Wanenmacher's Tulsa Gun Show Questions

[semperfi71]

To any and all who have been. I know that our "Boss" (gorilla lookin' guy) has.

1. Are there decent prices? Not "steals", not overpriced either.

2. Is it a good venue for the leather, grips, accessories?

3. If...just IF...I find J. Edgar's S&W .357 Magnum...is there someone there who will do a transfer for a non-FFL (me) to a New Mexico FFL?

4. Good hotels to recommend? Restaurants?

5. Should we get in line early...as they do for the X-Box's...like a day before with sleeping bag, tent, and cable T.V.?

6. I have heard that it is impossible to see all tables in the weekend. I have also heard it is but you must only spend about 1.5 minutes per table.

7. Any suggestions on a plan of "attack", as in; top floor first, back areas first, or just dive in?

Me and some friends are planning the April show. I hope we can make it.

 

[AKtinman]

While you are planning your trip, consider an extra day to visit the J.M. Davis Gun Museum. Welcome to the J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum

The four hours I spent there was too short.

 

[semperfi71]

While you are planning your trip, consider an extra day to visit the J.M. Davis Gun Museum. Welcome to the J.M. Davis Arms & Historical Museum

The four hours I spent there was too short.

Thanks, I've heard about his museum for many years, just might have to do that.

 

[wbraswell]

I got there early the first day I went, stood in line for an hour and a half. Don't do it.That's time on your feet that is wasted. I'd rather walk farther to get there, but go right in. If you're serious, pay the $75 and go on Friday. I'd say the prices will be in line with other shows of the area, but you will see quite a few premium quality items, with justifiably premium prices. You can find most anything gun related, and if you don't, there's someone there who would know where you could. Eat a good breakfast before you get there. It doesn't matter where you start, you're going to be beat when you're done.

 

[jack the toad]

pm sent....

 

[Xfuzz]

I have wanted to go to this show with
a large wad of cash.
The OP's question number 3 is normally
artfully dodged.

So again, how does someone out of state buy
or sell a handgun ??

 

[just jim]

$75 to get into a gun show?

 

[jack the toad]

$75 to get into a gun show?

General admission is normally $10 for Sat/Sun.

 

[jack the toad]

I have wanted to go to this show with
a large wad of cash.

That's the best way.
pm sent

 

[H Richard]

It's not the prices, but the availability of really neat items in large quantities.

 

[wundudnee]

I have always got there early and got a parking place closer to the door. That way I can carry any purchases out to the car, take a little break and eat a sandwich.

The line to get in will be four wide and a quarter of a mile long by 8 Oclock.
They don't open the doors a minute before eight. A couple of girls will come out a little early to sell tickets to folks in line. Exact change only, $10.00.
Inside there are only two ticket sellers to deal with that crowd so having a ticket before you get in helps. There is an NRA booth inside that will sell you a yearly membership for $25.00 with free ticket to the show.

You will see every gun you've ever heard of and many you haven't. I've always went to one end of the building or other, then working each row towards the other end. Carry a pen and paper to write down the location of anything you're interested in. You'll never remember if you don't.

Take lots of money and wear comfortable shoes.

Hotels will sell out fairly early, so I would book at least a month or more before the show.

I have gone to this show every year for several years and have found many quality firearms in my interest. Buying hand guns are a little more difficult in that you have to have them shipped to your local FFL. There are always a lot of private sellers there so I suppose a person might get by buying from them, but I don't know them and they don't know me so I don't take the chance.

Everyone needs to attend this show at least once.

 

[RUN2424]

Dad and l went two years ago nov. show and with his bad back did not make the whole show. Took my wife first show this year and did seven hours to make it through the whole show.
We were first in line so did not have to fight that crowd.
Took my step son this last show,and yes every one should go atleast once.
Prices were a bit to high for 3 gen,mags and grips. But there are good deals to be had.

 

[cmore]

I have wanted to go to this show with
a large wad of cash.
The OP's question number 3 is normally
artfully dodged.

So again, how does someone out of state buy
or sell a handgun ??

try calling around to your local dealers and see if they are going.
or if they know you really well, maybe they will give you a copy of their FFL to give to dealer.
the gun is then shipped back to your local dealer.

I suggest the Tulsa Best Western Airport. that is where the SWCA SW Bunch
holds its meeting and you can attend that also.
Make your hotel reservations ASAP.

 

[semperfi71]

Thanks folks for the info. I know you're not going to believe me when I say this but, "I am about done on buying firearms for myself." (Ha! Ha!) However its the "extras" that interest me now and I would love to just experience the show.

Jack The Toad PM'ed some great info and it is much appreciated.

 

[jrm53]

I used toalways make both of their shows, very crowded you will see all kinds of folks. At the time I had a FFL and bought a few revolvers and I got in a room where the police were having an auction for guns that they took from felons and ones they could not find the owners, I only remember this auction one time. There will be a lot of things you wont be interested in, I have not been inat least 14 years so it may not have a lot of stuff forum members would not be interested in. Jeff

 

[islamoradamark]

ive been twice it is wonderful so much to see and some gentlemen have really great displays they like to show off that arnt for sale. theres stuff there that should be in a museum and some real fancy art work on some of those fine firearms . there is some thing there 4 everyone and yes you might not be able to see everything in one day bring your best walking shoes after 2 days my skinny legs were tired

 

[armadillo]

Yes it I worth it.

I think it is 15 seconds per table if you see the whole show. If you see something you want - don't walk away - you will never find that table again.

If you are in Tulsa the day before the show you can buy advance tickets at some of the local gun shops. There s a list on the web sit.

I have seen an Albuquerque gun shop with a table there, but you would have to ask them if they will do your transfer.

 

[badge107]

If you are serious about buying the best offered then I also would suggest buying the Friday badge that allows you entry all three days. Friday is normally reserved for table holders but one can buy the $75.00 three day phantom table holder badge. This will allow you to walk the show without being squashed in the isles by thousands of people. On Saturday the place is so full you can not see half of it due to the crowds of people. On Friday you can see the whole show if you move. I collect certain pistols. I can move through the show quickly because I will pass over the five thousand dollar over/under shotgun tables and only stop at tables of interest for me. Also the phantom badge will allow entry into and out of the show through side doors closed to the daily ticket holders. I do all my buying on Fridays. On Saturdays I go back just to maybe finalize a deal. I leave for home on Saturday at 2pm. I normally eat at Outback Steak House but the wait is long. I would not recommend the Holiday Inn right off the highway. Rooms, hallways smell like wet mildewed carpet. Not clean. Hallways very dark. Not a pleasant stay but cheap. I have stayed at the Double Tree at Warren Place twice. I like it. Tulsa has some nice hotels more into downtown area. I would consider the Phantom Badge if you are a serious buyer due to cherry picking what is there and beating the crowd.