Every October I circle one weekend on my calendar, the Texas Gun & Knife Show. It’s coming back to the Abilene Convention Center on Saturday, October 25 (9 AM-5 PM) and Sunday, October 26 (10 AM-4 PM). I’ll be there broadcasting live, checking out what’s new, and probably adding another blade (or two) to my collection.

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If you’ve never been, this isn’t just any swap-meet. It’s one of the Lone Star State’s true hotspots for firearms, hunting gear, ammo, knives, optics, and a few surprises you won’t find anywhere else.

Texas Hunters Gear Up for Deer Season

Are you still hunting for that hard-to-find ammo before deer season kicks in? Vendors at the Texas Gun & Knife Show specialize in rare rounds and specialty loads. I’ve also noticed a big jump in booths featuring top-quality rifle scopes and binoculars, tools that make every hunt safer and more successful.

Early Holiday Shopping for Texas Gun Lovers

Christmas is less than two months away. If you’ve got a hunter, shooter, or outdoor enthusiast on your gift list, this show is the perfect early shopping trip. Beyond firearms and knives, you’ll spot leather work, concealed-carry purses, handmade jewelry, and one-of-a-kind collectibles.

West Texas Knifemakers Shine, Including Local Favorites

I’ll admit it: I’m a knife guy. My collection is pushing 50 custom blades, each with a story. Some of the best knifemakers in America hail from right here in West Texas, and I can’t wait to see if Abilene’s own Lynn German will be there showing his latest work.

A Few Things to Know Before You Go

  • Admission: $10 for ages 13 and up. Kids 12 & under and first responders get in free.
  • Firearms: Bring them unloaded and have them checked at the front desk.
  • Hours: Saturday 9 AM–5 PM • Sunday 10 AM-4 PM.
  • Location: Abilene Convention Center, 1100 N. 6th St.

Why Texas Shows Keep Growing

Texas continues to lead the nation in gun sales. In 2023 alone, more than 1.3 million firearms were purchased by Texans, and that number rose again in 2024 to 1.4 million, despite many predicting sales would cool after the pandemic.

Oh, by the way: that jump wasn’t driven by the same old buyers. More women than ever are purchasing firearms and investing in concealed-carry handbags as they prepare to protect their families. It’s one of the biggest shifts I’ve seen at shows like this.

Come Say Hi, I’ll Be There Live

I’m genuinely excited about this year’s show. The vendor list keeps growing, the gear gets better, and the conversations with fellow hunters and collectors make it special. Come on out, explore the booths, and stop by to say hi while I’m broadcasting live from the floor.

Whether you’re prepping for deer season, hunting for that rare ammo, adding a custom knife to your collection, or shopping early for Christmas, the Texas Gun & Knife Show in Abilene is the place to be.

Read More: Texas Economy Is Beating the Nation, and Abilene Is Feeling It

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