Last weekend- gun show observations

'puter went glitch...double post

Mark

This weekend was a small show that is normally pretty good.

This time, however, it really sucked. Lots of empty slots normally filled with tables. Many vendors just selling reloading supplies (way more than usual; I don't reload). Numerous vendors selling accessories only. Very few tables selling actual firearms. And those tables that were selling firearms, prices were pretty high unless you were looking for an AR. AR prices are really falling. Got to put my hands on two of the new Savage rifles. They seem quite nice although I didn't like the rear BUIS.

Overall very dissapointing especially with a 40 minute one-way drive. At least I did find a small green dot for a decent price.

Sniper66 said:

For the most part I like gun shows. But a few weeks ago I attended an RK show in Topeka, KS and one vendor was selling rain gutter covers. At a gun show? Really?. I won't be going back. I believe that the Wanenmacher show in Tulsa has a self imposed standard that no more than 5% of the displays can be non-gun related merchandise. That show, held twice a year, is one of my all-time favorite things to do. I reunion with old friends and we have a great time. Over the years I've bought several guns, lots of ammo and reloading components, holsters, gun cases.....this list could get very long. I've also accumulated many fond memories. And BTW, I like beef jerky. It's a tradition at nearly every gun show I've ever attended, even if I rarely buy it.

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I couldn't agree more about the Wanenmacher show. I went for the very first time this past May and was thoroughly impressed. In fact, it was probably the best gun show I have attended in over 30 years. I'm into mostly vintage Winchesters, Colts, etc. and the choice there was amazing.

I definitely plan to go back for the November show. Since I live about 4.5 hours away by interstate---like the last time, I plan to get a room again, so I can do the weekend.

I made the mistake last time by hitting the larger upper level first---not realizing that the majority of the vintage collectibles were on the lower level. In fact the one 1913 vintage model 1892 SRC Winchester that I snagged was right by the lower level exit and I only spotted it as I was about to leave on the second day. I'll hit the lower level next time.

This is a show that requires good walking shoes and rest breaks or it's east to do yourself in physically. I still can't quite wrap my head around 4200 tables at one show when one considers that most local shows average 200 to 350 tops. We get RK shows here too, and I don't even bother to go--along with Kerry-Murphy, and G & S. None of these professional gun show promoters care who they rent a table to and simply do not seem to limit flea market stuff. After the Tulsa show, going to any of the professionally promoted local shows is just too depressing.

Cheers