This article is part of the Spring 2026 edition of the Volunteer Newsletter, a quarterly update meant to equip, empower and encourage RMEF volunteers. More articles are available on our dedicated Volunteer Newsletter page

Many chapters across the country continue to see strong results from incorporating a key raffle into their live auction.

For those who may be new to the concept, a key raffle works like this:

 

  • Several items within the live auction lineup are designated as “key items.”
  • Each of those items includes a balloon or physical key displayed with it, as well as being labeled a “key item” in the banquet program.
  • If a bidder purchases one of those items, they earn a key.
  • At the end of the live auction, all key buyers come to the stage and draw from a set of actual keys.
  • One of these keys then opens the lock and wins the designated “key gun.” (The remaining keys do not work in said lock.)

For many chapters, there are eight key items, creating a one-in-eight chance to win the key firearm, although the number of keys may vary between six, eight or ten, depending on the chapter.

The key gun is often a higher-value rifle. For example, in 2026, a Christensen Arms Evoke 7 PRC with a chapter cost of approximately $699 would make an excellent “key gun.”

The Strategy Behind Key Items

The key to success is using lower-cost items as the qualifying live-auction spots. These items should still have visual appeal and perceived value, but they do not need to be expensive. In many cases, they can be donated or sourced at low cost through nationally supported programs.

Strong Performing Key Items in 2026

Chapters have found success using the following items.

3′ x 2′ RMEF Flag (Elk Country Package)

Cost: $4.43

16″ x 32″ RMEF Cutting Board (Elk Country Package)

Cost: $35.65

Burris 50% Off Certificate (Elk Country Package)

Cost: $0

RMEF Red Ryder BB Gun (Elk Country Package)

Cost: $39.00

Ben Shot 4 Pint Glass Set (Vendor Direct)

Cost: $21.50

In addition to nationally supported merchandise, many chapters are incorporating locally sourced items such as:

 

  • Huckleberry pies or specialty desserts from well-known local bakers
  • Gift baskets
  • Gift cards to local restaurants
  • Donated wine or whiskey where legally permitted

These items create local excitement and often generate competitive bidding due to their uniqueness.

What the Numbers Can Look Like

Let’s use a simplified example.

Eight key items average between $300 and $500 per sale.

Using a very conservative average of $300 per item: eight items x $300 = $2,400 gross revenue.

We often see key items with a similar structure and prize averaging over $600 each!

If the key gun costs $699 and the combined cost of all key items is approximately $100 total, the estimated total cost is $799.

Estimated gross revenue: $2,400

 Estimated net revenue: approximately $1,600

Why It Works

The key raffle format adds energy to the live auction.

It spreads excitement throughout the auction lineup.

It encourages competitive bidding because buyers are purchasing both the item and the opportunity to win the firearm.

When structured properly, key raffles allow chapters to:

  • Control costs
  • Increase bidder participation
  • Generate significant net revenue
  • Build excitement at the close of the live auction

Like many successful grassroots tactics, the key raffle works best when it is clearly explained, visually displayed well and promoted throughout the night.