Gun shows have been declining since ATF clamped down on home -based FFLs.
One of the problems is prices on milsurp.
Back in the day milsurp cost peanuts compared to new.
I’m 59. I can remember 1903A3’s new in the wrap for $200 when a new Remchester 7000 was $400. Ww2 1911’s for $300 and a new 1911 Colt was $500.
Nowadays its flipped.
New stuff is still affordable but old milsurp, especially US milsurp, is nucking futs.
Just the other day I saw a British Enfield No.4 marked $900. NINE HUNDRED DOLLARS. Hory Clap!
Young folks can’t even afford to look at the things.
Right on. I'm shocked those $60 SKS rifles are now $600. $99 Mosin Nagants are $400.
Young folks can’t even afford to look at the things.
Yes, online sales probably took the biggest bite out of gun show's ass but I still contend it is more desirable to be able to see, smell and hold a firearm before buying it.
Do you think if they pass all that crap to tax every online sale that gun shows will bounce back to what they use to be some? Or will the jackasses behind the table jack up the prices even more since more people would probably come out for the shows?
Yep.
Remember when the Swedish Mausers came in?
You could get one for <$200.
Priced one lately? Sheeesh.....have you even SEEN one lately?
I am sure the majority of gun show dealers will "pass the savings on to us!" as they did when .22 ammo was scarce, etc.
...
The only show I went to recently that was very good was the show in Mesquite. I saw a good amount of affordable milsurps. Also alot of Russian AKs priced right.