I Went To A Gun Show Today

[J-Bar]

RK Gunshows returned to Springfield, Missouri this weekend with a two day show. I went this morning mainly to see how it might differ from gun shows that had been held before the Covid Lockdown. Not much has changed at all.

The promoter I spoke with estimated there were 150 exhibitors and close to 400 tables, and that appeared to be a reasonable estimate. Masks were not required, but I wore one since my missus and I are over 70. Not many visitors and only a few exhibitors wore masks. There were traffic control arrows on the floor which were being ignored. Prices on guns and merchandise were about the same as I remember from previous shows; optimistic price tags but the seller would offer to take 10% off any gun you looked at for more than a few seconds! There appeared to be the usual mix of new and used firearms, and if someone were looking for a specific gun chances were pretty good that you could find it. The only gun I actually handled was an Anschutz .22 target rifle. I got a thing for target rifles since I shot on the ROTC rifle team in high school. If it had come with inserts for the front sight I would have been more tempted. My only purchase was some Federal Small Pistol Primers, $40 per thousand out the door, which, considering their general scarcity was OK I thought. Some ammunition was also available, but perhaps a bit less than I had seen at previous shows.

Altogether, it was bigger and better attended than I expected, with a fair mix of guns, reloading supplies, and ammo. Not a bad way to spend an hour and a half on a Saturday morning.

 

[Ignition Override]

Considering how many gun enthusiasts are so disappointed and @ seem to Want gun shows to disappear, it’s good that you had the Choice of whether or not you could attend a show.

 

[bearcreek]

Considering how many gun enthusiasts are so disappointed and @ seem to Want gun shows to disappear, it’s good that you had the Choice of whether or not you could attend a show.

What leads you to believe that "gun enthusiasts" want gun shows to disappear?

 

[mjsdwash]

Lots and lots of disappointing gun shows have turned people against them. Counterfeit "milsurp", overpriced used guns, very overpriced new guns, entry fees, and %80 being a swapmeet of junk you wouldn't expect at a "gunshow". Lots of reports of ATF creeping around doesn't help. I think thats wahy "gun enthusiasts" want them to disapear. I don't mind them , but I don't go either. The few I have been to, I do feel scammed to pay $10-15 to get into a "gunshow" to find only full retail gunshops, and overpriced surplus rifles, but mostly tables of Chinese knockoff knives, beads, fabric, art, and fake special forces guys looking down at you.

 

[bearcreek]

Lots and lots of disappointing gun shows have turned people against them. Counterfeit "milsurp", overpriced used guns, very overpriced new guns, entry fees, and %80 being a swapmeet of junk you wouldn't expect at a "gunshow". Lots of reports of ATF creeping around doesn't help. I think thats wahy "gun enthusiasts" want them to disapear. I don't mind them , but I don't go either. The few I have been to, I do feel scammed to pay $10-15 to get into a "gunshow" to find only full retail gunshops, and overpriced surplus rifles, but mostly tables of Chinese knockoff knives, beads, fabric, art, and fake special forces guys looking down at you.

I certainly agree that they've been rather disappointing in recent years. Kinda bass ackwards to want them all to disappear because of that though. That'd be like getting a car that breaks down a lot and then wanting all cars to disappear because that particular one was a lemon.

 

[CDW4ME]

Surprising, expected to read of scarcity.

 

[Old Dog]

Also, not surprising, a thread about (a) gun show(s) in which someone complains about gun shows within the first five posts.

We have pretty good Washington Arms Collectors (WAC) shows up here. $40 buys you an annual membership (which, in non-COVID 19 years gets you into ten or twelve gun shows in two different state fairgrounds in different cities) and a great monthly periodical chock-full of useful RKBA articles and collectible firearms. Free parking, of course. Mix of retailers and private sellers. Always a deal to be had -- if you know your stuff and look hard enough.

I find that most of those who complain about our gun shows up here (1) aren't current on used gun prices, (2) typically seem to be looking for screaming deals on either new products (i.e., Glocks, ARs) or classic guns (1911s, BHPs, high-end hunting rifles), expecting a gem to jump out in front of their faces. There's work to be done -- you have to get to the shows when they open on the first day, and you have to have an eye for attention to detail. You also have to know the art of dickering, which most younger folks have never seemed to grasp. There's a way to bargain without insulting a seller, and if you have to walk away, so be it.

If you're just going to a gun show hoping to find the lowest priced Glock or AR possible, yeah, you're better off doing your shopping on line.

Personally, I attend gun shows simply to be around a few thousand like-minded RKBA activists and firearms enthusiasts for a few hours on a Saturday morning; I'm perfectly content leaving with nothing but a couple boxes of ammo but having had numerous great conversations with the guys I only see every month or perfect strangers I've just met.

Often, a great deal occurs later when someone I've met (and given my card to) calls me out of the blue, remembering that we talked about a specific gun or item, and makes an offer or connects me to the person who is selling it. I network as much as possible, have recruited young people for jobs, made good friends and future shooting buddies, met a couple great bladesmiths and a good local gunsmith, told (and listened to) a lot of funny stories, and talked a lot of politics (without arguing with total assclowns).

Counterfeit "milsurp", overpriced used guns, very overpriced new guns,

And this differs from the local gun shops and internet exactly how? Know your stuff, learn the art of the dicker.

Lots of reports of ATF creeping around doesn't help.

And ooh, that's so scary. Really, you can make up just about any reason to avoid going to a gun show. It's the black helicopters constantly hovering over the fairgrounds pavilion that bother me ...

 

[BullRunBear]

When I go to gun shows these days, not often, I don't expect to find great deals or prices, although I've found a few over the years. Usually I'm looking for odd pieces like Lee Loader kits no longer made. That's how I got kits for 22 Hornet and 222 Remington for five bucks apiece. The entrance fees are kinda high which is why I don't go too often. And I avoid the shows that are mostly non-gun related stuff.

Jeff

 

[WheelGunMan]

It's good to hear they're making a comeback. Not yet in my neck of the woods. Maybe in the fall.

 

[mjsdwash]

I certainly agree that they've been rather disappointing in recent years. Kinda bass ackwards to want them all to disappear because of that though. That'd be like getting a car that breaks down a lot and then wanting all cars to disappear because that particular one was a lemon.

well i did clearly say i don't want them to disapear, just that i understand not fighting to keep them

 

[mjsdwash]

Also, not surprising, a thread about (a) gun show(s) in which someone complains about gun shows within the first five posts.

We have pretty good Washington Arms Collectors (WAC) shows up here. $40 buys you an annual membership (which, in non-COVID 19 years gets you into ten or twelve gun shows in two different state fairgrounds in different cities) and a great monthly periodical chock-full of useful RKBA articles and collectible firearms. Free parking, of course. Mix of retailers and private sellers. Always a deal to be had -- if you know your stuff and look hard enough.

I find that most of those who complain about our gun shows up here (1) aren't current on used gun prices, (2) typically seem to be looking for screaming deals on either new products (i.e., Glocks, ARs) or classic guns (1911s, BHPs, high-end hunting rifles), expecting a gem to jump out in front of their faces. There's work to be done -- you have to get to the shows when they open on the first day, and you have to have an eye for attention to detail. You also have to know the art of dickering, which most younger folks have never seemed to grasp. There's a way to bargain without insulting a seller, and if you have to walk away, so be it.

If you're just going to a gun show hoping to find the lowest priced Glock or AR possible, yeah, you're better off doing your shopping on line.

Personally, I attend gun shows simply to be around a few thousand like-minded RKBA activists and firearms enthusiasts for a few hours on a Saturday morning; I'm perfectly content leaving with nothing but a couple boxes of ammo but having had numerous great conversations with the guys I only see every month or perfect strangers I've just met.

Often, a great deal occurs later when someone I've met (and given my card to) calls me out of the blue, remembering that we talked about a specific gun or item, and makes an offer or connects me to the person who is selling it. I network as much as possible, have recruited young people for jobs, made good friends and future shooting buddies, met a couple great bladesmiths and a good local gunsmith, told (and listened to) a lot of funny stories, and talked a lot of politics (without arguing with total assclowns).
And this differs from the local gun shops and internet exactly how? Know your stuff, learn the art of the dicker.
And ooh, that's so scary. Really, you can make up just about any reason to avoid going to a gun show. It's the black helicopters constantly hovering over the fairgrounds pavilion that bother me ...

You mention WA, so I will say the Puallup show was good. I hear Spokane is too. But those are only two venues. The WAC thig lost a lot of appeal with UBC's. The shows I see are Monroe, and Ferndale... I'm sure you know the reputations. Most LGS are not selling the chinese fake mags, and holsters. I did not get across with the AFT thing that I don't believe that, but it is something that people DO believe it. As mentioned, at the local to me shows, prices are above gunshop, and I don't want to negotiate to lower a price to what I can pay new any day at that booths home store. I do not want the end of the gunshow altogether, I just lost interest when UBC's ruined it for guns, and mall ninjas/junk swappers ruined it for everything else. I went to the Kalispel show many years ago, and if that was how they all were I would be interested. Sorry for the negativity. I just think if your putting up signs saying "Gunshow" in a 10 mile radius as they do in my neigborhood (9 miles from the venue), and charge $15 to get in, they should tell you its %20 gun show, by the same shops down the street, and %80 social, and swapmeet.

 

[Mars5l]

Must be different region to region. I was tempted to go to the Tampa, Florida gun show last weekend. I happened to look on their facebook posts Saturday. Already at capacity by 11 am, hour line wait outside. They had another one this weekend about 2 hours further south. More posts showing long lines outside waiting to get in. It's about mid 90s here in FL with a feels like closer to 100. I'll pass for now but I am dying to go.

I do wonder how much merch is available with all the ammo shortages and slow down of gun making.

 

[earlthegoat2]

I go to gun shows often but my expectations are rock bottom so I often leave with a smile at least.

I like to look at anything and everything. I kind of treat it like a museum experience except there are price tags on everything and most of it is not very old. Haha.

I once heard on here of a gun show where no new guns were allowed. That is the show for me.

Having said that, Some of my most treasured finds were at gun shows. A Remington 760 Carbine in 280 and my recent Marlin 336 Texan in 35 Remington. One is rare beyond rare and the other is highly uncommon. Both gotten for a song for standard Remington 760 and Marlin 336 prices. The story on the 760 is that it was tagged as a Remington 760 30-06. I like Rem pump rifles and this was a more uncommon carbine so I took a closer look. It was stamped 280 Rem and my heart skipped a beat. $500 on the tag and I walked out with it for $400. Last on I saw on GB went for over $2500.

So what did I do the moment I got some time? Shot a box of ammo through it, took it hunting and shot a hog, and it’s been in the safe ever since. My only gun I consider a true collectors item. It has a few scratches and dings but I know it would still bring $1500+ if I chose to sell.

So yeah, I am still fond of gun shows. Scooped up a Taurus 22 mag revolver at the last one for $250. Still looking for that Smith 48.

 

[MedWheeler]

I still like gun shows. I go to maybe three a year. The last time I bought an actual gun at one was in December of 2014 (Bulgarian PM.) I tried to buy a NAA mini convertible at one last year, but the BGC was taking too long and had to bail.

Sometimes I find a box or two of ammunition in a round I was short on. Once, I actually found a nice IWB holster for a J-frame that actually included a sweat shield for the stock, and was left-handed, something I had been previously unable to locate.

 

[Reinz]

I love gun shows. I don’t really enjoy buying guns on the internet. I like to handle and feel them first. I’m a sucker for a least one gun per show.

When I go to a gun show I just ignore the carnival booths/tables. Though I will never understand why guys drag their wives/gf’s and kids along. It’s so obvious that they are not having a good time.

 

[Ignition Override]

bearcreek: I've also been disappointed with our shows (all are small) in the last 4-5 years, and attended my first in 2007. Milsurps have practically vanished from them.

Some people on here have complained so much about parking fees, entrance fees etc and practically state that it would make no difference to them were their shows to disappear.

 

[NIGHTLORD40K]

Must be different region to region. I was tempted to go to the Tampa, Florida gun show last weekend. I happened to look on their facebook posts Saturday. Already at capacity by 11 am, hour line wait outside. They had another one this weekend about 2 hours further south. More posts showing long lines outside waiting to get in. It's about mid 90s here in FL with a feels like closer to 100. I'll pass for now but I am dying to go.

I do wonder how much merch is available with all the ammo shortages and slow down of gun making.

Skip the lame Suncoast shows and try to make it to a Two Guys event, like Sarasota. Alot more Mom n Pop vendors, better prices ,and more private sales.

 

[HOWARD J]

I quit going to gun shows when they ran out of parts ( at least around here) for WW2 guns. long time ago

 

[Mars5l]

Skip the lame Suncoast shows and try to make it to a Two Guys event, like Sarasota. Alot more Mom n Pop vendors, better prices ,and more private sales.

I'll keep it in mind, not keen on a 2 hour drive. I live in Wesley Chapel so the fairgrounds is a 30 minute drive

 

[748]

The ATF should be creeping around gun shows since "firearm" is kind of in their name.
If rumors of "the ATF creeping around" keeps some people away I say good. Those people probably didn't need to be going to a gun show. Oh and more sht for me.

 

[CapnMac]

Went to Premier's Original Fort Worth show just today.
Attendance was off (no advertising until Friday). They switched the entry door to the Concourse which messed up some folk used to the regular entry.
Masks were required (per County rules) and all sorts of signs about keeping separation. Mask wearing was running about 95%. Proper mask wearing (not as chin warmer or under the nose) was about 75%.
The venue was full, and almost all of the usual vendors, too.
Only odd note was not one private seller table.
I was not looking hard for anything, so, I really did not see anything to take note of. Other than 3rd Gen PMags were all over the place in prices, from $12 to $26 and not at all scarce.

Lots of people waiting to clear NICS, which was running about an hour, per overheard conversations.
Went with a buddy who picked up the tab, so all good. Put what I would have paid in the Help USMC vets bucket.

 

[Howland937]

I'd gotten a text Friday about a show in Dayton, Oh this weekend. Normally get a postcard a week or 2 out, then the text alert a few days out. I didn't go and don't plan to, but not out of ill feeling. Just don't need anything and don't need to buy something I don't need either.

 

[Bush Pilot]

I went to a gun show in Idaho this morning, first show in months. I did notice fewer people (very few were wearing masks),there was very little centerfire ammo and Glock pistols were almost non existent. Not a surprise, ammo prices were to the moon.

 

[smike223]

I like our local gun show, it's usually the same guys, year in, year out. The same guys I see at the range all the time, so not much bubblegum is foisted off. A local guy who runs a ffl out of his home is there every year with tons of powder and primers, at great prices. Always stock up. I wasn't planning on buying any guns this year, but a guy had a sweet high standard pistol, asked if he'd take fifty less than the tag said, yep. Out the door I went. I should mention in Idaho private sales are legal. If they weren't, I probably wouldn't bother going.

 

[jeff-10]

I used to frequent them often and bought several guns in my initial collection at gun shows. I still have 5 of them. All were used except a SAR-1 I believe. I probably would still enjoy gun shows but now that I am firmly in middle age I can afford to buy everything new so that is what I do. Been burned a few too many times with used firearms. Shopping online is just so convenient. Still I really liked the massive gun show at the Orlando fairgrounds 20 years ago.