oday’s airguns are not your backyard BB guns of yesteryear. Yes, there still are basic BB guns — the first “firearms” owned by many of today’s adult consumers. These BB guns still introduce thousands to the shooting sports. However, there’s a lot more to the airgun market. The budget-friendly pricing on many airgun models has created a fun and growing segment of the firearms market. Yet many dealers tend to overlook or under-value its potential. Dealers may understand the “youth” and “gateway” factors, but there’s more to consider. For consumers drawn to more serious target shooting or hunting, there is an extensive array of airguns that offer impressive performance, enhanced by advances in technology. The first time a customer sees an air rifle pellet — one traveling in excess of 1,000 feet per second — create a sizable hole in a tin can, the usual reaction is, “Wow! I didn’t know they could do that!” Add to this the ever-growing airsoft market, with its elevated Bryan Hurst, Kittery Trading Post buyer, says the store promotes the fun aspects of airsoft guns. He carries Crosman’s Marine Corpsendorsed Target Kit, which includes two spring-powered airsoft pistols, target and 1,000 rounds of ammunition. T “fun factor,” and this “air” segment of the market is ready-made for profit potential. From airguns that will easily dispatch small varmints to those that can take down a coyote or hog, the impressive inventory carried by Kittery Trading Post (KTP) in Kittery, Maine, caters to this specialized segment of the market. The major retail operation also offers a lot of options for those who enjoy the realistic look, feel and performance of airsoft guns. Bryan Hurst, KTP buyer, explains the store is primarily focused on the introductory or youth segment of the market. This past year, however, he has seen an increase in Kittery’s airgun and airsoft sales to a broader customer base. “It’s great to bring kids in for their first experience with shooting, and then let them work their way up. Of course, we sell a lot of airguns for varmint control, although most of the serious hunting in our area is for larger game,” Hurst said. Crosman, including the Benjamin and Jim Shockey-endorsed models, is KTP’s main brand in airgun and airsoft gun products. They also carry Umarex and Gamo offerings, in addition to popular Daisy models — yes, the Red Ryder and the Pink Fun Rifle Kits are among them. PINPOINT YOUR MARKET 36 NOVEMBER 2013 Subscribe to SI DIGITAL BY GREG STAUNTON www.shootingindustry.com
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