Another gun show

[GaryS]

I went to one Saturday that in the past has been pretty good. This time, not so much. Part of that was because there was another one 50 or so miles away. Both got poor reports from people who went.

On the good side, there were more than the normal number of 3rd Gens. On the bad side, they were mostly over priced. The most reasonable was a 3913NL at $550.00, but with no box, papers, etc... There was a 410s with Crimson Trace laser for $540.00.

The bargain, if there was one, was a PC 40 that previously was listed at $1600.00. It was done to $800.00. I'm not a .40 guy so I passed. There was a Zander 457, but it was in only fair condition and over priced.

The only bargain I found was a 457/4513 magazine for $35.00. Considering what they go for, that's a decent price, if you can find them.

There was a dealer who had two early 3913 LS magazines for $75.00. EACH. His prices were pretty high in general. Nice enough guy, but really.

There were more tables with books, militaria, jerkey, hot sauce, clothes, than guns.

Someone should tell the FFLs that the gun and ammo shortages are over.

[Ozark Marine]

I guess the gun & ammo vendors don't know who won or they bought their guns & ammo at the height of price gouging and think we are stupid too.
Even the RK show in Springfield MO and the local Elks club are a joke.

[TTSH]

Originally Posted by GaryS

The bargain, if there was one, was a PC 40 that previously was listed at $1600.00. It was done to $800.00. I'm not a .40 guy so I passed.

I believe that every 3rd Gen at the show was a "repeat performance" gun. I saw nothing new or worth reporting.

That Performance Center .40 hasn't gotten any interest in the last 3 or 4 shows at least so I wasn't at all surprised to see the price drop. And yes, used 3rd Gen magazine prices were high at all the tables... very disappointing.

I bought one pre-ban 20-round Ruger OEM Mini-14 magazine in its original (pre-ban) cardboard box and that was it for the day. I think I should have gone to the other show up in Manchester.

[GaryS]

You are probably right about not being worth reporting. I was talking with the guy I bought the magazine from. That table was set up along the front wall, so you probably know who I mean. Lots of 3rd Gens, but at higher prices. We've discussed them before, but I can't remember the name.

Anyway, the guy I was talking with said that .40 3rd Gens aren't moving. I think that's true of .40 in caliber as I see a fair number of them listed on line for considerable periods of time. Lots of agencies are going from .40 to either 9mm or .45ACP.

I didn't mention to him that CHP is going to be dropping about 9,000 more 4006 guns on the market.

The PC40 has been around. Originally $1,600.00, then $1,200.00, now $800.00. I don't know what comes with it. It's in good shape, but not ANIB.

The magazine I bought replaced a 4516-1 only magazine that I sold to another member here. It was a break even proposition, which is what I wanted.

Not at the show, but a 3914 in nice condition showed up at a LGS. Gun, two magazines. I took a look at it, thinking it might be a NL, DAO, or something interesting. It's not, but it's in good shape. A very little wear on the slide where it meets the frame. Wear as in the "blacking" is a bit worn. Two magazines, nothing else. Price is reasonable, but I just don't need another plain Jane 3rd Gen right now.

Seems like we're entering a cycle where people are trading or selling off their 3rd Gens. It's sort of like sun spot cycles, only not nearly as predictable.

Of course while I'm out of town over the next ten days, something I really do want will show up and then be sold before I can make a phone call!

From what I heard, the Manchester show was much the same. Wide aisles, short line to get in, not a lot of guns, no deals, and not very crowded.

Originally Posted by TTSH

I believe that every 3rd Gen at the show was a "repeat performance" gun. I saw nothing new or worth reporting.

That Performance Center .40 hasn't gotten any interest in the last 3 or 4 shows at least so I wasn't at all surprised to see the price drop. And yes, used 3rd Gen magazine prices were high at all the tables... very disappointing.

I bought one pre-ban 20-round Ruger OEM Mini-14 magazine in its original (pre-ban) cardboard box and that was it for the day. I think I should have gone to the other show up in Manchester.

[oldman10mm]

I put a bunch of magazines in the accessories/misc for sale forum 2 days ago.

[Blackbarry]

At the Wanemacher gun show in Tulsa last weekend I picked up 2, 7 round mags for $50. These mags fit the 4516-1 and 4516-2 as well as my 4513 (Shorty 45). Of course, the Tulsa show is the king of shows. If you can’t find it there it might not be findable.

[mauser9]

Well no surprise to hear. Usually overpriced everything not just 3rd Gen S&W. One would think after 50 Gun Shows vendors might consider lowering prices when their wares don't sell. I would like to attend a show but might be the same stuff I saw 5 years back!!

[GaryS]

Originally Posted by Blackbarry

At the Wanemacher gun show in Tulsa last weekend I picked up 2, 7 round mags for $50. These mags fit the 4516-1 and 4516-2 as well as my 4513 (Shorty 45). Of course, the Tulsa show is the king of shows. If you can’t find it there it might not be findable.

Someone commented that some of the dealers usually at the local shows were at this show. My impression was that they were going to buy, but I don't know that.

Originally Posted by mauser9

Well no surprise to hear. Usually overpriced everything not just 3rd Gen S&W. One would think after 50 Gun Shows vendors might consider lowering prices when their wares don't sell. I would like to attend a show but might be the same stuff I saw 5 years back!!

I go to a good number of ham flea markets every year. We see the same people selling the same over priced boat anchors at every show. I commented to my friend that I think they glue their stuff "for sale" to the tables. He thinks they just go to the shows to get away from their wives.

Some of the FFLs at local gun shows seem to have the same philosophy.

I understand that there is some cost to setting up as vendors at gun shows. Still, it's I can't see how they think it's good practice to go to a show and sell nothing.

[pharmer]

Originally Posted by GaryS

Still, it's I can't see how they think it's good practice to go to a show and sell nothing.

I think it's good practice to go to every gun show and buy nothing so I guess there is "balance" as mr Miyagi opined. Joe

[kraynky]

Originally Posted by GaryS

I commented to my friend that I think they glue their stuff "for sale" to the tables. He thinks they just go to the shows to get away from their wives.

Reminds me of a retired friend, a few years older than me, that recently came back to work. (think traveling salesman) When I asked him why would he do such a thing, his answer was "Everyone told me that I would have twice as much free time to do as I please, but what they failed to mention, was that I'd also have 'twice the wife'!" Ever since then I've been trying to figure out what to do about my own retirement in a few short years, and the statement above has figured it out for me! Trade show vendor!

[cherrypointmarine]

We have a show in Orlando every 2 months. The guy who runs it also runs more than a few gun stores in central Fl. He treats people like dirt. He chased off Georgia Arms,which had been coming for at least 20 years. There was a well known Smith guy, usually had 10 -15 tables, and he quit, said he wasn't making enough to pay for his tables. And then you got the guys that just because it says S & W on the side, they want you to bend over cause they are going to stick it to you. Now I may be bitching, but I still go.There are some decent people, and they aren't out to pay for their retirement on one deal. I think I go mostly just to look, and be around like minded people.

[TTSH]

Originally Posted by GaryS

Seems like we're entering a cycle where people are trading or selling off their 3rd Gens. It's sort of like sun spot cycles, only not nearly as predictable.

I'm seeing a mixed bag in my travels. It's actually confusing me a little. Meanwhile, I'm still hot for that 4506-1 I've mentioned, but the RI dealer is still giving me a hard time re: selling it out-of-state. Unfortunately, that local 5906TSW (my alternate choice to the 4506-1) sold to someone else and I'm still very hesitant to go for one of the 4006TSW CHP guns sight unseen. Meanwhile, two of my last three acquisitions have been older pre-IL S&W revolvers. Could be a trend!

Originally Posted by GaryS

Of course while I'm out of town over the next ten days, something I really do want will show up and then be sold before I can make a phone call!

I'll keep that in mind. It would be deliciously sweet for me to snare something highly desirable for cheap while you are away!

Originally Posted by GaryS

From what I heard, the Manchester show was much the same. Wide aisles, short line to get in, not a lot of guns, no deals, and not very crowded.

I've never done Manchester before. Even if it was a small show no better than Wilmington, I should have gone up just for the heck of it. The good wife was out-of-town so no pressing need to run home and work on my "Honey Do" list.

[Jeppo]

Originally Posted by GaryS

Not at the show, but a 3914 in nice condition showed up at a LGS. Gun, two magazines. I took a look at it, thinking it might be a NL, DAO, or something interesting. It's not, but it's in good shape. A very little wear on the slide where it meets the frame. Wear as in the "blacking" is a bit worn. Two magazines, nothing else. Price is reasonable, but I just don't need another plain Jane 3rd Gen right now.

Would you share the price? Thanks

[GaryS]

Originally Posted by Jeppo

Would you share the price? Thanks

He's asking $339.00. Two stainless mavazines, nothing else.

[Jeppo]

Thank you sir.

[GaryS]

You have an open field until the 27th. Of course I do have a phone, credit card and upcoming birthday!

It's been several years since i've been to Manchester. Might have to put it on the list for next time.

Originally Posted by TTSH

I'll keep that in mind. It would be deliciously sweet for me to snare something highly desirable for cheap while you are away!


I've never done Manchester before. Even if it was a small show no better than Wilmington, I should have gone up just for the heck of it. The good wife was out-of-town so no pressing need to run home and work on my "Honey Do" list.

[dben002]

Originally Posted by cherrypointmarine

We have a show in Orlando every 2 months. The guy who runs it also runs more than a few gun stores in central Fl. He treats people like dirt. He chased off Georgia Arms,which had been coming for at least 20 years. There was a well known Smith guy, usually had 10 -15 tables, and he quit, said he wasn't making enough to pay for his tables. And then you got the guys that just because it says S & W on the side, they want you to bend over cause they are going to stick it to you. Now I may be bitching, but I still go.There are some decent people, and they aren't out to pay for their retirement on one deal. I think I go mostly just to look, and be around like minded people.

I'm like you, hang around with like minded gun enthusiast and shooters....we don't go to gun shows....

[Blackbarry]

The problem with gun shows is that 98% of the material is Re-displayed over and over again. It takes forever sorting thru the same old **** in hope you’ll find something new. For a newbie it’s the ultimate candy store. But if you’re seasoned and looking for something specific, it takes an eternity. Then there is the haggle on the price. Takes a “might buy” to “Thanks. But I’ll pass” most of the time. Then again, I’m continually amazed at the odd stuff you’ll never find anywhere else. But you can always come home with another gun rug.

[TTSH]

Originally Posted by GaryS

You have an open field until the 27th. Of course I do have a phone, credit card and upcoming birthday!

It's been several years since i've been to Manchester. Might have to put it on the list for next time.

Holbrook is this weekend ... ... and Nashua is next weekend. Both tiny shows, but hey, you never know.

[GaryS]

The first Holbrook show I went to, I bought a sock draw Mdl 10-5 4" for $199.00. That was about 10-11 years ago, and I haven't found anything good since. I used to like the show, but now it's the cost of the big shows and about 1/4 the size.

I'll have to try Nashua some time.

Originally Posted by TTSH

Holbrook is this weekend ... ... and Nashua is next weekend. Both tiny shows, but hey, you never know.

[vigil617]

Gary, remind me: what's a PC 40? Is it a Shorty 40? A 40 Limited? An M&P 40 through the Performance Center? I'm confused.....

[TNZ71]

My last two shows locally. You gotta go, just in case. This is only the Autos

[pharmer]

Originally Posted by cherrypointmarine

We have a show in Orlando every 2 months. I think I go mostly just to look, and be around like minded people.

Don't forget the chili-cheese-fries. Your turn to write the O-Show Report next week. Joe

[GaryS]

I think it's like the Shorty 40. From my look at it, it's built on a 6906 frame. According to the SCSW it came with one 9 and one 11 round magazine. The one I saw was nice looking, but didn't seem to be in exceptional condition.

Originally Posted by vigil617

Gary, remind me: what's a PC 40? Is it a Shorty 40? A 40 Limited? An M&P 40 through the Performance Center? I'm confused.....

[BC38]

Went to one this weekend and picked up a few things.

SATURDAY
4 pairs of wood grips for $50
- a set of original wood target grips for my Charter Arms Bulldog
- a set of silver-washer 80's era N-frame magnas
- a set of home-made N-frame service style stocks
- and the real winner, a set of original walnut N-frame service stocks for my 1917 commercial
Plus I got all of these misc items for $15
- a K/L frame Weaver scope mount (missing one screw)
- S&W HRT 60B knife
- Some 1911 parts - spare safety lever, recoil spring plug, metal grip safety, composite grip safety, flared magwell base
- 3 MTM ammo boxes - two 38/357 and one 9mm
- Uncle Mikes #1 pocket holster
- H&S 941 double-stack 9mm mag loader
- Galco swede IWB holster with metal belt clip for small autos (fits my M61 and my IJ TP22 & IJ TP25 perfectly)

SUNDAY
I went back and picked up a few more small bargains
- Pancake 1911 holster with matching 2-mag carrier $25
- Molded leather 1911 belt holster $5
- 2" K-frame IWB holster $5
- 17 round Ramline magazine for S&W M59 $5
- Original wood grips for S&W M59 $5
- Black washer K-frame target stocks & Herrett RB K-frame shooting stars $35
- 1700 Winchester large pistol primers + a box of 100 Winchester Antique #115 primers $35
Plus I traded a couple of pairs of rubber N-frame grips and a bunch of 40 S&W brass for a set of 45 Colt dies and $5.

So while I didn't get anything big I picked up enough little bargains to make the show worthwhile.

[Big Shrek]

The Gun Show dealers, have not, for the most part, realized that Hillary didn't become Prez,
so their prices have yet to drop to reasonable levels

In the case of .40-Short & Wimpy chamberings, it's now a BUYERS Market!
Haggle 'em down like crazy, they're buying 'em cheap, telling folks about the FBI &
other LEO agency drops, but the cold hard fact is, they're blissfully unaware
of what is to come. The Very Next Democrat that gets in the White House is
highly likely to enact anti-gun legislation akin to what Bill the Molester did.
You can expect guns with more than 10-rd capacity to be Nerfed, just like in
the Liberal States.

.40S&W shines in low-round count applications.
The reason the FBI & many LEO agencies/dept's are going to 9mm is precisely why
they got away from it in the 80's!! Less Death Potential.
9mm isn't "just as effective" as .40, it's LESS DEADLY.
Which means less protests, less baloney from the Liberal Left, etc...
THAT is the main reason they're dropping the .40, because it actually WORKS!
They just don't want as much death liability, they know the 9mm is less likely to
kill, they're adopting the UN Stance on Wounding instead of Killing.
That's All.

They caved to the Liberal Pressure, and that should worry folks more than anything else.
Hopefuly Trump can Man Up the Letter Agencies with some hard-charging
John Wayne types that aren't afraid to cut hay while the sun shines.

Watch for the upsurge in .40 popularity in 4 to 8 years
Meanwhile, BUY LOW and enjoy selling high later!