Exhibitors, trade press representatives and dealers, some of whom have been coming to Nuremberg in the spring for decades, have already noticed the changes: IWA is alive and well and, if one observes the changes in the focal points of the trade fair, which reflect the corresponding market developments, NürnbergMesse, as organiser, grasps these trends and implements them at the organizational level. For example, this year by focusing on crisis management within IWA VISION or by concentrating the airsoft/action sports or knives and outdoor areas in its own halls. In addition to NürnbergMesse, IWA is also organized and supported (since the first IWA, 52 years ago) by its two conceptual sponsors, the Association of German Gunsmiths and Firearms Dealers (VDB) and the Association of Manufacturers of Hunting and Sporting Arms and Ammunition (JSM).
However, the initially planned shift of IWA from the end of February to mid-April from 2027 and the shortening from four to just three days in the middle of the week have already been cancelled. As announced by the trade fair immediately after the IWA kick-off, IWA 2027 will continue to take place directly after Enforce Tac, i.e. at the end of February: "We have decided to return to the tried and tested duration and sequence of days for IWA 2027. This will give us planning security and a new time horizon for dialogue and the further joint development of the IWA." What will happen in the following years, starting in 2028, is still to be discussed with the exhibitors.
By the way, you can find separate preliminary reports on IWA and special highlights on all4shooters.com, the links are at the bottom of the information block on this page.
Since you are probably already eager to see the first news "fresh from the eight halls of IWA", we will start directly with the videos and short information from the first day. The following days of the fair will each have their own daily summary (in the late afternoon).
Enjoy our social media channels too: as always, all links are at the bottom (or top right on your monitor or smartphone display).
F.A.I.R. Pathos and Pathos XLight: engineered lightweight
F.A.I.R. Pathos over-and-under shotguns – the same name to reflect the passion connecting end-users when they go hunting. What truly sets them apart, however, is the weight of materials used and the dedicated finishes, aimed at those who want a rugged, stable shotgun for fast follow-up shots, and those who refuse to give up lightness and fast swinging. F.A.I.R.’s Pathos line stands out for the round-body receiver: understated in its blued finish on the Pathos version, and silvery with gold accents on the nickel-finished Ergal (light-alloy) receiver of the ultra-light Xlight model. It’s worth noting that the receiver’s shape isn’t merely an aesthetic flourish: it also gives the gun a sleek, streamlined look that supports smooth instinctive swinging.
Steel or Ergal: which one to choose?
Pathos (Steel): The solid steel receiver provides stability and helps reduce felt recoil. It’s the go-to choice for blind hunting or for anyone who prefers a shotgun that is steadier at the moment of firing.
Pathos XLight (Ergal): Here, the receiver is made from an aerospace-grade aluminum alloy – strong and dependable, of course, but with a much lower specific weight, bringing the shotgun down to about 2.7 kg (in 12 gauge). This can translate into slightly more vibration during rapid follow-up shots when using heavy loads, but that’s unlikely given its intended use. A shotgun with these characteristics is the perfect companion for small game walked-up hunting, where the cartridges typically feature balanced or lighter loads and every gram saved makes a real difference during long walks in the countryside or in the woods.
F.A.I.R. barrels
The heart of F.A.I.R. precision lies in the X-CONES system: very long forcing cones between the chamber and the bore, delivering two key benefits: reduced recoil (especially important on the ultra-light Ergal XLight, which would otherwise “kick” more), and improved patterns. Less pellet deformation helps ensure an even shot distribution. The barrels are made from special tri-alloy steel, hard-chrome lined, and typically available in several lengths: 68 cm for walked-up hunting or hunting with pointing dogs; 71–76 cm recommended for blind hunting, where the extra length makes aiming steadier and supports longer effective shots, getting the most out of the powder as well. These over-and-unders feature interchangeable Technichoke chokes and long-stroke automatic ejectors. The barrels are steel-shot proofed. Both models are available in 12, 20, 28 gauge and .410 bore, with scaled receivers; on the Pathos model, tradition-minded shooters can also choose the 16 gauge. The over-and-unders feature a single-selective trigger with gold-colored trigger blade. The stock, in an elegant English style, is made from select European walnut and oil-finished. The forend is beavertail type on the Pathos model, while on the lighter XLight the profile is the classic Schnabel type.
From Pulsar, new Symbion LRF multispectral binoculars
Pulsar introduces the Symbion LRF multispectral binoculars with thermal, night vision, and full-color day imaging plus an integrated laser rangefinder, delivering vivid 4k full-color digital imaging for daytime and premium thermal imaging capabilities. Two models are available: DXT50 and DXR50. Both have 50mm / F1.0 objective lenses and a thermal detection range of 2,300 m, but there are differences of course: in particular, the DXT50 offers a 2-16x digital channel magnification range, while the DXR50 magnification is 4-32x. Thermal sensor resolution is also different, with 1280x1024/12µm for the DXT50 and 640x480/12µm for the DXR50. In both models, the built-in focusable 850 nm infrared illuminator ensures dependable visibility in low light. The picture-in-picture mode lets you view the thermal and digital channels simultaneously for full situational awareness. The electronic image stabilization reduces motion blur compensating for hand movements, while the dual focusing wheels, the new graphic interface and the intuitively placed controls (designed for both left- and right-handed use) makes everything straight and simple. The built-in laser rangefinder measure distances quickly and accurately up to 1500 m: you can switch between scanning and single-shot modes. Smart power management, photo/video recording with sound, a tactile 3 position power switch, Stream Vision 2 and Stream Vision Ballistics support, integrated ballistic calculator, 3 sensitivity amplification levels, energy saving sleep mode, 4 digital imaging modes and USB-C video output are all on board. Prices are $8,199.97 for the DXT50 and $6,199.97 for the DXR50 model. Available next spring.
HIKmicro Alpex Pro, advanced digital riflescope
In this video, we explore the HIKmicro Alpex Pro digital scope for day-to-night use, whose exterior appearance – indistinguishable from a traditional riflescope – conceals a wealth of technology. Thanks to its 12-megapixel (4512x2512) 4Kplus CMOS sensor, Alpex Pro is able to offer excellent image quality, with sharp edges and bright colors for greater safety not only when aiming but also when identifying and recognizing game. The rangefinder module with a range of up to 1,200 meters allows to accurately calculate trajectory corrections. Image brightness is managed by an algorithm that optimizes battery life.
CZ TS 3 Orange, the new match pistol of super champion Eric Grauffel
The new CZ TS 3 Orange pistol from CZ's Competition series was developed specifically to compete in the IPSC Optics Division and the USPSA Limited Optics Division. It will be used by Eric Grauffel, the French super champion who has won everything there is to win, starting with ten IPSC Handgun World Shoots.
The CZ TS 3 Orange is an all-steel 9mm pistol that incorporates all the requirements mandated by IPSC and USPSA rules – and, of course, everything a competition shooter expects from a racegun. The frame is machined from a solid piece of steel and features a deeply undercut trigger guard, allowing for a higher, more firm grip. On the left side, it features a large thumb rest eliminating the chance of thumbs coming in contact with the slide. For left-handed shooters a mirrored version to be mounted on the right side is available as an accessory. Also on the frame, a new ambidextrous manual safety matches the 25° thumb rest angle.
The oversized magazine release is adjustable to five different positions. The grip panels are G10, with a texture that ensures maximum traction even during the most intense stages of an IPSC match. Full-length slide rails and final hand-fitting ensure a consistently smooth, reliable cycling, while the single-action trigger – with a 1.3 kg pull weight and adjustable take-up – allows the shooter to fully exploit the CZ TS 3 Orange’s accuracy. The slide features the now-essential front cocking serrations and is further lightened along its top and comes with an optics-ready interface for direct mounting of red dot sights.
The CZ TS 3 supports the most common footprints: RMR, RMSc, DeltaPoint Pro, and Holosun-K. The CZ TS 3 Orange barrel – made in-house by CZ by cold hammer forging – Is backed by a lifetime guarantee. It has a bull barrel (i.e., heavy contour) profile and a newly designed crown that protects the rifling and ensures top-level accuracy. Finish is BoBox black nitriding, while the orange-anodized magwell, magazine release and aluminum trigger add extra personality and make the pistol instantly recognizable as a racegun.
KelTec KP50 and MP50, high capacity in 5.7x28mm
KelTec introduces the all-new semi-auto KP50 and select-fire full-auto capable variant MP50, the first firearm in KelTec’s history designed exclusively for military and law enforcement agencies. Chambered in 5.7x28mm, the KP50 (and MP50) can be considered the evolution – or a refinement – of the P50/R50 pistol presented a few years ago: a high-capacity blowback gun whose core is the 50-round magazine, the same translucent polymer double-stack rotary design developed more than 30 years ago for the FN P90. In the KP50 and MP50 the magazine is inserted at the bottom; for extended capability, an optional Jungle Clip pairs two 50-round magazines back-to-back, for a huge 100-round capacity. Barrel length is 9.6″/244 mm, lower receiver is fully machined and charging handle is non-reciprocating. A rear Picatinny-style rail supports a side-folding brace (KP50) or a side-folding stock (MP50). MSRP in the US for the KP50 starts from $899 (the burst-capable MP50 version, with a rate of fire of 850 RPM, is restricted to qualified military and law enforcement sales).
Pardini Armi celebrates 50 years with the SP Sport Pistol 50th Anniversary
On the occasion of the opening of IWA OutdoorClassics 2026, Pardini Armi introduces a commemorative version of its iconic competitive target shooting gun: the SP Sport Pistol 50th Anniversary, created to mark the fiftieth anniversary of the company, founded in 1976 by Giampiero Pardini. This special edition combines the platform’s latest technical evolution with exclusive finishes and details. The result is a firearm that embodies half a century of technological development and competitive success – one that has become a benchmark for most top-level shooters on the international scene. The Pardini SP 50th Anniversary is based on the Hi-Tech version, introduced in 2024 and now the pinnacle of Pardini production quality. From that model it inherits the DLC (Diamond-Like Carbon) finish on the frame, counterweight and bolt. The DLC treatment provides extremely high wear resistance and a very low coefficient of friction; for this anniversary edition, it has also been extended to critical components such as the trigger mechanism, confirming the focus on performance and reliability.
Exclusive details for the anniversary edition
A number of aesthetic and functional elements set the 50th Anniversary apart:
- Gold-finished bolt
- Gold-colored trigger
- Adjustable grip in select premium hardwood
- Titanium-colored finish on frame and counterweight
- Commemorative medal mounted on the frame, dedicated to the fiftieth anniversary
The pistol is presented in a leather-covered case with red velvet interior and comes with a dedicated instruction manual and a certificate of authenticity hand-signed by Giampiero Pardini. Production is limited to just 50 units, each identified by a special serial number unique to the series. For Giampiero Pardini, this anniversary is not a finish line but another step forward. The company is expanding rapidly and is now seeing the operational involvement of the family’s third generation – an essential factor in consolidating and strengthening the brand’s future. To crown this path, the founder is about to lay the cornerstone for a second manufacturing facility, which will stand alongside the historic plant with the goal of carrying the brand’s technical and sporting legacy toward new opportunities for growth.
Important tips for IWA OutdoorClassics 2026:
Dates: Thursday 26 February to Sunday 1 March, 2026
Location: NürnbergMesse, Nuremberg, Germany.
- IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 website
- Rules for the admission of trade visitors (access by end consumers is not possible!)
- Exhibitor database: filter by segments, brands and innovations
- Interactive Hall Plan: Optimizing routes, synchronizing dates
- IWA VISION: focus on the trade fair with keynotes and expert panels
Our social media channels:
- all4shooters.com on Facebook
- all4hunters.com on Facebook
- all4shooters.com on Instagram
- all4shooters.com on YouTube
Preliminary report on IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 by all4shooters.com, Part 1 (Made for Trade as a commitment to trade)
Preliminary report on IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 by all4shooters.com, Part 2 (Knives and outdoor as a strategic focus)
Preliminary report on IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 by all4shooters.com, Part 3 (Airsoft, paintball, action sports)
Preliminary report on IWA OutdoorClassics 2026 by all4shooters.com, Part 4 (Crisis management in focus)
