What to Buy at a Gun Show: The Smart Shopper's Checklist

Gun shows offer thousands of products under one roof. Knowing what to buy — and what to skip — separates the savvy shoppers from the impulse buyers. This guide breaks down every category so you walk in with a plan and walk out with great deals.

By Dwight Ringdahl — GunExpos.com

Best Buys at Gun Shows

Used Firearms

Gun shows are the best place to buy used guns because you can inspect in person. Check the bore, test the action, verify lockup, and negotiate face to face. Prices on used firearms are typically 15–30% below retail.

What to look for: Revolvers, military surplus rifles, discontinued models, police trade-ins, and estate collections. Walk the entire show first to compare prices — the same model can vary by $100+ between tables.

Ammunition in Bulk

No shipping costs make gun shows one of the cheapest places to buy ammo. Many vendors offer case pricing and volume discounts. Surplus and remanufactured ammunition is often available at deep discounts.

Pro tip: Bring cash and a cart. A case of 1,000 rounds of 9mm weighs about 26 pounds.

AR-15 Parts and Accessories

Building an AR? Gun shows are a parts-picker's paradise. Complete uppers, lower parts kits, handguards, barrels, triggers, optics, magazines — all available to compare side by side.

Holsters and Carry Gear

With the rise of concealed carry, holster vendors have become a gun show staple. You can try holsters with your actual gun (unloaded) to check fit and comfort before buying.

Optics and Scopes

Red dots, LPVOs, magnified scopes, and binoculars are available at show-special pricing. You can look through them and compare side by side.

Knives and Multitools

Everything from budget folders to custom handmade pieces, plus Benchmade, Spyderco, Kershaw, and CRKT at competitive prices.

Reloading Supplies

Primers, powder, brass, bullets, and reloading equipment. Components that sell out online are sometimes available at shows.

What to Skip (Usually)

New Firearms at Full MSRP

Some dealers price new guns at or above MSRP. Always check online prices before the show so you know market value.

Cheap Imported Accessories

Low-quality red dots, flashlights, and laser sights from unknown brands fail quickly. Spend a little more for reputable brands.

"Tactical" Novelty Items

Stun guns disguised as cell phones, mall-ninja knives, and gimmicky gadgets. If it looks too good to be true, it probably is.

Gun Show Shopping Strategies

  1. Walk the entire show before buying anything — Prices vary dramatically between vendors.
  2. Bring cash — Many vendors offer 3–5% cash discounts, and some don't accept cards.
  3. Know your prices — Check GunBroker, Palmetto State Armory, and local shop prices before attending.
  4. Negotiate on Day 2 — Sunday afternoon is when vendors are most motivated. They don't want to pack unsold inventory home.
  5. Inspect everything — Check bore condition, function, and cosmetics on used firearms.
  6. Bring a list — Know what you want before you arrive. Impulse buys are the enemy of good deals.
  7. Wear comfortable shoes — You'll walk concrete floors for hours.

What to Bring

  • Cash (primary payment method)
  • Government-issued ID (required for firearm purchases)
  • A shopping list of what you're looking for
  • Your phone (for price checking)
  • A cart or wagon (for bulk ammo purchases)
  • Comfortable shoes and a light jacket

Find your next gun show in our show directory and start planning your trip.