If you are like me, you love going to the local gun show. We have one this weekend in Nashville, and if you have never checked it out, it can be pretty good. Even though I love going, some of the shows that I’ve been to lately have been a little disappointing. The term “gun show ” implies that patrons should be able to find guns, parts, ammo, mags etc. However many of the shows are nothing but military surplus and beef jerky.

I mean don’t get me wrong I love beef jerky but, I am not really into seeing a bunch of peanut salesman and guys trying to sell me stuff that is totally worthless. For a gun show to be worth your time, it should have tons of full tables from quality dealers. That is what is missing from so many of the shows. Just a thought, but maybe having a few less shows every year could consolidate the good stuff and the good dealers to make it worth attending.

If you choose to go remember a few things; 1. It cost money to get in, normally $7 or $8. If you live in a rural area you have to drive to get there. Add it all up, and the great deal you think you are getting may not really be that great. It might be worth your time and effort to use a local dealer.

2. Many shows have some great used guns, and there will be dealers there with things they are trying to unload. If you want a great price, bring cash. It just talks louder than plastic.

3. Know what you want and what you can pay before you get in a situation that will lead to buyers remorse.

4. Before buying that used gun, make sure you are familiar with it so you can tell if it is all original. You don’t want to pay top dollar for a reworked S&W.

Follow these tips and you will have a great time at the show.

“Should I get night sights?” This question comes up often. Experts on both sides of the issue have some good points, so let me outline both positions and then offer some advice. Those who see the advantage of night sights will say that they help you place an accurate shot. This is a good point for low light situations, however if it is so dark that you need night sights you must decide if you can safely identify your target. If not, night sights won’t matter.

Another advantage is that you can pick up your weapon if you happen to drop it or if your house is dark. In the middle of the night you may not want to call timeout and turn on the lights. So they could help you get to your weapon faster. This may be one of the best advantages of night sights, but remember bad guys can also see things that glow in the dark.

The accurate shot debate will go on and on forever. It is true that the sights will allow you the opportunity to take a good first shot. After that, your night vision is blown and you will have to resort something else.

A good alternative to night sights is spending a day at the Tactical Shooting Academy. For the price of night sights and installation, you could take a class on point shooting. While this method of shooting has many detractors, TSA’s instructor wins in competitive shooting give it plenty of room to stand.

Now for the piece of advice. If you think you might be interested in having night sights, buy them factory installed on the gun. Why? Because you will save at least $50 if your gun happens to be a Glock. We are happy to put them your gun at a later date, but you will end up paying at least $50 more than if you bought one of our guns with night sights already installed.

So should you get them. It really boils down to a personal preference. I own guns with and without them, and feel comfortable carrying either way. If you can afford them they can be nice, but it really is a luxury item in our opinion.