Cadet-
Around here in California, gunshops have been shrinking in numbers rapidly for the past 20 or so years.
I do all I can to maintain solid professional relationships with the owners of All the remaining shops I know of or ever visit in this state.
It's very important, and it pays back nicely too.
I know the specialties of each of the local shops, know the ones I want to do business with regularly, and know the tastes of the owners of those shops.
When I'm out looking for or get information on possible opportunities that I know will either make them money, show well in their inventory, or appeal to their personal tastes for their own collections, I do all I can to secure the opportunities and immediately turn them into deals for the shop owners.
Few clients will do this for their dealers, but I know that these guys appreciate the effort, and they look out for my interests too.
It works both ways, and I find that a strong component of honor between me and these guys is not only good for us, but for their clients and for the shooting community. Strong relationships and healthy ventures tend to last.
I want to be on the good side of my local dealers, and I want them and their businesses to stick around here for as long as they can.
--Tinker
