Overall show impressions:
1. Very gear focused. You can put your hands on some really cool stuff. My checkbook will likely be getting lighter. This is very different than the "other show in Denver" which has become a showcase for outfitters.
2. Very well organized. Plenty of parking on site and easy to find.
3. Timing of this show is perfect in my opinion. This is right after the draw deadline in CO, so you have some idea of what tags will be in your pocket in the fall. As a result, you can start filling in gaps with whatever gear you might need.
4. For all the BS CO is going through, I'm surprised how positive everyone is. There is an energy at the show that gives me hope that we can beat back stuff like the ballot initiative.
Show highlight #1: XLR Industries Chassis System. The Rokslide crew covered this at the Western Hunt Expo here:
As someone who is married, I understand the importance of breaking up large purchases to achieve marital harmony. The fact that I can start with a factory Tikka and slowly build it up to a semi-custom gun of my dreams (to where my boys will argue over who gets the gun after I die) is awesome. Truthfully though, you might be hard-pressed to improve the accuracy of a factory Tikka, but you can make it pack down easier and fit you better.
Show highlight #2: Silencer Central will set up all your ATF paperwork for you. If you ever wanted a can for your hunting rifle (their "Banish Backcountry" can felt stupid light) this is your chance.