NRA Carry Guard Expo: The Destination For Everything Self-Defense

Law-abiding Americans take their personal protection seriously, and understand their safety is ultimately their responsibility. A recent Crime Prevention Research Center study reveals more than 16 million U.S. citizens now possess a concealed handgun permit, with 2016 notching the biggest annual increase in permits issued in U.S. history.

The right to self-defense is inalienable, and Americans are getting more familiar. People from all backgrounds, sobered by the stark realities of urban crime and violence, are investing in firearms and other self-defense devices, and taking training courses to help them fight back.

Take for instance Chicago, a major metropolis plagued by murders and violence. Last year, the Windy City tallied more than 700 murders. According to a breakdown per 1,000 residents, a Chicagoan has a 1 in 110 chance of becoming the victim of a violent crime. 

It’s these alarming trends that awaken innocent people to the fact that while our brave men and women of law enforcement make immense sacrifices in the name of public safety, they can’t be everywhere at once, and can’t predict when crime will strike. In situations where threats are immediate but help is minutes away, it’s up to the law-abiding citizen to protect themselves and their families.

Travel about 100 miles north of the streets of Chicago this August, and you’ll find the lifesblood of the self-defense and concealed carry movement in the U.S. on its finest, proudest display yet in Milwaukee at the inaugural NRA Carry Guard Expo. 

Scheduled for Aug. 25-27 at the Wisconsin Center in downtown Milwaukee, the first-ever NRA Carry Guard Expo is a three-day experience featuring everything from the self-defense sphere. From educational seminars to interactive demonstrations, exhibitions from firearms and gear vendors to on-site trainings from the world’s leading experts, the Expo is the nation’s premier personal protection event – all engineered and hosted by the National Rifle Association, the organization that continues to pave the way for Americans’ right to self-defense. 

See the latest innovations and products in guns, gear and more from over 150 leading manufacturers in 100,000 square feet of exhibit hall space, then learn a wide array of self-defense principles and concepts, including concealed carry methods and tactics, active threat control, home defense plans, situational awareness and much more. 

The Expo will feature special education sessions, including a Wisconsin Concealed Carry Weapon (CCW) Course, NRA Defensive Handgun Academy, and a Basic Hemorrhage Control course, all which require fees to attend. These courses will sell out, so attendees should purchase tickets as soon as possible! 

Attendees seeking a hands-on immersive experience can participate in realistic training at the UTM Interactive Area, using UTM's safe and effective training systems as an alternative to live fire. Guests can meet Mixed Martial Arts legend and Hall of Famer Royce Gracie during his autograph session Saturday, Aug. 26 from 2-4 p.m., then purchase tickets  to learn first-hand Brazilian Jiu Jitsu self-defense techniques in a hands-on two hour training session with Gracie.

After a long day of learning and training at the Expo, unwind and enjoy special events in the evenings. The NRA Carry Guard Expo Concealed Carry Fashion Show is scheduled for Friday, Aug. 25, where attendees will watch models – both women and men! – walk the runway showcasing clothing holsters, purses, packs and other accessories that cleverly conceal a firearm. Instead of simply seeing products in your hands, watching people wear them will help you see how to incorporate concealed carry products into both casual and corporate environments.

On Saturday, Aug. 26, enjoy country music legends Travis Tritt and the Charlie Daniels Band during the Southern Uprising Tour, scheduled right next door to the Wisconsin Center at the UM-Milwaukee Panther Arena. NRA Carry Guard Expo attendees can get $10 off tickets by using the promo code “CARRY” when purchasing through Ticketmaster.

For those looking to score an awesome new gun while supporting the future of the shooting sports, the Wall of Guns, sponsored by Lauer Custom Weaponry, returns at the Expo! Purchase tickets for a chance to win any gun on the Wall of Guns, with drawings taking place for every 100 tickets sold. All proceeds benefit The NRA Foundation’s charitable efforts! 

Be part of history, and experience the best of the concealed carry and personal protection worlds all in one place this August at the first-ever NRA Carry Guard Expo! Purchase your tickets online now! NRA members receive a discount on admission (by entering your valid Member ID), and NRA Life Members and NRA Carry Guard members receive free admission! NRA is also offering special room rates for visiting attendees – click here to book your stay in Milwaukee now!