Unexpected benefit to the gun buying frenzy. Well for me at least.

[Jcordell]

Okay so we all know that 22 LR, 9mm, 45ACP, 5.56mm NATO and 7.62mm NATO are now very hard to find and prices are inflated - especially on 5.56mm. We also know that pretty much any and all AR models are also hard to find along with hi-cap magazines.

Well today is the first day ,since the school shooting, that I stopped in at one of my local gunshops. Guess what I discovered. While they are also pretty much out of all the items I listed above the one thing they are overflowing with are older models of all types. Winchester Model 12 shotguns in all gauges, numerous sporterized bolt action rifles (Lee - Enfields, 1903's, 1917 Enfields, Mauser 98's), many collectible revolvers (Colt OM's, various four and five screw S&W) and semi-autos to include an Artillery Luger, an American Eagle Luger, a pristine Model 1935 High-Power (pre-WWII) with the adjustable sights several Mauser pocket pistols and so on. Also many of the prices were pretty reasonable. Oh some were a bit much, but that goes with the territory.

I was not expecting to see so many older models. In case you haven't guessed I'm a big fan of the "old" stuff. I was advised by the manager that they have had a run of folks trading in their older pieces in order to purchase AR-15 rifles, magazines, and ammo.

No complaints from me. Actually I have one. I am not yet ready for another gun purchase and it took all of my willpower to walk out of there with the credit card still in the wallet. But I have a feeling some of the various pieces might still be there in a couple of months. I suspect that many people are draining their inventories and discretionary funds in order to purchase one AR-15, some ammo and a few magazines. I still suspect that in a few months this bubble is going to burst and many will not be in the market for awhile.

So while I am frustrated by the panic buying going on I have realized that their is a silver lining for those who are a bit more patient - and not shopping for an AR-15 of course