Guns, hunting featured at SHOT trade show in Vegas this week

LAS VEGAS (AP) - Organizers say they expect 60,000 gun enthusiasts, hunters and outdoor gear providers for a big annual trade show this week in Las Vegas.

The 37th Shooting, Hunting and Outdoor Trade Show began Tuesday at the Sands Expo Center.

The four-day show features some 1,600 exhibitors. It's not open to the public.

National Shooting Sports Foundation President and CEO Steve Sanetti says it offers buyers and media a look at equipment and services that'll be offered this year in an $8 billion industry for target shooting, hunting, outdoor and law enforcement.

Using background checks as a measurement, SHOT officials say firearm sales were stronger nationally in 2014 than in any year except 2013, which was a record-setter.

Sanetti says new mainstream weapon buyers are altering perceptions of who owns firearms.