Get “Fired” Up About This Event!

Our great state has plenty of firearm enthusiasts – whether they’re hunting deer, elk, turkey, duck, or goose, shooting at the rifle range, or skeet shooting. And the weekend of Dec. 22, 2023 they’ll all be packin’ – into a great big gun show!

By Peg Cameron Gill Folks fond of firearms will be goin’ great guns at the Joplin Gun Show, Friday, Dec. 22 and Saturday, Dec. 23 at the VFW Post 534 in Joplin.  RK Shows will have a variety of vendors displaying guns, hunting supplies, military surplus, and outdoor gear. If you’re a gun collector or a hunting enthusiast, you’ll definitely want to set your (gun)sights on attending this show.  Vendors will also be available to teach you, answer your questions, and help you find exactly what you’re looking for. The show hours are Friday from noon to 7 PM, and Saturday from  9 AM to 5 PM. The show will not be open on Sunday. Tickets for adults (ages 13 & up) are $10, while adult VIP tickets are $12.50 (Ensures no line, no wait). Children’s tickets are $4 (ages 6–12), or children’s VIP $6.50 (Ensure no line, no wait). Safety is first at all of RK Shows events, so there will be security and check-in points for the safety of the attendees and vendors. If you’re a gun show newbie, here are a few rules to follow: Respect the signs that are posted. If they tell you at the front gate to check in a gun you’ve brought to sell or trade, do so. If a gun seller’s sign says, “For display only,” or “Please ask before handling,” pay attention. Nothing makes a vendor see red faster than ignoring their posted signs! Always remember the four universal rules of safe gun handling: 1. All firearms are loaded. 2. Do not allow the muzzle to cover (point at) anything you aren’t willing to destroy. 3. Keep your finger off the trigger until your sights are on the target and you are ready to fire. 4. Know your target and what is beyond it. Another gun show must-know? Bring cash. You’ll not only need it to pay the entrance fee (If you didn’t purchase a ticket ahead of time), many sellers don’t accept credit cards. You know the old saying, “Cash is king?” that pretty much sums it up. If you think you might be purchasing a firearm, you’ll need to bring either a gun sock or a lightweight case along with you. You’ll need it to transport the firearm home. Otherwise, you might be forced to buy one at the show to transport the gun home legally. About RK Shows:  RK Shows is one of the largest gun and knife show promoters in the U.S. With over 29 years of experience and a proven track record, RK has gained a reputation for presenting high quality events. By offering more vendors, and variety and consistency at its shows, R.K. is continually increasing the size and quality of its event offerings. So don’t be gun shy! Shoot to attend this show. For interesting and informative articles about hunting in the Show-Me state, click here and here. For hundreds more events, visit Missouri Life’s Event Calendar.