TexasCHLforum.com

For Austin being a little different than the rest of Texas, I feel like we could do worse than what we have.

McBride's and Cabela's have never had a problem with me fondl.... er handling as many firearms as I care to ask for. Both stores have always had ample personnel behind the counters to facilitate that experience. I'm always cognizant of how difficult it must be for the employees to have what must be 100+ lookers to every one buyer. Staff at both stores have always impressed with their knowledge. Cabelas of course is huge and has plenty beyond just firearms. McBride's has a wider assortment of firearms that anywhere else I've ever been.

I have purchased more than one firearm from Austin Academys, but I don't really go there to look or talk shop. I also haven't purchased anything from them since I became a more discerning gun shopper. Their experience isn't what I'm looking for - back then I wasn't even thinking about the gun buying "experience". Actually, upon reflection, that seems odd, since my first gun purchase was from Academy - you'd think I would have been more enamored then than now. Huh.

I gotta +3 GT Distributors. newTexan, if you haven't been, you gotta go. I've bought guns, ammo, and all variety of accessories from them and always have a great time. I've also had them do work on firearms for me and been pleased with the quality. It's my favorite email list to be on; they have a semiannual clearance event I hate to miss. Their regular prices are good too (sub $400 for new glocks - but they won't sell those to just anyone: http://www.gtdist.com/ProductDetail.asp ... CK-PG17502" onclick="window.open(this.href);return false;). I've only been to the Austin store. It's such an experience, my family is always sure to go when they come to visit from out of town.

I mostly purchase firearms online or from individuals these days and utilize a one-man FFL shop but he doesn't have a storefront.

Speaking of which, OldCannon, do you have a storefront? I'll come see you tomorrow if you do! =)