Ontario Gun Show

[duster1974]

I've never been to a gun show. I'm going with the wife and buddy this Sunday.

Any advice? Are there real "deals" to be had at these things? Are there certain things you are supposed to by at gun shows, vs stuff you shouldn't?

I'm not talking firearms, but accessories, etc.

[Heiko]

Always walk the whole place before buying anything. Takes notes if you have to. You will find that prices on the same things can vary wildly from one table to the next. Beware of cheap knockoff and airsoft AR accessories. Pay with cash if you can and don't be afraid to ask for a cash discount or even negotiate. If you do it nicely you shouldn't catch any flack. I've had good luck with deals buying multiple items or just asking if they can give you a better price.

Have fun!

EDIT: If there are items you are going to look for, research prices before you go so you know if the prices you are seeing are decent. I went to a big AZ show and had a shopping list with retail prices and even some prices I've seen here in the Marketplace. You have to have some point of reference or else you can get sucked in to the flea market atmosphere and wind up paying too much.

Think about what you might buy and bring an appropriate bag or backpack to carry your loot.

[thenodnarb]

good advice ^^

I went to one a few years ago. I did get some stuff I couldn't get at the time(lower parts kits when none were available during the obama gun craze) and a few other things. I didn't get any deals. And the parking and entrance fees felt like a real rip off. Gun shows aren't like they used to be, at least not in california. I remember going to a gun show when I was just a kid. I think it was the pomona fair grounds? there were several buildings full of stuff, and it took hours to see it all. Ontario is one medium sized building, and sometimes a lot of unrelated crap.'

not worth it IMO

[CamW]

I heard from a friend of mine that has a table that parking is now $9 ( up from $8).
Also no powder or primers at Ontario.

[rareair]

So Cal gun shows 90% of the accessories are knock-off China made stuff. So be very weary. Best name brand stuff is usually from Stag, DD, Troy, MagPul & Yankee Hill.
If you're looking for high-end quality optics systems, it won't be at a gun show. I've yet to see a vender selling US Optics, Night Force or Leupold.

That being said, ammo is very popular when looking for good deals at shows

[gunsrfun]

Anyone know if they I would have to buy a ticket for my 3 yr old daughter if I brought her with me?

[41M]

Children twelve and under are free, need to be accompanied by an adult.

[bsg]

Always walk the whole place before buying anything. Takes notes if you have to. You will find that prices on the same things can vary wildly from one table to the next. Beware of cheap knockoff and airsoft AR accessories. Pay with cash if you can and don't be afraid to ask for a cash discount or even negotiate. If you do it nicely you shouldn't catch any flack. I've had good luck with deals buying multiple items or just asking if they can give you a better price.

Have fun!

EDIT: If there are items you are going to look for, research prices before you go so you know if the prices you are seeing are decent. I went to a big AZ show and had a shopping list with retail prices and even some prices I've seen here in the Marketplace. You have to have some point of reference or else you can get sucked in to the flea market atmosphere and wind up paying too much.

Think about what you might buy and bring an appropriate bag or backpack to carry your loot.

nice post. i'd add that even in the very beginning of your walking through the show... if you find a great deal that you know is a great deal, jump on it then and there. i've made the mistake of walking on by, only returning to find a happy transaction going down... that should have been mine.

the early bird gets the worm... as long as he knows it's a worm he's looking at; do your homework first, as Heiko says.