I have and still do work both sides of the isles at Gun Shows. Some I set up with a buddy that owns a Gun Shop and sometimes I go to shows shopping like everybody else. From the buyer's side, do your research before you go if you are looking for something in particular. Know what the stuff you are looking to buy is selling for in your area. Guns sell for different prices in different regions. Not sure why, but they do. Know what to look for such as changed parts etc. Take a small screwdriver and a pocket flash light. I always ask to look under the grip if a blue or nickel gun has rubber grips. Find a lot of rust that way that has kept me from buying a gun a regretting it later. If a dealer won't let me remove the grips, I ask him politely if he will remove them. If that is refused, I'll walk. I figure he has something to hide. Dealers expect buyers to try to talk them down on price. That's normal. Don't insult the seller. If he is way off what you feel the gun is worth, you are not going to get anywhere making an offer that is way low of his asking price. If the seller is way out of line based on your research, then just say thanks and walk on. Even if his is way off base, making him feel you are lowballing won't get you anywhere. Its just a waste of time for both. I find as a buyer, if I have something to trade, go ahead and pull it out before you start the negotiating. I've always felt I got a better deal with all the cards on the table up front.
As a seller at shows, we expect to be hit with a lower offer most of the time. Everyone that walks in the door thinks its American Pickers and don't plan on paying anyone's asking price. The biggest challenge a seller has is to price a gun where he has a little room to negotiate, but not so high that people walk by and don't stop. Don't insult me with a ridiculous offer. That tells me you aren't a serious buyer and I don't want to waste my time talking to you. If you don't know something, just ask. Most dealers at the shows I attend are honest (I said most) and will shoot you straight info while at the same time making their gun sounds like the deal of the century, but you do usually get honest info. indy1919a4 stated it best. Have fun. Learn some stuff. Don't feel like just because you are at a show and might have a pocket full of money that you have to panic buy either. I go mostly for the fellowship. There are dealers I only see 2-3 times a year and talk to by email and phone a lot, but face to face is so much more fun. Get to know the regulars. You will have a blast!!!!
Thank you for your reply.
