The California Rifle & Pistol Association (CRPA) recently filed a writ of certiorari with the Supreme Court asking the Court to consider the case of B&L Productions, Inc. v. Newsom. This case is regarding Crossroads of the West, which puts on gun shows. Crossroads of the West has been banned in California by putting on gun shows on any state-owned land. While Crossroads of the West views this as unfair and wrong, California argues that guns sold at gun shows are disproportionately used in crimes. CRPA believes that California’s refusal to allow the gun show to continue on state-owned lands is a violation of both the First and Second Amendment. By continuing to ask for reconsideration of the case, the CRPA is moving forward towards a stronger future for gun hobbyists and enthusiasts. (Gun crime is a big problem in these U.S. towns.)
While not every state is keen on gun shows (events where firearms and accessories are sold), many states have a strong gun culture and do host numerous gun shows throughout the year. But which states (and gun shows) should you be going to? To answer this question, 24/7 Wall St. researched the ten best states for gun shows. We analyzed the Colt and Smith & Wesson Forums, Exhibit Experience, and other review sites to make our findings. Findings considered both the number and quality of gun shows in each state. Many smaller shows aren’t necessarily better than one bigger show! We ranked the top ten states for gun shows in countdown style, so the best state for gun shows is at the very end.
Why We’re Covering Gun Shows
There are around 2,000 to 5,000 gun shows in America every year. Needless to say, that adds up to quite a bit of money changing hands. Gun shows are almost an industry in themselves, with some businesses making most of their profits from gun shows. This industry isn’t evenly spread out, though. It’s concentrated in a few states where gun shows are very popular. Many of the states below are also those where people tend to buy the most guns. Understanding more about gun shows highlights where firearms are a profitable business in the United States — and offers you an opportunity to learn where to travel to if you’re looking to purchase your next gun.
Here are the states with the most gun shows:
10. Kentucky
Louisville, Kentucky, hosts dozens of gun shows each year.
Kentucky is known for its strong gun culture and is home to frequent gun shows. Based on our research, there seem to be at least five gun shows every month or so! The R.K. Somerset Gun & Knife Show is a favorite, especially for gun collectors or those who enjoy hunting.
9. Pennsylvania
Pennsylvania has a strong gun rights culture.
Pennsylvania’s history has fostered a strong gun culture, which fuels several gun shows in the state each year. The state’s rural areas also see a surprising number of shows, too. Eagle Shows is one of the largest purveyors of gun shows within Pennsylvania.
8. North Carolina
North Carolina’s cities see dozens of gun shows each year.
North Carolina’s rural areas and strong gun rights tradition make it a favorable state for gun shows. The state offers tons of hunting opportunities, which only increases the popularity of these shows. C&E Gun Show holds multiple events throughout the state.
7. Georgia
Savannah, Georgia, is a popular gun show destination.
Georgia’s growing population and interest in firearms has also led to a growth in gun shows. The state is full of rural areas and hunting opportunities, which means that many individuals own guns and use them for their hobbies. Start with the Atlanta Gun Show and the Cartersville Gun and Knife Show (though there’s many more to check out!).
6. Tennessee
Tennessee has a lot of hunting and fishing land.
Tennessee’s outdoor attractions and strong gun rights culture make it a hotspot for gun shows. There are around seven gun shows each month, especially in the Nashville area. Not feeling Nashville? Check out the Clarksville Gun Show or Lebanon Gun and Knife Show — maybe you’ll find your perfect firearm!
5. California
Despite the stricter laws, many in rural areas of California own firearms.
You might not have expected to see California on this list due to its stricter gun laws. However, gun shows are popular in some areas of the state. It’s important to remember that California is very big, so it only makes sense that it would have more gun shows than others states. If you’re a gun enthusiast, consider checking out the Lodi Gun Expo, Crossroads San Bernardino Gun Show, or Escondido Gun Show.
4. Nevada
Nevada boasts many hunting opportunities.
Nevada has a thriving gun culture. An estimated 47.3% of people in Nevada live with guns in their homes. Gun shows are especially popular in Las Vegas due to its large convention centers. That’s where you’ll find the Greatest Gun Show in Sin City, the SHOT Show, and the Western Trails Gun and Knife Show.
3. Arizona
Even smaller communities in Arizona host gun shows.
Arizona’s outdoor attractions and rugged terrain make it a natural choice for gun shows. Many individuals in Arizona participate in hunting and recreational shooting, which make it the perfect place for gun sellers to show off their wares. Consider checking out the Crossroads of the West gun show, the Glendale Gun Show, or the Sierra Vista Collectibles & Firearms Show.
2. Florida
If you’re searching for reputable gun salespeople and some unique weapons, head to Florida. Florida has a very strong gun culture and is a natural tourist spot. It only makes sense that it would host several large gun shows each year. From the Florida Gun Expo to every show put on by Florida Gun Shows, you’ve got many chances to find the right gun for you (or for your collection).
1. Texas
Putting Texas as the #1 state on this list is a no-brainer.
It really should be no surprise that Texas ranks number one on our list. Texas is a huge state with a very strong gun culture. This naturally leads the state to hosting dozens of gun shows each month, many of which attract gun enthusiasts from around the country. Some of Texas’ most popular gun shows include the Taylor Gun Show, the Mesquite Gun Show, and the Houston Pasadena Gun Show.
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