2 points for merchandise selection, and that is it
I am a local who was planning to buy a little conceal carry from one of the local dealers here so I thought I would save a trip to Alamo and stop in to Magnums to check out the operation there. Upon entering, I was really impressed to see a wide selection packed into the little place. Modern firearms to older classics were in stock along with all sorts of holsters and a good selection of ammunition. Prices were about as expected from a small local operation, but I didnt go in there because I thought it was "Cheaper then Dirt". I wanted to support the local gun shops and to hold a few firearms as well as ask some questions before I made a purchase.
I was actually pretty impressed with the place until the gentleman working there started talking to me. He really rubbed me the wrong way. One simple question asking if he had a Ruger EC9 or LC9S turned into a really long and condescending lecture that bounced from why he doesnt like that particular firearm to how he can't compete with online prices for the firearm. After standing there in front of other customers wide eyed at how easily the shop worker (owner?) was set off with one quesiton, I attempted to politely thank the guy for his time and disengage from the lecture, but he wouldn't shut up. In fact he went deeper and louder into his lecture/rant about how online sellers make more money then him while "sitting in their underwear drinking coffee". I finally just walked out and as the door shut behind me, I could still hear him getting his last few words in.
Not being mean, just honest. If said shop worker reads this I hope something is learned and improved upon so it doesn't happen to more customers.
First off: listen more. Talk less. You had no clue what I wanted when you interrupted me in asking my question. The lecture you gave had nothing to do with my question.
Second: giving sought after information is useful. Venting on and/or lecturing a customer is not going to make them buy from you. Customers who buy local are paying for convenience and quality of service. Most should understand you can't compete with online prices.
All the same, I will take my business elsewhere. Daves Gun's was incredibly knowledgeable, helpful, and patient when I visited them recently, having the same goal in mind. The trip to Alamo may be worth it after all. read more