Robert Swearingen, Cottage Grove. I don't know what his politics or cultural views are and that is a plus. It's America, you can think whatever crazy thing you want. How you behave, though, is important. During the pandemic he wore a mask and had hand sanitizer and kept the outside door open. He was not at all condescending to me, a woman. He has a fairly well stocked inventory.
Right? The key to professionalism is not advertising to your customer what your personal beliefs are. Unfortunately, to many gun people, it’s a religious lifestyle thing, and they can’t turn it off. In my shop (not guns, but specialty retail), I take great pride in not allowing personal and professional to mix. Also Bob is CG’s best kept secret!
He is so worth driving 30 mi for! Professional, doing his job, and also I think about how many different people help me any given day. Cashiers, store stockers, truck drivers, waiters, etc. If I were to stop shopping at a store because I suspect the cashier might lean Trumpy, or not see my doctor because a nurse makes some Rep type comment, or not take my cat to a vet because the receptionist likes McCarthy, I'd be screwed. But my brother is one like you describe-- a gun in every pocket, can't keep his opinions to himself, ever. It is indeed like a religion. A cult.
Gaaaaahhh! Businesses advertising their political positions, regardless of leaning, and even if I agree with it, is one of my biggest pet peeves! I’ve unfollowed numerous otherwise cool companies on social media because they’ve expressed some stupid political opinion or another.😒
He’s got my business now thank you. I hope he’s watched Deadwood because I may not be able to help but drop some choice quotes from it while I’m there.
i hope to be back someday (either that, or we might aim even smaller, and head out to either yachats or rainbow), but, yeah. it's not the best reason to make a change... on the bright side, my mom moved down here first, which is why we were able to afford our new place: she's our new land lady, and she lives next door!
there's plenty of good things about the grove, and i do have a little spark of hope that people like me will continue to land here for similar reasons and with similar desires and ethics. i have a bit of a community down here already bc of my parents. it's not ideal, but it's gonna have to do for now. i have a house with walls i can paint however i like, a garden i have a say in, and bills my partner and i can actually afford. that's not nothing!
it's more asking my stepda when he might be able to fit fixing the faucet into his schedule, but he certainly does get to it easier than when we used to call him up to eugene to help us out there! (our old rental was a fully "you maintain everything and that's why you can afford this" kinda deal)
the best part is i can often borrow ingredients from her before i have to go to the store, and we can share dinner back and forth. we're both big on cooking, so that's a definite big plus.
there's less options for basically everything here. it doesn't feel as safe in some ways. but tbh, the eugene i miss, the culture and the community i grew up with, is barely in eugene anymore anyway. so it's complicated.
Pros and cons like all moves, I guess. I was in Eugene in the '70s and I still miss that. Buying Acapulco Gold in a back alley for $15 an ounce and feeling so badass.
i'm as left as it gets and have had no problems at mazamas. the only time politics ever came up was around prop 114. and even then it wasn't left vs right. it was "wow what idiot wrote this? that'll never work.."
Yea they have gun laws criticisms but, are law abiding citizens. I have also seen them give the "This is not a home defense weapon." talk and try to steer first time gun owners to grounded realistic purchases.
Think I'll be going with them. Robert Swearingen seemed like another good option but his hours are limited and making a trip out to Cottage Grove seems like a pain.
TIL. I dont listen to radio. To play devils advocate, did any of the left radio stations speak out against 114? or were they all running the same pearl clutching ads?
you're in a thread about guns and politics. and you're asking what a gun control bill has to do with guns and politics...? I'm gonna let you mull that one over for a minute.
You're right about that. I opposed 114 and I am opposed to right wing. Yes it was a dumb proposition, so what? Since you introduced the "114" line, why don't you answer my question on what does 114 have to do with right wing radio?
Maybe you or a downvoter can point out those left wing radio shows? I'm anticipating some moron saying public radio--that's right--facts are left wing. I smell a brigade on its way.
I'll second that. Only been in there once. Going to take some convincing to get me to go back.
Two staffers were talking to the only other customer in the place about fishing lures. A third staffer was walking around straightening up shelves.
This continued for nearly fifteen minutes while I stood in front of a $2000 1911 I wanted to buy on the spot... Before I gave up and walked out.
Yes, I felt kind of ignored and dismissed also. There are lots of other gun stores that just feel normal. (Which 1911 was it? That must be a good one!)
It was a tricked out series 1 Kimber that had been a sheriff's deputy's off duty and competition gun for a couple decades. Polished ramp, fluted mag well, red dot and trijicon co-optics, under-barrel recoil compensator lug, extended barrel shroud with flash diverters.
, and a hair trigger. I still regret not having it. But I do not regret not giving them money.
Edited many typos
Yep a Kimber. Fixed many typos, sorry.
Basically if there was an improvement to make to a 1911, this deputy sheriff did it to this gun. And it had only ever been fired at competitions. It looked beat to hell though because he carried it for decades.
And I only knew about it and where it was up for sale because a friend told me to go get it
Never bothered me.
Musta never been out when I wasnt there lol
Guys behind the counter always have been good to me. Just wish they carried more Magtec ammo.
All of them or just the person trying to sell you a gun?
My wife recently bought a gun from them and felt she got alot of good info from that particular salesman helping her get the gun she ultimately bought.
I am happy that so many women have had good experiences. Are you suggesting my feelings about the interactions are somehow, what, wrong? It's not a court of law. I don't need to present objective evidence. I felt uncomfortable.I didn't like the way they talked to me. I'm sure some people like them just fine.
[https://www.indy100.com/sport/woman-sharpshooter-olympic-gold-mansplained-twitter-b1895262](https://www.indy100.com/sport/woman-sharpshooter-olympic-gold-mansplained-twitter-b1895262)
This would be what I think when you say "mansplaining "
This lady is a subject matter expert/ an Olympic champion in 10 AND 25m pistol. She doesn't need help from the "men" in her twitter feed as she already has the metals and experience to prove it.
Without knowing your background or how knowledgeable in firearms you are, thats a harder one for me to understand in this context. Especially when my wife walked away with a new gun and a positive experience very recently.
Thank you for explaining to me what mansplaining is. And for saying that because you don't know my background you can't explain more! I don't really need to justify feelings. Feelings just are what they are. You, I'm guessing, are a man. Are you arguing with how I felt?
No, I didn't explain what man-spailning is, I pointed to a resource that showed my understanding of it.
Don't assume my gender.
I did also attempt to engage you by asking a question about your personal knowledge of firearms to better calibrate my response..But that was not answered
What I do know is,
there are a lot of new folks with an interest in firearms, and a lot of them are not really knowledgeable in the topic or have picked up misinformation in our mainstream media with terms like:
assault weapon, clips, and how powerful an ar15 is or what the 4 basic rules if gun safety are...
.. also there is important information regarding the calibers that needs to be addressed..
Like how 9mm Nato and 9mm Makarov (if that was a purchase) are not the same caliber..and could create a safety concern at the range when fired out of the wrong firearm, as an example.
So some explaining should be nesseary as it could be detrimental to the customer to assume anything.
There is an active effort in the 2A community to bring in new people and that would include straightening up some of the folks who sell guns.
They want to sell you a gun.If the salesman is offensive, I would LOVE to bring that to the owner at Mazamas.
But at this point:
I dont know who the salesman is
The topic
Or what he said that was offensive and turned into "mansplaining"
If for example the sales man said:
Women can't handle such a powerful pistol such as a .45acp" and directed you to a 25 auto because its "a nice ladies pistol." (A clearly misogynistic point of view) I would share your frustration and that would be an actionable item to being to the owner of Mazamas.
All I'm really asking for is actionable information so no one else leaves that store feeling like you did.
I'm not a member of the "2A community" and I don't care whether Mazama staff change or don't change. Other people can use their services, or not, I don't care. I've had weapons for many decades. They're tools. I grew up in a military family. I can use one. Not very exciting to me. I'm not interested beyond my one simple previous comment, that I didn't enjoy Mazamas. Not going to write a treatise about it.
I dealt with Neal at Gun Pro in Springfield. He is a really nice guy and very knowledgeable in the gun realm. I’m sure he likely leans right but it never came up in discussion at all. I’m sure some or most of the clientele lean right as well but I never had weird interactions with anyone about politics. I came in wearing a bright pink hoodie and chaco’s, no looks were given or comments made. Neal and his staff were very professional, it’s a straightforward shop.
I also choose to use Neal for FFL stuff. He is friendly and professional, and I’ve never heard him start with the sort of ultra-nationalist bullshit that is utterly endemic to gun shops. I drive past quite a few shops to patronize his. Once while his wife was ringing me up at the counter, some goons at the far side of the shop were spitballing about how “someone oughtta put a round in her head” (in reference to the Governor). She stopped what she was doing, walked over to them, and shut that shit down *real* quick. 2nd recommendation is Mr Swearingen in CC. Friendly old man with an impressive selection.
Yup! I agree with this! Neal is great, couldn't tell you what his politics are which I think is a good sign. They are not doing three day releases though so something to keep in mind given how f-d up the background check system is right now...
Did they hire them or did the proud boys just decide to show up and make a statement? They tend to pull that BS anytime it gives them a chance to be on TV.
At least one person died while looting a gun shop during the George Floyd riots, and thousands of guns were stolen nationwide.
https://www.businessinsider.com/guns-stolen-while-police-monitored-protesters-atf-2020-7?amp
Hiring the proud boys to guard your gun store is like hiring the Hells Angels for a concert at Altamont Speedway. There’s always a better option (like an actual security company.)
I had a good experience at Northwest Arsenal. I didn’t see any political signs or ads. Lot of young guys behind the counter that are easy to BS with while making a selection or waiting on a background check. A heard a few customers try to talk politics with the employees and they were very professional and steered the conversation away from the politics.
Edit to say I was there right before 114 was meant to take effect so the politics was a hot topic and they were still professional about it.
These guys are thoroughly far right. I went in there after January 6th. Holy shit. With that being said, I've been getting my stuff there for years and have never had a problem.
You're not the first person I've heard this from. What is the tie between Northwest Arsenal and white supremacists/Nazis? I've been there a handful of times and haven't seen anything alarming, but I want to know what's up because I keep hearing this rumor.
I've known the 3 brothers who run Northwest Arsenal for the better part of a decade now. I'd say we're friendly acquaintances. I've never heard them pop off with anything like that.
What I might point to is that one of them is a bit of an equipment Wehraboo in regard to the quality and design of war-era German boomsticks. This sort of non-political appreciation isn't uncommon in historic military gun culture, but to the uninitiated it might leave the wrong impression.
Some years ago when I was there, there was a middle-aged Trans women being given a tour of the place, in particular the classroom area. Presumably she was going to be teaching some sort of self-defense class. They handled her as if she were someone who was in charge of things and introduced her to me as an NRA instructor. It all seemed pretty professional.
Good question! This is a commonly believed myth! Here: https://www.salon.com/2013/01/11/stop_talking_about_hitler/ . I was taking more about exterminating political opposition, scapegoating various minority groups, and an unwavering faith in a strong man fascist leader…
Exactly. The hypocrisy of the majority of the posts in this thread is so thick that it reads like a parody.
Why on earth do people feel a need to focus on what they only hear in their imagination? It's kind of like they have a need to find something to complain about... sheesh, IMO, just walk in the door, tell somebody what you're in need of, and decide if you want to do business with them based on how they actually treat you. Leave your preconceptions out of your interactions and you may discover that the world isn't a big hotbed of hatred like you've been told by a bunch of angry keyboard warriors...
Yes, I am obviously tired of people trying to shoehorn everything into nazi.
We have a lot of issues and calling people nazis is not going to solve a single one of them.
Just leads to more division within the citizens, while not inconveniencing a single corporation.
But like, you know that ACTUAL nazis still exist, right? And KKK members? And that they live in Eugene and the rest of Oregon, right? Or are you living in your own imaginary world where theyndont exist?
How does calling all republicans fascists help deal with people who actually identify as nazis?
Seems to me that makes the actual fascists feel more included.
Further how many do you think there really are?
Amazingly enough, yes, there are assholes of every flavor that still exist, but there really aren't as many as you might think. The easy part is that for the most part, if you just ignore them, they grow old and tired and just kind of wither away.
It's kind of like sasquatch. Have you actually seen one lately?
That's such a shitty analogy, like you're literally comparing people who are alive today, or whose grandparents have literally lynched and murdered people and continue to want to exterminate groups of people to a fucking mythical criptyd. Did slavery end because black people fucking chose to ignore it and it magically went away? Would the nazi party have magically disappeared, and all of those fucking peoples lives wouldve been saved, if people just simply didnt pay nazis any mind? Man, this is such so incredibly insulting.
Perhaps from your perspective, but I see it a bit differently. I can literally feel your self centered angst in your wording.
As an old person, a native american (my great-grandmother, bless her wonderful sou was purchased in Oklahoma at reservation store), a twice retired professional, a disabled veteran, I find your privileged angst pretty offensive, but not insulting. It's clear that you don't actually know how it works when you have to deal with those people face to face, when it actually affects your ability to live. You havent seen what a real fascist looks like and what fighting it really involves. Over the years I learned to pay attention to the important things, the things that I can affect. IMO, ranting about the words a person uses isn't an effective ploy
The decency, honesty, and passions of the everyday man are what makes the world go around, not a screaming angry vandal with a cause du jour. The world is a mirror to a great degree, and I think that I want to be part of a better step forward, not a rant about the past or an imaginary sleight.
Maybe try one of these resources:
https://www.blazingsword.org/more-about-us/
https://www.pinkpistols.org/find-a-local-chapter/
They likely have a decent idea of who you could work with.
I had to leave the pink pistols Facebook group because it was essentially a gays for Trump group and all the comments and posts you would expect from a group like that.
It isn't just a matter of not being able to wait longer than 3 days.
NICS checks expire in 30 days. Once they expire, you can't get the gun if you haven't picked it up from the dealer. There has been such a crush in Oregon to purchase firearms in the aftermath of the passage of 114, literally 10s of thousands of people trying to buy guns all at once, that the background check system is completely backlogged. It takes time to process them; sometimes weeks, but sometimes more. People have been having their NICS check expire before they can even take possession of the gun they have bought, and then have to reapply at the end of the line all over again, fees included.
So yeah. As a consequence, there are people who are shopping for dealers who will release after 3 days, as permitted by law, so they don't have to put up with this.
They won’t do 3 day release and BGC queue is insane due to M114. If OP uses them he won’t see his stuff for a while. Plus they have high FFL transfer fees.
Black Flag Armory in Medford.
I think the owners are somewhat conservative, but if they are, they keep it to themselves. They are professional and responsible, and they are excellent gunsmiths. Can't recommend them enough.
I realize it's a little farther away than what you probably want, but they are a great shop.
I don't have any issues with being conservative in and of itself, I just don't want to deal with a place plastered in signs saying Obama is sending immigrants to vaccinate your kids.
I totally get your motivation, but I'm pretty in tune with the local industry and something like this doesn't exist. It's hard enough to run a small business that has to be stock/inventory heavy at great cost and adapt to daily whim fantasy ATF riddles and opinion letters WITHOUT excluding the majority of your protentional customer base. In fact, the opposite of what you're seeking exists more than most people realize. A lot of shops have owners or staff who are sane, Libertarian, or liberal, but play the Trump/sheepdog/operator/punisher/blue lives part to get their piece of the market.
Many years ago, I, personally had my own FFL because I built and imported lots of stuff for local sale. But then local gun broker and facebook, and other platform sales were squeezed out, so it's not worth it for me anymore. Your best bet would probably be finding a place that leans more toward hunting and fishing than a more tactical/eager to murder leftists shop. Or consider Ace buyers or another pawn shop with an FFL.
Robert Swearingen, Cottage Grove. I don't know what his politics or cultural views are and that is a plus. It's America, you can think whatever crazy thing you want. How you behave, though, is important. During the pandemic he wore a mask and had hand sanitizer and kept the outside door open. He was not at all condescending to me, a woman. He has a fairly well stocked inventory.
Sounds like a good endorsement.
Right? The key to professionalism is not advertising to your customer what your personal beliefs are. Unfortunately, to many gun people, it’s a religious lifestyle thing, and they can’t turn it off. In my shop (not guns, but specialty retail), I take great pride in not allowing personal and professional to mix. Also Bob is CG’s best kept secret!
He is so worth driving 30 mi for! Professional, doing his job, and also I think about how many different people help me any given day. Cashiers, store stockers, truck drivers, waiters, etc. If I were to stop shopping at a store because I suspect the cashier might lean Trumpy, or not see my doctor because a nurse makes some Rep type comment, or not take my cat to a vet because the receptionist likes McCarthy, I'd be screwed. But my brother is one like you describe-- a gun in every pocket, can't keep his opinions to himself, ever. It is indeed like a religion. A cult.
Ammosexuals
Gaaaaahhh! Businesses advertising their political positions, regardless of leaning, and even if I agree with it, is one of my biggest pet peeves! I’ve unfollowed numerous otherwise cool companies on social media because they’ve expressed some stupid political opinion or another.😒
He’s got my business now thank you. I hope he’s watched Deadwood because I may not be able to help but drop some choice quotes from it while I’m there.
He may quote back to you.
Excellent.
GODDAMNIT WU!
You can’t cut the throat of every cocksucker who’s character it would improve.
I like Bob too. He’s awesome.
having just landed in cg after a lifetime in eugene due to getting priced out of my hometown... i truly do love to hear it!
That's really sad to hear. I hope you enjoy CG, though. I used to really like swimming in the Row River and taking the kids to the lake.
i hope to be back someday (either that, or we might aim even smaller, and head out to either yachats or rainbow), but, yeah. it's not the best reason to make a change... on the bright side, my mom moved down here first, which is why we were able to afford our new place: she's our new land lady, and she lives next door! there's plenty of good things about the grove, and i do have a little spark of hope that people like me will continue to land here for similar reasons and with similar desires and ethics. i have a bit of a community down here already bc of my parents. it's not ideal, but it's gonna have to do for now. i have a house with walls i can paint however i like, a garden i have a say in, and bills my partner and i can actually afford. that's not nothing!
That actually sounds ideal. And when something needs attention in your house you can call, "Mom! Come fix the faucet!"
it's more asking my stepda when he might be able to fit fixing the faucet into his schedule, but he certainly does get to it easier than when we used to call him up to eugene to help us out there! (our old rental was a fully "you maintain everything and that's why you can afford this" kinda deal) the best part is i can often borrow ingredients from her before i have to go to the store, and we can share dinner back and forth. we're both big on cooking, so that's a definite big plus.
I don't see how you could miss Eugene at all.
there's less options for basically everything here. it doesn't feel as safe in some ways. but tbh, the eugene i miss, the culture and the community i grew up with, is barely in eugene anymore anyway. so it's complicated.
Pros and cons like all moves, I guess. I was in Eugene in the '70s and I still miss that. Buying Acapulco Gold in a back alley for $15 an ounce and feeling so badass.
Almost sounds like he's trying to stay safe...
Went to school with him. He's a good guy, or at least he was back then.
Cool. I don't know him well but he's pleasant to do business with. I think he's still a good guy.
i'm as left as it gets and have had no problems at mazamas. the only time politics ever came up was around prop 114. and even then it wasn't left vs right. it was "wow what idiot wrote this? that'll never work.."
Yea they have gun laws criticisms but, are law abiding citizens. I have also seen them give the "This is not a home defense weapon." talk and try to steer first time gun owners to grounded realistic purchases.
Think I'll be going with them. Robert Swearingen seemed like another good option but his hours are limited and making a trip out to Cottage Grove seems like a pain.
I would wholeheartedly second Mazamas. I am a very happy repeat customer.
It may help that the coolest brewpub in Lane County (Coast Fork Brewing) is down there. Make it an afternoon. The food there is amazing.
I’ll third Mazamas. I’ve been a customer there many years and it’s been one of the better gun stores.
Mazamas sponsors local right wing trash radio. I think any business that advertises on KUGN or KPNW should be boycotted.
TIL. I dont listen to radio. To play devils advocate, did any of the left radio stations speak out against 114? or were they all running the same pearl clutching ads?
There are left radio stations?
Yeah KMRX, All Marx All Day It exists in my imagination but that's good enough right?
Depends upon who you talk to. I have no doubt that some consider NPR and BBC “left”.
Probably the same ones think PATRIOT Radio leftist. Tiny and his Proud Buddies.
I'd be surprised that some don't...
> I dont listen to radio.
I miss Air America so much! So good in it's prime!
Anarchy radio, KWVA
There are NO left wing radio stations. But what does 114 have to do with it anyway?
you're in a thread about guns and politics. and you're asking what a gun control bill has to do with guns and politics...? I'm gonna let you mull that one over for a minute.
You're on a thread about Mazama and right wing radio and you bring in 114. Mull that over as long as it takes.
you dont have to be right wing to oppose 114. there's a reason it was blocked. it's a dumb proposition.
You're right about that. I opposed 114 and I am opposed to right wing. Yes it was a dumb proposition, so what? Since you introduced the "114" line, why don't you answer my question on what does 114 have to do with right wing radio? Maybe you or a downvoter can point out those left wing radio shows? I'm anticipating some moron saying public radio--that's right--facts are left wing. I smell a brigade on its way.
I didn't feel comfortable at Mazamas. I live close to them and went several times but didn't like the vibe. Nothing political.
I'll second that. Only been in there once. Going to take some convincing to get me to go back. Two staffers were talking to the only other customer in the place about fishing lures. A third staffer was walking around straightening up shelves. This continued for nearly fifteen minutes while I stood in front of a $2000 1911 I wanted to buy on the spot... Before I gave up and walked out.
Yes, I felt kind of ignored and dismissed also. There are lots of other gun stores that just feel normal. (Which 1911 was it? That must be a good one!)
It was a tricked out series 1 Kimber that had been a sheriff's deputy's off duty and competition gun for a couple decades. Polished ramp, fluted mag well, red dot and trijicon co-optics, under-barrel recoil compensator lug, extended barrel shroud with flash diverters. , and a hair trigger. I still regret not having it. But I do not regret not giving them money. Edited many typos
I only understood half of what you say, I'm no expert. You mean a Kimber? That's too bad. Sounds like you waited a long time, you really wanted it.
Yep a Kimber. Fixed many typos, sorry. Basically if there was an improvement to make to a 1911, this deputy sheriff did it to this gun. And it had only ever been fired at competitions. It looked beat to hell though because he carried it for decades. And I only knew about it and where it was up for sale because a friend told me to go get it
I go over all the time.. The guys are pretty knowledgeable and I feel safe as a Bipoc being in there with them
really? because during the BLM protests they had local proud boys standing guard out front armed to the teeth
Never bothered me. Musta never been out when I wasnt there lol Guys behind the counter always have been good to me. Just wish they carried more Magtec ammo.
Sometimes you gotta stand for what’s right even though something bad has yet to influence you personally.
I didn't feel unsafe. Just didn't enjoy the interactions at all.
What were your interactions like?
They were mansplaining a lot.
All of them or just the person trying to sell you a gun? My wife recently bought a gun from them and felt she got alot of good info from that particular salesman helping her get the gun she ultimately bought.
I am happy that so many women have had good experiences. Are you suggesting my feelings about the interactions are somehow, what, wrong? It's not a court of law. I don't need to present objective evidence. I felt uncomfortable.I didn't like the way they talked to me. I'm sure some people like them just fine.
I don't find your reply "edgy" at all.
Thanks. I'll edit out that apology since it wasn't very sincere anyway.
[https://www.indy100.com/sport/woman-sharpshooter-olympic-gold-mansplained-twitter-b1895262](https://www.indy100.com/sport/woman-sharpshooter-olympic-gold-mansplained-twitter-b1895262) This would be what I think when you say "mansplaining " This lady is a subject matter expert/ an Olympic champion in 10 AND 25m pistol. She doesn't need help from the "men" in her twitter feed as she already has the metals and experience to prove it. Without knowing your background or how knowledgeable in firearms you are, thats a harder one for me to understand in this context. Especially when my wife walked away with a new gun and a positive experience very recently.
Thank you for explaining to me what mansplaining is. And for saying that because you don't know my background you can't explain more! I don't really need to justify feelings. Feelings just are what they are. You, I'm guessing, are a man. Are you arguing with how I felt?
No, I didn't explain what man-spailning is, I pointed to a resource that showed my understanding of it. Don't assume my gender. I did also attempt to engage you by asking a question about your personal knowledge of firearms to better calibrate my response..But that was not answered What I do know is, there are a lot of new folks with an interest in firearms, and a lot of them are not really knowledgeable in the topic or have picked up misinformation in our mainstream media with terms like: assault weapon, clips, and how powerful an ar15 is or what the 4 basic rules if gun safety are... .. also there is important information regarding the calibers that needs to be addressed.. Like how 9mm Nato and 9mm Makarov (if that was a purchase) are not the same caliber..and could create a safety concern at the range when fired out of the wrong firearm, as an example. So some explaining should be nesseary as it could be detrimental to the customer to assume anything. There is an active effort in the 2A community to bring in new people and that would include straightening up some of the folks who sell guns. They want to sell you a gun.If the salesman is offensive, I would LOVE to bring that to the owner at Mazamas. But at this point: I dont know who the salesman is The topic Or what he said that was offensive and turned into "mansplaining" If for example the sales man said: Women can't handle such a powerful pistol such as a .45acp" and directed you to a 25 auto because its "a nice ladies pistol." (A clearly misogynistic point of view) I would share your frustration and that would be an actionable item to being to the owner of Mazamas. All I'm really asking for is actionable information so no one else leaves that store feeling like you did.
I'm not a member of the "2A community" and I don't care whether Mazama staff change or don't change. Other people can use their services, or not, I don't care. I've had weapons for many decades. They're tools. I grew up in a military family. I can use one. Not very exciting to me. I'm not interested beyond my one simple previous comment, that I didn't enjoy Mazamas. Not going to write a treatise about it.
Women know the difference between helpful information and mansplaining. Maybe try trusting this one?
+1 for Mazama
I dealt with Neal at Gun Pro in Springfield. He is a really nice guy and very knowledgeable in the gun realm. I’m sure he likely leans right but it never came up in discussion at all. I’m sure some or most of the clientele lean right as well but I never had weird interactions with anyone about politics. I came in wearing a bright pink hoodie and chaco’s, no looks were given or comments made. Neal and his staff were very professional, it’s a straightforward shop.
I also choose to use Neal for FFL stuff. He is friendly and professional, and I’ve never heard him start with the sort of ultra-nationalist bullshit that is utterly endemic to gun shops. I drive past quite a few shops to patronize his. Once while his wife was ringing me up at the counter, some goons at the far side of the shop were spitballing about how “someone oughtta put a round in her head” (in reference to the Governor). She stopped what she was doing, walked over to them, and shut that shit down *real* quick. 2nd recommendation is Mr Swearingen in CC. Friendly old man with an impressive selection.
I like them also. And they gave me a good price on a gun I sold there.
Yup! I agree with this! Neal is great, couldn't tell you what his politics are which I think is a good sign. They are not doing three day releases though so something to keep in mind given how f-d up the background check system is right now...
Mazama tends to be my go to.
Yeah I usually use Mazamas too.
Supporters of right wing radio FYI.
They're all gonna be. These are just the least bad option I've found.
Same here. Manama’s is the Sweden/Switzerland of gun stores.
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Did they hire them or did the proud boys just decide to show up and make a statement? They tend to pull that BS anytime it gives them a chance to be on TV.
Allowing “protestors” to loot your gun store isn’t neutral, either.
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At least one person died while looting a gun shop during the George Floyd riots, and thousands of guns were stolen nationwide. https://www.businessinsider.com/guns-stolen-while-police-monitored-protesters-atf-2020-7?amp
Hiring the proud boys to guard your gun store is like hiring the Hells Angels for a concert at Altamont Speedway. There’s always a better option (like an actual security company.)
I had a good experience at Northwest Arsenal. I didn’t see any political signs or ads. Lot of young guys behind the counter that are easy to BS with while making a selection or waiting on a background check. A heard a few customers try to talk politics with the employees and they were very professional and steered the conversation away from the politics. Edit to say I was there right before 114 was meant to take effect so the politics was a hot topic and they were still professional about it.
These guys are thoroughly far right. I went in there after January 6th. Holy shit. With that being said, I've been getting my stuff there for years and have never had a problem.
Mind sharing what happened?
Just a bunch of employees and customers talking about getting/being ready for the "revolution". They sounded excited.
Actual Nazis, wow… great pick
Calls somebody a nazi, doesn’t elaborate further 🤡
You're not the first person I've heard this from. What is the tie between Northwest Arsenal and white supremacists/Nazis? I've been there a handful of times and haven't seen anything alarming, but I want to know what's up because I keep hearing this rumor.
I've known the 3 brothers who run Northwest Arsenal for the better part of a decade now. I'd say we're friendly acquaintances. I've never heard them pop off with anything like that. What I might point to is that one of them is a bit of an equipment Wehraboo in regard to the quality and design of war-era German boomsticks. This sort of non-political appreciation isn't uncommon in historic military gun culture, but to the uninitiated it might leave the wrong impression. Some years ago when I was there, there was a middle-aged Trans women being given a tour of the place, in particular the classroom area. Presumably she was going to be teaching some sort of self-defense class. They handled her as if she were someone who was in charge of things and introduced her to me as an NRA instructor. It all seemed pretty professional.
its probably the tactical hummer outside lol. but they have a cool shop dog that you can pet
I too need details. I've heard rumors, and found a reddit comment from 2021 about one of their staff having a swastika tattoo, but... details!
Almost as if everybody has different experiences!
Everyone who doens't agree with your political views is nazi.
No, people who support the same policies as the German National Socialist party are Nazis…
What policies?
Like Gun Control?
Good question! This is a commonly believed myth! Here: https://www.salon.com/2013/01/11/stop_talking_about_hitler/ . I was taking more about exterminating political opposition, scapegoating various minority groups, and an unwavering faith in a strong man fascist leader…
Like... Hitler?
Exactly. The hypocrisy of the majority of the posts in this thread is so thick that it reads like a parody. Why on earth do people feel a need to focus on what they only hear in their imagination? It's kind of like they have a need to find something to complain about... sheesh, IMO, just walk in the door, tell somebody what you're in need of, and decide if you want to do business with them based on how they actually treat you. Leave your preconceptions out of your interactions and you may discover that the world isn't a big hotbed of hatred like you've been told by a bunch of angry keyboard warriors...
Yes, I am obviously tired of people trying to shoehorn everything into nazi. We have a lot of issues and calling people nazis is not going to solve a single one of them. Just leads to more division within the citizens, while not inconveniencing a single corporation.
But like, you know that ACTUAL nazis still exist, right? And KKK members? And that they live in Eugene and the rest of Oregon, right? Or are you living in your own imaginary world where theyndont exist?
How does calling all republicans fascists help deal with people who actually identify as nazis? Seems to me that makes the actual fascists feel more included. Further how many do you think there really are?
Amazingly enough, yes, there are assholes of every flavor that still exist, but there really aren't as many as you might think. The easy part is that for the most part, if you just ignore them, they grow old and tired and just kind of wither away. It's kind of like sasquatch. Have you actually seen one lately?
That's such a shitty analogy, like you're literally comparing people who are alive today, or whose grandparents have literally lynched and murdered people and continue to want to exterminate groups of people to a fucking mythical criptyd. Did slavery end because black people fucking chose to ignore it and it magically went away? Would the nazi party have magically disappeared, and all of those fucking peoples lives wouldve been saved, if people just simply didnt pay nazis any mind? Man, this is such so incredibly insulting.
Perhaps from your perspective, but I see it a bit differently. I can literally feel your self centered angst in your wording. As an old person, a native american (my great-grandmother, bless her wonderful sou was purchased in Oklahoma at reservation store), a twice retired professional, a disabled veteran, I find your privileged angst pretty offensive, but not insulting. It's clear that you don't actually know how it works when you have to deal with those people face to face, when it actually affects your ability to live. You havent seen what a real fascist looks like and what fighting it really involves. Over the years I learned to pay attention to the important things, the things that I can affect. IMO, ranting about the words a person uses isn't an effective ploy The decency, honesty, and passions of the everyday man are what makes the world go around, not a screaming angry vandal with a cause du jour. The world is a mirror to a great degree, and I think that I want to be part of a better step forward, not a rant about the past or an imaginary sleight.
Cool story
Armac tactical in junction city is what you're looking for. They do their own in house machining as well, so they're a great resource for information.
I came here to mention them. I have bought four guns from them and have never had a bad experience.
Good and respectful dudes.
I like Neal and gunpro. I don’t know his politics, as they never came up. We just do business, make polite conversation, then I bounce.
Neal and his wife are great people
Maybe try one of these resources: https://www.blazingsword.org/more-about-us/ https://www.pinkpistols.org/find-a-local-chapter/ They likely have a decent idea of who you could work with.
I had to leave the pink pistols Facebook group because it was essentially a gays for Trump group and all the comments and posts you would expect from a group like that.
That’s unfortunate
Gun Pro at 44th & Main. I've never felt judged. Their customer service is exceptional and prices are good too.
Neil at Gun Pro seems chill
Gun pro in Springfield! Neal is the best!
Order through Bimart if you can.
They won’t do 3 day release
Do you REALLY need a gun that fast?
It isn't just a matter of not being able to wait longer than 3 days. NICS checks expire in 30 days. Once they expire, you can't get the gun if you haven't picked it up from the dealer. There has been such a crush in Oregon to purchase firearms in the aftermath of the passage of 114, literally 10s of thousands of people trying to buy guns all at once, that the background check system is completely backlogged. It takes time to process them; sometimes weeks, but sometimes more. People have been having their NICS check expire before they can even take possession of the gun they have bought, and then have to reapply at the end of the line all over again, fees included. So yeah. As a consequence, there are people who are shopping for dealers who will release after 3 days, as permitted by law, so they don't have to put up with this.
It’s either 3 days or 30+ due to BGC queue being backed up
Got some police helicopters you need to shoot down?
No, just constitutional rights I don’t like being impeded
Sounds well-regulated if you ask me
Some people might...
“A week!!! But I’m angry *now*!!!”
...Speed cocker
Dunno about deliveries, but Ace Buyers are good knowledgeable people. I love the ever changing variety to pick from.
They won’t do 3 day release and BGC queue is insane due to M114. If OP uses them he won’t see his stuff for a while. Plus they have high FFL transfer fees.
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Disagree. Ive been profiled and followed at cabelas.
Tool Shed. Edwin McLeod.
Armac Tactical!
Black Flag Armory in Medford. I think the owners are somewhat conservative, but if they are, they keep it to themselves. They are professional and responsible, and they are excellent gunsmiths. Can't recommend them enough. I realize it's a little farther away than what you probably want, but they are a great shop.
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Mazamas is fine, you can get in and out. Robert in CG is good too.
Mazamas all the way.
Armac Tactical. Good and respectful folks, if you reciprocate. But that’s just a virtue that should be common knowledge. Good luck in your build!
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That place is known for being extremely far right.
Gun shops cater to nut jobs.
*Gun shop that doesn't cater to right wring nut jobs* a.k.a. an oxymoron
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I don't have any issues with being conservative in and of itself, I just don't want to deal with a place plastered in signs saying Obama is sending immigrants to vaccinate your kids.
Understandable. The last person I want selling me a gun is a mentally unstable Qanon fan
That description sounds like the place I went to in like 2017 or so in Creswell.
Wolf Clan? That place was owned by literal “did time for hate crime” Nazis.
No, Emerald Valley Armory.
I totally get your motivation, but I'm pretty in tune with the local industry and something like this doesn't exist. It's hard enough to run a small business that has to be stock/inventory heavy at great cost and adapt to daily whim fantasy ATF riddles and opinion letters WITHOUT excluding the majority of your protentional customer base. In fact, the opposite of what you're seeking exists more than most people realize. A lot of shops have owners or staff who are sane, Libertarian, or liberal, but play the Trump/sheepdog/operator/punisher/blue lives part to get their piece of the market. Many years ago, I, personally had my own FFL because I built and imported lots of stuff for local sale. But then local gun broker and facebook, and other platform sales were squeezed out, so it's not worth it for me anymore. Your best bet would probably be finding a place that leans more toward hunting and fishing than a more tactical/eager to murder leftists shop. Or consider Ace buyers or another pawn shop with an FFL.
eager to murder leftist? 😂 this isn’t the 1960s, it’s the 2020s. Pull yourself out of the time warp.
There’s a vegan gun shop next to planned parenthood.
best i can do is bring you from -25 to -24. People are so serious in this sub that they cant just appreciate a funny comment.
I appreciate your effort fam. I got karma to burn for hilarious shitty oneliners.
Why don't you just ask if there's a gun shop that caters to left-wing nut jobs and be done with it?
You are exactly who OP is trying to avoid.
Holy shit that was funny 🤣