[TankerHC]

I would like some opinions on this and maybe some ideas. I am considering selling gun accessories at Gun Shows. I am thinking my initial investment will be $1000.00. So I am going cheap. I am thinking of starting with NCStar products. I contacted them and its pretty easy to get started with just a license (Do you even need a license for gun shows) and a contract. They will do a thousand a month no problem. Actually even way less. I have heard several people on here say its not the guns at gun shows that make money, its the accessories. So is there money to be made? If you had $1000 startup what would you buy to resell? What would you do different than what I am thinking of doing?

Thanks
J

 

[bubbat]

Not trying to discourage you, but there a is a guy comes to most of the gunshows that sells nothing but NCStar or Sightmark products (made by same Chinese company just different brand names) and a few dealers sell their products too.

Don't know that anybody really makes much at the gunshows anymore, whether they sell guns or accessories.

 

[TankerHC]

Yea, I have seen that guy. I am going to be getting a copy of NCStars wholesale price catalog soon and see what they are wholesaling for. I have a pretty good idea of what that guy at the gunshow is selling for plus he will probably be in Jackson next week. So, Ill be able to compare his markup to what I might be able to do for less and still make a profit.

Also, if anyone has any ideas on some other product(s), let me know.

 

[Doug Bowser]

I have found, when I was in the gun shop business, I made more money with an internet website than at gun shows. I don't display at gun shows anymore. The only people making money at gun shows are the promoters.

Doug

 

[Scharfschütze]

I agree with Doug, I worked the shows with him when he and Powers had Great Southern Arms. The markup on accessories is better than that on firearms; I guess you would have to decide if you want to pay the promoters for tables every weekend, + gas and time for travel to the shows, pay for hotels + food, and would you make enough to pay for all those expenses. On the other hand you might do quite well with a modest internet-based business, if you can link to sites and / or get your web address out. I went on the 'net 4 years ago with my translation business and while it has ups and downs, I have done more translation business since then as a result of being on the web, than in ALL of the 20 years prior. That is the way to go as a business model, especially for part-time entrepeneurs.
My 2cents...

 

[GunOneDown]

I agree with the web-based market as well.
First thing though u want to consider is Do I have a product people want to buy? How much are they willing to pay and how many units can I move month to month.
I for one do not buy the product mentioned above. Lots might, but that table always seems empty to me. Ammo is a big seller IMO as well as Ak, Ar, & Shotgun Accessories.
.02