Response to: Top 5 Reasons I Won't Be Going To Gun Shows Anymore

[@madcowrebel4216]

The thing with "price gouging" when it comes to collecting, is that if the high prices stick (because people keep paying those prices anyway) those prices never go down.

[@maduro169]

I have to agree I went to a show yesterday (04/11/21 ) and this will be my last show . The price gouging was terrible --- example 100 small pistol primers 25.00 !!!!!!, 1 box of 9mm ( 50rnds. ) 59.00 !!!!!!

[@FrankO-ek1ec]

@@maduro169 what state are you in ?

[@maduro169]

@@FrankO-ek1ec Louisiana

[@FrankO-ek1ec]

@@maduro169 gotcha . I’m In Florida went to my first gun show yesterday , I thought it was awesome however the ammo tables were still fully stocked when I left lol

[@bigmikeh5827]

I would use a different descriptor… speculators. They buy up everything or most of it and artificially inflate prices. A person I know that worked at Academy sports had back doored 22LR. 15k rds worth!!!. Then when the prices started to drop he was trying to sell. Told him to choke on it. He’s correct in the vid… walk on by these folks. Be patient and know the value and prices before you go. Don’t panic buy. 👍.

[@redheadmetalhead247]

I feel both of you made valid points. Let's face it, gun shows are radically different now, compared to even 10 years ago. Most military surplus has dried up, and most people think their stuff is worth its weight in gold. Unfortunately, some doofus is going to pay the exorbitant price on Gunbroker and at the gun show, and it's going to drive the prices up, even without the whole pandemic situation. It's just a weird time right now.

[@TheDocrwm]

I'm glad you're a positive person. I've been going to gun shows for 40 years. The past 10 its been very different. I haven't been in almost 5 because the prices were unrealistic, there were too many vendors of flea market crap, and many vendors seem to have adopted an attitude that they are somehow doing you a favor by merely talking politely to you.

[@johntoothman4888]

God, Family, and Guns is a great channel!! I've stopped going as well. Rude people, over priced.

[@levinlevinallday]

You really have to pick and choose what show to attend. Rarely do I go to a show and not atleast see something interesting or pick up some accessories. The thrill of the hunt is the main attraction..you never know..

[@jhpp6604]

Amen great comment

[@TingTingalingy]

This is why I go. The hunt, the getting out to see what's out there etc. It's just a lot of fun whether I buy or not

[@randonwilston]

It seems like many people don’t understand supply and demand and it bothers the heck out of me. I was an economics major in college and I see the term price gouging almost never used correctly. The worst offenders are the people that are like “I understand supply and demand BUT, if people just stop paying those prices it will go back down to $89 for an SKS or Mosin”

[@serioussoldier7977]

I’ll be honest, I haven’t heard anything good about gun shows for awhile.. over priced and under stocked. Why pay X amount of money to go to a show and see a lot of the same old stuff and have to deal with 10% or more of the tables there trying to sell you things that have nothing to do with firearms.

[@papercartridges6705]

I subscribe to both channels and you both make valid and reasoned points. I will also add that sometimes you don’t know what you’re missing until it’s gone... here in California they have essentially banned gun shows in much of the state. We don’t even have the option to go to a gun show, unless we want to drive forever. So I think I’d come down on the “keep going to gun shows” because if they go away, I feel our community would be the worse for it.

[@TSimo113]

Gun shows have to earn back my loyalty. That's the plain truth.

[@Sheltowee1775]

The last several gun shows I attended I walked out angry (5 years - pre Covid). Tables are either nearby dealers with a table or some random guy with 3 guns he wants to charge twice what he paid because it’s “rare” and all the damn tables with crappy survival gear. Oh yeah and table after table of knives made in Pakistan. But you made good points. Nice to see an enthusiastic/optimistic young gun guy.

[@JonasSalk]

I last went to a gun show about a year and a half ago in Georgia. Roughly 1/4 of the vendors were non-gun related, which felt like a good ratio, but there didn't seem to be any really good things for me to get there (milsurp) and the rest was overpriced even for then. This was pre-covid and pre-increase in prices of ammo.

[@nonowayjose9159]

G,G, & F is 100% spot on... I will be damn to give Cosco $100/year walk into their store or $12/show to see a bunch of over priced shit.. at a toy/camping and a few guns show.... Also, most criminals show up.... enjoy both his and your channel..

[@julianmercier]

$1400.00 M-1 Garands. $1200.00 M-1 Carbines. $500.00 Mosin-Nagants. Not exactly priced for the working man. Ammo double, triple, and quadruple what it's worth. Wages/salaries have stagnated and prices keep going up.

[@fattywithafirearm]

Shit iv seen some gun shows where some of the vendors are selling lego, shirts, and random house hold crap. Iv also seen shows where non gun vendors must be gun related. Iv also been to the wanenmacher where only a small percentage of tables are allowed to be not guns. I had 1 vendor at the wanenmacher give me a lower price before I even asked about negotiating. And his price was fair.

[@joeacebo9633]

Getting a “deal” is great, but don’t be offended if all you can get is a fair price during times like this. I always seem to negotiate a “fair deal” at gun shows. Be good to people, don’t be a jerk and things will work out.

[@bch2os]

A few weeks ago I went to a gun show in San Bernardino, California (where gun shows are hard to come by). I specifically went to buy ammo from my favorite dealer that specializes in reloads. I have bought thousands of rounds from them in the past for a very reasonable price (15 cents / round for 9mm). There was 100 to 200 people waiting in line to buy ammo from this vendor. He had raised his price by 400% to 60 cents a round, THAT IS A LOT FOR RELOADS AND THAT IS PRICE GOUGING!. That is just wrong and he got none of my money this time. I have been attending gun shows for over 40 years and this is outrageous. I was ready for a price increase, but I will not pay this kind of price gouging and be taken advantage of. If we continue to pay these inflated prices, they will never come back down. Thanks for listening....

[@michaelr.1709]

Taken as a whole, it doesn't make much sense to waste the entrance fee. You said, "No one is forcing you to buy at current prices", then you disagree with his point that he doesn't want to pay them. The last 3 years, I have noticed that (1) The prices are higher than I pay in a gun store. (2) The vendors complain that no one is buying. (3) The vendors will not come down off their price. Each show seems to have only 1 or 2 guys there with decent prices that are there to sell guns. Everyone else meets the 3 points above. It really makes paying the entrance fee questionable.

[@chrisgeorge6928]

The cmp flippers are definitely a problem near me. Selling mix matched rifles claiming that they are parts correct for over 2 grand

[@donaldclarke3640]

Blame the promoters for letting vendors sell crap!

[@danm7298]

There was a place that had gunshows about 30 mins away from me but they closed:( and i heard now they grow weed in that giant building lol.

[@benjimenfranklin7650]

All in all I believe it's where the show is as to how much stuff cost. Trust me the dealers know where people won't buy and where people will buy. Being said that the price will reflect the business atmosphere.

[@danm7298]

I honestly think buying online kinda killed everything lol. Ppl dont shop at stores as much now. You can buy anything you want basically without having to leave the house.

[@danm7298]

Amazon alone has like 11% of the entire market in the US

[@thomasgomer]

I was at that show. I took my dad and brother on the last day in the afternoon( didn't plan that well). There were quite a few empty tables but people who stuck around were more willing to give you a deal on something so they didn't have to pack it away.

[@matta7739]

Great point! No matter what the event, the last day there are deals to be made as vendors know that's the last chance to move merchandise for that event.

[@gunnerjames1056]

If I feel the price is way to high, I don't buy it. I am always polite and friendly, and have no problem haggling. The vendors are free to ask what they want. If it sells, good for them. As buyers we are free to just keep walking. Deals can be found. For example: If they want $200, I will offer $150. I often end up with acceptance, meet them half way, or sorry I can't. I have just saved $25 or $50, or settled on the original price, or passed on it completely. I have never left a gun show empty handed, as there's always something affordable. I collect military items as well, so I am not just limited to firearms and ammo. Maybe that's where the frustration comes in. Maybe those items are more than I can afford, but clips, magazines, slings, bayonets. etc. etc. are what I bring home. Looking forward to the next gun show! Happy New Year Milsurp World!

[@Visitor2020]

I did have a hot chick trying to sell me a self help book at the last gun show I attended lol

[@WOTEfavs]

You don't have to buy, you also don't need to attend gun shows. They are no longer the place to go for good deals or finding that unique item. The last three I went to, I left empty handed. No deals, no unique items. My local gun shop doesn't charge me $10 to come in and look. I'm personally done with gun shows.

[@jessecollingwood1002]

I drove down to a gun show in southern Alberta. Yes ammo was tough to figure me and the milsurps were rare but I found everything I needed for my reloading gear. Hard to find dies and even super impossible to find .303 reloading bullets. I was super excited. It was definitely worth the drive.

[@LoserJJA79]

I heard somebody making the point the other night on a live stream about price gouging when talking about Texas going after Cheaper Than Dirt. They were saying the legal definition of price gouging is something about necessary products or services being overpriced during an emergency that are only being offered by one company with no other alternatives. So like you said...what many people think is price gouging...is not really price gouging.

[@shawns2203]

Great Video! We live in a mostly free country that still allows gun shows in most places, for that we should be thankful. People have a right to ask whatever price they want, its up to the consumer to decide what they want to pay. "the ammo price tags at Academy looked great last night, only problem the shelves were completely empty" Happy New Year!

[@thetobaccoguy1751]

My area. Almost no non gun tables. No masks. And prices are high, because prices are high. They will never be as low as before. I always find something worth the trip.

[@tommyt8998]

They should restrict gun show tables to guns. When I pay 10 bucks in PA for admission, I dont want to see a third of vendors selling food, clothing, non gun milsurp etc. This trend has been getting worse over the yrs, and pre-dates the pandemic.

[@NorthRiverGuide]

Fair points both sides. I stopped going because theres nothing there for the direction I've taken in firearms to justify the admission to look at used stuff well above going rate. Locally it's the same retired guys doing a gun show circuit as a hobby and not looking to sell. My father tried to buy a particular rifle from one for years. 15yrs later it is still "for sale" (not for sale)

[@416loren]

I watched his video and yours. I liked both. I think his comments are rooted in the present state of affairs. The present is not the way it always has been. The present is not the way it always will be. Mosins will never be $79 again. Last week I paid $275 for one. Turns out it is a wonderful shooter. I will get my money's worth in fun. For me, gun shows are about serendipity. I know I am not going to find the "great deal" at every gun show. But I know that you will never find that great deal if you don't go. They are also fun. I bought a gun from an older guy last year. He said "Y'know, I don't make that much money at the gun show, I just like the company." I know that dealers are spending a lot of time and money to set up shop. I keep that in mind when I haggle. The professionals have slim margins. I don't ask. The "horse trader" guys can be more willing deal. Be reasonable, respectful and make it fun. It helps if you go to multiple gun shows and get to know the guys. I get better deals from the "horse traders" if I've bought from them before.

[@jondellinger3367]

Could you make a video on best milsurp calibers to own during the shortage?

[@MilsurpWorld]

That's a great idea.

[@RenegadeX74]

People wouldn't give up on gun show if the sellers charged regular prices and stopped taking advantage of the 2A community......

[@milsurprifleguy7091]

I came up to the Gun Show 1st to be able to meet & talk with you , which I was able to do , thanks. 2nd look for a 1903 , 1903-A3 or the model 1917 . I saw a few other milsurp rifles , including yours , if I wasn’t specifically looking , I would have bought one or two of yours . There was a 1903 , but very low number . A 1903-A3 by National Ordnance. I passed on them . I did go Tuesday to a local gun store & bought a Winchester model 1917 . Asking price was $900.00 , I asked if they would sell it for $850.00 , which they did . I will say there wasn’t as many Milsurp firearms there compared to other times

[@kaseyturchin4390]

Nothing wrong with a low number 1903. I personally would have almost instantly bought it.

[@granddad-mv5ef]

I appreciate your rebuttal, however when I watched his video I agreed with every point. The only difference was the show I attended in Georgia had almost nothing except black plastic, and very little of that. Further, being asked to pay forty dollars for a thirteen-to-fifteen dollar(taking into account recent price increases) box of ammo IS price gouging. Not many people here were buying, and I left with absolutely nothing. And lastly, the scowling vendors--I feel sure they are on the defensive.

[@bigmikeh5827]

My personal issue with the shows that I have attended in the last 4-5 years (30 year collector) is the lack of milsurp material. Weapons, parts and such. Tons of plastic guns and AR stuff. I get that it’s the flavor of the month but I just don’t see what I collect at most of the shows. Missing out on a show here in Knoxville this weekend but I would have attended. Part of the issue also is all the conflicts in Middle East that has made governments reluctant to release anything ( last big hoard was the Nepalese armory). But not a lot of milsurp available.

[@slavsupreme5129]

I absolutely love the Old North State Military Show in Raleigh NC, they always have a BUNCH of cool stuff at decent prices (last time I got a RIC Martini-Henry Artillery Carbine for $600) and I’m really looking forward to going to it tomorrow lol

[@rg58]

Went to a gun show in Tupelo MS about 6 months ago. It wasn't a large show, maybe 15-20 gun sellers. I must have looked at every gun in the place and asked prices on anything that interested me. Everything was just to high for my taste, until, I asked the priced on a Remington 700 with wood furniture that was a 1995 model. Guys was probably fair for the times, but a little high for my taste. I made a counter offer and he came down $50 and I purchased a great rifle for a great price. Clean, floated barrel, and lowered trigger pull. Shot 5/8" groups at 100 yards with Federal Hydro Shok 150 grain. Very glad I went to that gun show. Went to a larger show about two months ago on it's last day in the afternoon. 9MM FMJ off brand for $45 for a box of 50. $8 hamburger cut from the rump of a donkey. Really did not see any guns I was willing to pay the price on or even try to negotiate with the current situation, then, I saw the guy selling the high end metal targets with the swinging heart and over the shoulder head shot plates. Talk to the guy, negotiated some, decided to leave it be for now. Walked around for another 30 minutes and the show was about to close. Guy was about to load up and head back three states. I made low ball cash offer on hundred pound + target and fully adjustable stand. He decided he did not want to hall it back three states and gave me the deal. Glad I went to that gun show.

[@Lewisusa11]

I quit going to gun shows about 10 years or more ago. I loved going, seeing friends, smelling the gun oil lol, looking for deals or single items not worth ordering elsewhere, etc. But it got to the point way back then that EVERYONE thought their guns were gold plated. Also unless you were a member, the admission price kept going up and up. I also got tired of supposed gun people, who should know better swiping me with the barrel of guns!! No Fuc*ing excuse for that! And at the time I quit going there was no shortage of anything, but it just got to be not worth going. Now, to be honest, I was an FFL at that time so I could actually get whatever I wanted cheaper elsewhere, but that still didn't keep me from going just for the camaraderie, etc. I can't even imagine spending an hour or more at a gun show wearing a mask, would NEVER do it!!

[@RSI24]

I gave up on them years ago and after seeing recent vids of them gouging prices of both ammo and firearms, my hiatus continues.

[@ahmet42selim65]

"In a gunshow there is nothing vital" I am getting nuts about buying a mauser i swear there is no day this year that i havent said i wish i had a mauser 😂 It can be vital for some like me🤔

[@masonhaggerty186]

For me its just at gun shows it's the same old men selling the same overpriced milsurp guns. Once in a blue moon I'll get a deal. Not usually though most of them are there in the buisness to make a profit. But that's me. I go to most shows in central Pennsylvania and the Oaks show not far from Philly which is somewhat an exception.

[@porschetiger416]

Question I’ve gone to two gun shows this year and I keep seeing bolt action guns that look like the Gewehr 98,98k or the M95 that are all called Mausers and that’s it they won’t even let me look at the sights on them or branding my question is why not specify the full name of the gun rather than just call a Mauser this may be a stupid question .also nice Gewehr 43

[@tehgees]

Usually it's like 1-2 tables that have what you need. The rest either prices too high or they are selling 1930 gold plated tommy guns

[@adrioss2979]

i agree with you a ton, a lot of the points in the original video are really just based on the world right now but its not gonna stay like that forever. also the price gouging is happening because people are still buying mosins and stuff for way more money than they are actually worth so if people are upset that the prices are going up they need to stop buying them for so much money

[@ricefarmerryan7995]

Heya man Happy New year and hope you had a Merry Christmas, i have to agree price gouging is a problem. It is in some ways killing the market. I wanna say on a previous vid i commented a guy was trying to sell a Beat to hell No4 for 800. As for non gun stuff in gun shows i also heavily agree, if you have ever been to teh Sharonville Gunshow in Cincinnati you see more knives and survival stuff anymore than you see guns. (great video and of course you found another M94 xD.)

[@silentbigsteve3429]

Only reason I go is cheap milsurp ammo, clips (yes clips not magazines), and $5-$10 MREs. Precovid people were charging a $500-$1,000 for Mosins 91/30s. I could found one $300-$200 cheaper locally lol

[@jhpp6604]

I've found some great ammo prices our local gun show

[@kurtwk]

...people are people so why should it be ...perceiving a gun show so awfully......dun dun DUN ....

[@eddyb4]

I watched that video and my first thought was if no one has any in stock why wouldn’t I buy at a higher price? And no Academy and Cabelas are always out.

[@531671967]

Unfortunately I got into military surplus around 2012 which was at the end of ok prices, however I still enjoy going to the shows just to look around, the rude vendors are a turnoff as are the current prices....yikes.

[@MilsurpMikeChannel]

I go mainly for milsurps, parts, and books... there are only one or two vendors of newer guns I will look at. The RK shows can get frustrating at times and I look forward to the Missouri Valley show every summer, but to paraphrase an old fishing saying... a bad day at a gun show is still better than a good day at work.

[@My_lifeonplanetearth]

Are there private sellers at gun shows

[@martinm3474]

I was there also...and I did buy a gun, I didn't try to dicker the price. I got some ammo, yes it was pricey yet they were specialty rounds- 5.56 sniper and 5.56 tracers...I'm guessing my rifle won't like the tracers, but who knows? I go to hear people talk and get ideas on how the current troubles are affecting them. Most were unhappy over the election and we'll see how that turns out yet. As for ammo shortage, my neighborhood sure lit it up for New Years...just saying 1 1/2 to 2 hours...may be 2 1/2 hours.

[@JonnyJungle77]

It's become trendy to shit on gun shows. We're not ever going back to 1980's prices, grow up men. Things are far more expensive now, but if you've done your homework there are still deals to be found. This reeks of people throwing the baby out with the bath water. I'd prefer we embrace gun shows instead of engaging in cancel culture.

[@DelGTAGrndrs]

Yes 🙌

[@rigovega7115]

Great channel, always learning and love the Podcast. I’m on the Othais episode. Thanks

[@bigmike1552]

It is price gouging!! I work at a big online retailer our price has increased some maybe $20-$25 a 1000 rd case but that’s it. they will always say there price has gone up but not that much. They are making $ they are in the business to make $ so that’s why the prices are high, if people quit paying the price they will quit selling it for that price.

[@ryanwalker3509]

It's gonna be months before that happens. If I can get rounds for less than 45 cents per im still buying. Thats for 223 556 and 762.

[@josephgioielli]

Rural King is selling 9mm fmj, fifty count for $11. 556 steel case is $5 for 20 rounds. So if they can sell it for a normal price, why can't everyone? As for no such thing as price gouging, talk to Cheaper Than Dirt about that.

[@p03saucez]

Used to go to gun shows here in WA mostly to buy bulk ammo and gear. Nowadays I just go to see cool stuff and meet fellow gun nuts. Finding stuff I actually want to buy is a nice consolation.

[@jeffw1246]

Yup, if vendors sell ammo at last pre covid prices would not be any to buy because price gougers would buy it up to resale at inflated prices. Even with limits gougers would buy it all someway. And,,,ammo costs vendors more, how much I don't know but vendors do have to pay more. Can't even find primers either. I saw online auction for a brick that normally can be had for $30 give or take for $210 and bidding still active.

[@daubendiek]

Well let me just say, the 10-20% gun sellers at gun shows is about correct. I was at the supposed "gun show" in Savannah Ga recently and there were a whopping FOUR sellers there with guns and ONE seller with any ammo. Their ammo prices were about 50-70% ABOVE current market prices. The vendors that actually did have guns had just a few models and they were at or above retail store prices. Even the real gun vendors have stopped showing up at these shows... We have a Palmetto State Armory store right in town and they didn't bother with the show. In fact their store had more customers in it than the gun show did.. pathetic

[@MilsurpWorld]

Being from the Tallahassee area, I've noticed the shows in South GA and North FL usually aren't very good. You have to go up to Atlanta or South Florida for a decent show.

[@Tleedog6969]

The Florida Gun shows in Miami is $14.00 to enter the highest in the state.. if you were to go to the one in Tampa, the prices and way different on the same guns. So it pointless going. Just go to your local gun store..

[@shadowcat3163]

Got spoiled with the late 90's shows, nowhere near as much choice now. Miss the days when it was all surplus bolt actions. Now it is jus 37 flavors of M16 clones and a few boxes of ammo. Have no problem with survival equipment, reloading supplies (more please), or surplus web gear. Enough with the T-shirts, odd ball stuff, or cleaning supplies.

[@kagkag1325]

Thanks for keeping up the channels. You are my favourite firearms youtube content creator! Here in Ontario we have not had a gun show since February 2020 since up here we have tighter restrictions on gatherings. I miss them and sad to think things might not be the same when we get back to them in mid 2021. also things are bad up here right now because we have a federal government that is actively working to ban firearms. Happy new year! I love seeing your collection!

[@ReversePolarity5]

I recently came across your channel with a suggestion on things you should do at gun shows and have really come to enjoy your videos and passion since. I just can't help stare at your display behind you. I've only been to 1 gun show in my life and it was back in the 90's in California. Had no idea what I was doing. I would love to be able to just follow you through a gun show to watch you conduct business and then hear your explanations for what went into your thoughts. Very enjoyable content.

[@Lavthefox]

Well! seeing as how you seem to legit read our comments and respond - i'll chime in again! (That and this channel is awesome) ANYWHO - stupid loooonnnnggggg response, here we go. Price Gouging: I want to break this response up into 3 categories. 1: Retail offers, 2: buying/selling/trading and 3: crisis prices. I used to manage a retail store, and sometimes product has to be sold at a specific price (called Minimum Advertised Pricing or MAP protection) To keep some big store from selling stuff 90% below cost to run everyone out. Dont go to a gunshow and complain they are price gouging on big-box-store guns when they refuse to move on the price... the MAP listed price... 2: Buying and trading with others, yeah... some people want 5K for a mosin nagant... There is a vendor at my local show who's the worst offender, has had the same M1 Garand on the table for over a decade, wants like...12K for it because he has a bring back paper. Its still there... it will always be there. Just like you said: dont like the price? dont pay it! The greatest way to combat gouging is to refuse to submit to it. And lastly.. crisis prices... DONT LIKE IT?!?!?! DONT BUY IT! I dont pay $1 per shot on steel case.. sucks not to blast my gats... but that's why I have 22 rifles... We beat crisis pricing with patience, determination, and reason... Crying and complaining about how its BS while simultaneously buying every last round at $5 a shot means the next time you go it'll be $6 a shot... 2: Too Many None Gun Vendors... yeah... it kinda sucks... However I think a lot of this is gun show fatigue. In my area, we have two shows in the same city, and in 2019, they were literally happening every month... 2 gun shows per month back to back is brutal on vendors, especially those who have to travel all over the state. Also, people run out of money, so they quit buying the big ticket items or buying in bulk... they go to a show, spend their last $20 and walk around.... So I know a lot of vendors started focusing on going to "The big one" vs going to 30-40 shows a year and blowing all their earnings on travel and tables.... Quality diminishes due to quantity... So what happens - show hosts fill the room anyway they can, and if that means putting a dealer willing to pay X amount to sell paper cutouts of your least favorite baseball players... they'll do it... 3: Lack of product - perfect storm! well put. Timing means a lot too. In my state Chantilly is THE Biggest show, so if it is happening the same weekend, or one week before/after, most of the vendors who are in-it-to-win-it wont show up to the smaller ones, which means fewer tables. This isnt the same for every state/city but I know this has common ground all around. 4: Negative Attitude: yeah... this has been an issue at gun shows my whole life, but you gotta find the right crowd. That crotchedy old dude who hates everything, has no friends, only finds comfort in guns, and is more than eager to rant about the democrats is going to be the wrong dude to hang around. I think what happens is we find ourselves drawn to these bad attitudes because they are the loudest in the room, they cry, piss, moan n groan... about the same thing... every day... every show... every year... What i've learned is when the bitching starts - my power walking gets faster! Push past, walk away, move on! Also, go with friends -> make a gunshow a group thing, and have a great time! It really changes the experience when you have buddies, especially if everyone has different tastes so you can enjoy each other's finds. 5: No negotiating: If its MAP protected product, there is NO negotiating... If it is something that CAN be haggled on -> this guy is on point, offer cash, be polite, KNOW how to negotiate vs "what's your lowest price." The "what's your lowest" question is rather off putting to a vendor... because I can speak from experience: why would I sell to you, a random stranger, this product at a lower price, when the guy before you paid the full price? Why would I offer to you, someone who isnt eager to buy this, when the guy right behind you is yanking out money as fast as they can, Or my regular is thinking of buying it, or the really nice and respectful person who KNEW what I had offered me a good reasonable price? You dont make money starting at the bottom price...

[@Collectorfirearms]

Loved how you actually didn't just say he's wrong he's wrong. You took it and analysed it. You got me to subscribe to you're channel!

[@brandonf3727]

Price gouging! Top reason why I won't go to the grocery store anymore

[@orcabolgsweetie2430]

Speaking as someone who has only been collecting and owning guns for about 2 years now, and having not really grown up around them. I have had very positive experiences with Gunshows overall here in Pheonix Arizona. First and foremost I'd say they are better for those who are looking for used firearms, older firearms, and collectible militaria(guns included). A good little chunk of my now rather large collection of German, Swiss, Austrian, and Dutch guns were purchased for well under market value at gunshows. Not only that but each gun I personally bought at a show I have gotten from private vendors who where have all been nice old guys to speak and deal with and have usually had nice conversations to go along with the purchase. Not to mention all the great deals ive missed out on either cos I ran outta spendable cash, or cos I was to stupid to jump on it. Not all of them are always lucrative but I always make an effort to go because its a good use of an afternoon and I may just run into something great.

[@chaz134]

Thank you for your content, especially on price gouging ; If the market bears the price then it isn't gouging. Price gouging is selling bottle water for $10 a bottle near ground zero on 9/11 (actually happened) or raising the price of gasoline during a hurricane from $1.99 a gallon to $7.99 a gallon. Complaining that prices today aren't what they were 2 years ago is absurd

[@Bushmaster73cuda]

What’s the difference between charging too much for gas during a hurricane or too much for ammo during a pandemic? The guy selling $10 bottled water had a market willing to pay, does that mean he wasn’t gouging? Granted there are other factors here, the manufactures were effected by the pandemic too. Also material costs went up. But I highly doubt what we’re expecting today wasn’t somewhat effected by dealers/manufacturers knowing they could raise costs due to panic buying. I don’t think complaining that I was paying 22 cents a round for what went upwards of 50 cents a round for a while is absurd, I think it was gouging. And it won’t go back down until we stop going to stores and shows and paying their ridiculous prices. Costs do go up sure, but not more than 50% within two years up.

[@kevloo6078]

Thank you for sharing your level headed approach to gun shows.

[@uzifelner6147]

Gun shows are fun to walk around with friends chit-chat maybe have a bite, but for buying any firearms from the show is usually not the best savings idea. Any Gun store will beat their prices 8 out of 10.

[@thenowandaway1]

perception is his truth, typically if you think your are going to get a bargain at a gun show, you should not have gone...there have been accusations with online sellers about price gouging...these are crazy times and guns and ammo are flying off shelves, get what you want when you can...its good to support small business at gun shows however you can..I hate all the non gun tables too, maybe they shouldnt call them gun shows...lets cancel something else...

[@shawnmichaels5742]

I just went to a gun show and I can see where some might have a less than positive experience as compared to show in previous years. The shows are getting better but have a ways to go to get back to normal. I was able to negotiate for ammo, scopes, and a few other things. Here in Virginia it is getting better, unfortunately the shows are set up in time slots of 2 hour increments, which seems to put a little pressure on customers to find what they’re looking for.

[@shabbyoutdoors4901]

Could you do a video on the Spandau Gew 98? I recently purchased a 1917 with a shortened barrel. The only info I can find on it is that may have been reworked in Spain. I have been trying to find an informative video on it but am having trouble. It seems to be a very interesting rifle and I'm wondering if the $250 I paid was a good deal.

[@arnold-moger]

Most people don't want old military surplus guns though. Good luck getting the price negotiated down on any newer and mainstream gun.

[@joshuamcguire2423]

You can't complain or disagree with someone if you don't have any concept as to why their reasons are.... You don't even know what ammo was selling for early 2020... Its not 100-300% markup, Try closer to 1000-1200% So before you tear into someone else, know your own facts instead of googeling...

[@WakkasLove]

I think your interests in guns are different, so because you had a good time with negotiating, doesn't mean he did. GFG has been around for a long time, and has been to many, many shows. Many commenters who also attend agreed with him. I feel your rebuttal was more about explaining or excusing why his reasons were happening, but I don't think anything you said invalidated his points. Still, I appreciate your respectful disagreement and thoughtful input. For me, personnally, I was looking forward to attending my first gun show, but I don't think it's right to charge an entrance fee to a gun show, when it's not exclusively or even majorally specific to guns.

[@Bushmaster73cuda]

Went to my first show in a couple years yesterday. Prices were still ridiculous, $700 mosin ridiculous. I understand it’s not 10 years ago but ammo has more than doubled what I was paying just a few years back. Granted there were factors that did effect manufacturing but panic buying due to the pandemic and political uncertainty has allowed them to mark prices up this high. (Not much different than charging too much for a hotel during a hurricane in my eyes) We gun owners have always been our own worst enemy. I will be laying low until the market drops back down to levels where an average guy can afford to collect/train again. That’s the only way to get some normalcy back. Hope others do the same. And that will be my last gun show for another couple years at least, it was a waste of 10 bucks. (Aside from laughing at the vendors trying to explain why mosins are now worth $700) 😄

[@DelGTAGrndrs]

If it was finish m95 yes 700 is market

[@Bushmaster73cuda]

@@DelGTAGrndrs No, these were plain Jane 40’s Russian izhevsk rifles (no capture markings either) I would have been interested in a Finn for that.

[@wolfsden3812]

Soooooo happy I bought my K 98 when I did...I'm sure Its increased in price big time

[@1stamendmentpodcast]

great job I truely thank you

[@zaca952]

Here the last show was 50 50 guns to non gun stuff, almost every gun there was new guns priced at 20 percent higher than New, only about 200 guns in the whole show and then the show organizers complained over Facebook that show attendance was down 50 percent lol why would people go to that?

[@justinguarino201]

3:40 Not in AZ... last time I went to a gun show a couple years back the vendors over crowded the actual “gun show”. I shit you not. You’re 5%-10% (more like 20%, but you get the point) you were saying would be to much for vendors... that’s about how much tables there were of actual guns sheathed that be fire arms, gun cases/bags or just ammo. I haven’t been to a so called gun show since.

[@WhateverItsanOpinion]

Ammo $$$$ insane amount of money. Everyone thinks their used gun is a lost treasure selling 25% to 50% to high. No reason to go anymore

[@joelrausch4824]

Went to RK gun show in Lebanon Tn sold my guns in minutes. Huge crowd but plenty of room. Loads of used guns ,collectibles and new. Best show I've been to in years. Yeah , high ammo prices ...expected. Saw boxes of ammo for sale that had to be from 50's Some real old cartons. Gun prices not all that high considering the bleak future of America. Go to an RK show and enjoy

[@johnkellmer5133]

Nope. Price gouging is stealing. Unprincipled despicable behavior.

[@tinapruitt8638]

Glad your positive BUT having spent 5 years on the promoter side I verify he is right, you are hoping. The best thing to do right now is support your local community by shopping with your local retailers. Your local gun dealer will always be there for you, the gun show guy is mostly fly by night these days and seriously looking to gouge the uninformed buyer. Promoters these days don't care about quality they care about the money. Support your community, support your local dealers. If they don't have what you want, they can get it for you and will always back you up.

[@albertgomez5185]

I went back in February I was lucky I found what I needed. Have not gone sens then. It's crazy I will go back this year i love my gun show ❤

[@seanyoung3656]

Pricing gouging is just basic economics. If the prices were anywhere close to what they were a year ago you would never see it on the shelf. The high prices encourages a greater supply of ammo to the market.

[@johnpinckney4979]

Have to disagree. High prices encourages a reduction in supply to drive the prices higher. Combine that with the current political situation and you have a further increase in demand. Is it fair? Depends on whether you're a consumer or a producer. While "economic theory", says that a price point will be reached where either people won't buy or you'll have new suppliers, that's not happening now.

[@bpowersman5000]

A solid and logical look at the current gun show conditions 👌

[@mhsandifer]

Some of us geezers remember well the AWB shows where I saw the same tables, with the same rifles separated by 2 weeks (I remembered a unique serial number on a Colt HBar) and the price had tripled on the same EXACT rifle. Now, I understand that happening at some point, but the law had just been passed and companies hadn't even been manufacturing "non-scarey" rifles yet. So yeah, it was and is gouging. Gun dealers and people are our own worst enemies. Some of us continually do stupid things like procrastinate and/or ignore history and trends and then pay $$$ in a panic. I'm happy to say I never have and never will pay $1/rd of 9mm, or $.20/rd of .22lr. Good luck to all those who thought buying an AR w/ 1 mag & 100 rds of .223 was gtg for their 2A retention strategy. Also, when some vendors are still selling ammo at normal prices, when they have it, indicates that others who are stocking and selling at higher prices, are GOUGING. The manufacturers' cost is NOT higher.

[@spillguy]

I saw his video a few days ago. I heard a bunch of whining from a guy that has no realization of the current market. Sure no one's negotiating when the next guy is happy to pay full price. Did he go on Saturday morning or Sunday afternoon? Different story when it's Sunday and folks don't want to pack stuff up and take it home. Problem now is if you aren't there in line on Saturday morning, you're not going to get anything.

[@ahmet42selim65]

His voice is really common in us lol i thought he Was cyclops joe were i know from gun bluing Quedtion: did you ever blue your guns and how if

[@Leafcripe]

I want to find a m1 Garand and guns shows have a good selection of older guns so I love gun shows

[@rencleavus5213]

I can't wait for the next show, I haven't been since March 2020 just as the great paranoia was starting. Four in my area have been canceled since August.

[@bumpercoach]

Hi SWEET SWE CARBINE!! I watched most of your SWEDISH Mauser vids ... I got a CG carbine in a hunting stock and want to put it in a military one -- if I shorten the muzzle end of the wood should it fit in a m96 stock? are all the dimensions of the steel the same for all 3 models except of course barrel length?

[@robertbare1007]

I want everything on your wall, NOW.

[@aaronpat123]

I buy my weapons online even during the Pandemic send to ffl.The majority of merchandise is high.So why ?