Gun Owners of America Launches GEAR: “Gun Empowerment and Adventure Recreation” Coming April 25–26, 2026

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

February 17, 2026

Springfield, VA – Gun Owners of America (GOA) is proud to announce the debut of GEAR — Gun Empowerment and Adventure Recreation, a brand-new, two-day outdoor summit where firearms culture and the off-road/overlanding lifestyle come together for an unforgettable weekend of training, live-fire experiences, guided trail runs, and family fun across 5,500 rugged acres of Texas terrain at Merus Adventure Park.

GEAR takes place April 25–26, 2026 and is built for families and freedom-minded Americans who believe the best way to preserve responsibility, self-reliance, and community is to live it. This isn’t a trade show. It’s a hands-on experience designed to help attendees build real-world skills, test equipment, and make lasting memories with people who share their values.

Kailey Nieman, Director of Development and Marketing for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement:

“GEAR was born from one simple truth: the overlanding and outdoors community is a vital part of the Second Amendment community. This is a place to bring your family, your rig, and your passion for adventure. This event is built on personal responsibility, preparedness, and respect for the great outdoors.”

Monte Bowen, Chair of GEAR for Gun Owners of America, issued the following statement:

“We are excited to be launching this program with a truly one-of-a-kind event, where we connect with people from across the country over shared values of freedom, responsibility, and adventure. We built GEAR to strengthen community, pass on hard-earned skills, and create memories that last long after the weekend is over.”

Dirk Van Reenen, Founder & CEO of Merus Adventure Park, issued the following statement:

“At MERUS, we built this park on the belief that true adventure strengthens families and fosters a spirit of self-reliance. Partnering with Gun Owners of America for the inaugural GEAR rally is a natural fit because our communities share the same DNA: a love for freedom, a commitment to safety, and a deep respect for the land. We are proud to open our 5500 acres of rugged Texas terrain to this event, creating a unique space where off-roading, overlanding, and responsible firearms training come together to empower the next generation of adventurers.”

For more information please visit gunowners.org/gear

GOA spokesmen are available for interviews. Gun Owners of America is a nonprofit grassroots lobbying organization dedicated to protecting the right to keep and bear arms without compromise. GOA represents over two million members and activists. For more information, visit GOA’s Press Center.

-GOA-