First gun show tips?

Alan · Dec 29, 2025

For those who regularly go to gun shows, do you have any advice on what to expect, how to haggle and what to avoid for someone going for the first time? What do you wish someone had told you before your first gun show?

JIM · Jan 3, 2026

Take your time walking every aisle first, bring cash and don’t feel pressured to buy

Jim0001 · Jan 3, 2026

Know what you might be looking for and what it's worth beforehand.
Also consider that a new firearm purchased from a vendor will not be there for you should there be any issues with your purchase. Your LGS may be the better option.

Cpt Jon · Jan 4, 2026

Haggle politely, know your local laws, and inspect items carefully

Nando · Jan 4, 2026

Research prices first, don’t impulse buy, and don’t be afraid to walk away from deals.

Surrywoodman · Jan 5, 2026

All of the above is very good advice, my typical modus operendi is to start on one end and walk through the entire thing, paying attention to pricing for various things I might be interested in, availability and such. I always buy something, even if it is just targets or some small thing I might need or want more of. I will also try to go early, and then after a full run through, my wife and I will get something from the concession, chill out for a bit and discuss what we saw and go back through again. I personally do not always have a particular gun in mind when I go, but if I do, I research about it prior to so I can make an informed decision. My wife hates it when I buy something that I had in the past but sold or traded, and then years later I see one at the show, get it again, she says why did you get rid of that the first time?

First gun show tips?

Alan

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Nando

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Surrywoodman

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