It would be great if you could make all of your money from a single product or just a few products, but as we all know, in today’s retail world, diversity is truly security. While the vast majority of your revenue may come from big-ticket items, it is often the little things that count.
“Accessories” can mean many things. Sometimes, the title is referring to additional items that are attached to a larger-ticket item. It also refers to smaller items that are either essential needs for participation in an activity or, at the very least, something that makes participation easier or safer. Every gun you sell will (eventually) need ammunition, a case for safe transport, and, often, an optic. Boots need socks. Firearms need to be cleaned and maintained. Communication and navigation can be made easier with various products.
Following are some recommended products that will not only help to meet your many different customers’ needs, but will benefit your bottom line.
Ammunition
Ammunition is more than just cartridges on your shelf.
Different situations call for different types of rounds, and customers want to know that your store has what they need — whether they’re practicing at the range, competing in a match or protecting their homes. Having a large variety of the most popular tactical calibers will make sure that your customers will return to your store again and again.
Target Ammunition: The venerable and oft-quoted coach of the Green Bay Packers, Vince Lombardi, was known to say, “Practice does not make perfect. PERFECT practice makes perfect.” It takes a lot of rounds to reach that level, so having a variety of target ammunition in various configurations is essential. This type of ammo is typically cheaper and designed for high-volume shooting, making it ideal for practice at the range. As you know, typical options to stock include 9mm FMJ (Full Metal Jacket) rounds, .223 Remington, and .22LR for smaller handguns or rifles. The key here is to offer brands that are reliable but still affordable — brands like Winchester and Federal tend to be customer favorites. Stocking a variety of calibers and bullet weights allows customers to find exactly what they need for their range day, whether they’re a first-time shooter or a seasoned veteran. Target ammo also tends to sell in bulk, so make sure to offer deals on larger quantities to encourage buyers to stock up.
Self-Defense Ammunition: When it comes to personal protection, quality self-defense ammunition is another essential item to stock. Typical defensive ammo is designed to rapidly expand on impact, delivering more stopping power while at the same time reducing the risk of over-penetration. Products like Hornady Critical Defense or Federal HST are particularly popular for their reputation in both reliability and effectiveness. Customers looking for self-defense rounds will often ask for recommendations, so it’s important that your team knows and can effectively explain the difference between defensive loads and target ammo. Highlight the benefits of specifically designed defensive ammunition and be prepared to offer advice on different brands and calibers. Of course, 9mm and .45 ACP are the most commonly sought-after, but don’t forget to stock defensive rounds for other calibers as well, as many still favor guns chambered in .38 Special, .380, .357 and more.
Match-Grade Ammunition: For customers interested in competition shooting, match-grade ammunition is a necessary choice. Unlike regular target ammo, match-grade rounds are loaded to higher tolerances and more consistent powder loads for greater accuracy, giving shooters that extra edge they need in competitions. Some excellent options to consider are Hornady Match and Federal Gold Medal Sierra MatchKing. It’s worth noting that match-grade ammo tends to be more expensive than target ammunition, so expect more discerning buyers to inquire about ballistic performance and consistency. Offering a range of calibers, including .223, .308 and, these days, 6.5 Creedmoor, will help you meet the needs of precision shooters.
Optics
Red-dot sights are game changers for quick target acquisition and precision. Red-dot optics have also become increasingly popular among casual shooters and tactical professionals for their ease of use and reliability in dynamic environments. The compact design of red-dot sights means they can be mounted on everything from handguns to shotguns and rifles, giving customers a wide range of options depending on their shooting platform.
Some of the best value-for-money options on the market right now are the red-dots made by CVLIFE. Offering surprisingly clear optics and durable construction at a budget-friendly price, CVLIFE red-dots are perfect for both novice and experienced shooters. These sights are especially useful in situations where fast target acquisition is critical — whether your customers will be engaging targets in defensive situations or competition in close quarters or at medium ranges. The simple, intuitive design makes CVLIFE red-dots a go-to choice for those looking to enhance their shooting accuracy without breaking the bank.
Riton Optics is quickly becoming a favorite among shooters for their high-quality, durable red-dot sights that deliver excellent performance at competitive prices. Their lineup includes models like the Riton X3 Tactix MPRD (Micro Pistol Red Dot), which is perfect for handguns due to its compact design and fast target acquisition, and the Riton X3 Tactix ARD (Advanced Red Dot), which excels on rifles and shotguns with its rugged build and precise 2 MOA red dot. Another popular option is the Riton X1 Tactix RRD (Rifle Red Dot), ideal for budget-conscious shooters looking for a reliable red-dot sight for tactical or recreational use. Of course, brands like Bushnell, Trijicon, Sig, Meprolight, EOTECH and others are always hot sellers and are worth consideration for your shelf space.
Eyes and Ears
God only gave us two eyes, and they’re not all that durable. Therefore, it makes sense to protect them! Whether customers are at the range or in the field, proper eyewear can prevent serious injuries from ricochets, debris, or other hazards. One standout option is the Bolle Silium tactical glasses. These glasses offer an ideal combination of lightweight comfort and robust protection, with anti-scratch and anti-fog coatings to ensure clarity in all conditions. The slim profile and sleek design also mean they’re easy to wear for extended periods, whether on the range or during long days in the field. For any retailer looking to offer premium eye protection at a very economical price, the Bolle line of protective glasses should be a top recommendation.
You also only are allotted one set of ears in your lifetime. A single gunshot with unprotected ears can cause irreversible damage, especially in an enclosed space such as a bedroom or hallway. Having a range of options to protect your customers’ hearing will add anywhere from a few to a few hundred dollars to your average sale. Make sure to stock a large assortment of foam ear plugs, various protective ear muffs, and the newest and hottest items to the marketplace — electronic hearing protection. Top brands like Walker’s, Grizzly Ears, Axil, Howard Leight, and Peltor, among others, will be appealing to buyers.
Firearms Cases
Another often overlooked but essential accessory is the firearms case. Not only do these cases protect firearms from damage during transport, but they also help ensure that firearms are stored securely and safely when not in use. For customers looking for premium protection, the Negrini Takedown Two-Barrel Rifle Case is one of the best options available. This case is designed for protection, security and durability, with a high-end design that ensures firearms are protected from impact, moisture, dust, and even unauthorized access. It’s also lightweight and easy to carry, making it ideal for both travel and storage. Negrini cases are highly regarded among professional shooters and hunters, and this model is a perfect choice for anyone looking to protect valuable firearms. Other brands your customers will recognize include Plano and Pelican, among others.
Everyday Carry Knives
Knives are a must-have for any tactical setup, and they serve a wide range of purposes, from self-defense to everyday utility. The Demko Armiger 4 is a sleek, high-quality EDC knife that features a sharp, fixed blade that is the optimal length for both EDC and tactical deployment. It’s three blade configurations are compact enough to carry every day, yet sturdy enough to handle tough tasks. For those interested in an automatic-opening knife, the Benchmade Claymore is also a standout. With its lightning-fast deployment and slim design, the Claymore is one of the most sought-after automatic knives on the market. Its double-edged, razor-sharp blade makes it a favorite among those who need a quick, reliable defensive knife that will last for many years.
Speaking of EDC…
An accessory assortment is not complete without an assortment of holsters and concealed carry bags.
Holsters are a personal comfort item, so you’ll want to have a large assortment of IWB, OWB, Kydex, leather, neoprene and combinations of the above.
There’s nothing like a leather holster that has been shaped to your weapon and body. Some of the best out there are made by 1791 Gunleather. Visit them at www.1791gunleather.com.
Customer can’t decide between leather and Kydex? Some of the the best and most comfortable holsters around are made by Crossbreed, a company that made its name combining the comfort of leather with the lightweight protection and durability of Kydex.
Many packs and bags today are designed for double duty — a purse with a hidden pocket, backpack with a fast access compartment, and laptop bag with a hidden and lockable holster for concealed carry. Bags by Concealed Carrie, DDT Tactical, Mission First Tactical, Duluth Pack and others are great companies to look into to have an assortment of different options and price ranges.
One hot, new and unusual product to the concealed carry market is the UUB Koala multi-carry pouch made by Urban Utility Bags. These unique and fashionable bags are designed to be worn by men and women as a hip pouch, shoulder bag or backpack. Available with a bag and gun-specific holster, these are sure to bring a bit of fashion to the tactical market. Check them out at www.uubgear.com.
High-Quality Socks
Socks might seem an odd consideration, but any experienced outdoor enthusiast, range manager or law enforcement officer will tell you that when you spend all day on your feet, high-quality socks can make or break a shift — or the day.
Darn Tough socks are well-known for their durability and comfort, making them a top pick for anyone who spends serious time on their feet. Their merino wool blend offers excellent moisture-wicking properties while providing both cushioning and support. Altera Alpaca performance socks offer an additional advantage. Alpaca wool is hypoallergenic, moisture-resistant, and naturally odor-resistant. Unlike other types of wool, alpaca fibers are hollow, which makes them incredibly insulating without being too bulky. This makes them ideal for extreme temperatures and long-term wear.
Non-Lethal Defense Items
Not all tactical customers are looking for firearms. Non-lethal defense items such as expandable batons, pepper spray and tasers are also in high demand, particularly among those interested in self-defense but who may not want to carry a firearm.
Expandable batons offer a compact yet effective way to defend oneself in close-quarters situations, while pepper spray is a go-to for anyone looking for non-lethal, easy-to-use self-defense option. Tasers, while a bit more expensive, offer the ability to incapacitate an attacker both up close and from a distance, depending on the model. Check laws regarding less-than-lethal devices in your state.
Tactical Flashlights
No tactical setup is complete without a high-quality flashlight. Tactical flashlights are designed to withstand rough conditions and provide bright, focused beams that can be used in low-light situations. For a retail setting, offering a range of flashlights from compact models to more powerful, long-range options is key. Look for flashlights that feature durable, weather-resistant housings, high lumens output, and multiple modes (such as strobe or SOS functions). Flashlights from brands like SureFire or Streamlight are always solid choices for their reliability and performance.
In the end, stocking the right tactical accessories is all about understanding your customers’ needs. By offering a well-rounded selection — from ammunition and optics to knives and protective gear — you’ll position your store as the go-to destination for tactical gear. Make sure your staff is knowledgeable and ready to provide the right recommendations, and you’ll see both sales and customer satisfaction soar.
