Planning to go to my first gun show

[Scanker19]

ill be at the zoo ...um... tanner this go around

I might help you just to watch people struggle.

[alxone]

I might help you just to watch people struggle.

come on down

[hatidua]

Planning to go to the Tanner gun show

My condolences.

[BigDee]

Tanner sucks.

My first time going there was my last time going there.

If you have most of your teeth and don't live in a single wide you will probably not enjoy your time there.

[funkymonkey1111]

OP, seriously assess why you are going. If you think you are going to find great deals on guns, think again. If you think you are going to find great deals on ammo, think again.

If you are looking for great deals on beef jerky, beanie babies, and nazi trinkets, maybe.

If you like being wedged in between tables with other similarly disappointed folks, have at it.

As another poster said--know the prices before you go so you can assess what is passing as a bargain.

The only remaining benefit of a gun show is that you can handle all the weapons you like and get a feel for them.

Some people have commented in other threads they enjoy going to gun shows for the social aspect of it--maybe that's your thing. If not, you're wasting your time.

[eneranch]

We've been up to the Tanner Gun Show a few times; the first time was an eye opener after that it was more of the same. Seems like a long way to drive in order to spend $8 and have to fight your way through the crowds; like going to a swap meet.

[JohnnyEgo]

The only useful thing I've ever received from a gun show was a business card for a custom holster maker, who made me holsters for some obscure guns (S&W PC Competitor, 12" barrel 870.)

I've never been able to find anything I was interested in that wasn't grossly overpriced. Now if you need war memorabilia, 1911 grips, or a used Mossberg 500 for $500, the gun show is a great place to start.

The other issue I have with the gun show stems from working in a Mom & Pop gun store in another state; after the show left town, our gunsmith usually got a decent boost in business. Not that there aren't good, legitimate vendors who stand behind what they sell; but for every one or two of them, there are a bunch of other guys peddling half-broken crap to the unsuspecting and under-informed.

[BPTactical]

OP- one thing you MUST remember:

If ANY element of a firearm transaction occurs at a gunshow a background check MUST be conducted.

Example-Joe Schmedlap is toting around a rifle you are interested in but you are short on cash till payday. You exchange numbers with the understanding that you will get together on payday to consumate the deal.
By law you MUST conduct a background check at time of firearm transfer.
Even exchanging phone numbers is considered to be an element of a Transaction according to state law.
One thing about this particular show, given the recent media blitz regarding Aurora don't be surprised if there are media types, Bloombergs folks and stings in abundance.

I am staying as far away as I can..........

[AaronRocha1]

If you are looking for particular gun or guns get an idea of proper price before going. It can be overwhelming and bargains are rare.

Steve

Very true, know your gun values and what they are selling for before going in there looking.

I've actually gotten a few decent deals down there. I bought a very nice iwb holster for my 1911 for like $35-$40 all leather and personally the best one I've owned for my 1911's. My carry piece (Crimson SP101) has an Ace Case from the guy who sets up in the far back north corner. It's by far my favorite rig and most comfortable carry. I bought 4 of them just in "case" thinking they were going to be cheap. $10 I think? or less.. I've had it over a year with daily use and it is unbelievable.

I also bought a early year Winchester 30-30 with some great furniture for $350. Super nice gun and very well taken care of. It was a good deal to me.

I believe some dealer had some Rock River AR15's starting at $800 or $900 or in that ball park. It's been a little while since the last show, there will probably be some good deals if you can find them. Go Early, the good ammo deals are gone by lunch.

Regarding getting an awesome deal, well, a gun is worth what you are willing to pay. You keep your eyes open, something will pop out.

Good Luck!

[TEAMRICO]

Instructions:
1. GO
2. Take $8 to get in.
3. Know what you are looking for.
4. Do your Online research to compare prices prior to show.
5. When purchasing, if you are happy/satisfied with what you paid then good.
6. Make your own judgment of what you thought of the show and asses and then re-assess your next show.
7. Have fun.