When it comes to making firearms purchases, three of the most common ways are from a gun show, gun shop, or gun website. Each has its advantages and disadvantages. I'm here to help you weigh your options and ensure you get the most bang for your buck. Remember, a little research will go a long way.
Gun Websites - This is where i always start when looking to purchase a firearm. Everything you could want is literally a keystroke away. You can look up specs., compare prices, and get a general idea of what others who own the firearm think of it. Also, the internet usually has some of the lowest prices around. They have to give you a reason to purchase an item, sight unseen. The lower prices will reel in some of us who don't mind waiting on the postman to make his rounds. Now this brings us to our first drawbacks as well. Like I just stated, you don't see the exact item you are purchasing, in most cases, until you actually have paid for it and it is delivered. Since most will be new, this might not be as big of a deal as it sounds. Next, the wait! I don't know about you, but when I order ANYTHING I want to use in now! It's the same way with guns. I'm ready to shoot immediately. But if you don't mind waiting, this may be a good option for you. The most important thing to consider is that gun sites can only ship firearms to a person with a Federal Firearms License or FFL. This person receives the firearm and does the transfer, background check, and any addition paperwork that goes with it. In almost every instance, there is a fee involved. This as well as shipping should be included into the price of the firearm when deciding if the amount spent will give you the best value.
Gun Shop - For our purpose today, we're going to consider any permanent structure with a designated firearms section a gun shop. This will include your big box stores, pawn shops, and stores that exclusively deal in firearms. After I do some research online, this would be my next stop. In a gun shop, you can actually handle the firearm and get a feel for it beyond pictures and reviews. Also, most people that work in gun shops are very knowledgeable about the products they sell. USE THEM! Do not be afraid to pick their brain about everything you can think of. Ask any question that pops into your head about your potential purchase. It is better to get as much information as you can than to not be satisfied with your purchase later. Besides, anyone that is interested in making money will do whatever it takes to gain your business. Which brings me to my next advantage, you can see the insides! Ask the salesman to take the gun apart and have a look around. You may not be able to tell if something looks off, but if he is confident in that firearm, he will not have a problem breaking it down for you. Also, if there is a range attached to the shop, see if they will let you shoot it a few times. They may, they may not, but you will not know until you ask. Another big bonus is that some shops are willing to negotiate. This is where your research can really pay off. If you have evidence of a better price somewhere else, they will possibly match or beat it in order to gain your business. Best part, if you live in the right state, you can walk out of the door with the firearm that same day.
Gun Show - Gun shows can be somewhat intimidating to some, but they definitely shouldn't be. You, the consumer, have the upper hand. You have before you, numerous vendors, selling similar products, and they all want you to buy from them. Use that to your advantage. First, before you fall in love with a gun, take a lap around the venue. Note the firearm you are interested in and how much it is at each booth. Once you've made your rounds, compare. Now use this information to get an even better price. See if one person will beat another's price. You have to have fun at a gun show. MUST! there is way too much Merica to be stressed! Again, here you have people who work in a gun shop for the most part. Ask them questions. Trust me, they will answer everything to the best of their ability. Treat it just like the gun shop. Have the demonstrate the workings of the firearm as well as disassemble it. Ask them if the own one or have fired it. Ask if they have another one that has not been on display for the entire show. Ask can you have a box of ammo included in the price. You will not believe what people are willing to give up to make a sale. Another trick used is to wait until people are packing up. If you can convince the vendor that they do not really want to lug all that stuff back home, he may be willing to come down on the price. This only works on occasion, but like I say, you will never know if you never try. Also, depending on where you are, you can leave the show with a firearm in hand.
If you don't take anything else from me today, take this, research will save you headache and money. YouTube reviews are awesomeness! Use all these tools together and you will not be disappointed with your purchase.
NOTE: this myth of a "gun show loophole" is just that, a myth. All purchases made from a registered firearms dealer go through a background check. The only time a background check is not required is when two private citizens engage in a sale. This can be done anywhere, you do not need a gun show.
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AuthorKeep in mind that I am by no means a gun expert. I have had some safety, handling, and shooting training, but nowhere near the amount I feel is needed to claim the "expert" title. With that being said, I am a man that owns a LOT of firearms, knives, and gear! I have been shooting since I could hold a rifle and have even competed in and won a few competitions. The advice and tips that I give are based on personal experience, but are by no means to be taken as law. Please consult a trained, certified professional for all your firearms needs. Enjoy! Archives
May 2016
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