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Most gun-store owners agree: concealable handguns in 9mm remain “must-haves” to maintain in inventory. However, dealers have found success offering less-popular models — giving customers of all interest and skill levels a reason to come in for a visit. The October issue of Shooting Industry explores the nuances of building profits through handgun sales.
John Stephenson, general manager at Metro Shooting Supplies in Bridgeton, Mo., stocks plenty of popular handguns, but successfully appeals to high-end customers with pricier Smith & Wesson Performance Center models. Those may not sell as fast as less-expensive models, but they give customers something to dream about.
“People will come in and look at them three or four times,” he shares. “Finally, they’ll come back and say, ‘I’ve got to have it.’”
The bowhunting landscape is changing to retain existing hunters while also attracting new ones. Crossbows are able to do both, a trending category at many stores today. Ashley McGee provides insights from dealers on how to “Target Your Crossbow Hunting Niche.”
“We used to stock maybe three to five crossbows and around 50 compound bows. Now it’s more like 40 crossbows,” said Ben Minkel, owner of Cedar Falls Tactical. “Archery hunters want shorter, narrower, lighter crossbows that shoot faster, and fortunately we’re starting to see better technology at a lower price point.”
Additional features in October include coverage of the latest and greatest cutlery and how to sell it in “Hot Steel!” Advancements in shotgun shell technology are breeding new sporting shotguns, and savvy retailers will make new ammo and guns available to this changing market. Southwick Associates examines the U.S. hunting market and reveals habits among waterfowl, turkey and deer hunters in particular. Opening later this month, the 2019 NASGW Expo is “primed for business,” and the October issue previews ways the event facilitates collaboration and provides a platform for companies to get a jumpstart on the new year.
Personal Defense Market describes how operating in an anti-gun environment hasn’t deterred Dark Storm Industries from adapting to the needs of the marketplace while branching out as a retailer/range operator and innovative manufacturer. One of the oldest forms of marketing and yet still one of the most effective, Everyday Marketing lends four signage strategies to ensure your business is a welcome place for newcomers. Cassandra Harris is new to guns and especially fond of AKs: Arms & The Woman details her journey from not liking guns to manufacturing them.
The Digital Version of Shooting Industry’s October issue is available at www.shootingindustry.com/digital-version. Have a comment after reading the issue? Send an email to comments@shootingindustry.com, or online at facebook.com/shootingindustry.
CONTACT: JADE MOLDAE