Prarie Arms

[Huskquatch]

I didn't see another thread on these guys so I figured I would start one. I had two bad experiences and will never go back. I will give you the facts and will expand if neccessary.

1. Owners wife told me that prices were set as is (used glock with no mags and no N/S for $675) if I didn't like it I could pay the difference of their rent that month and they would sell me the gun cheaper.


2. Owner put N/S on a nice 1911 I had, installed them with a steel punch and marred the slide beyond repair. Front sight was peened off to one side and the tritium vial was broken and wouldn't function. When confronted the reply was "Thats what happens when I am a little rushed, if you leave it I will try to fix it. Mind you I was in the store for almost 2 hrs. Over an hour of that he wasn't working on the gun he was jawing with his buddies.

Just my experience.

[kidicarus13]

Nothing of what I read above surprises me. Business as usual at PA. ...and they still seem to stay in business.

[USMC88-93]

Every time I go in the place he is sitting there chatting with someone. Even when customers are clearly waiting to speak with him.

[buckshotbarlow]

All you need is face time at PA, along the lines of everyday buying something. When they know you, then their prices are competitive. People have changed so much over the past year i quit doing business with them because they don't know me. I would not recommend you putting any of your firearms on consignment there, because you have to pay to transfer the gun back into your ownership. Long story short, if you like hanging out at a gun store, this is your place.

[Irving]

Where is this place?

[buckshotbarlow]

http://www.prairiearms.com/

Prairie Arms 3809 Norwood Drive #1
Littleton, CO 80125 (303) 346-7135

Hours of Operation

Tuesday-Friday 10:00 am - 6:00 pm
Saturday 10:00 am - 2:00 pm
Closed Sunday and Monday

[buckshotbarlow]

http://maps.google.com/maps?t=h&iwloc=A&hl=en&q=3809+Norwood+Dr,+%231,Littleton,CO+80125

[Irving]

Ahh Littleton, just far enough away that I'll be unlikely to wander in there on accident.

[Irish]

When I first got my AR I went there and bought a 20rd box of .223 from them for $17.00 then I saw how much I could get it for elsewhere... I agree about face time, I was waiting for over 20 minutes before I was recognized as a customer.

[hkOrion]

-1 here as well. Bad experience all around. Asked him about some gunsmithing, he basically said it wasn't worth his time. Won't go back.

[SSChameleon]

-10. Just stpped by and asked if they had any 7.62. The kid said, "Nope! And now I get to laugh at all you who said it will always be available. I hate that Russian stuff, I want my bullets right where I put them.". He then went on to belittle me and brag about how smart he was to buy an expensive gun.

What a tool. I'm never going back.

[Huskquatch]

Looks like a big resounding zero for Prarie Arms. It's too bad that Gunny Bob on 850 KOA still has to plug this place on his show as a sponsor.

[Marlin]

You could always call up on open mike night.. And "express" your opinion...

[Pancho Villa]

My experiences with them have been mixed.

$35 transfer fee beats out most places around here, especially close to Castle Rock. With that I had no problem.

However, it took them 2 days to fax their FFL to the shop I bought the rifle from. They have NEVER returned any of my calls, and they often don't pick up the phone during business hours. I'll call once, get the machine, call right back up again, and maybe someone will pick up.

Their revolvers seem to have reasonable prices. The guys I talked with at least were all very happy to talk revolvers with me while I waited for my transfer.

That kid is a dumbass and should be kept in back. He runs his mouth too much.

[kidicarus13]

That kid is a dumbass and should be kept in back. He runs his mouth too much.

Oh I see you noticed that too [Beer]

[ColoWyo]

I had them do a transfer for me.

I hadn't heard from him for some time after he faxed his copy of his FFL to the dealer, so I gave him a call. Turns out he had put the pistol (that I had already paid for) in the display counter for sale. Thanks dog I called, otherwise I can't imagine the headache that would have followed.

Won't go near that place.

[motorep]

You folks all did better than I did. I couldn't get anyone to talk to me or even recognize that I was in the store. Too busy talking about the extreme ranges they've dusted p-dogs at. Screw 'em.

[bellavite1]

I have never purchased a firearm there,therefore I cannot get into it.
I have contacted them looking for a place to shoot my 50 BMG.
My personal experience is 100% positive.
They have always been great to me.
I had feeding problems with a pistol I bought on Gunbroker and they polished the ramp and fixed the problem for a whooping $17 while I was waiting.
I had extraction issues with a Barrett 99 (it ended up being the ammo),they looked at the gun,contacted Barrett,got them to send me some factory ammo to test fire it,polished the chamber just in case,no charge.
I had accuracy issues with a Rem 700.
Went looking for advice and a new trigger,they tested trigger wheight,showed me how to practice my trigger finger with a ballpoint pen(!),offered plenty of advice.
They could have sold me anything,they did not.
No charge.
I am sorry to hear about your bad experiences.
They are my go to guys and the only gunsmiths I trust.

[PrairieArms]

Good Day Everyone,

My name is Ryan and together with Dr. Jackson and rest of the Prairie Arms Family, we would like to introduce ourselves to Colorado AR-15 Shooters!

I personally would like to have the opportunity to make things right for everyone here and elsewhere as we look to provide a consistent level of service to fellow enthusiasts. Please let me know if you have time as I would definitely like to hear feedback so we can improve our service and offer our customers what they want.

Finally, I cannot express how much I appreciate the criticsm that has been documented here. I can assure you I will use this to improve our customer experience in the store.

If there is anything of interest, please don't hesitate to email us at ar15forum@prairiearms.com (ar15forum@prairiearms.com). We will be there to support your needs.

Ryan Seaver
Prairie Arms Manufacturing LLC
3809 Norwood Dr, #1
Littleton, CO 80125
303-346-7135
http://www.prairiearms.com (http://www.prairiearms.com/)

[Asha'man]

I've stopped into Prairie a couple of times since it's right by a buddy's shop, and since they're close to where I live I thought I'd give them a shot at becoming my "local". I had never had money or was looking for anything specific when I was in before, but had just checked it out. However, one Wednesday night I walked in right before closing time and the place was packed. Hung out for a bit and figured out that everyone was there to go shooting on some private land. Spoke to Ryan (post above mine) and he basically said that if I got some more face time and they got to know me a bit, I could be included on that. Didn't want just every Tom, Dick and Harry knowing about it, which made sense.

So a week or two later I stopped in looking for a scope for my new .308. I finally got the old dude (owner?) to acknowledge my presence, and he did so by poking me in the chest with his truck key and asking me if anyone had had a chance to be rude to me yet. I said, "Um, haha? No, but I'm looking for a scope." He turns around and grabs the 20" AR off the counter with a Leupold VX-L on it and we go outside and look through it. I told him it was a nice piece of glass but I knew what they cost and it was way out of my price range. He kinda shrugged that off and we went back inside, grabbed up a rifle (that one kid's, apparently) from behind the counter and went back outside. I don't remember exactly what it was, but it was like a Schmidt and Bender or something; high dollar glass, to be sure.

We went back inside and again I told him that was way out of what I was looking for. He launched into some spiel about how I shouldn't think of the price, and how lots of people are doing the layaway thing - "Just think, when you're done making payments on it, it's like it's free!" I reiterated once more that I was not looking to spend the cost of a good used car on a scope, but would be more interested in something in the $300-$500 range. Wasn't being a dick about it, but I wanted what I wanted and was giving him another chance to help me out. Apparently this was his cue to not spend any more time on me, as he walked away without a word and went into the back room. I figured maybe he was getting something more in my price range. When he came back out, he gestured to come over, so I did. So did another guy who had come in while we were looking at scopes. We looked at each other and asked which one he was talking to. The old dude pointed at the new guy and said "You", then he looked at me and said "Now I'm being rude to you" and went into his office with the other guy and closed the door. I was left standing there with a WTF look on my face, and no scope options. Did I mention that during the entire exchange, the old guy was about three inches from me and taking up most of my personal space, and he smelled funny to boot? Not a good experience by any stretch of the imagination. I won't be back.

BTW I would much rather drive to Loveland and patronize Jensen. They're not real friendly but they have good prices and a great selection, and have been helpful whenever I've asked for it, which is more than I can say for PA, and they're ten minutes away.

[Bailey Guns]

The only time I could get anyone to talk to me was one day when I stopped in and found an old friend/customer working there part-time. We talked for several minutes...but mostly about Harleys.

Personally, I think they're way overpriced. Then again, it's none of my business how the guy sets his prices. It's up to me, not him, to find a price I'm willing to pay for something I want.

Very interesting story Asha'man.

[PrairieArms]

I've stopped into Prairie a couple of times since it's right by a buddy's shop, and since they're close to where I live I thought I'd give them a shot at becoming my "local". I had never had money or was looking for anything specific when I was in before, but had just checked it out. However, one Wednesday night I walked in right before closing time and the place was packed. Hung out for a bit and figured out that everyone was there to go shooting on some private land. Spoke to Ryan (post above mine) and he basically said that if I got some more face time and they got to know me a bit, I could be included on that. Didn't want just every Tom, Dick and Harry knowing about it, which made sense.

So a week or two later I stopped in looking for a scope for my new .308. I finally got the old dude (owner?) to acknowledge my presence, and he did so by poking me in the chest with his truck key and asking me if anyone had had a chance to be rude to me yet. I said, "Um, haha? No, but I'm looking for a scope." He turns around and grabs the 20" AR off the counter with a Leupold VX-L on it and we go outside and look through it. I told him it was a nice piece of glass but I knew what they cost and it was way out of my price range. He kinda shrugged that off and we went back inside, grabbed up a rifle (that one kid's, apparently) from behind the counter and went back outside. I don't remember exactly what it was, but it was like a Schmidt and Bender or something; high dollar glass, to be sure.

We went back inside and again I told him that was way out of what I was looking for. He launched into some spiel about how I shouldn't think of the price, and how lots of people are doing the layaway thing - "Just think, when you're done making payments on it, it's like it's free!" I reiterated once more that I was not looking to spend the cost of a good used car on a scope, but would be more interested in something in the $300-$500 range. Wasn't being a dick about it, but I wanted what I wanted and was giving him another chance to help me out. Apparently this was his cue to not spend any more time on me, as he walked away without a word and went into the back room. I figured maybe he was getting something more in my price range. When he came back out, he gestured to come over, so I did. So did another guy who had come in while we were looking at scopes. We looked at each other and asked which one he was talking to. The old dude pointed at the new guy and said "You", then he looked at me and said "Now I'm being rude to you" and went into his office with the other guy and closed the door. I was left standing there with a WTF look on my face, and no scope options. Did I mention that during the entire exchange, the old guy was about three inches from me and taking up most of my personal space, and he smelled funny to boot? Not a good experience by any stretch of the imagination. I won't be back.

BTW I would much rather drive to Loveland and patronize Jensen. They're not real friendly but they have good prices and a great selection, and have been helpful whenever I've asked for it, which is more than I can say for PA, and they're ten minutes away.


Brian,

We at Prairie Arms apologize for the customer service you received at the shop. It is certainly not our intent to be rude. Sometimes Dr. Jackson's sense of humor can be taken wrong by some. We addressed this at the shop and he certainly would appreciate an opportunity to apologize in person.

To address your shopping experience...

Our store offers quality scopes for shooters that have a purpose. In your experience, I am not sure if you provided your purpose. I state this because we sell optics a certain way so that every customer is provided with a scope for their use and budget and not just budget. Ultimately, we want our customers to have a proper scope for one time installation for fit and use. We also like to only carry items we use ourselves. Certainly we have optics that you were looking for $300-500 and there are quality scopes in that range. Dr. Jackson is one heck of a prairie dog shooter at long distances and typically asks customers to look in to those long range varmint scopes. Those are not cheap. Please note that when you buy a scope at Prairie Arms, we install (level/cant/boresight) the product.

On behalf of Prairie Arms, we apologize for your experience and have taken note of our use of humor. We recognize that this instance, it was in poor taste.

Please feel free to email me or respond on this thread. We hope there is an opportunity to work through this.

-Prairie Arms


P.S. Our new website will be coming in October. Please note we will be adjusting our pricing of products and offering internet sales in the near future.

[Tristan]

Wow. Nice comeback, P.A.!
You scored +2 in my book for that one.

[ronaldrwl]

Hmm, the silly customer didn't know what he wanted.
Sounded like excuses for lack of customer service.

[Huskquatch]

I above a lot of people can appreciate a good sense of humor, mine is completely uncensored most of the time which has worked out pretty well for me. That being said, there is a time and a place for it and sometimes you have to turn it down or turn it off. I have owned and operated a business for 15 years and have a large number of very loyal customers that I see almost on a daily basis. Nowadays, I really tear into a few of them and they come right back guns blazing and we have a great time. It didn't start out that way, it was only after I showed them that I would fill their needs to the best of my ability and go above and beyond for them to ensure that I had a strong client base. I also have a lot of one time and inconsistent customers but they get the same treatment from me as far as service goes, in my experience it has worked flawlessly. That is how you get priceless positive word of mouth advertising and not flame threads of forums with issues that are pretty easy to iron out.

Blaming these things on the customer not understanding humor is in my opinion a huge copout. It is the business' job to entice the customer and make them want to spend money in the store. It is never and never will be the customer begging for attention while they are ignored, put down or handed a sub standard product while paying a premium for it. I can't believe what I read about the customer not conveying to the owner what product he needed and that being his fault. It is the owner or employees responsibility to qualify his needs and fill those to the best of their ability. Im not saying you can't try to talk them into a better product that maybe more than they need, if they are willing to pay it and it will serve them even better than it is a win win. If they don't go for it however, that is not a que to ignore them and be rude and move on to the next guy who may want to spend more. The only biproduct of that behavior is people spending thousands of dollars somewhere else instead of with you. I really hope these comments are looked at as a learning oppurtunity and things do improve, I don't with ill on any business especially a gun store in this day and age. Thanks to anyone listening and God Bless!

[jc121]

I got a good chance to meet Ryan this last weekend as between PA and ourselfs we took up a 12 table setup at tanners.

Everything I saw over the weekend in my opinion is that they know their firearms and were very friendly to everyone I saw.

I look foward to having them close to us in the future and plan on stopping in to say hi when I get up that way.

It was nice to have met you Ryan

Jon

[PrairieArms]

To Everyone at CO-AR15,

I am not sure how my post came off as showing a lack of customer service. I am not here to address that. I am here to again say we are sorry for treating Brian in that manner at the store.

At this time I would also like to address that we try to do our best and look out for everyone that comes in to the store and make them feel comfortable and feel as a friend. Sometimes we get too comfortable and our ways are not received well and we are sorry for it. I know I do my best to look out for everyone and ensure they are respected and handled well.

To anyone that reads this post, thank you for your time.

Prairie Arms

[bcolorado]

Prairie Arms-

Purchased a 1911 from them. While it was on layaway the "Dr" sold the second mag and all the extra parts in the case it came in.

Wouldn't replace any of it.

Sure did like how nothing had prices on it and they based their prices on what kind of a sucker you looked like.

Rude I can deal with, but I never go back for dishonesty.

[PrairieArms]

I got a good chance to meet Ryan this last weekend as between PA and ourselfs we took up a 12 table setup at tanners.

Everything I saw over the weekend in my opinion is that they know their firearms and were very friendly to everyone I saw.

I look foward to having them close to us in the future and plan on stopping in to say hi when I get up that way.

It was nice to have met you Ryan

Jon
Jon,

It was great to meet you and your partners that weekend too. We had a great time at the show and learned quite a bit if we are to do it again.

Thanks for taking the time to post here. I wish you nothing but success!

Ryan

[PrairieArms]

Prairie Arms-

Purchased a 1911 from them. While it was on layaway the "Dr" sold the second mag and all the extra parts in the case it came in.

Wouldn't replace any of it.

Sure did like how nothing had prices on it and they based their prices on what kind of a sucker you looked like.

Rude I can deal with, but I never go back for dishonesty.

First, thanks for joining the forums. I am glad you came to share your experience. I assure you I will look in to this incident and get back to you to try and resolve in any way possible.

thanks for taking the time to sign up on the forum!

[PrairieArms]

Hey everyone,

Please follow us on Twitter! We are posting sales on gunsmith services and items in the store there. We are known as "theprairiearms" on the site.

In addition to sales, we are posting new items and updates on news there too.

Thanks for reading!
Ryan

[kactuarty]

I put the stock grease fittings in them. Told Hallock that, he said you dont, but I still do, it also keeps the dirt out. I am sure they last longer when greased before every ride. Also told him to use needle bearings, he keeps telling me they will, but didnt yet. I never replaced my roll needle bearings when greased before every ride. That is the way to go. I did think about getting my own needle bearings, but never got that far yet.

[jtav]

I put the stock grease fittings in them. Told Hallock that, he said you dont, but I still do, it also keeps the dirt out. I am sure they last longer when greased before every ride. Also told him to use needle bearings, he keeps telling me they will, but didnt yet. I never replaced my roll needle bearings when greased before every ride. That is the way to go. I did think about getting my own needle bearings, but never got that far yet.

WTF? did I miss something?

[Half Live]

Went to Prairie Arms the other day at around noon to look for a S&W M&P9c the other day. Within minutes of walking in, the guy sitting at the computer by the door asked if I needed help. (he sounded like he was from Australia) I told him I was looking for the S&W and he said they have one and said he will go get someone that can help me. He went in to the back and came out with another guy (a younger guy maybe in his 20's who was a little dirty from working on some guns). After we said our hellos he asked what gun I was looking in to and I said that I was looking for a S&W M&P9c. He said that they have 1 and he proceeded to get the gun out of the case for me. After I held it and looked at it for a few minutes I said I'll take it. He then turned a laptop around for me to fill out the paper work for the background check and other stuff. After I was done filling out the paper work the young guy said it will take about a hour for the background check. He said I was welcome to stay or I can leave and grab some lunch. I asked what food places were around he told me a few different places. I came back after about 45 to 50 minutes later and the same guy I first talked to said the check should be done soon. About 10 minutes later the background check came back and I proceeded to pay. I will be going back to get the free 500 round cleaning and to buy more firearms from them.

[OneGuy67]

My first experience with Prairie Arms was negative, but amusing. One of my Lieutenants recommended the store to me and I stopped by one day out of uniform to look around.

"Dr." and some of his buddies were jawing and I was looking at the items in the cases and saw a AR-15 lower receiver lying by itself. I was interested in building another AR, so I asked to see it and "Dr." looked at me for a moment and then said I couldn't as he didn't know me. I stood there for a moment just stunned and I stated something to the effect "My Lt. recommended this place and I don't know why" to which he asked if I was L.E. and I stated I was and we went through the whole "who do you work for" and "who do I know" crap before he would let me look at the receiver.

I left and later told my Lt. about it and he told me the "Dr." thought I was with ATF and he had already been burned a couple of times, so he wasn't going to take chances with me.

I have since left that P.D. and moved onto the state and I was telling one of my co-workers this story and he told me that the "Dr." got into some trouble in the Springs with his FFL and selling guns without papers.

I won't go back to them as I know there are several other gunshops and gunsmiths that would appreciate my money more than them.

My $.02

[BPTactical]

Seems to me if you are conducting business appropriately and on the level you should not be too concerned if the Alphabet boyz drop in. But I suppose after their experience with their "apprentice gunsmith" that took Class III weapons for show and tell to Shotgun Willies they are under a bit of scrutiny....

[OneGuy67]

True, but my experienes were several years ago before that fiasco. And Doc Mikes troubles in the Springs were years before that.

[ghettodub]

I've purchased one gun from them, and I've gotten to know the guys there pretty well, but I won't buy from them for the most part as I can get my guns cheaper elsewhere. They are working on a shooting range though, which I'm definitely interested in!

[rfenster]

I've purchased two firearms from them in the past, but haven't been back there for close to four years.

First firearm I purchased there I was charged about $45 over what we agreed when the pistol was special ordered for me. I thought "oh well, guy's gotta make a living and he goofed up on the initial quote".

Second firearm, upon delivery, was $80 higher than the initially quoted price...Again, I paid the full price, mainly because I had already put 1/2 down (or almost 1/2, since the price was now $80 more), and was trying to support a local gun shop. I called him (the 'doctor') on it and he said something to the effect of 'well, these are a little bit more than I thought'.

Went in after that to get a price on an AR and all he wanted to sell me were Olympic Arms...wouldn't talk about any other brands that I was inquiring about. I'm sure the Olympic Arms are fine weapons, but that isn't what I was looking for.

So, hadn't been back there since then for years, but decided to call them last week to see if they stocked or sold Larue mounts...The woman that I spoke to said that they sold mounts that were far better than Larue since she had never heard of them.

So, I won't be dropping by there again in the foreseeable future.

[Gunner]

Stopped in today just to look around and talked to the Guy from Australia or England. Anyway really nice and they are definitely doing better.

[Dravur]

Wow, good to know about these guys. I drove by there the other day. I am glad I didnt stop.

[ghettodub]

Stopped in today just to look around and talked to the Guy from Australia or England. Anyway really nice and they are definitely doing better.

That's Chris, he's a good dude, from England.

They just moved the shop down the street, and are also working on a shooting range as well...

[LoneStar]

Havent ever had any gun smithing done by these guys, but have always recieved good service from them. I must admit I dont agree with thier prices though. I also took my CCW course through them. Very good course, priced reasonable, and informative
+1 for these guys

[jscwerve]

I stopped in the other day because I needed some cleaning supplies and it is very close to my house. The guys there were very willing to answer any random questions and chit chat even though they knew I wasn't there to buy anything big. They were out of Hopps #9 and they don't stock any reloading stuff but, they referred me to the South Shooter Shop for that stuff as I am new to this part of town and wasn't sure where I could go and get supplies. They said their range should be done around the end of the year and I am looking foreword to that.

All in all it was a very good experience with nice folks, a clean store, and is close to me. I will definitely be stopping by there more often when there is something that I need.

[PrairieArms]

Hey Everyone,

Sorry its been a long time since we have posted.

Again, I'd like to re-introduce myself. My name is Ryan and I am a managing partner of Prairie Arms since July 2009. I am in charge of all operations at the store. At that time I came in to assist Mike (who many may know) in building the business and modernize its practices. Since the partnership, we have done the following:

- First and foremost... Directly or Indiretly lose the personnel who were slowly bringing down the business due to their customer service skills, attention to details, or just plain bad behavior.

- With the current team we have certainly focussed on a model of educating each and every customer that walks in and listen to their desires or goals and provide them with the correct or appropriate merchandise. We do not just push the product on the shelf.

- We have participated in co-sponsoring community events to raise funds for charitable organizations while promoting shooting sports (2 Louviers Turkey Shoots / Provided our range up North for Tactical Training)

- We MOVED! We are now in a larger location that is slated to host an indoor shooting range of 7 lanes each at 25 yards. Also, we have a better servicing side for our Gunsmith services that allow you to talk with the Gunsmith at a counter and allow each and everyone the ability to see in to the work area without being in the work area like before!

- We built a comprehensive web store offering that hosts many if not all of your hobby needs at huge price discounts that compete with Walmart for Ammunition, Buds Guns for Firearms, and even Optics Planet for optics!
Please take a few minutes and check it out at your convenience!
(http://store.prairiearms.com)

- With the web store, we are also looking to expand our services around consignment sales so your firearm will be listed on the site. At the moment, you will notice only a collectable section, but the consignment area will be the same to serve your selling needs.


In closing, I look forward to seeing some of you at the store. Some I have met, but I am sure many I have not. Please understand that the shop is under new management with a high level of dedication towards service. We certainly hope to earn your business and with your help keep this store running for fellow Colorado shooting sports enthusiasts!

-Ryan

[Half Live]

Cool, I might have to stop by again. I did buy a handgun from you guys last March.

Do you guys still offer that free sonic cleaning after 500 rounds?

[PrairieArms]

We sure do for firearms sold at the store. However, to compete with the vast number of internet stores, we have to modify our policy on guns sold through the internet.

Guns sold through the internet store will still come with a free service. Our gunsmiths will perform a test fire inspection to ensure the firearm is still performing as it should from the manufacturer. If there is any type of abnormal wear or other issue, we will handle the manufacturer warranty process for you. We do think this is a valuable added service to ensure you purchase a firearm that is of good quality but you also have a place to service your firearm whether it is a factory issue or a need to adjust or modify the firearm to your pleasing.

Ryan

[th3w01f]

I know this thread is a couple of months old but I thought I’d add my .02.

I’ve dealt with Prairie Arms a few times over the last several years and previously I had no major problems but customer service was a bit lacking.

Recently I ordered an AR and had it shipped into Prairie Arms to handle the transfer. When I stopped by to get a copy of their FFL sent to the shipping FFL it was completely different than my previous experiences. This was my first trip to the new store and everyone was extremely helpful and friendly. Even though I wasn’t shopping at the time several people asked if I needed help and I didn’t feel rushed or pressured at all.

When I picked up the new rifle I noticed a Galil they had on consignment. The guy I worked with at first was very helpful and then I worked directly with Ryan on the purchase. He was great to deal with and I felt like they really have a focus on customer service now. I’d be happy to do business with them again in the future.

[sroz]

Been occassionally dropping by there for the past few years. It's in my neighborhood. Although I like Mike (he really is a good guy), I sometimes found it frustrating. The most frustrating part was every gun (new or used) was marked at the MSRP. I really like knowing what the REAL price is without asking.

Stopped by today just to take a look around and see if the range was up & running. What a makeover!! Not only did the guns have REAL prices; they were the best I've seen. Although I had seen Ryan before, this was the first time I had really spoken with him. Great guy and they are serious about making this a place folks will like to frequent. Also spoke with Chris and Bob while waiting. These guys know where they want to take Prairie Arms and appear to have a solid plan to get there.

I dropped by to browse and ended up with another handgun. I couldn't leave it there at that price.

If you've been disappointed with them in the past, drop by and give them another chance. They are heading down the right path and our support could help them get there and give us another great place to buy our wares.

[Beer]

[Squeeze]

Well, I can't say I've had a bad experience there simply because I only went there one time. However...I did see two things that concerned me greatly. I witnessed a couple of their employees helping potential customers and they did NOT know their product line at all. Also, their "gunsmith" is not a certified smith. I asked about his background (schools) and he stated, "Well, I don't have a fancy certificates, but I have been working on guns most my life". Now keep in mind, this was about 2 years ago. Hopefully things are changing for the better.

[sroz]

A couple of friends of mine were planning to head to Bass Pro shop yesterday to pick up Beretta 92FS on sale for $599. Had them check the Prairie Arms web site first and they had them for less than $550 for pick up at their store. Hell of a savings when you also consider their low tax rate.

Spoke with Chris today and he explained to me again that their web site is the best way to go.

[Beer]

[OneGuy67]

Unfortunately, they have lost me as a customer for life. Too many bad dealings there that I won't spend any time or money in their shop.

I hope they are cleaning up their reputation and store, but my $.02 is, spend your money with someone else.

[sroz]

Definitely understand your position Oneguy. I was pretty much in the same place myself wrt PA. I really do get the sense that this is new management and they are working it the best they can. Righting a ship is never easy and I always like to save $$ where I can. I like the guys at other gun shops, but $619 + 8.9% sales tax compared to $541 + 4% sales tax = a lot of cash. I think Ryan and the new gang are straight shooters.

[Fly Fisher]

Taking the bad also deserves hearing the good.

I work in the Englewood area and was killing time between meetings. My brother in law says go check out prairie arms I bought 2 glocks there. So I did and mind you I was in the very very early stages of considering getting a CCW and what to carry and how. SO I dropped in and I didnt wait at all. The gentleman with the long beard and has like 17 guns concealed on him :) was amazingly helpful. He showed me everything they had went through the pros and cons of each. Didnt act like I was a complete moron when I said I prefer a gun with a safety. Most guys give you the old macho line of the best safety is to not pull the trigger routine....well duh, however accident arent called on purposes. Anyway he spent the better of a half hour with me letting me fondle anything in the case.

I have called the shop several times to ask about inventory and they were very nice.

I emailed them at night to see if they had something in stock and got an answer within 5 minutes even though I sent it at night while I was thinking about it so I wouldnt have to remember the next day.

As far as prices go every single hair brain idea that goes through my mind about my next toy I go to sportsmens, gander , bass pro, gun clubs etc etc and everytime I look at their website prices are better. Seems as if the complaints were older and they proactively listened to your guys comments.


Ill buy there

[spleify]

Seems as if the complaints were older and they proactively listened to your guys comments.


Glad you had a good experience there, but fixing problems AFTER the fact, is not being proactive, its REactive.

I unfortunately wont go back there either. In this day and age, you only get one chance to impress me. Theres way to many other gun stores around I can go to I dont have to put up with a bunch of know it alls who try to belittle people.

JM2C

[sroz]

Glad you had a good experience there, but fixing problems AFTER the fact, is not being proactive, its REactive.

I unfortunately wont go back there either. In this day and age, you only get one chance to impress me. Theres way to many other gun stores around I can go to I dont have to put up with a bunch of know it alls who try to belittle people.

JM2C

Agree that fixing problems after the fact is NOT proactive, but it's the only thing you can do once the problem has surfaced, especially if you were not there when the problem occurred. Once new management steps in, the ONLY thing they can do is fix it after the fact. They obviously cannot go back in time.
As for the know it alls, I think they are gone.
Everyone has to decide for themselves, but if they are taking the steps to make PA a better experience I have no problem giving them a second chance.

To each his own.

[Heep72]

I have bought my AR, my AK, and a 1911 from Prairie Arms. I must say for all three purchases I have had nothing but great customer service from them. As a matter of fact when I purchased my AK it was around Thanksgiving and they had a live turkey for something they were doing with KBPI and I was shown around "back" to see the turkey and where the range is going to be built. Great prices and tax rate and a friendly atmosphere. I know I sound like I am being paid by them but honestly I just didnt have a single issue. Peace brother!

[SideShow Bob]

they had a live turkey for something they were doing with KBPI

Did they hire a helicopter and Les Nesman, the WKRP's news anchorman, for that event with the turkey ?

[Byte Stryke]

Its like having a petting zoo:

"We'll they haven't bitten most of the customers..."


They could shut the doors, plow everything under, bury it under a 10 foot thick reinforced concrete slab and build a new shop on it.

I will still drive an hour past it to get to another shop.

[OneGuy67]

Its like having a petting zoo:

"We'll they haven't bitten most of the customers..."


They could shut the doors, plow everything under, bury it under a 10 foot thick reinforced concrete slab and build a new shop on it.

I will still drive an hour past it to get to another shop.


Yup!

[Ah Pook]

I just looked at the Google map of the area. Anyone know anything about Klodes Salvage Distribution? It is across the tracks from PA. Parts, salvage sales?

[Irving]

Last I knew you needed a dealers license to purchase from them at auctions. It's been about 5 years though.

[CO303]

Klodes is a vehicle salvage auction. I don't think they require a dealers license anymore. Their auction pricing seems to be higher than other auctions in the area.

[UberTong]

Blaming these things on the customer not understanding humor is in my opinion a huge copout. It is the business' job to entice the customer and make them want to spend money in the store. It is never and never will be the customer begging for attention while they are ignored, put down or handed a sub standard product while paying a premium for it. I can't believe what I read about the customer not conveying to the owner what product he needed and that being his fault. It is the owner or employees responsibility to qualify his needs and fill those to the best of their ability. Im not saying you can't try to talk them into a better product that maybe more than they need, if they are willing to pay it and it will serve them even better than it is a win win. If they don't go for it however, that is not a que to ignore them and be rude and move on to the next guy who may want to spend more. The only biproduct of that behavior is people spending thousands of dollars somewhere else instead of with you. I really hope these comments are looked at as a learning oppurtunity and things do improve, I don't with ill on any business especially a gun store in this day and age. Thanks to anyone listening and God Bless!


I couldn't agree with this more, I have been in sales my entire life. It's definitely not the customers fault, sales 101. Stop talking, listen, address the need and find the solution.

On a side note about Prarie Arms, I live just a few miles away. I moved back from Arizona last year where I belonged to the Scottsdale Gun Club. Snobby? A little bit, but shit they took care of you too. When I moved back I said, sweet a local gun shop right near my house to call my own. I have had very poor service there as well. From almost being tazed by an old man, who I had to have choice words with to the common theme in this thread of 'I must look poor so nobody is talking to me' syndrome at Prairie Arms.

My final straw with Prairie Arms was when I called in the other day to order 2 new Stag Arms model 3 AR-15 rifles. One for me and one for my brother, for his birthday...ya I know I'm cool. I asked a simple question, if the model 3 is the new one from Stag with the Diamond Versa Rail handguard, actually talked to two people who had no clue...guy and a gal. Also told me it would be no problem to order them online, so I tried only to find they were out of stock and had no clue when they would get anything from Stag back in. So, my business is forced to go elsewhere. It's a commodity guys, you can buy an AR15 anywhere...so I don't know why you WOULDN'T pride yourself on great service, it's the only thing that can set you apart in the marketplace.

[WellHungSmurf]

I had the same experience today. Called and asked about two guns, they said not in stock. She told me to go to their online store, went to it and placed an order. Out of stock it said, I called back she said "we have no idea when they will be in, sorry."

[mackbamf]

I have only had good experiences with Prarie Arms. I purchased a Ruger SR9c pistol at a very competitive price and also took my CCW class with them. I live close by and periodically drop in to either ask some questions or look at what they have in the case. Each of my experiences have been positive. I have only been going there for the last few months so I don't have some of the history there that others have posted. Just my two cents...

[buckshotbarlow]

I use PA for smith work only. Darrel is pretty darn good on a lathe.

[UberTong]

I called last week and left a message for someone to call me back about ordering some rifles. I didnt hear anything back in a day, so I emailed the owner, or at least the guy who has posted in this thread from Prairie Arms, its been another week and no response to email or phone call. Now my business will definitely go elsewhere, its a shame too. Nice store, close to my house, but not worth putting up with the doctor and sub par employees.

Anyone buy an AR recently? Where did you get it?

[UberTong]

I called last week and left a message for someone to call me back about ordering some rifles. I didnt hear anything back in a day, so I emailed the owner, or at least the guy who has posted in this thread from Prairie Arms, its been another week and no response to email or phone call. Now my business will definitely go elsewhere, its a shame too. Nice store, close to my house, but not worth putting up with the doctor and sub par employees.

Anyone buy an AR recently? Where did you get it?

Scratch that last one, I called up to Jensen Arms today and the gentleman, Marshall, could not have been more helpful. He was eager to answer my questions, wanted my business and had a great attitude. I will be heading to Loveland this weekend to get my new AR's. Can't wait, feel like a kid at Christmas.

[sandman76]

A few years ago when things were better financially I went into PA to look at 1911's. Must have been their old location. Anyway, there were four or five guys BS'ing about whatever when I walked in. I took a look in the case and fully expected someone to say hi what can I do for you? Nope. Nothing.

I browsed around the store and was looking at some literature they had in a rack and somehow managed to knock the whole thing onto the floor. Made all kinds of racket and proceeded to pick up all the stuff.

Still no one even said hello. Walked out and never went back.

Still don't have a 1911.

BTW Ryan has not posted on this forum since his last post in this thread. I think anyway.

[buckshotbarlow]

if the 2 previous posters do a transfer, use r and s. randy is a good guy and real easy to work with...i still think you guys could find a decent deal at 5280 also.

[WellHungSmurf]

Scratch that last one, I called up to Jensen Arms today and the gentleman, Marshall, could not have been more helpful. He was eager to answer my questions, wanted my business and had a great attitude. I will be heading to Loveland this weekend to get my new AR's. Can't wait, feel like a kid at Christmas.

Have fun with that drive kiddo.. I called and spoke to Darrel, very nice and helpful. Heading over to buy a AR this weekend from them. If you do business with them, stick to Darrel

[Ah Pook]

Scratch that last one, I called up to Jensen Arms today and the gentleman, Marshall, could not have been more helpful. He was eager to answer my questions, wanted my business and had a great attitude. I will be heading to Loveland this weekend to get my new AR's. Can't wait, feel like a kid at Christmas.
I've delt with Marshall. Good guy. [Beer]

[UberTong]

Have fun with that drive kiddo.. I called and spoke to Darrel, very nice and helpful. Heading over to buy a AR this weekend from them. If you do business with them, stick to Darrel

I did have fun with that drive Kiddo! I went in Saturday morning and ordered the Stag I wanted, didn't deal with Darrell, but Jeff who I dealt with was still a good kiddo. Thanks tiger!

[UberTong]

I did have fun with that drive Kiddo! I went in Saturday morning and ordered the Stag I wanted, didn't deal with Darrell, but Jeff who I dealt with was still a good kiddo. Thanks tiger!

To clarify since this is in the Prairie thread, I went to Jensen Arms. And kiddo I didn't want to forget pal, chief, sport, and champ.