Meet Tyler Benting | Owner & Leathersmith

We had the good fortune of connecting with Tyler Benting and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Tyler, is your business focused on helping the community? If so, how?
Long Shot Co. was established in August of 2023 in the back of a small warehouse located in Ft. Lauderdale, Florida.

It began with a simple need: a wallet of mine that was beyond repair needed to be replaced. Instead of going to the mall and buying another, I decided to craft one myself. My goal was to make a wallet that would stand the test of time. So I set aside enough money for a few hand tools, a little bit of leather and I was off to the races!

After a few attempts of getting things to fit, fold and feel the way I wanted it, the Classic Bi-Fold Wallet was born. And so was my passion for making things out of leather. Not long after, I started getting requests from friends and family to make wallets, passport covers and keychains. The list goes on.

Today, I can proudly say that Long Shot Co. has grown into a small business that operates out of the same warehouse where it all began. Committed to handcrafting every product with meticulous care, passion and attention to detail.

I source my materials sustainably and ethically, ensuring that every item I produce not only lasts a lifetime but also supports responsible practices.

The name Long Shot Co was inspired by the film Seabiscuit and a quote that stuck with us: “A long shot becomes a legend.” It’s a reminder that greatness often starts from humble beginnings—and that taking risks, betting on yourself, and staying the course can lead to something extraordinary.

Just like Seabiscuit, our journey began with a simple idea and a lot of heart. Every piece we make reflects that spirit: handcrafted, built to last, and made for those who believe in chasing long shots.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
I’ve always loved making things with my hands, and leathercraft became the perfect way to turn that passion into something tangible.

Starting a business around it was a long shot — part passion, part persistence, and just enough naive optimism to keep going. Every item I craft is made with care using high quality, sustainable and ethically sourced materials.
I’m proud that every item I create is made to last a lifetime!

Whenever a someone asks me what my favorite item is to make I always say “the next one”.
This is a labor of love for me and it brings me great joy to be able to share it with others.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Places:
Downtown Ft. Lauderdale
Ft. Lauderdale Beach
Las Olas Beach
Bayside Miami

Clubs/Bars:
Palm Room, American Social, Elbow Room, Rock Bar, The Wharf Fort Lauderdale

Resturants:
Le Tub – Famous Burgers
Chima Steakhouse
Versailles Restaurant Cuban Cuisine

Fun things to do:
Miami Heat game at the Kaseya Center
Florida Panthers game at the Amerant Bank Arena
Morikami Museum and Japanese Gardens
Whiskey Creek Hideout – Canoe & kayak
Jungle Queen Riverboat
Flamingo Gardens

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
Holt & Marino

This company wouldn’t be possible without the guidance of my two greatest mentors—Jerry Holt and Ricardo Marino. Their inspiration, support, and belief in me every step of the way played a major role in this business I’ve created.

Website: https://longshotco.sqaure.site

Instagram: https://long.shot.co

Facebook: longshotco