#1. Axsys Technologies (AXYS)

Industry: Aerospace & Defense
Risk Category: Conservative

Axsys Technologies Inc. makes optical systems used in fighter planes, tanks, and other military and commercial applications. The defense industry is always recession-proof, and the company has shown the same level of resilience in the current market that it always has amid market turmoil. Recently, AXYS blew away Wall Street with a 27% earnings surprise, posting profits of 71 cents a share on expectations of just 56 cents. Sales were also up 43%, and the company raised its full-year outlook as a result. This is fantastic news, and a great sign of future growth from this company.