[kingofwylietx]

I'll pay approximatley 10% - 15% more (than the price of the weapon + shipping) to get it locally.

Reasoning:

I want to keep the local shop in business. It is good for my local economy to have the taxes, plus they employ several local people.

I like to have a place to physically see something, pick it up, and see how it feels (how many times have you liked a pistol, then went to the local gun shop to find it doesn't feel right for you? Maybe the grip was too big/small, felt odd, or too heavy/light).

I like having a local gunsmith. My local shop employs one.

I like to be able to go to a place of fairly like-minded pro-gun enthusiasts to shoot the bull. Online is great, but sometimes you want to chat someone up about other manufacturers or models. The local guys are pretty good about recommending equipment.

I like having a local range. My local gun shop has an indoor range. They also have a [very] broad selection of pistols I can rent to test fire.

I like having a place to put 4 pistols next to each other, pull the triggers, compare dimensions, and try out holsters. My local shop will let me do that.

 

[kingofwylietx]

I'm looking for an on-line range.

Here you go:
http://shooting-games.freeonlinegames.com/

 

[kingofwylietx]

You guys must have some aweful shops near you. The ones close to me are quite friendly & helpful.

I went to one in San Antonio, it was a nice sized place. The people were very helpful & friendly. I think it was family owned.

 

[kingofwylietx]

We don't have a local gun shop anymore, so I go online, Gander Mountain (if I want to see/feel something - but it's an hour away), or just suck it up and try to find someone selling one locally.

This is a prime example of why it is good to support your local gun shop......assuming they are a competent and competitive shop.

 

[kingofwylietx]

In that case, it doesn't sound like a loss. That's why I said they should be competent and competitive. It doesn't sound like your shop was very good. I don't mind seeing poorly performing businesses going under......regardless of the industry they serve.