing quality shotguns produced in Turkey. In late 2012, it expanded its line to include pistols.

In 2016, TriStar added KRX tactical shotguns to its offerings. The AR-style 12-gauge semi-autos continue to be a popular choice for home defense. Two years later the company introduced a bullpup-style 12-gauge repeater—the Compact 12 gauge.

TriStar Arms is headquartered in Kansas City, Mo., and remains family-owned.  

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