I am now the proud owner of a shotgun! In a million years I never thought that I would utter (write) those words. But in a million years I never thought that things would have turned out as they have, and I find more and more lately that this is not the world I hoped it would be....that's a subject for a therapist though....
What can I say. I've been to all of two gun shops in my life, so take this review for what it's worth. I've been thinking about getting a shotgun for about a year now, and finally, last Saturday, I dragged my partner way the heck to BFE to check out a few guns.
Midwest was our first stop, and the younger gentleman who helped us spent more than an hour with us, showing us different models, discussing pros and cons of various gauges, letting me pick up different types of long guns, etc. He knew I was a gun "virgin" and really went above and beyond the call of duty, especially since he knew we were not planning on making a purchase that day. I left feeling a little more knowledgeable about a subject that I previously knew nothing about.
That same day we went to Chuck's Gun Shop in Riverdale. Although the older gentlemen (Chuck?) who helped us was nice enough, he absolutely refused to look at me the whole time we were there. This was despite the fact that I was the only one with a FOID card, and I was the one asking all the questions. It was the strangest thing. I mean, he literally would not even glance my way. Every time I asked a question, he turned to my partner and talked to him. Truthfully, I don't think he meant to be rude, so I didn't take it personally, but it was unsettling, and I knew within 5 minutes that I would be buying from Midwest instead.
In short, I had the opportunity to deal with 4 separate people from Midwest between our first visit, my second visit Monday to actually purchase my weapon (A slightly used Mossberg 500 12 gauge for $200), and again today to pick it up after registering it at CPD headquarters. All were nice, professional, patient, and knowledgeable. I wouldn't hesitate to buy anything I need in the way of weaponry (lol!) from them.
Not being a gun enthusiast, and honestly, not having concerned myself too much with getting the absolute best possible price, I can't speak to how a more sophisticated buyer would rate stock, prices, etc. But for other gun virgins like myself, I imagine you would feel very comfortable.
I should add that you can't use shotguns in their indoor range anymore, and I would have preferred to be able to fire a similar model before making my purchase, but them's the breaks. From what I understand, there is a shooting range in Northbrook, so I'll have to head out there for firearms training classes. read more