Gun show Rifles

As others have pointed out, there are actually 2 or maybe 3 levels of dealings at most shows.

1st is the vendor setup and their wheeling/dealing amongst themselves before Joe Public walks in. Everyone ought to work a show or two at least once in their lives to see and participate in the up front good old boy "whatcha got that I can't live without?" and "How ya been" small talk that goes on. It can be fascinating to watch. If you're a newbie to it, you probably won't get too many "best deals" until everyone gets to know ya.

Then there's the open the doors for Joe Public "lookee loo" hell on earth for a day or two. Serious buyers have serious vendors they frequent if their niches coincide, which can be nice.

Sunday afternoon breakdown is your final time for getting rid of or trading off for, and the How'd ya'll do/see ya'll next week/month/ya'll goin to Tulsa? time.

BUT... if it's a "Pre-Election" show... all bets are off. There's money to be made. ;)
 
You can beat the price of that 7.62x54R ammo at SGAmmo.com.

I enjoy the gun shows as events, but not for shopping. While I can get something the local store doesn't have, it's overpriced almost every time. If you go in with the attitude that a nice piece you've been looking for is going to be worth more than you think is appropriate, you'll do alright. Just reserve that attitude for the stuff it should be reserved for, not the run of the mill pieces.

Ammo is overpriced. Ammo cans are OK in price, and you get to choose which ones you buy. Parts and scopes are OK in price. 98% milsurps are going to be overpriced, but you can dicker.

You can get some great deals on Granddad's deer rifle in minty condition, folks are buying the shiny ARs and AKs.
 
Usually depends on the size of the show. The more competition the better. I sure do miss the August Cal Expo shows. Takes ALL day if you look closely at everything. Lots of firearms, parts, accessories, reloading equipment, knives, jewelry. Usually done in 2 two story buildings. 1000's of firearms. Some great deals there if you look carefully.
 
Depending on what you're looking for, the part of the country can matter. I've been to gunshows at Las Cruces, Deming and Wickenburg. Lots of really old stuff, particularly old Colt parts and Winchester lever actions. Fair prices on good used reloading equipment
 
Been pretty dissapointed the last few years in Ohio. Seems people want more than new for used guns and want to buy everything at $100 under value. Non--firearm items seem to be all people actually buy at gun shows.
 
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