Lots of replies and it seems we are all seeing some similarly disappointing trends at these shows. This past year the ATF has actually had a table set up at our shows. They say they are promoting firearm education and safety and taking FFL applications but I rarely see anyone talking to them and they spend a lot of time walking the floor. Can't pinpoint anything they are doing "wrong" but it's just the whole "Big Brother" thing. It could actually be appreciated if we felt they had a respect for our 2nd ammendment rights but everything we see and hear leads us to believe they are up to no good. Anyone think I'm off base here?
It is something that the dealer, or person renting the table space here In IL takes seriously for sure, at least if they want to keep on selling.
That FFL card has to be shown before a customer even touches a gun. The outline on these rules reads that the card must be displayed to the same dealer multiple times to examine each firearm on his table. We get around this of course but the dealer has to be comforatable with my presents. A little small talk, or leaving my card on the table goes a long way towards making the dealer comforatable about who I am not. Most of the dealers do see this as excessive Bureaucracy and red tape.
I attend Airshows and the attitude towards the FAA can be the same as it is not uncommon for the announcer to make (dry comments) on delays or what a pilot is doing cause "we must keep the FAA happy". The FAA is good of course but can be Quick to put a fly in the ointment like most government branches are capable of doing. I think that some of these young upstart's are just anxious to make a name for theirselves?
I like to attend the Gunshows as the fellowship alone is usually worth the admission price whether one is talking to a dealer or others in attendance.
I am there mainly to buy accessories and like to see what I am purchasing first hand. I also know that certain dealers will have the good stuff, such as Norma Brass tucked away at the bottom and is there for the asking.
The firearms for sale are much higher than in the past but many who come to the show have brought a "trade" in with them. I think that these dealers are geared up for a trade and will skin you for $50 to $75 (more if you let them) but usually both parties end up happy.
Cost have become prohibitive to go in flat footed, or with no trade, and expect to get a good price.