Inflation and Protection

Inflation and Protection: One more way our rights are being stripped

I attended a local gun show this past weekend because I love to scope out a new selection of firearms and accessories; I also like to gauge how things are going with the market. I purposely go to gun shows several hours after opening to avoid crowds and the initial rush of people to the ammo table. Surprisingly, by the time I got in, there was still a healthy amount of ammo in there, even favorites such as 9mm, 223, and even 30-30–which was very hard to come by the last few months. There were a decent amount of people walking around the event, but not a lot of people buying. This was odd because there is normally a line at the ATM and cash being thrown to gain possession of the only AR-styled rifle or P80 Glock kits available. However, this time there were a lot more products remaining on the table and fewer people leaving with products in hand. Being my nosey and inquisitive self, I asked if my intuition was wrong. Sneak peek—it wasn’t.

One vendor told me that “People just don’t have the cash to spend right now. The cost of ___ was so high for so long that I have a lot into the guns.  Unfortunately, people can’t purchase guns because, as a result of inflation, everyone is more concerned about putting food on the table.” This took me back. Yes, I had to cut back on purchases myself. With an increase in prices, I am much more deliberate about the firearms I purchase, while before, I would just get any item could find, cost be dammed.

Changes in the market can be seen online as well. Ammunition supply has increased online, and, in turn, prices have gone down a bit. Regardless of a minor decrease in price, people continue to hold on to the ammo they already have and decrease the frequency of practice to keep a substantial supply. While this helps with panic-buying, it does not help with ensuring that gun owners are well-trained, ready to use any firearm at their disposal.

This is problematic for gun show vendors, as participants said that they bought guns to sell when the market was at a high. Therefore, they are stuck with a lot of money invested in inventory, without many buyers to make up the difference. Doug is a local vendor in my area who sold at the show. He said “A lot of folks are buying guns that are $500 or less, but nothing over that. There is just too much money needed for necessities. You could see that people were worried about having enough money for everything.”

So, what does this mean for you and your purchases? Well, it means that you can’t afford to waste your money on stuff that doesn’t work, like Hi-Points and crappy holsters. With today’s market, I recommend getting a solid handgun and an Original Quick, Click & Carry holster, as these products will outlast this period of “transitory” inflation. These products will also give you the best bang for your buck–pun intended. I purchased both one year ago, and I have not been happier. Friends and family of mine who carry these holsters can attest to the investment. So, save up, buy once, cry once, and appreciate the fantastic holster that JM4 Tactical makes.

Author: Ian Bolser