In the fast-evolving world of entrepreneurship, age is often seen as a proxy for experience. But for Ivan Sutton Smith, the 21-year-old CEO behind LA Airsoft and LA Capa Customs, age has only served as fuel for his remarkable journey. Starting from humble beginnings in his parents’ attic to now managing a 3700+ sq ft facility in Fort Worth, Texas, Sutton’s story is a shining example of young entrepreneurship breaking traditional boundaries in the digital age.

A Vision Born of Crisis

When the COVID-19 pandemic struck in 2020, most high school students were grappling with the sudden change in daily routines. But for Sutton Smith, this disruption became a turning point. He saw the free time as an opportunity to turn his passion for airsoft teching into a full-fledged business.

“I started this business in my parent’s house, working out of the air-conditioned attic,” Sutton recalls. “With school, sports, and clubs on hold, I focused on my passion for upgrading airsoft guns and creating detailed build lists.” His content was tailored for the enthusiast, offering tutorials, upgrades, and deep dives into the mechanics of airsoft guns, which soon caught the attention of the airsoft community.

From Hobbyist to E-Commerce Mogul

Sutton’s initial offerings revolved around custom build services and selling upgrade parts, but he quickly identified a larger market need. With global supply chains disrupted, he positioned himself as a reliable source for high-end airsoft parts. As demand surged, Sutton expanded beyond custom commissions, setting up an e-commerce store by late 2020.

By 2021, Sutton faced a critical challenge: manufacturers in Asia couldn’t keep up with his skyrocketing demand. “Rather than waiting for supply to catch up, I decided to manufacture my own products,” Sutton explains. Teaming up with a CAD engineer, Sutton began reverse-engineering and improving existing parts, birthing LA Capa Customs. This bold move not only solved his supply issues but established LA Capa Customs as a leader in the high-end pistol scene, with innovation at its core.

Managing Business and Education

Balancing his growing enterprise with his education, Sutton’s life became a careful act of time management. By 2022, his business had grown to a scale that required more space and resources. He moved operations to a business complex in Shreveport, Louisiana, hired employees, and relocated to Texas to attend Texas Christian University (TCU). Despite juggling a full course load, Sutton managed to scale his business to $1.7 million in revenue by the end of his freshman year.

Expanding the Business Empire

2023 marked a period of explosive growth for LA Capa Customs. Sutton’s innovative spirit led to the creation of over 300 new parts and more than 800 SKUs, with annual production exceeding 40,000 units. This growth wasn’t just in numbers—Sutton also filed for two utility patents, further positioning LA Capa Customs as a key player in the airsoft industry.

By early 2024, LA Airsoft expanded to a 3700+ sq ft facility in Fort Worth, adding a retail storefront, a media space, and enhanced fulfillment areas. The business rebranded, with LA Airsoft focusing on retail and e-commerce, LA Capa Customs dedicated to pistol parts manufacturing, and LA Innovations established to cover non-pistol product lines. Sutton’s company now offered over 200 new essential items, solidifying its position as a one-stop shop for airsoft enthusiasts.

Disrupting the Industry

One of Sutton’s most revolutionary ideas came after a 2023 trip to Taiwan and Japan. Inspired by airsoft tech overseas, Sutton spearheaded a shift in how airsoft is played in the U.S., introducing large CO2 cartridges as an alternative to the traditional HPA (high-pressure air) tanks. “Alongside the leading manufacturer in the HPA space, we sourced 25,000 CO2 cartridges, making this a first for the industry at this scale,” Sutton explains. This innovation disrupted the market and offered players a more convenient, powerful option.

Recognition and Future Ambitions

Sutton’s entrepreneurial accomplishments have not gone unnoticed. In 2022 and 2023, LA Airsoft was voted “Best Hi Capa Company” by the airsoft community, solidifying its reputation. With over 30,000 orders fulfilled, the brand has established itself as a leader in both retail and aftermarket parts manufacturing.

As Sutton looks toward the future, he’s eyeing additional business ventures and expansion opportunities. “I plan to start selling our products on Amazon via FBA,” Sutton shares. Beyond growing the existing brands, he envisions a future where LA Airsoft has multiple retail locations, further scaling its manufacturing capabilities while keeping a strong foothold in the competitive airsoft market.

Values at the Core of Success

Despite rapid growth, Sutton remains grounded in his core values. LA Airsoft has built a reputation on community engagement, customer satisfaction, and operational efficiency, delivering some of the fastest fulfillment times in the industry. “We fill orders the same day, seven days a week,” Sutton emphasizes. This level of commitment to customer service, combined with a dedication to quality and competitive pricing, has driven the company’s success.

Sutton also prioritizes giving back to the airsoft community through giveaways, sponsorships, and support for competitive airsoft organizations. His long-term goal is to build relationships with his customers and employees, ensuring that everyone involved in his business shares in its success.

Key Takeaways for Aspiring Entrepreneurs

Sutton’s journey offers invaluable lessons for young entrepreneurs:

• Seize the Moment: What began as a hobby quickly grew into a multimillion-dollar venture when Sutton capitalized on the downtime created by the pandemic.
• Innovate in the Face of Challenges: Supply shortages forced Sutton to innovate by becoming a manufacturer, giving him a competitive edge.
• Balance Education with Ambition: Sutton’s ability to manage his academic and entrepreneurial pursuits is a testament to his discipline and time management skills.
• Stay Agile: His ability to shift from custom builds to full-scale manufacturing and retail demonstrates the power of flexibility in business.

The Road Ahead

At 21, Ivan Sutton Smith has built a multimillion-dollar company from the ground up. But for this young CEO, it’s clear that this is only the beginning. With plans for further innovation, expansion, and diversification, Sutton continues to inspire a new generation of entrepreneurs, proving that with vision, determination, and the willingness to adapt, success knows no age limit.

Conclusion:

LinkedIn: Ivan “Sutton” Smith

Email:       [email protected]

Instagram: LA Capa Customs

Instagram: LA Airsoft

YouTube: LA Airsoft