Gun Gripes #370 Are Gun Shows Dead?

Published on September 14, 2025
Duration: 16:31

Gun shows are not dead but require a savvy and knowledgeable buyer. Successful negotiation involves understanding firearm values, bundling purchases, and leveraging the seller's desire to move inventory. Cash is king, and being willing to haggle, especially on multiple items, can lead to significant savings and profitable acquisitions.

Quick Summary

Gun shows are not dead, but require a savvy and knowledgeable buyer. While prices for common firearms can be inflated due to vendor overhead, opportunities exist for finding unique items, military surplus, and ammunition, especially if you are skilled at negotiation and bundling purchases.

Chapters

  1. 00:00Introduction: Are Gun Shows Dead?
  2. 00:22Guest Introduction: Matt from LLP Podcast
  3. 01:05Sponsor Message: My Patriot Supply
  4. 02:26Defining a Gun Show
  5. 03:19Gun Show Organizers (Eastman)
  6. 04:02Types of Vendors at Gun Shows
  7. 04:41The Spirit of Haggling at Gun Shows
  8. 05:02Finding Collectible Military Surplus
  9. 06:05Inflated Prices for Common Firearms
  10. 06:30Focus on Surplus vs. Modern Guns
  11. 07:11Why Prices are Higher at Gun Shows
  12. 07:37Cash and Carry Premium
  13. 08:01Shift in Value: From Militaria to Ammo
  14. 08:30Haggling for Ammo Deals
  15. 08:58Negotiation Tactic: Avoiding Return Transport
  16. 10:20Conclusion: Gun Shows Are Not Dead
  17. 10:24Be a Savvy and Knowledgeable Buyer
  18. 10:48The Power of Cash and Haggling
  19. 11:01Bundling Strategy for Discounts
  20. 11:33Identifying Fairly Priced Items
  21. 12:12The Art of the Bulk Deal
  22. 13:15Maximizing Profit Through Negotiation
  23. 13:38Don't Think Gun Shows Are Dead
  24. 13:43Be Cutthroat and Savvy
  25. 14:11Last Gun Show Experience
  26. 14:26Shift Towards Non-Gun Vendors
  27. 14:40Finding Surplus Uniforms and Collectibles
  28. 15:35Final Thoughts on Gun Shows
  29. 15:44Outro and Podcast Promotion

Frequently Asked Questions

Are gun shows still a good place to buy firearms?

Yes, gun shows are not dead, but they require a savvy and knowledgeable buyer. While prices for common firearms can be inflated due to vendor overhead, opportunities exist for finding unique items, military surplus, and ammunition, especially if you are skilled at negotiation and bundling purchases.

What are the best items to look for at a gun show?

While you can find modern firearms, gun shows are often best for military surplus, collectible firearms, ammunition, and reloading components. Dealers may be more willing to offer deals on these items to avoid transporting them back home.

How can I get the best deals at a gun show?

To get the best deals, be a knowledgeable buyer, know the market value of what you're looking at, and be prepared to haggle. Offering cash, bundling multiple purchases, and leveraging the seller's desire to move inventory are effective negotiation tactics.

Why are prices at gun shows often higher than online?

Prices at gun shows are typically higher than online or at a dealer's regular shop because vendors have to cover costs such as table rental fees, travel expenses, and their time spent at the event. However, the ability to negotiate can often offset these higher initial prices.

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