Gun Shows
Let the buyer beware! That said, I routinely buy gun cleaning brushes and materials at gun shows that I cannot find at retail gun stores in Central and Western Virginia. I have bought many guns at gun shows. For example, this past weekend, at the Roanoke, VA gun show, I bought a used S&W model 64 4 inch heavy barrel with Pachmayer grips, no box or papers, in very good condition for $350 and that was "out the door" including VA sales tax and background check fee. A gunsmith friend of mine looked it over and stated the gun likely had been shot very little and was very tight. I shot it on Sunday and it groups fine and works perfectly. I am very pleased with my purchase. I also saw a similar model 10,same dealer, for $300. I also saw similar 64's and 10 for $425 to $485. You have to shop around.
I find the internet sales at GunsAmerica to be usually very high priced but sometimes there are still bargains. I find that Gun Broker has lots of "fans" that get caught up in the bidding process and run the auction price of many guns to ridiculous prices. Many sell on GB for above retail prices. On top of this, you generally have a $20-$30 shipping cost plus the FFL dealer transfer fee approximating $20-$25.
Around here the pawn shops seem to be full of junk guns that look like they have been drug down a highway or rusted out. Some pawn shops also have new guns at very high prices. I have not found any bargains at area pawn shops.
Some gun shows have dealers that specialize in selling at gun shows. These dealers sell at low prices because they have very little costs tied up in expensive retail gun stores. These dealers often offer excellent prices, and there is often some negotiation.
Lastly, do not forget how important these gunshows are to the NRA. The NRA recruits new members very successfully at the shows. The gun shows represent freedom to buy and sell firearms. The VA state police are always there and I have found them to be supportive and helpful. Support the gun shows. You may also find a bargain sometimes.
