In an era where entrepreneurship is often perceived as a pursuit for the experienced, 21-year-old Ivan Sutton Smith has emerged as a remarkable exception. As the founder and CEO of LA Airsoft, Sutton has turned his passion into a thriving business, transitioning from a high school hobby to building a multi-million dollar enterprise that has taken the airsoft industry by storm. His story is a powerful testament to how young entrepreneurs can break through the barriers of age and experience with vision, dedication, and innovation.
From Attic Dreams to Airsoft Success
Sutton’s entrepreneurial journey began in 2020, during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic. While many were grappling with the disruption of daily life, Sutton saw an opportunity to turn his passion for airsoft teching into something bigger. With schools, clubs, and sports sidelined, he found himself with time and ambition.
In his parents’ air-conditioned attic, Sutton began upgrading airsoft guns and sharing his work through a newly established website and Instagram page. His custom pistol configurations, build lists, and detailed tutorials on upgrading airsoft guns quickly gained attention. What started as a small online business offering build services evolved into a booming venture. “The more I built, the more people came to me, asking for custom services,” Sutton recalls.
Turning Passion Into Profit
As Sutton’s reputation grew, so did demand for his work. His initial business model revolved around customizing airsoft guns and reselling upgrade parts. When supply chains faltered due to the global pandemic, Sutton saw a crucial gap in the market: the shortage of high-end airsoft parts. He capitalized on this opportunity, becoming a reliable source for upgrade components and positioning his business on the global stage.
By late 2020, the success of his business allowed him to expand into e-commerce. “I realized selling parts was much more lucrative than building custom guns,” Sutton explains. The transition marked a pivotal shift in his business, as he focused on scaling up his online presence.
However, Sutton’s entrepreneurial journey was far from smooth. Between attending classes, participating in sports, and running his business, Sutton had to juggle many roles. He recalls answering support emails during AP Chemistry classes and packing orders until the early hours of the morning after completing his schoolwork.
Innovation Born from Necessity
By mid-2021, demand had grown to such an extent that Sutton faced supply shortages. Recognizing the limitations of relying on external manufacturers, Sutton made the bold decision to manufacture his own products. Partnering with a CAD engineer, he began reverse-engineering existing airsoft parts and improving upon them, establishing LA Capa Customs as a manufacturing arm of his business.
His focus on high-quality parts and innovative designs quickly set LA Capa Customs apart in the airsoft community. The company’s high-end parts filled a much-needed gap in the market, giving enthusiasts access to better options for enhancing the performance of their airsoft guns.
Scaling a Multi-Million Dollar Venture
Ivan Sutton Smith
As LA Capa Customs grew, so did Sutton’s ambitions. By 2022, he had relocated his operations to a business complex in Shreveport, Louisiana, before moving to Fort Worth, Texas, to attend Texas Christian University (TCU). Despite juggling a full class schedule, Sutton’s business grew exponentially, finishing the year with over $1.7 million in revenue. His ability to balance education, social life, and business management demonstrated extraordinary time management skills and determination.
In 2023, Sutton continued to scale his operations, expanding his product line and enhancing the company’s manufacturing capabilities. With two pending utility patents and over 800 SKUs in production, LA Capa Customs was firmly established as a leader in the airsoft industry. The company ended the year with $2.3 million in revenue, a reflection of Sutton’s relentless drive for growth and innovation.
LA Airsoft: A New Chapter in Fort Worth
In 2024, LA Capa Customs made a significant move, opening a 3,700 sq. ft. facility in Fort Worth, Texas. The new space houses a retail storefront, dedicated office spaces, a tech room, media production space, and an improved fulfillment center. This expansion enabled Sutton to rebrand the e-commerce and retail side of his business as LA Airsoft, while LA Capa Customs continued to focus on manufacturing high-end parts.
As part of the expansion, Sutton introduced over 200 new airsoft products, including 50+ base rifles, further positioning LA Airsoft as a one-stop shop for enthusiasts. The in-person retail experience complemented his growing online presence, offering customers a more personalized shopping experience.
Revolutionizing the Airsoft Industry
Perhaps one of Sutton’s most groundbreaking innovations was his development of a new air source for airsoft games. Inspired by his travels to Taiwan and Japan, where he witnessed innovative CO2 cartridges used for airsoft guns, Sutton partnered with a leading HPA (high-pressure air) manufacturer to introduce large CO2 cartridges as an alternative gas source in the United States. This move not only set a new standard in the industry but also represented the kind of forward-thinking that has defined Sutton’s entrepreneurial approach.
Building a Brand on Values
Despite his rapid success, Sutton has remained grounded, ensuring that LA Airsoft stays true to its core values. His commitment to empowering employees, maintaining excellent customer service, and giving back to the airsoft community has been a cornerstone of his business. From sponsoring competitive airsoft teams to running frequent giveaways, Sutton has built a brand that resonates with enthusiasts.
A Vision for the Future
Looking ahead, Sutton envisions expanding LA Airsoft to multiple locations, scaling manufacturing capabilities, and launching new ventures. “I’m also exploring selling on Amazon through FBA and expanding our presence on social media,” he explains.
For Sutton, the future holds endless possibilities. His ability to adapt to changing markets, innovate in the face of challenges, and maintain an unwavering commitment to quality will undoubtedly guide his continued success.
Final Thoughts
At just 21 years old, Ivan Sutton Smith has already achieved extraordinary milestones, but his story is just beginning. His journey serves as a blueprint for aspiring entrepreneurs—showing that with passion, creativity, and the right mindset, age is no barrier to success.
Connect with Ivan Sutton Smith:
