If you owned your own Gun Shop

[Ma}{imus]

@RCG, I understand where you're coming from, but I don't agree. I'm not going to buy online if I'm only going to save $15. However, when I bought my SP01 Tactical, I couldn't find any LGS who could hold a candle to CZ Custom's price. I saved over $100 off the best local price. I buy all of my ammo, cleaning gear, etc from the LGS, but I'm not going to flush $100 down the toilet just to spare their ego. The LGS must respect that I do my research before purchasing. If they aren't competitive, then they need to revise their business model to remain competitive. That's part of owning a business. Those who can't adapt to the market will fail.

I never walk into the LGS and flaunt the online prices. I factor in shipping, transfer fee, etc. If I'm serious about a purchase I will politely let them know that their price plus tax is a certain percentage over market value. That's a fact and can't be disputed. If the LGS is getting ripped off from their distributor, then they need to change. I'm a big supporter of doing a small number things really well rather than doing all things half-a$$ed.

Look at CZ Custom. They're a small operation and are focused on a very small piece of the market, but they're really good at what they do.    That's why people do repeat business with them because they know their stuff. They give personal, meaningful service. They don't jerk you around.

I know I'm on a soapbox, but the holier than thou attitude from some of the local shops makes my blood boil.     I work hard for my money and I reserve the right to spend it in the way that I see fit. I'm not going to make charitable donations to an LGS who doesn't have the ability or will to be more savvy in their business.

[Hayfield123]

Recoilguy . . .  What I don't understand is his inappropriate reaction to me telling him I bought a gun he knew I'd been wanting for a long time, that he did not have in stock, and that is no longer manufactured.  If he'd had a Smith & Wesson Model 15 in his shop on any of the many times I'd visited his store, I'd have bought it there.  I am in favor of supporting local merchants.  Ive bought two new guns from him, in the last year or so, to include a Kimber .45 that cost more than I would have paid on line. 

He knew I was looking for one - we'd had many conversations in the past, and he also knew that I looked at his used gun selection every time I came in, hoping to see one. 

I don't see where I "rubbed his nose in it" because he did not sell what I wanted.  And in this case GB was not his competitor, because he did not carry what I wanted.  Am I only supposed to buy the handguns he carries?  In that case I would not have a CZ - he doesn't carry them, either.

My point was . . . if you have a gun shop, don't call your customers fools if they buy something you don't sell, from someone that does sell it.  If you do, they won't be back - just as I will never buy from him, again.  I don't take kindly to being called a fool, especially by a businessman to whom I have been a regular customer.

[recoilguy]

I see now sorry man no harm meant

RCG

[Hayfield123]

I see now sorry man no harm meant

RCG

I didn't take it as such, either - just "splainin" the intent of my post.  I really was suprised by his reaction.  We're good, brother!