[wunderkind]

Say a store is an authorized S&W dealer. Does the store get to pick what models and quantities they will receive?

Just wondering if a dealer gets "stuck" with a few new models for the privilege of geting to sell the easy-to-move S&W 19911, CCW snubbies and the Walther-esque autos.

I'm interested in how things work on "the other side of the counter."

Just picked S&W as an example for no particular reason-every brand has guns that practically sell themselves and some 'dogs' too.

[Old Fuff]

Most handguns companies sell to retailers through distributors. However some (S&W is one) have Authorized Dealer Plans. If a retailer will agree to take so much product, they get special discounts on regular models and some special ones that are only offered to them. These are not offered to other dealers or distributors. The dealer usually can pick what product he wants up to a point, but they have to carry a fairly complete and representative inventory. Sometimes they may offer additional or more generous discounts because they are paying a little less in the first place.