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Negotiating prices at gunshops?

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Perhaps the wrong forum for this, but Ill ask anyhow. Why is it that gun shops do not negotiate or discount the pricing on guns at all? i was at SS the other day and looking at a Ruger 556 and the price was $1550 and i asked what is the best price he could do and he pointed at the price and said "that", meaning the $1550. Is that standard policy to not give discounts at all or is there some law that they cant or just their policy in most gun shops. I have seen this in most gun shops i have been to.

There is a lot of overhead on running a brick and mortar store, and very little profit margin on new guns. Plus, the major gun store see a lot of idiots run through there, so sometimes they just get tired of it. Would you go into kmart and try to negotiate a deal? If you think the price is high, you can ask for a deal, but don't be offended by the answer if you don't like it. Don't take it personally. Just shop around, be a smart consumer.

I don't think I've ever paid what's on the tag.. lol

 

It helps to frequent the place you are most likely to spend the most $.

 

They aren't going to "cut a break" to joe schmoe walking in off the street. However, spend some loot on various things like accessories, ammo and so on and the deals will come your way.

 

That's been my experience..

If you establish a rapport with the shop you might get other perks as well. First pick on new stock. Free accessories. Free transfers on stuff they can't get. Sometimes it isnt all about price. I am willing to pay a little more for convenience and if I like and trust a place. Even on gunbroker with shipping and transfer fees it isn't that much more and I would rather give my business to a place that is fighting the fight for us in this state

  • Author

There is a lot of overhead on running a brick and mortar store, and very little profit margin on new guns. Plus, the major gun store see a lot of idiots run through there, so sometimes they just get tired of it. Would you go into kmart and try to negotiate a deal? If you think the price is high, you can ask for a deal, but don't be offended by the answer if you don't like it. Don't take it personally. Just shop around, be a smart consumer.

 

Yeah I figured, but I noticed the gun if I am correct was $200 more than list on Rugers site...I would like to order online, but the legalities of what is NJ compliant come into play. I was just wondering what the markup margin was to negotiate with gun shops.

  • Author

If you establish a rapport with the shop you might get other perks as well. First pick on new stock. Free accessories. Free transfers on stuff they can't get. Sometimes it isnt all about price. I am willing to pay a little more for convenience and if I like and trust a place. Even on gunbroker with shipping and transfer fees it isn't that much more and I would rather give my business to a place that is fighting the fight for us in this state

 

True i rather support my local FFL, but at the same time dont like getting gouged or ripped off...Like when I got my KSG, BA wanted $1500 for one...I got mine for much much less direct from Keltec..That type of stuff is just dumb imho..

True i rather support my local FFL, but at the same time dont like getting gouged or ripped off...Like when I got my KSG, BA wanted $1500 for one...I got mine for much much less direct from Keltec..That type of stuff is just dumb imho..

 

Have you tried the price checker here?? It does go out to the Forum FFL's and they usually do very well as far as pricing, that and Shore Shot was a member here that decided we weren't really worth it to them, so I'm done with the shop and will never buy anything from them, I'd rather support people who support the Forum, and get things at a better price than SS more than likely..

  • Author

Have you tried the price checker here?? It does go out to the Forum FFL's and they usually do very well as far as pricing, that and Shore Shot was a member here that decided we weren't really worth it to them, so I'm done with the shop and will never buy anything from them, I'd rather support people who support the Forum, and get things at a better price than SS more than likely..

 

I have not checked that feature yet, how do I go about doing so?

Just click the link and fill out the fields.

 

 

True i rather support my local FFL, but at the same time dont like getting gouged or ripped off...Like when I got my KSG, BA wanted $1500 for one...I got mine for much much less direct from Keltec..That type of stuff is just dumb imho..

 

I agree nobody should be ripped off. A good dealer won't do that. My dealer got a bunch in and sold them for far less than msrp.

Here we go again. Another I can get it cheaper on the internet thread..........

 

I glady pay a little more to deal with a brick and mortar store that supports the local club's activities such as Ladies' Day at the Range, our Youth Small Bore League, etc.

 

I've bought stuff "on sale" such as ammo in other places, but by and large, I like to support the locals.

 

So call me crazy, but how about a big thank-you (to guys like me) from the cheapskate mail-order only shoppers that go into a store to fondle and then buy mail-order, cause I'm actually "paying" for your fondling!

 

Flame Suit ON!

 

Dave

  • Author

Just click the link and fill out the fields.

Just click the link and fill out the fields.

 

Done! thanks!!

Here we go again. Another I can get it cheaper on the internet thread..........

 

I glady pay a little more to deal with a brick and mortar store that supports the local club's activities such as Ladies' Day at the Range, our Youth Small Bore League, etc.

 

I've bought stuff "on sale" such as ammo in other places, but by and large, I like to support the locals.

 

So call me crazy, but how about a big thank-you (to guys like me) from the cheapskate mail-order only shoppers that go into a store to fondle and then buy mail-order, cause I'm actually "paying" for your fondling!

 

Flame Suit ON!

 

Dave

 

I agree. I have either bought all my guns from Caso's or other forum members. They have treated me very well and I have a great relationship with them. I won't go anywhere else to buy even if it is less. They are never far beyond the price of others anyway. I only get stuff from other places if they can't get me what I want

  • Author

Here we go again. Another I can get it cheaper on the internet thread..........

 

I glady pay a little more to deal with a brick and mortar store that supports the local club's activities such as Ladies' Day at the Range, our Youth Small Bore League, etc.

 

I've bought stuff "on sale" such as ammo in other places, but by and large, I like to support the locals.

 

So call me crazy, but how about a big thank-you (to guys like me) from the cheapskate mail-order only shoppers that go into a store to fondle and then buy mail-order, cause I'm actually "paying" for your fondling!

 

Flame Suit ON!

 

Dave

 

Nope, was not my intention.I was simply asking if it was normal policy for gun shops to not negotiate pricing and why most of them charge above retail for weapons. I was not suggesting buying online, but the 2 occasions i did buy a weapon or accessories in a store I later found out i got slightly overcharged ( other store prices not online). I guess it is my fault for not educating myself prior.

  • Author

I agree. I have either bought all my guns from Caso's or other forum members. They have treated me very well and I have a great relationship with them. I won't go anywhere else to buy even if it is less. They are never far beyond the price of others anyway. I only get stuff from other places if they can't get me what I want

I like Caso's but I overpaid for my Glock there, and was never given any discount of any type with anything I purchased there. I understand making a profit, but when I see the same red dot sight in another store for 1/2 of what you charged me, I begin to wonder..

There's a small markup on new guns but you can deal on used guns.

  • Author

There's a small markup on new guns but you can deal on used guns.

I have no problem buying used guns, not a lot of shops deal in them from what I have seen.

Yeah.. I see where your coming from.. $200 over list is high.. but yeah.. vote with your wallet.. check out the guys here on the forum.. I can personally attest that Paul PK90 and Tony (TJ Sporting Arms) are the best your gunna get around here.

  • Author

Yeah.. I see where your coming from.. $200 over list is high.. but yeah.. vote with your wallet.. check out the guys here on the forum.. I can personally attest that Paul PK90 and Tony (TJ Sporting Arms) are the best your gunna get around here.

 

I just got a great quote from one of them. As soon as Im ready.(meaning as soon as I get my permission slip signed by the wife)

Here we go again. Another I can get it cheaper on the internet thread..........

 

I glady pay a little more to deal with a brick and mortar store that supports the local club's activities such as Ladies' Day at the Range, our Youth Small Bore League, etc.

 

I've bought stuff "on sale" such as ammo in other places, but by and large, I like to support the locals.

 

So call me crazy, but how about a big thank-you (to guys like me) from the cheapskate mail-order only shoppers that go into a store to fondle and then buy mail-order, cause I'm actually "paying" for your fondling!

 

Flame Suit ON!

 

Dave

 

 

I don't think many would disagree with you. The issue is when we're talking a big-dollar difference. I have no problem paying a bit more locally for the reasons you mention, along with supporting a local business, etc. That being said, when you're talking a couple/few hundred dollars difference on a piece, then that becomes a different story. At some point in time, value and making your dollar goes as far as it can has to come into play.

 

If a new piece that cost < $1000 can be had locally for less than $150 above what you can get it for mail order, you're probably better served getting it locally. If that cost becomes $200 or $225 or $250 more to purchase it locally, then I think you really need to consider your options and potentially make that non-local purchase. Of course, the cost of any shipping and FFL transfer will have to come into play. I use those dollars figures for the sake of discussion. It doesn't reflect the dollar amount that I use as a guide nor is it a recommendation. It's just to get my point across. The point is, there should be/will be a difference in cost that will make someone seek a non-local purchase. I think you understand what I'm saying.

 

In addition, other factors may come into play into your decision and as always, your mileage may vary :).

Here we go again. Another I can get it cheaper on the internet thread..........

 

I glady pay a little more to deal with a brick and mortar store that supports the local club's activities such as Ladies' Day at the Range, our Youth Small Bore League, etc.

 

I've bought stuff "on sale" such as ammo in other places, but by and large, I like to support the locals.

 

So call me crazy, but how about a big thank-you (to guys like me) from the cheapskate mail-order only shoppers that go into a store to fondle and then buy mail-order, cause I'm actually "paying" for your fondling!

 

Flame Suit ON!

 

Dave

 

After learning that Joe (the owner of Sayreville Sportsman for those that don't know him) supplied all the ammo for the Ladies Day at the Range I stopped-by and personally thanked him for doing so. I told him what a great time my wife and her friend had and that all the people there had a great time, and bought ammo from him. I will support those that support us.

 

 

After learning that Joe (the owner of Sayreville Sportsman for those that don't know him) supplied all the ammo for the Ladies Day at the Range I stopped-by and personally thanked him for doing so. I told him what a great time my wife and her friend had and that all the people there had a great time, and bought ammo from him. I will support those that support us.

 

That's always good to know.

After learning that Joe (the owner of Sayreville Sportsman for those that don't know him) supplied all the ammo for the Ladies Day at the Range I stopped-by and personally thanked him for doing so. I told him what a great time my wife and her friend had and that all the people there had a great time, and bought ammo from him. I will support those that support us.

 

Mike and Joe (Fish) both get a +1 (if I could make it so....). I always give the local guy the first shot at a sale. Sometimes I'm really pleasantly surprised, especially on used guns in mint condition! Joe seems to get more Estate Sales and Safe Queens in that little store than you'd ever imagine! And he'll special-order stuff for you without a deposit!

It depends, you may not be able to get the cash off of the actual purchase, but if you're smart, you can probably get them to cut a little slack for you on other stuff you're going to buy with the rifle anyway, IE, ammo, mags, etc.

 

When I got my .22 at Bob's little sport shop, we wanted to try it (and my brother in law's pistol) out. They gave us a free hour on the range, and a few free targets, which may not seem like a really good deal, until you realize I only spent about $250 on the rifle, and an hour on the range costs $25 for non members, and I got about $12 in targets. I don't remember if they took a dollar or two off the ammo, but regardless, they hooked me up with about $37 in extra stuff, which is about the same as getting 15% off.

Internet versus local shop... the difference is post sale service and support IMO.

 

If you deal with a reputable shop who charges a reasonable amount over what the internet offers (even after nics/transfer), and you feel you will be back with questions, or service later on... it should be well worth paying the fair markup. If you are simply going to buy the gun and not go back for questions and follow up support or service, or don't particularly care how you are treated, then hunt for the cheapest FFL/xfer place and buy from the internet. I have a relationship with Legend Firearms, in that I always give him a chance with sourcing/ordering a gun through him, but if he can't get it, or the price is too high from his distributors, I order it from the inet, and use him for the xfer. Works out well.

 

I'm this way with SCUBA gear. I happily pay the markup of the local shop that I deal with and have a relationship with. The peace of mind is that they will help me with any problems that I have with my gear, even lending me equipment if something broke and I had to wait for it to get repaired from the factory. They have demonstrated this service time and again. For people who come in with stuff they bought off the internet... they charge them a service fee, or simply say "Sorry, you'll have to call the internet for help with this".

It depends, you may not be able to get the cash off of the actual purchase, but if you're smart, you can probably get them to cut a little slack for you on other stuff you're going to buy with the rifle anyway, IE, ammo, mags, etc.

 

When I got my .22 at Bob's little sport shop, we wanted to try it (and my brother in law's pistol) out. They gave us a free hour on the range, and a few free targets, which may not seem like a really good deal, until you realize I only spent about $250 on the rifle, and an hour on the range costs $25 for non members, and I got about $12 in targets. I don't remember if they took a dollar or two off the ammo, but regardless, they hooked me up with about $37 in extra stuff, which is about the same as getting 15% off.

 

+1 and yet another good example, and coming from (please excuse this wise-crack, as it's only meant to illustrate my point) a mere boy of 20 who is so young he can't yet buy a hand gun! But because he bought something from a local shop, even though he's young he still gets a break.

 

And I got $20.00 that says that when Kaiser went into the store, he did so without a chip on his shoulder, and was rewarded in-kind by a shop owner looking to make a life-long customer.

 

This is the way it's supposed to be! Thanks for sharing and making a fine example of yourself!

 

Dave

+1 and yet another good example, and coming from (please excuse this wise-crack, as it's only meant to illustrate my point) a mere boy of 20 who is so young he can't yet buy a hand gun! But because he bought something from a local shop, even though he's young he still gets a break.

 

And I got $20.00 that says that when Kaiser went into the store, he did so without a chip on his shoulder, and was rewarded in-kind by a shop owner looking to make a life-long customer.

 

This is the way it's supposed to be! Thanks for sharing and making a fine example of yourself!

 

Dave

 

Haha, well, I like to think I've made somewhat of a repertoire with the folks at Bob's little. I go to Rowan, and stop there to ask questions (particularly when I was applying for my FID), and to look at guns. But, that experience has brought me back a few times to take other people shooting, recommending them, and buying supplies there. Since I can't own a handgun, it doesn't make sense for me to join their range, but I certainly would if I were a pistol shooter.

 

Haha, I never go into a gun store with a chip on my shoulder. Usually I'm too busy oogling all the pretty guns in there haha. But like I said, a lot of gun shops probably are willing to work with you, and maybe cut you a deal, they may not flat out take cash off the weapon, but other stuff they may do. Hell, at A-N-A, they went out of there way to help me get an AR lower, and I only got my muzzle brake welded there (well, that and a magazine).

  • Author

I was just a bit thrown when I asked the sales guy what the best price he could do and he said "that" and pointed to the price which I checked from my phone was over $200 above MSRP. There was not even a hesitation from him or any type of hint he would make any type of deal with me on anything. Big turnoff to me, at least sell me on the whole "overhead,customer service,ect ect" stuff, not just point at a price and say "that" like you got the last gun in the country...

Perhaps the wrong forum for this, but Ill ask anyhow. Why is it that gun shops do not negotiate or discount the pricing on guns at all?

 

Most of the places I shop will go down a little, especially if you use cash/check. I'm not a big bargainer / power shopper, but I've always said "is that as low as you can go?" on the price tag, and I think every place (even terrible places like Cheyenne) have dropped a few %....

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