In the fast-paced world of entrepreneurship, the myth persists that age equates to experience and success. However, 21-year-old Ivan Sutton Smith, founder and CEO of LA Airsoft, has shattered that myth. Sutton’s meteoric rise from running a small hobby-based business in his parents’ attic to establishing a multi-million-dollar airsoft empire showcases the boundless potential of youth-driven entrepreneurship in the digital age.
The Spark of an Idea: The Genesis of LA Airsoft
In 2020, when the global pandemic disrupted life, Sutton found an opportunity where others saw obstacles. High school commitments like sports and clubs were placed on hold, allowing him to dedicate his energy to his passion: airsoft. What began as a hobby quickly morphed into something much bigger.
“I started in my parents’ air-conditioned attic, doing airsoft tech work,” Sutton reminisces. His early business days involved creating detailed build lists for enthusiasts, showcasing custom pistol configurations, and offering DIY tutorials on how to upgrade airsoft guns. “I wanted to help people understand the mechanics of airsoft guns and how to enhance their performance,” he explains.
Using Instagram and a basic website, Sutton offered custom builds and began reselling high-end upgrade parts—a move that quickly set him apart. Recognizing the market gaps due to COVID-19 shipping restrictions, he took advantage of the global supply chain disruptions, transforming LA Airsoft into a go-to source for elite airsoft gear.
The Rise: From Custom Builds to E-Commerce Success
By 2021, Sutton’s business growth forced him to pivot. The overwhelming demand for custom builds pushed him to shift his focus toward e-commerce. “Selling parts became more lucrative than custom builds,” he explains. As sales grew, so did the time commitment. Sutton balanced high school with running a full-fledged business—answering emails during chemistry class and packing orders into the late hours of the night.
Despite these challenges, the business flourished. Sutton’s deep understanding of market needs, coupled with his innovative thinking, soon led him to a new venture: manufacturing his own parts.
Innovation Amidst Supply Challenges
By mid-2021, Sutton noticed an overwhelming demand for high-end airsoft parts, specifically pistol components. Due to continued supply shortages from Asia, Sutton once again innovated. “I began collaborating with a CAD engineer to reverse-engineer existing parts and improve upon them,” Sutton shares. This strategic move positioned his manufacturing arm, LA Capa Customs, as a leader in the high-end airsoft pistol scene.
The result? LA Capa Customs became the trusted name for enthusiasts seeking top-quality airsoft pistol upgrades, making Sutton’s products highly coveted in the market.
Balancing Entrepreneurship with Education
Ivan Sutton Smith
Running a multi-million-dollar business while pursuing a college degree is no small feat. In 2022, Sutton moved LA Airsoft’s operations to a business complex in Shreveport, Louisiana. Shortly after, he relocated to Fort Worth, Texas, to attend Texas Christian University (TCU).
Despite the demands of higher education and extracurricular activities, LA Airsoft’s revenue skyrocketed. “By the end of 2022, we hit $1.7 million in revenue,” Sutton proudly notes, all while balancing a full class schedule and Greek life involvement.
2023 Expansion: Scaling Manufacturing and Innovation
In 2023, Sutton spearheaded the expansion of LA Capa Customs. This growth included ramping up production and expanding product lines to include over 300 distinct parts, with 800 SKUs, and two pending utility patents. With an annual output of 40,000 parts, Sutton’s operations were at full throttle.
The company ended the year with $2.3 million in revenue, driven by improved inventory management, innovation, and a dedicated focus on customer satisfaction.
LA Airsoft: New Beginnings in Fort Worth
As LA Airsoft continued to grow, Sutton relocated the business to a 3,700+ sq. ft. facility in Fort Worth in early 2024. The expansion included a retail storefront, tech room, media production space, and a more efficient fulfillment center.
This strategic move also marked a rebranding. While LA Airsoft became the umbrella brand for retail and e-commerce operations, LA Capa Customs retained its identity for manufacturing high-end pistol parts. In addition, Sutton introduced LA Innovations, the manufacturing division for non-pistol airsoft components.
With over 200 new product lines and essential gear, including 50+ different rifles, LA Airsoft has become the definitive one-stop shop for airsoft enthusiasts.
Revolutionizing the Airsoft Industry
One of Sutton’s most ambitious projects is the introduction of large CO2 cartridges as a gas source for airsoft. Inspired by his travels to Taiwan and Japan, Sutton worked alongside a leading HPA manufacturer to scale this innovation in the U.S., sourcing 25,000 CO2 cartridges.
A Vision for the Future
Sutton’s brands have earned accolades from the airsoft community, with LA Airsoft being voted “Best Hi Capa Company” in 2022 and 2023. As he looks toward the future, Sutton plans to expand to multiple locations, develop new products, and explore selling on Amazon via FBA.
His business values reflect a strong commitment to empowering employees, prioritizing customer satisfaction, and offering competitive pricing. Sutton’s ability to blend traditional business principles with cutting-edge technology has been central to his success.
Lessons from a Young Entrepreneur
- Seize Opportunities: Turn disruptions, like the COVID-19 pandemic, into catalysts for growth.
- Innovate to Solve Problems: When supply shortages hit, Sutton’s shift to manufacturing created a competitive edge.
- Balance Growth and Education: Sutton has expertly juggled running a business with pursuing higher education.
- Take Calculated Risks: Expansion into manufacturing, launching retail stores, and securing patents are examples of risks that paid off.
- Overcome Age Barriers: Age should not limit ambition—Sutton’s success at 21 is proof.
The Road Ahead for Sutton
As Sutton continues his journey, he remains dedicated to pushing boundaries. Whether through innovative airsoft solutions, expanding LA Airsoft’s presence, or exploring new ventures, one thing is certain: Ivan Sutton Smith’s entrepreneurial story is far from over.
Contact Details:
LinkedIn: Ivan “Sutton” Smith
Email: sutton@laairsoft.com
Instagram: LA Capa Customs
Instagram: LA Airsoft
YouTube: LA Airsoft
