The 85th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally begins Aug. 1 and continues to Aug. 7. Again this year the annual crowd of more than 500,000 will have the opportunity to see some of the firearm industry’s latest products, get more information from the experts, win prizes, watch live-fire demonstrations and more at the Sturgis Gun Rally. There is no charge to attend. Registration for a chance to win a raffle giveaway is also free.
Luth-AR is the title sponsor of the event this year. The long list of other companies on hand make it the ultimate crossover gathering for firearm enthusiasts and motorcycle fanatics. Smith & Wesson, CZ, Dan Wesson, Staccato, Savage, SIG Sauer, Bighorn Armory, Sturgis Guns, Magpul, Otis, Magtech and more will showcase their wares and services. NRA and the Friends of NRA will also be on hand.
Register for the raffle giveaways and you have a chance of claiming one of 85 new guns, some 850 accessories and 8,500 rounds of ammunition. All federal and local laws apply. Out-of-state participants drawn for a firearm will need it shipped to their local FFL for required background checks and completion of other requirements to take lawful possession.
The first Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was hosted by the Jackpine Gypsies in 1938. It was primarily a gathering of Indian Motorcycle riders at the time, with racing and stunts the event’s early focus. Although attendance grew each year, it was not held during World War II and didn’t return until 1946.
Since then, it’s become the largest, most popular motorcycle event in the nation. Nearly ¾ million attended in 2015, when the 75th Sturgis Motorcycle Rally was held. According to estimates from the city of Sturgis, SD, the gathering generates more than $800 million for the state of South Dakota each year.
