Guns & Ammo editors, contributors and staff have determined the firearms industry’s award recipients for 2024. G&A evaluated the merits of every new product during the course of in-­house testing and evaluations, and through field reports and information gathered while attending firearm industry events. Nominations and voting were conducted at the conclusion of the annual Outdoor Sportsman Group (OSG) Roundtable in Grand Junction, Colorado. Only products made commercially available since the fourth quarter of 2023 — and were not considered for last year’s awards — qualified for consideration.

G&A acquired several samples of each nominated product throughout 2024 to achieve a representative evaluation. Products that warranted any doubt in reliability or durability were struck from the list of candidates. All-­new designs, as well as those having the most potential to benefit the broadest range of readers, were given additional merit when scored. To decide split decisions between comparable products, the more affordable option was favored during the voting process. New for 2024 is the creation of the “Air Gun” category.

The winner of each category was determined by popular vote, but nominated products had to meet three criteria: First, the product must have been new and available for purchase in 2024. A line extension of an existing product did not earn full points as another possessing innovative features and engineering. Second, the product must have demonstrated quality and reliability to a degree that met or exceeded its design objectives. Lastly, the winner offered the greatest availability and interest to the largest audience. G&A’s staff awarded these points after surveying in-­store availability and confirming retail pricing to ensure that new products exist for sale and provide great value.

Voting concluded on September 1, 2024. Congratulations to the winners.

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Innovator of the Year: Burris

Burris introduced several new optics and technologies for release in 2024. These include the Eliminator 6, Signature HD spotting scope, Veracity PH, FastFire C, and three thermals, the BTH35 v3, BTS35 v3 and BTC35 v3. These products represent an achievement in each respective category, but the collection accentuates the advancements made by Burris and its investment toward the betterment of our optical future.

The Eliminator 6 packages ranging capability, environmental monitoring, and ballistics technology into a single scope with excellent optics. To use the Eliminator 6, simply range the target, hold the illuminated aiming point on the target and press the trigger. Previous generations of the Eliminator have been groundbreaking, but the Eliminator 6 incorporates the latest tech packaged in a traditional-­looking scope suited for most rifles.

The Signature HD Spotting Scope features a 20X to 60X magnification range with an 85mm objective. High Definition (HD) lenses are apochromatic, meaning they are free of chromatic and spherical aberrations. The result is a sharp image with high color accuracy. There is no detectible color fringing from edge to edge.

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Veracity PH is a riflescope that combines simple aiming concepts with technology on a 5X zoom range for accuracy from close- to long-­range targets. Working in conjunction with an advanced elevation turret, the unit features a heads-­up display (HUD) to offer the shooter the ability to dial distance, windage hold value, correct for cant. Shooters can also use the BurrisConnect app to create and upload a ballistic profile and tune environmental factors.

The FastFire C is Burris’ latest red-­dot optic that was designed to support sub-­compact and micro-­compact pistols. It weighs less than 1 ounce and features “Always On” technology with a 25,000-­hour runtime. It’s powered by a CR2032 battery and is low profile while also mounting with a lower-­third co-­witness when using standard sights.

Burris has also introduced three high-­resolution thermals: One handheld (BTH35 v3), a second that is a dedicated scope to be mounted on a rifle (BTS35 v3), and a third clip-­on unit that can function either as a hand-­held thermal or as an imager that can be mounted ahead of an optic, changing the host optic into a variable power thermal (BTC35 v3).

Each of these products qualifies for an individual award, but the collection bestows greater honor to the brand. In 2024, Burris reached the zenith of optical innovation.

Handgun of the Year: Smith & Wesson Bodyguard 2.0

The Bodyguard 2.0 in .380 ACP was an unexpected entry in 2024. Excitement grew as Guns & Ammo’s staff began receiving samples and testing the little gun. Then, it was as if no one could stop raving about it.

Pictures do not accurately describe the Bodyguard 2.0. It has the proportions of a compact or even full-­size pistol, but it is truly small enough to fit into a pocket.

Everything about the Bodyguard 2.0 works. Aesthetically, it looks great. It also functions and is ergonomic. The iron sights might be “Best in Class,” as some say. The trigger pull might be, too. The trigger pull on our samples averaged a spectacular 4¼ pounds. When a great trigger and a set of sights work as these do, you have a pocket gun that will ring steel at 50 yards. That’s what happened the first time we took a sample to the range. It’s a reliable subcompact in .380 that’s as shootable as a full-­size gun while fitting in the palm of your hand. It also features double-­digit capacity.

The Bodyguard 2.0 is a striker-­fired .380 with a polymer frame and a stainless-­steel barrel and slide protected by Smith & Wesson’s Armornite finish. It sports a 23/4-­inch barrel and fits 10 rounds in the flush magazine, and 12 in the extended. It only weighs 11.4 ounces with the flush magazine inserted. It’s just three-­quarters of an inch thick, and sports a highly visible orange day/night front sight.

The Bodyguard 2.0 is an eligible carry pistol for most shooters that’s priced competitively. If it becomes the standard in .380 autos, well, you heard it here first.

Rifle of the Year: Wilson combat NULA Model 20/Model 20S

The Wilson combat NULA Model 20/Model 20S was based on Melvin Forbes’ New Ultra Light Arms (NULA), which Wilson Combat acquired in June 2022. Forbes passed away on June 5, 2024, at age 77. Guns & Ammo immediately began pursuing Wilson’s NULA Model 20 and Model 20S Mini Action rifles. “I won’t have them ready for the fall,” Wilson said in 2022. “It’ll be hunting season next year before they’re ready.” True to his word, Wilson had rifles ready for sale in the fall of 2023. Guns & Ammo first reviewed the NULA Model 20 for the January 2024 issue.

Rifle aficionados are familiar with Forbes’ Ultra-­Light Arms and NULA rifles. There were few produced because the shop was always small, despite high demand. When the industry learned that Wilson Combat acquired NULA, a sigh of relief was heard from heaven. Wilson Combat has a robust manufacturing operation, and Wilson refuses to make anything less than exquisite. Our hope was that Wilson would stay true to Forbes’ design while making them in enough quantities to satisfy the demand. A year after these rifles became available, we were thrilled to report that the new NULA rifles from Wilson Combat are more than what we hoped they would be. Wilson has taken the design, leveraged modern manufacturing techniques, and created a distinctive rifle that complements Wilson Combat’s reputation for accuracy, quality, and reliability.

Though the NULA design was improved, the receiver is still a scaled-­down version of the Model 700 pattern, reduced in weight from the typical 35 ounces to just 20 ounces; it is where this rifle gets its name. The receiver is machined from 4140 bar stock, featuring a recoil lug sandwiched between the barrel and receiver. Barrel lengths depend on chambering, but span 161/4 inches and 22 inches. The Model 20 is offered in .243 Winchester, 6.5 Creedmoor, 7mm-­08 Remington, .308 Winchester, and .358 Winchester. The Model 20S Mini Action calibers include .223 Wylde, .300 HAM’R, .300 Blackout and .350 Legend. Wilson Combat makes its barrels in-­house, and no Wilson Combat rifle tested by G&A has ever failed to meet the sub-­MOA guarantee.

Wilson Combat’s NULA Model 20 and Model 20S earned Guns & Ammo’s 2024 Rifle of the Year honors because it successfully preserved the icon’s lineage, staying true to Forbes’ original intent, but with enhancements that make its availability to the masses possible. These rifles are now supported by a company that refuses to compromise quality for profit. It’s a huge win for the rifle-­shooting community.

Wilson Combat NULA Model 20 Specifications

• Type: Bolt action
• Cartridge: .308 Win. (tested).
• Capacity: 4+1 rds.
• Barrel: 20 in., 1:10-­in. twist, threaded muzzle, 416R stainless steel, LW profile
• Overall Length: 39.75 inches
• Weight: 5 lbs., 4 oz. (tested)
• Stock: Carbon fiber
• Length of Pull: 13.5 in.
• Finish: Cerakote (stainless steel), Kodiak Rogue camouflage (carbon-­fiber stock)
• Trigger: Timney Elite Hunter;2 lbs., 2 oz. (tested)
• Sights: None
• Safety: Two-­position lever
• MSRP: $2,995
• Importer: Wilson Combat, 800-­955-­4856, wilsoncombat.com

Shotgun of the Year: Browning A5 20 Ga.

The Browning A5 20 ga. was based on the 1898 John Browning design that was patented in 1900. The Auto-­5 was the first mass-­produced semiautomatic shogun, and it was in continuous production for nearly 100 years. Its distinctive high rear receiver earned it the nickname “Humpback,” and it became the second best-­selling autoloading shotgun in history.

In 2014, Browning Arms released the A5. It is mechanically different than the Auto-­5, largely due to the Kinematic Drive System. The A5 uses kinetic energy to power the recoil-­operated system, providing reliable operation despite the differences in loads for 23/4- and 3-­inch chambers.

The new-­for-­2024 A5 20 gauge is an innovative approach to the design. Rather than taking a 12-­gauge A5 and rebarreling it for 20-­gauge ammunition, Browning engineered a smaller frame, which made it slimmer and more than a pound lighter than the 12-gauge model. The effort resulted in superb balance that feels light in the hand, swings quickly, and promotes follow-­through. The humpback receiver profile helps the eyes sight down the rib along the sight plane for natural sight alignment with the fiber-­optic bead and target.

Controls are familiar, and the trigger group — with Browning’s gold trigger — is easily removed for cleaning. The safety is a reversible crossbolt-­style button behind the trigger, while ahead of the triggerguard is the bolt latch. The bolt latch locks the bolt to the rear when the magazine is unloaded and releases a shell from the magazine when the bolt is closed for fast loading. The oversized shape and location make using the latch convenient. Inside the A5 is the patented feeding system that sends the first shell loaded directly into the chamber. The term “speed loading” is historically attributed to the Browning Auto-­5, however, it was the invention of Val Browning, John’s son, which was patented in 1952. Not only is the A5 fast to load, but it can be unloaded quickly without needing to cycle each shell through the chamber.

The overall fit and finish of the new A5 20 gauge is excellent. Aluminum parts, such as the receiver, have a high-­gloss anodized finish that complements the high-­gloss walnut stock and blued steel barrel. The bolt, bolt slide, shell carrier, bolt-­release button and cocking handle wear a nickel Teflon coating for additional protection. Inside the barrel, the chamber and bore are chrome, which resists corrosion and makes the bore easier to clean.

At the range and in the field, the Browning A5 20 gauge proved accurate, reliable, and intuitive to shoot well. Felt recoil was light and dull. The barrel combines Vector Pro forcing cone lengthening, back-­bore technology, and Invector-­DS interchangeable chokes to put more pellets in each pattern. Twenty-­gauge ammunition is performing as 12-­gauge loads used to. For its smaller frame, iconic humpback-­shaped receiver, and 20-­gauge performance, the A5 was easily the best shotgun in 2024.

Browning A5 Specifications

• Type: Recoil ­operated, semiautomatic
• Cartridge: 20 ga.
• Capacity: 4 shells (23/4 in.)
• Barrel: 26 in. or 28 in. (3-­in.)
• Overall Length: 47.25 in (26-­in. bbl.); 49.25 (28-­in. bbl.)
• Weight: 5 lbs., 10 oz.
• Stock: Walnut, Grade I, gloss
• Length of Pull: 14.25 in.
• Finish: Anodized (aluminum); high gloss blue (steel)
• Sights: Fiber-­optic bead (front)
• Safety: Enlarged, reversible button
• MSRP: $1,980
• Importer: Browning, 800-­­333-­3288, browning.com

Ammo of the Year: Hornady 22 ARC & ELD-­VT

Hornady’s 22 ARC & ELD-­VT exists because Hornady wanted to offer .22-­250 performance in a cartridge that would work in an AR-­15. It successfully pulled off the .22 Advanced Rifle Cartridge (ARC) by pairing Very Low Drag (VLD) bullets with high ballistic coefficients (BC), and installing them in a case that accepts as much powder as possible behind the bullet. While the .22 ARC was designed to work in an AR-­15, it is equally at home in a bolt-­action rifle.

While the .22 ARC shares the same 6 PPC parent case as the 6 ARC, it is not just a necked-­down version of it. The .22 ARC uses .22-­caliber VLD bullets that are shorter than its 6mm counterparts, so the .22 ARC case is slightly longer and has more powder volume. That powder volume — when paired with a VLD bullet — means the .22 ARC has less wind drift than a .22-­250 at 200 yards. Elevation drop is almost identical at 375 yards, and the ARC has less drop at 500 yards and beyond. All of this exists in a case that uses significantly less powder and is much easier on the barrel than the .22-­250.

The 62-­grain ELD-­VT is the other half of Guns & Ammo’s  2024 Ammunition of the Year award because it was no less deserving. The ELD-­VT line offers bullets that are longer with better ballistic coefficients than the weight would indicate. These are lead-­core projectiles with copper jackets, but there is a large air cavity in the nose. The air cavity keeps weight down while allowing Hornady to create a long aerodynamic ogive that slips through the air. The ELD-­VT family of bullets are so long and aerodynamic that they pair best with cartridges designed for VLD bullets.

The .22 ARC brings the latest in cartridge design to the .22-­caliber world by maximizing velocity and pairing it with high-BC bullets. Since this cartridge has a maximum overall length and case diameter capable of working in an AR-­15, it still offers mild recoil and great barrel life. Combining the .22 ARC cartridge with the ELD-­VT makes a combination that has proven great for all types of shooting, from ringing steel to blasting coyotes. Few cartridge and bullet combinations have offered this much versatility.

Optic of the Year: Leupold Mark 4HD Riflescopes

These scopes won Guns & Ammo’s 2024 Optic of the Year honors because Leupold found a way to merge superior optical performance with most of the features used in the Mark 5HD series — G&A’s 2023 Optic of the Year. The Mark 4HD riflescopes include 1-­4.5x24mm, 2.5-­10x42mm, 4.5-­18x52mm, 6-­24x52mm, and 8-­32x56mm. These scopes are packaged for several hundred dollars less than competitively configured optics from other brands. Almost all models of these scopes feature first focal plane (FFP) reticles, have a side-­focus adjustment, a 34mm maintube, and are offered in the reticles we know and love. G&A expects the Mark 4HD series will soak up a significant portion of market share because the performance offered far exceeds the price they command. Prices start at $1,000 for the 1-4.5X and 2.5-10X models and top out at $1,600 for the 4.5-18X and 8-32X models with side focus.

The idea for the Mark 4HD came from Leupold employees listening to customers they encountered while at shooting matches and trade shows. It was said that many potential customers couldn’t afford the Mark 5HD, or they wanted a VX-­5 with an FFP reticle. Engineers went to work to create a scope line that offered Mark 5HD performance at a less expensive price. The Mark 4HD is that solution. It’s a huge win for the customer, but it will certainly cut into the success of the Mark 5HD.

We all know that nobody gets something for nothing. There are some differences between the Mark 4HD and Mark 5HD scope lines that need to be highlighted. The Mark 4HD scopes have 4X erector assemblies, as compared to the 5X erector assemblies used in the Mark 5HD. This means the customer has to be willing to have a scope that is a 4.5-­18X versus a 3.6-­18X. Also, Mark 4HD scopes are longer than the Mark 5HD counterparts. These sacrifices in length and magnification range resulted in significant savings that most of us can accept.

Leupold is capable of offering a product like the Mark 4HD because it is unique among scope manufacturers. In the case of the Mark 4HD, everything was designed, made and assembled in the U.S., and the company leadership was willing to compete with its own more expensive Mark 5HD line to benefit the consumer. The combination of corporate attitude and these products is unusual and worth rewarding, which is why the Mark 4HD series was named Guns & Ammo’s 2024 Optic of the Year.

Holster of the Year

The N8 Tactical multiflex proved to be different than holsters that claim to be “universal” or “multi-­fit,” which are often discarded in a storage tub of forgotten leather and kydex. The N8 Tactical MultiFlex holster is compatible with a long list of firearm makes and models, and the same holster can be used interchangeably with different guns. Further, the MultiFlex can be tailored for ride height on a belt, cant and retention. Using available accessories, the MultiFlex can be configured for inside-­the-­waistband (IWB) or outside-­the-­waistband (OWB) carry by attaching belt clips or loops, respectively. An OWB paddle is an option, too.

The MultiFlex is offered in two sizes: Full and Compact. The holster accommodates more than 275 pistol models. Guns & Ammo staff reviewed both and adapted several firearms to test fitment during our evaluation. The MultiFlex holster performed well in G&A’s draw-­to-­fire test, providing a clean draw even from concealment. It rated high among other IWB holsters tested, also.

The N8 Tactical MuliFlex offered a secure fit, proved adaptable, and was easy to wear. Not only would this holster support daily carry, but it would also work with new and unusual pistols that lack strong aftermarket support. Given the range of configurations, optional accessories and accommodation of so many makes and models, the N8 Tactical MultiFlex soundly earned G&A’s 2024 Holster of the Year honors.

Technology of the Year: Garmin Xero C1 Pro Chronograph

Occasionally, a product comes along that truly makes life easier. If you’re a reloader, competitive shooter, or even a gunwriter in need of ballistic data, the Garmin Xero C1 Pro chronograph is one such product. Measuring only 51/2 inches across and weighing just 5.7 ounces, the Xero C1 Pro easily fits in a cargo pocket. Attach the supplied mini tripod and you’re ready for the range.

The Xero C1 Pro relies on Doppler radar to obtain speed data from 100 feet per second (fps) to 5,000 fps. Velocity, extreme spread (ES), standard deviation (SD), and kinetic energy data are calculated. This information helps with load development, determining bullet trajectory, and power factor (PF) for competition.

The push-­button-­operated Xero C1 Pro is as easy to use as it is to transport. First, point the unit toward the target. Then, turn it on and select “NEW SESSION”. Choose the appropriate session type, i.e., rifle, shotgun, or pistol. For rifles and shotguns, place the unit 5 to 15 inches to either side and behind the muzzle. With a handgun, you can shoot directly over the unit. It’s as simple as that.

The Xero C1 Pro displays data in real-­time on the Xero C1 Pro’s 240×320-­pixel monochromatic screen, which is visible even in direct sunlight. An internal, rechargeable lithium-­ion battery powers the unit for 2,000 shots or up to 6 hours. The memory will save up to 50 100-­shot sessions. Additional data can be stored with the free ShotView app on a smart device, which also supports notetaking. It’s so good that it’s even being used by ammo manufacturers. 

Red Dot of the Year: Vortex defender Series

This lineup features three new red-­dot optics designed for use on pistols in 2024. The Defender XL, which has the largest window measuring 1-­inch wide by .9 inch; the Defender ST, measuring .9 inch by .8 inch; and the Defender CCW, the smallest red-­dot with a window measuring .8 inch by .65 inches. While those models sound like they are not that different in size, each offers a significant difference when mounted on a pistol.

Vortex won Guns & Ammo’s 2024 Red Dot of the Year award because the three models in the Defender Series effectively cover all types of handguns and applications. They are also highly durable and well-­priced. Reliability tests proved them to be flawless.

Part of the reason the Defender Series optics are so durable is that the housings are made from 7075 T6 aluminum, the toughest material available for this application. The Defender Series was made to survive the blunt force that can come from being mounted to a pistol slide.

These red dots are fully featured and use glass lenses with coatings to prevent scratching. The glass gives the dot sharp, clearly defined edges that enable precision shooting when needed.

The Defender has an auto shut-­off, so after a set time of no motion the optic turns off to preserve battery life. Picking it up immediately turns it back on to the last illumination setting. Vortex was also thoughtful enough to include numerous mounting plates and screw types with each red dot. This means you don’t get soaked in accessories just to get your pistol ready for the range.

Intuitive controls, clear glass, rugged durability, versatile mounting, fine adjustments; these are qualities only found in Guns & Ammo’s 2024 Red Dot of the Year.

Air Gun of the Year: Stoeger XM1 Scout PCP

Stoeger’s XM1 Scout PCP marks the first Air Gun of the Year award for Guns & Ammo. Air guns have been an important step for many young shooters. These are often the first gun type that inspires us to become lifelong firearms enthusiasts. Today’s air guns are as diverse as firearms, and are offered in small to large calibers. Besides target shooting, air guns are popular for pest control, squirrel and rabbit hunting, as well as hunting hogs and big game.

The Italian-­designed Stoeger XM1 Scout pre-­charged (PCP) air gun was selected by Guns & Ammo’s staff for its performance and affordability during the 2024 Round­table. When we tested the .25-­caliber model on paper at 100 yards and then out to 150 yards against steel, its power and precision won over the most ardent rifleshooters.

The notable features of the XM1 Scout are an 18-­inch barrel, metal receiver with integral optic rail, rotary magazine, and adjustable synthetic stock. This side-­lever action air gun is powered by a 200cc reservoir with a 3,000-­psi maximum fill. Its air system is regulated and delivers a consistent psi behind each pellet. The pressure is regulated to deliver around 2,030 psi for each shot. Depending on the bullet grain, a .22-­caliber pellet was clocked downrange range to near 1,000 feet per second (fps). The benefits of regulated air guns are velocities with low extreme spreads and standard deviations.

The stock’s ergonomics reveal its Italian roots. The swooping groove of the forend and the spacer-­adjustable length of pull is reminiscent of a shotgun. The cheekpiece height offers 1.2 inches of total adjustment, too. Textures cover the bottom of the forearm and encircle the grip for high traction on an otherwise slick stock. Other thoughtful features include pistol grip inserts to increase palm swell, and rail attachments for the forend tip. The XM1 Scout PCP is what you would want a multi-purpose air gun to be. It is a quality build, affordable, and easy to shoot precisely.

Suppressor of the Year: Silencer Central Banish Speed K Ti

The Banish Speed K Ti proved once again that Silencer Central knows its users. Evidence: Banish Speed K Ti. The Inconel-­made Banish Speed K was designed to be the go-­to solution for law enforcement and military professionals seeking a compact suppressor with reasonable sound reduction for teams working in closed environments. While Inconel is a premium solution for the extreme heat and abuse experienced during full-­auto operation, it is a relatively heavy material resulting in a 14.1-­ounce suppressor. The new-­for-­2024 Banish Speed K Ti is made of 100 percent titanium, weighing only 8.6 ounces. It is a civilian-­friendly version of the Banish Speed K, and is perfect for hunting, plinking and competition. With an overall length of 4 inches, the Banish Speed K is the shortest 5.56mm suppressor on the market. Silencer Central focused on making the Banish Speed K as short as possible while mitigating backpressures and still ensuring that it is hearing-­safe. With a published sound reduction of 20.6 decibels, it’s amazingly quiet for such a small package.

The benefits of a short suppressor in the civilian market are tremendous. Hunters enjoy greater mobility in and out of vehicles, and especially while trudging through heavy brush. Competitors will see value when navigating through obstacles under the clock. Knocking a suppressor on a barrier can change the point of impact, and of course, a shorty looks cool. The noticeably large 2-­inch diameter may appear bulky, but it was a necessary design element to increase the internal volume to a level that is hearing-­safe. Going from a standard 11/2-­inch diameter to 2 inches provided about 30 percent more volume in a 4-­inch design.

The Banish Speed K Ti is a 3D-­printed titanium design, allowing for complex flow-­through geometry that would be impossible to machine traditionally. In cross-­section, users would see a blast baffle, four vented baffles, and a vented endcap. The blast baffle has a stepped face with six longitudinal fins designed to slow down and direct pressures and gasses down the length of the suppressor — and not back into the shooter’s face. The vented baffles are designed to direct pressures forward and out through the four holes on the endcap. The rear of each Speed K Ti is machined in 1.375×24 HUB threading, so users can mount any HUB accessory shorter than 1.25 inches. Each Speed K is delivered with a titanium 1/2×28-­direct-­thread adapter. The entire suppressor is finished in a durable black Cerakote.