Gun shows were once a haven for firearm enthusiasts, collectors, and everyday folks wanting to browse a wide array of firearms and accessories in one place. However, for me and many others, the excitement of attending a gun show has gradually faded. Here are the key reasons why I’ve decided to skip gun shows altogether and what changed in the experience over time.
The Irony of “No Guns Allowed”
One of the most ironic aspects of modern gun shows is the “no guns allowed” policy. Walking into a gun show, you’d expect to see fellow enthusiasts openly or concealed carrying, yet many venues now ban personal firearms. For an event centered around firearms, this rule feels like a contradiction, creating an odd sense of restriction for people who are well-versed in gun safety. Instead of feeling secure, the policy can feel limiting, as if the show doesn’t fully trust its own attendees.
Restricted Access to Firearms Handling
Gun shows used to offer a unique chance to handle various firearms, especially for those without access to a large selection at local gun shops. Now, however, many guns at shows are tethered to displays with heavy cable locks, making it impossible to feel the weight or test the trigger. Without being able to freely handle the firearms, it’s difficult to compare models or get a real feel for what you’re interested in buying, reducing the hands-on advantage that used to make gun shows so appealing.
Off-Putting Attitudes from Some Dealers
In theory, gun shows should be a welcoming environment where experts and newcomers alike can ask questions and explore the field. Unfortunately, some dealers at these events have a smug or condescending attitude that can be off-putting, especially to newcomers. While this isn’t true of every seller, it only takes a few negative experiences to give the whole event a less-than-friendly vibe. For those just getting into the firearms community, these interactions can be discouraging and leave a bad impression.
Unimpressive Deals and High Prices
For many people, one of the main draws of gun shows used to be finding great deals. But nowadays, “deals” are often underwhelming, if not outright overpriced. Whether it’s for firearms, ammo, or accessories, the prices at gun shows tend to be higher than what you can find online or at a trusted local gun store. After factoring in the cost of admission and the crowded environment, the idea of saving money at a gun show has become more myth than reality.
Online Shopping Makes It Easier
The convenience of buying firearms online has taken away a lot of the allure of gun shows. Online stores provide a wider selection, competitive prices, and no need to wade through crowded aisles. You can find exactly what you’re looking for and have it shipped to a local FFL dealer, skipping the hassle of negotiating prices in person. For many, this online shopping experience is simply easier and more efficient.
Crowded Spaces and Long Lines
Even if you’re patient, the experience of jostling through packed aisles and waiting in long lines can be tiring. Gun shows attract large crowds, which can make browsing difficult. For people who prefer a calmer, more focused shopping experience, a busy gun show with wall-to-wall people just isn’t as appealing as it used to be.
Too Many Non-Firearm Items
At a gun show, you expect to see tables filled with guns, ammo, and tactical gear. Yet, over time, there’s been an influx of unrelated items, from purses to novelty items to obscure memorabilia. While these vendors add variety, it can feel cluttered and distract from the main attraction. For those primarily interested in firearms, the mix of unrelated products can be frustrating and diminish the experience.
Memorabilia and Vintage Collectibles
One of the few positives left at gun shows is the chance to see vintage firearms and historical memorabilia up close. World War II-era rifles, Civil War artifacts, and collectible items are fascinating, and it’s one of the only places you can encounter such an array. However, even this aspect has its downsides, as prices for vintage items tend to be high, and there’s no guarantee of authenticity unless you’re knowledgeable about historical firearms.
You’ll Find More Knowledge at Local Gun Shops
Unlike the often impersonal experience of a large gun show, local gun shops offer more genuine conversations and expert advice. Building a relationship with a trusted shop allows you to gain insights and knowledge that a one-time gun show vendor may not provide. Local shops often have knowledgeable staff eager to help you find what suits your needs, creating a far better experience for repeat visitors.
Better Prices and Support for Local Businesses
For many of us, supporting small businesses is important, and when it comes to guns, a local shop often provides a better value. These stores may not have the same massive selection as a gun show, but they make up for it in service, expertise, and sometimes even pricing. By skipping the gun show, I’ve found that I can get fair prices and a better buying experience locally.
Why I Walked Away
Ultimately, the reasons I stopped going to gun shows are a mix of changing policies, diminishing quality of experience, and more convenient options elsewhere. The spirit of gun shows as community events for firearms enthusiasts still exists, but the thrill has faded. For anyone considering going to their first gun show or deciding whether to return, these factors are worth considering. While some may still find joy in the unique aspects of gun shows, for me, the experience simply doesn’t live up to what it once was.
The Rise of Online Shopping
Have you ever attended a gun show, and if so, what aspects stood out to you — positive or negative? Do you think gun shows should relax their “no guns allowed” policies to align with their focus on firearms? With the rise of online shopping, do you believe in-person events like gun shows are becoming obsolete, or do they still hold unique value?
Mark grew up in the heart of Texas, where tornadoes and extreme weather were a part of life. His early experiences sparked a fascination with emergency preparedness and homesteading. A father of three, Mark is dedicated to teaching families how to be self-sufficient, with a focus on food storage, DIY projects, and energy independence. His writing empowers everyday people to take small steps toward greater self-reliance without feeling overwhelmed.