Disclaimer: The responses to these questions are not intended as any form of legal advice.
The responses are generalized answers to some of the most frequently asked questions we receive. You should check with the Federal Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives if you have further questions on any issue relating to the buying or selling of firearms.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS AND GUN SHOW ETIQUETTE
What is a “Gun Show”?
It is a place where exhibitors come from all around to sell their wares, you can buy things, sell, or even trade guns, knives, swords and the like. There are lots of guns (new and used), ammo, holsters, accessories, hunting stuff, knives, coins, collectibles, books and military items and much, much MORE.
Where do I buy tickets?
Tickets may be purchased online at tandkpromotions.com or at the door.
What if I want to set up and sell my wares?
You contact the show promoter about availability and cost. Sales tax numbers are up to each individual, it is suggested that you get one. Please visit our vendor page.
What if I don’t have guns to sell?
Related items to hunting, fishing or such are acceptable. If your items are totally non-related, there is a small percentage allowed in each show so that we can keep our shows family-oriented and meet visitor expectations.
Do I need an FFL to exhibit my guns, what if I just want to clean out my closet or gun safe?
There is currently no state or federal law saying you must be a dealer to sell your personal guns. You are required to follow all state and federal laws about age requirements and being a state resident. It is unlawful to sell a rifle or shotgun to a person under 18 years or age, or 21 years for a handgun. Federal law also restricts selling a firearm to a person who is not a resident of the state in which the transaction takes place.
How do I get on the mailing list to be notified of future shows?
You will be added when making a table space reservation, if you are a customer that would like to know when the next show will be scheduled, please go to our home page and sign up. If you want to be deleted from the lists, please let us know that also.
I’m coming to the show as a customer, can I bring a gun in to sell or trade?
We’d love for you to; where else can you go to do this! However you can only bring in a maximum of 3 guns (total all days) into the show as a non-vendor. No for sale signs or advertisement allowed. No sales in the parking lot. We have security at the door to check your gun and put a tie strap on it to secure it and let others know it has been checked.
Can I get a gun appraised at the gun show?
Yes, there are many collectors and collector-dealers at all gun shows. Since no one is designated as the official appraiser for the show, you are encouraged to talk to several dealers and collectors to determine the value of any firearm if you are planning to sell it.
Do your research.
If you are looking for a specific gun or accessory at a gun show, do some research first to be sure you get the best deal you can get. If you know what an item is worth, it is much easier to haggle for a mutually agreeable sales price.
I have a CCL, can I carry it in the show?
SAFETY FIRST is our answer, and supporters of the Second Amendment and those of us in the firearm-related industry do not need any more bad publicity. We ask that you unload your firearm, get it checked at the door and leave your magazine and ammunition in the car. Our number one concern is safety, followed closely by the demands of our facility insurance underwriter. We are very vigilant about safety rules and regulations for our dealers, and our request for securing of CCL firearms is an extension of that policy.
Your legal ability to buy a gun may vary.
First of all, each state has its own laws that pertain to the buying and selling of guns. There are further laws for non-residents within each state. Then there is the fact that while most vendors at a gun show are FFL dealers, there may be a few who are private individuals just trying to sell off their collections. When buying from a licensed dealer, all federal requirements still apply (age, background check, etc.). When buying from an individual, however, you may be able to purchase a gun without a background check and age requirements will be based on state laws instead of federal law.
Always ask before touching a weapon.
With guns lying all over tables and counters, it may seem as if vendors are inviting you to handle the guns freely. And while some vendors may be doing just that, it is good etiquette to ask permission before handling any weapon.
Children 10 and Under
Young people 10 years old and under are welcome when accompanied and supervised by an adult. Remember the number one rule for the young folks is “hands off, don’t touch.”
Remember the most important rule of gun safety.
Treat every gun as if it is loaded. Sometimes, the gun’s action will be secured open with a zip tie allowing you to see that the gun is unloaded. If this is not the case, the vendor will generally clear the gun before handing it to you. If not, ask permission to clear it yourself. Never point a gun at anyone and keep your finger off the trigger. Even once you have determined that the gun is clear and even if the action is open, you should never point a gun at anyone. And you should never put your finger on the trigger unless you have received permission to dry fire it (see below).
Never dry fire a gun without permission.
Certain guns can potentially be damaged by dry firing so always ask the vendor before dry firing it. However, you should only ask to dry fire the weapon if you are seriously considering purchasing it. Once you receive permission, remember to point the gun in a safe direction before dry firing.