Iowa gun shows for 2025 - Top Gun Shows

Gun shows in Iowa play a vital role in the state’s firearms community, serving as a gathering place for enthusiasts, hunters, and those focused on personal protection. With Iowa’s deep-rooted support for the Second Amendment and its long-standing hunting traditions, these events are a key resource for anyone interested in firearms, ammunition, and outdoor gear. Whether you’re a lifelong Iowan or just passing through, Iowa gun shows offer a diverse selection of products and a chance to connect with like-minded individuals in a welcoming environment.

Iowa gun shows feature an impressive variety of firearms, catering to a wide range of interests. You’ll find everything from modern handguns and tactical rifles to classic shotguns and collectible pieces. Vendors travel from across the Midwest to showcase their inventories, ensuring there’s something for everyone, whether you’re after a concealed carry pistol, a deer hunting rifle, or a vintage firearm to add to your collection. Beyond guns, these shows are packed with accessories like optics, holsters, magazines, and reloading supplies, making them a convenient one-stop shop for all things firearms-related.

For those prioritizing self-defense, Iowa gun shows provide ample options for concealed carry and home protection. Popular handguns like the Glock 43, Springfield Hellcat, and Ruger LCP are often available, offering compact designs ideal for everyday carry. Iowa’s permit-to-carry laws allow for both open and concealed carry, and many attendees use these shows to find the right firearm for their needs. You’ll also see defensive shotguns like the Benelli M4 or Mossberg 590, which are favored for their reliability in home defense scenarios. Vendors often provide insights on local laws and training opportunities, helping new gun owners navigate their responsibilities.

Collectors and history buffs are in for a treat at Iowa gun shows, where rare and antique firearms frequently make an appearance. From World War II-era rifles to early American revolvers, these events attract vendors specializing in military surplus and historical pieces. Shows like the ones at the Iowa State Fairgrounds in Des Moines or the Mississippi Valley Fairgrounds in Davenport often feature tables dedicated to unique finds, giving collectors a chance to buy, sell, or trade items that are hard to come by elsewhere.

Ammunition is a major draw at Iowa gun shows, especially given the periodic shortages that can affect retail stores. Attendees stock up on popular calibers like 9mm, .45 ACP, and .223 Remington for range use, as well as hunting rounds like .243 Winchester or 12-gauge shotgun shells. The variety ensures that whether you’re preparing for a day at the range or a week in the field, you’ll find the ammo you need to keep shooting.

Iowa’s hunting culture is deeply intertwined with its gun shows, as the state offers a wealth of opportunities for pursuing game. Deer hunting is a cornerstone of Iowa’s outdoor heritage, with the state known for its trophy whitetail bucks. The firearm deer season typically spans December, with hunters using rifles, shotguns, and muzzleloaders. At gun shows, you’ll find rifles chambered in calibers like .30-30 Winchester, .308, and .350 Legend, all of which are well-suited for Iowa’s mix of timber and farmland. Shotguns with rifled slugs are also popular, especially in areas where rifle hunting is restricted, and vendors often stock models like the Remington 870 or Savage 220.

Turkey hunting is another favorite in Iowa, with the spring season drawing hunters to the state’s woodlands. Shotguns dominate this pursuit, and Iowa gun shows frequently offer turkey-specific models with shorter barrels and camo patterns, such as the Mossberg 835 or Winchester SX4. These are often paired with specialized turkey loads in 20-gauge or 12-gauge, which you can find in abundance at these events.

Small game hunting, including rabbits, squirrels, and pheasants, is also popular in Iowa. The state’s pheasant population is a major draw, with the season running from late October to early January. Lightweight shotguns and .22 LR rifles are go-to choices for small game, and gun shows provide plenty of affordable options, along with gear like vests and game bags. Waterfowl hunting along the Mississippi Flyway brings in ducks and geese, and shows often feature 12-gauge semi-autos like the Beretta A400 or Browning Maxus, alongside decoys and waders for the marsh.

For more information on hunting in Iowa, including season dates and regulations, visit the Iowa Department of Natural Resources at www.iowadnr.gov. Iowa gun shows are a perfect complement to the state’s hunting opportunities, offering the tools and knowledge needed for a successful season. Whether you’re tracking a buck or setting up a duck blind, these events help you gear up for the adventure.

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