View Full Version : Very Rude/Bad Experience at local Gun Shop yesterday! SW Missouri
First off let me quick say my main firearm is a G22, but this day I was hunting down Walther P22 accessories... This was my experience at EDI Plus Gun Shop in Nixa, MO.
I know that I'm new here but I'm certainly not new to shooting sports growing up with a 26 year veteran of the Olathe, KS police dept as a Father. Yesterday was far and away the worst experience of my life at a gun shop and I'm not one to bad mouth people or a business, but something must be said about EDI Plus Gun shop in Nixa, MO (Kinder Street).
My neighbor and I went in there just to check out his selection of firearms, reloading equipment and ammo prices yesterday after I called to see if he had any P22 Magazines.
First off we were kindly asked upon entry if they help us find anything, to which we replied "No thanks just looking around!"
Later I asked a man behind the counter about the P22 price they had in the case and he kindly told me he didn't work there and yelled over to a group of guys and said "Steve this guy has a question". Someone from the group of doughnut eating bystanders replied with "What do you want?"... Not knowing which one of them spoke (none of them were looking at me) I said "Which one is Steve I didn't see which of you spoke?".
Steve then stepped from out of the group to once again in a rude tone say "The one that just asked you what YOU want!". I quickly apologized and said I didn't see which one spoke. I then proceeded to ask about the P22. Steve gave me the prices but seemed bothered by my question. I thanked him and returned to looking around the store.
While browsing the store I picked up three manufacturer brochures; a S&W, Ruger and lastly a Kimber. I carried them all through the store while continuing to look. Steve then came from behind to counter and said in a loud tone of voice so all his buddies could hear "You called earlier about P22 Mags right!? FUNNY how I figured that out huh?" Steve then returned to the counter after smugly smiling at me and his buddies. At that time I had had enough of his rudeness, thanked him and proceeded to the door, when Steve in an even louder tone of voice yelled from across the shop "Are you taking those magazine from my store?" (meaning the free brochures)
I responded with "Is that okay? They are free bruchures right?".
Steve - "If you think so - thanks for coming in" (again a very rude tone of voice)
My neighbor who had accompanied me turns and says "Are they magazines or brochures?" (they are in fact manufacturer brochures)
Steve then replies in an even louder tone of voice "LOOK I just want people to be nice to me in my store and ASK before they take things - thanks for coming in now GO"
I then again asked "Are they not free? Is this okay"
Steve again replied "Thanks for coming in" (again rude tone of voice).
WE LEFT despite wanting to get into a confrontation with Steve.
Now I understand I was in there asking about a relatively cheap, low caliber firearm but that doesn't give this gun shop owner the right to treat ANYONE like this. Customer, potential customer or NO. VERY Unacceptable and while I very well could have eventually spent a considerable amount of $$$ in this store I will never go back nor will I let any friends ever go there.
The worst part about this for Steve and EDI Plus Gun Shop is that my neighbor that accompanied me, his wife works for a competing gun shop across town and she now knows the way in which we were treated. Do you think she'll ever recommend someone go to his shop? The kicker is that I work for one of the two largest outdoor retailers in the Country (I'm sure if you shop at either of them and you put two and two together with the location you can figure out which one!) and unfortunately for Steve and EDI I come into contact with more than my fare share of hunters, shooters and outdoor enthusiasts and therefore will have the opportunity to tell this story to many a potential customer.
Again I just wanted to share this experience because no one should be treated this way, and if you have the opportunity to shop at a local gun shop in the SW Missouri area I STRONGLY suggest you steer clear of Steve and EDI Plus in Nixa.
Maybe Steve would have been more respectful had I questioned him regarding Glock Accessories or something of a higher caliber, but simply put this was a terrible experience.
Anyone else ever have an experience like this?
No but there is no reason to act like that towards a potential customer. My family owns a couple of liquor stores and I run them because they are nurses at the hospital. This proves the one thing that I always say as a business manager and that is you only have 1 chance to make a good first impression to a potential customer and get their business. You have to treat people the way you want to be treated, its the golden rule. Oh well I am sure that they have ran off more than a few customers with that attitude, and sorry if I got off on some other rant.
Meman5150
02-17-2008, 12:56
I believe that all of us have had bad experiences. Although I have had an experience like that, last I heard the guy that wasn't so nice to me was fired. Hopefully you get the same thing to happen for you.
First off let me quick say my main firearm is a G22, but this day I was hunting down Walther P22 accessories... This was my experience at EDI Plus Gun Shop in Nixa, MO.
I know that I'm new here but I'm certainly not new to shooting sports growing up with a 26 year veteran of the Olathe, KS police dept as a Father. Yesterday was far and away the worst experience of my life at a gun shop and I'm not one to bad mouth people or a business, but something must be said about EDI Plus Gun shop in Nixa, MO (Kinder Street).
My neighbor and I went in there just to check out his selection of firearms, reloading equipment and ammo prices yesterday after I called to see if he had any P22 Magazines.
First off we were kindly asked upon entry if they help us find anything, to which we replied "No thanks just looking around!"
Later I asked a man behind the counter about the P22 price they had in the case and he kindly told me he didn't work there and yelled over to a group of guys and said "Steve this guy has a question". Someone from the group of doughnut eating bystanders replied with "What do you want?"... Not knowing which one of them spoke (none of them were looking at me) I said "Which one is Steve I didn't see which of you spoke?".
Steve then stepped from out of the group to once again in a rude tone say "The one that just asked you what YOU want!". I quickly apologized and said I didn't see which one spoke. I then proceeded to ask about the P22. Steve gave me the prices but seemed bothered by my question. I thanked him and returned to looking around the store.
While browsing the store I picked up three manufacturer brochures; a S&W, Ruger and lastly a Kimber. I carried them all through the store while continuing to look. Steve then came from behind to counter and said in a loud tone of voice so all his buddies could hear "You called earlier about P22 Mags right!? FUNNY how I figured that out huh?" Steve then returned to the counter after smugly smiling at me and his buddies. At that time I had had enough of his rudeness, thanked him and proceeded to the door, when Steve in an even louder tone of voice yelled from across the shop "Are you taking those magazine from my store?" (meaning the free brochures)
I responded with "Is that okay? They are free bruchures right?".
Steve - "If you think so - thanks for coming in" (again a very rude tone of voice)
My neighbor who had accompanied me turns and says "Are they magazines or brochures?" (they are in fact manufacturer brochures)
Steve then replies in an even louder tone of voice "LOOK I just want people to be nice to me in my store and ASK before they take things - thanks for coming in now GO"
I then again asked "Are they not free? Is this okay"
Steve again replied "Thanks for coming in" (again rude tone of voice).
WE LEFT despite wanting to get into a confrontation with Steve.
Now I understand I was in there asking about a relatively cheap, low caliber firearm but that doesn't give this gun shop owner the right to treat ANYONE like this. Customer, potential customer or NO. VERY Unacceptable and while I very well could have eventually spent a considerable amount of $$$ in this store I will never go back nor will I let any friends ever go there.
The worst part about this for Steve and EDI Plus Gun Shop is that my neighbor that accompanied me, his wife works for a competing gun shop across town and she now knows the way in which we were treated. Do you think she'll ever recommend someone go to his shop? The kicker is that I work for one of the two largest outdoor retailers in the Country (I'm sure if you shop at either of them and you put two and two together with the location you can figure out which one!) and unfortunately for Steve and EDI I come into contact with more than my fare share of hunters, shooters and outdoor enthusiasts and therefore will have the opportunity to tell this story to many a potential customer.
Again I just wanted to share this experience because no one should be treated this way, and if you have the opportunity to shop at a local gun shop in the SW Missouri area I STRONGLY suggest you steer clear of Steve and EDI Plus in Nixa.
Maybe Steve would have been more respectful had I questioned him regarding Glock Accessories or something of a higher caliber, but simply put this was a terrible experience.
Anyone else ever have an experience like this?
Going towards Springfield from Branson West, Is this the gunshop on the left hand side of the road in Nexa next to the gas station. Kind of a pawn shop also?
elderboy02
02-17-2008, 13:04
Wow, that guy is a jerk. :steamed: I hope they go out of business with an attitude like that.
No offense, but these matters are impossible to judge with only one side of the story.
No offense, but these matters are impossible to judge with only one side of the story.
Maybe a group of us should drop in and sing a few rounds of kumbiah and ask Steve how he feels about P22s and giving away free literature!
:upeyes:
No offense, but these matters are impossible to judge with only one side of the story.
True, lets assume that a GTer is lying and that a gun shop guy was polite friendly and professional. Thats realistic. :whistling:
Northalius
02-17-2008, 13:30
Maybe a group of us should drop in and sing a few rounds of kumbiah and ask Steve how he feels about P22s and giving away free literature!
:upeyes:
:rofl:
mitchshrader
02-17-2008, 13:31
can't comment on the guy, the incident, but the TREATMENT part, yeah, i know the words and chorus to THAT song.
A very nice gunshop moved out not too long ago, clean, nice guns, fancy cabinets, and a his n' hers atmosphere..
that sucked for friendly. Rudest people that ever ran me out of their store with a pocket full of money TWICE.
First time I was tire kicking with my daughter, and i got irate. one of those slow burns where it TOOK a while but i got peeved. finally walked out after about 15 minutes of cold shoulder.
aight, maybe they had a bad day for some reason. i got over it and went back, 2nd chance, to buy said daughter a gurl gun.
Dear lord, you'ld have thought i was wearing pink shoes and had elton john glasses on, cause i asked for a ladysmith.
a guy HAS THE MONEY and wants to BUY THE GUN in a gunshop, and he's 50 years old and wearing cowboy clothes, ya take his darn money and say what else can i do for ya? ..
ya don't act like he's light footed and might ought to go elsewhere.
or he will. so anyway they went broke enough to move.
jerks. I wound up buying her a 19-3 4", mint. The redhawk .44 mag was too much gun. :)
True, lets assume that a GTer is lying and that a gun shop guy was polite friendly and professional. Thats realistic.
So a complete stranger tells you that your wife is cheating on you. Do you....
A. Pimp slap the stranger
B. Shoot your wife
C. Gather more info
:upeyes::wavey:
teflon-tim
02-17-2008, 13:54
i had a bum laught at me in a local shop b/c i wanted to rent a glock 27. then he told me how GAP and 10mm ammo is just stupid. should have asked him what he 'suggested' and returned laughter :rofl:
So a complete stranger tells you that your wife is cheating on you. Do you....
A. Pimp slap the stranger
B. Shoot your wife
C. Gather more info
:upeyes::wavey:
Im sorry I didnt realize Steve was you BF. :tongueout:
So a complete stranger tells you that your wife is cheating on you. Do you....
A. Pimp slap the stranger
B. Shoot your wife
C. Gather more info
:upeyes::wavey:
Pimp slap the stranger then go home and pimp slap the cheating ***** :cool:
mickdundie
02-17-2008, 14:28
My son lives in Boliver, and if you are interested, he has had nothing but very positive things to say about the guy and employees that work in the gun store in Boliver. If you want me to I will ask him where it is located exactly, and the name of it. They will treat you with the 'customer is always right' respect you deserve.
Sometimes guys in gun shops can be jackasses but it sounds like those morons went out of there way to treat you with disrespect. A lot of that going around everywhere and in the end...he will close from lack of business.
Give your business to folks who deserve it...even if the price is a little high sometimes I buy from our local shop anyways cause they are a good bunch and from time to time they do things for me that they don't have to. Thats what it's all about.
Mick:thumbsup:
Hatred -
No this gun shop cannot be seen frmo 160/13 highway its off of Tracker Road in Nixa, right on Tracker Road (coming from B West) and then right again on Kinder...
I understand this is just my side of the story but I really have no reason to come on here and make stuff up I've got plenty better to do. Personally I'd like to hear reviews about places before I spend money there thats all. Take from it what you will.
In reply to those writing about hearing both sides of the story, and not being there to judge the events for themselves:
It doesn't matter one bit! Any business person should be going out of the way to make customers, even potential customers, happy with the experience of being in their place of business.
This should be true in any business, not just gun shops. My wife called me at the office one day in tears. She was fairly hysterical. She had been at the bank where we have all our personal accounts and my firms business accounts. I only heard her side of the story (granted, after 26 years of marriage, I know her fairly well), but the point was she thought she had been treated like dirt. It doesn't matter what happened at the bank. Anyone there could have seen that she was upset and that should have given someone a clue that at least she felt like she wasn't treated right.
Within the week, I transferred all our accounts, investments, and loans to another bank. We did the same at my firm which ran millions of dollars a year through that bank.
The bottom line: just the fact that this gentleman felt he was being treated badly is a sure sign that the business is not being run right.
That's my two cents.
Warren in Annapolis
mitchshrader
02-17-2008, 15:02
i've noticed it particularly in young businesses, (run by people with not much experience).. that they develop a 'clubhouse' atmosphere sometimes. it's not PARTICULARLY gunshops, it's just that gun folks tend to get peeved quicker and holler louder.
the same kinds of folks in the restaurant business go broke too.
westcoastcop
02-17-2008, 15:21
Not worth getting into a battle of minds with a nitwit! Hope his buddies can rob a few more liquor stores and buy more guns from Steve, cause he will at some point lose his real ****omers!
we all meet someone like that in the gunstore with the people that work there
mine was with a friend that is a phx police officer when we were looking at glock pistol for his girlfriend to carry for her ccw course that she was going to take
the guy behind the counter kept asking us if we need help and we told in a minute we would like to see the m-19-pistol that was in the case we were talking about if the pistol would be the right size for her
the guy came up and ask us where we going to shop or just look around and not buy anything
when saw the badge on the my friend belt i got real helpfull qiuckly and said that they had a lot of just lookers that day instead poeple that wanted to by
we turned around and walk out of the store with out saying a word
he took me to a another gunshop in the area and it was night and day diffence the guy said hi when we came in and said if need anything just yell and he would be there in a minute also said there coffee on the table to help oursleves to it if we wanted any
we talk to the guy behind the counter and we told him what we wanted and he said that was good idea and and give my friend a great deal with pistol and four mags and 200.rds of ammo for certian amount of cash when he found out my friend was a phx officer gave anthor discount on the ammo with throwing in another 100.rds of ammo for personal defense
i say that my friend has a better idea where to get the best serivce around
the gunshop is off the west 27th ave in glendale az iam not sure right where it is my friend was driveing that day when we were out and about have a guys days out when our girlfriends where doing the shoping trip deal
i have to say that there is gunshops and there gunshops that know how to take care of poeple
plus i will not go the shooter world anymore after the way that they treat a friend of mine
i left az in 2004 to take a job with my company in another state
i go back home every now then for the sar show and my friend and his wife now show me the diff in places where we used to go shoot and hunt in the area have grow over with houses
Solesurvivor
02-17-2008, 15:48
Gun shop owners are like every one else. Some are decent, knowledgable people, and willing to work out a fair deal. Others are not decent, know less about guns than my daughter, and out to rip off people as much as they can. I've been to guns shops around the country. I always found the smaller shops located away from major cities to be the best. They may not have the selection, but the do have decency and stand behind their product. The bigger guys try to oversell you on your needs, and are more likely to be ***** wipes because they are only intersted in making an easy score. IE... selling a fully loaded Noveske with Beta mags, and enough accessories to choke the local SWAT team. Owners CAN be the worst of the lot. I have had one here PHX try to upsell me from a Stag AR he had on sale for $725 (only one in stock, and probably advertised to bring in customers) to a loaded LMT with a fully loaded rail,optics, lazers, etc.. for darn near $3500. When I insisted on the Stag, he told me that it actually was sold but they had not taken it off display. The rest of my visits there for my other needs, I was basically ignored. It's better to find a good reliable FFL and order your products from the net, in my opinion. I get most of my stuff on line any more, just to avoid those types of situations.
True, lets assume that a GTer is lying and that a gun shop guy was polite friendly and professional. Thats realistic. :whistling:
Big +1 on that! Most gun shops I have dealt with in New Jersey are incredibly rude and work hard to turn away customers. I will believe the customer almost every time over the gun shop "worker". The gun industry needs improved customer service, no question about it.
carbofan21
02-17-2008, 18:09
this is why i buy mostly over the internet, and have them transferred to a local pawn broker, who appreciates the $20 fee
there's only 1 place in vegas that i will occasionally do business with, because the owners are nice and their prices aren't too bad. but i'll only buy from the owner of the store directly, and not the 3 idiot salespeople they employ
1851coltnavy
02-17-2008, 18:14
Having done business with him for the last 19 years, I can only relate my personal experience with Steve, owns EDI Plus: he sells his wares at a fair price, gives good value for trades, and has gone out of his way to accomodate me when he did not have to do so.
Rarely have I been in his store when he did not have a bunch of customers, with more streaming in the door behind me. I wait my turn, get what I need, and leave satisfied. Steve may seem brutally straightforward to some, but I know him as sincere, honest, and hard-working.
bbeach,
I'm also from Nixa. I have never been to this gun shop(didn't know it was there) but this guy sounds like the same guy who owned Steve's gun shop that used to be located on 160 right before you get into Springfield. A gun shop called 417 is in the same little shopping center that Steve's used to be. It supposedly has a good rep. If this Steve is the same person, he has a reputation in this area of being a real A-hole. He is famous for always having a bunch of cronies hanging out in his store, doing nothing except bs'ing
I bought my last Glock at a place called Leven Gun Works. Its located north of SPG off of hwy 13 near Fantastic Caverns. He is a SPG cop. Its good to see someone else from Nixa on here. Take care.
Wayne
Sovietsky Soyuz
02-17-2008, 18:33
I don't know what it is about gun shops like this, but it seems that I have been in several where the people behind the counters act like you are BOTHERING them, and they are total jerks, and without exception there always seems to be a group of their "cronies" hanging around shooting the bull........but they don't seem too interested in selling anything. It is a wonder how some of them manage to stay in business....Granted, I have worked many gun shows myself, and the "tirekickers" do at times get to be quite annoying, BUT.....you never know which one of those people is walking around with a wad of money burning a hole in his/her pocket, just waiting to buy something. Sometimes you'd be surprised......therefore I think it prudent to treat all of them the way you'd want to be treated. Sometimes the "tirekicker" doesn't buy anything, but lo and behold he comes back with one of his buddies to your table and sure enough, that buddy buys something from you because you were nice enough to answer all the "dumb" questions that were asked of you by the "tirekicker". Grin and bear it, sometimes it pays off, LOL......besides, there is no such thing as a dumb question when it comes to guns, especially from a novice. Sometimes you find a neophyte who is a "fence sitter" and you never know, you might just get a convert who will jump over to our side. I've seen it happen. I try to be as helpful as I can because of this. I want people to have a good impression of gunowners, Lord knows we need all the help we can get!
Sorry I got off on a tangent here, LOL......It just seems like rude treatment seems to be the norm rather than the exception nowadays when it comes to guns shops and gun show vendors...........:upeyes:
James Cox
02-17-2008, 18:49
Gun shop owners are like every one else. Some are decent, knowledgable people, and willing to work out a fair deal. Others are not decent, know less about guns than my daughter, and out to rip off people as much as they can. I've been to guns shops around the country. I always found the smaller shops located away from major cities to be the best. They may not have the selection, but the do have decency and stand behind their product. The bigger guys try to oversell you on your needs, and are more likely to be ***** wipes because they are only intersted in making an easy score. IE... selling a fully loaded Noveske with Beta mags, and enough accessories to choke the local SWAT team. Owners CAN be the worst of the lot. I have had one here PHX try to upsell me from a Stag AR he had on sale for $725 (only one in stock, and probably advertised to bring in customers) to a loaded LMT with a fully loaded rail,optics, lazers, etc.. for darn near $3500. When I insisted on the Stag, he told me that it actually was sold but they had not taken it off display. The rest of my visits there for my other needs, I was basically ignored. It's better to find a good reliable FFL and order your products from the net, in my opinion. I get most of my stuff on line any more, just to avoid those types of situations.
Which shop were you at if you don't mind me asking?
blownhemi
02-17-2008, 18:59
The worst part about this for Steve and EDI Plus Gun Shop is that my neighbor that accompanied me, his wife works for a competing gun shop across town and she now knows the way in which we were treated. Do you think she'll ever recommend someone go to his shop? The kicker is that I work for one of the two largest outdoor retailers in the Country (I'm sure if you shop at either of them and you put two and two together with the location you can figure out which one!) and unfortunately for Steve and EDI I come into contact with more than my fare share of hunters, shooters and outdoor enthusiasts and therefore will have the opportunity to tell this story to many a potential customer.
I've gotta ask. You say your buddy's wife works for a gunshop? Why didn't you just go there? Surely you'd get a better deal and better service in a shop where you know the people that work there.
Then you mention you work for a large outdoors retailer. Do you sell guns there? if so why would you go to another shop?
Poor treatment in gun stores is not unheard of but your story needs a little more explaining I think.
aaronrkelly
02-17-2008, 19:16
I suspect Steve MAY have knew your neighbors wife worked at the other gun store and you were casing his place.
Not condoning his behavior, just shedding some light on a possible reason.
So a complete stranger tells you that your wife is cheating on you. Do you....
A. Pimp slap the stranger
B. Shoot your wife
C. Gather more info
:upeyes::wavey:
All of the above???
Listen, give up the grief!!!! If the gun shop owner was a salesman, he would be selling cars, where he would be making a hell of a lot more money! He probably is "in charge" because his dad is out for lunch! So instead of getting pi__ed off, work him. Learn what makes him be your friend (this could be your hang up) work him to be your friend and get that gun at a great deal! Take your emotions out of the purchase and you will have the upper hand to get what you want!
OR
Maybe he just sized you up right and you were there to just jerk him off!!!
What do you think???????:rofl::rofl:
what a prick, you shouldnt be treated like that, especially if you are a customer looking to purchase somthing. I live in MO but up farther north, right by Columbia. I hope you can find a better gun shop, I wouldnt ever go back to that one!!!!!
I would but go early when they first open maby his friends want be there and deal with him one on one then I would buy a new handgun a p22 mag and then say well if you would have not acted like that the other day I would have bought it then or maby more later on but I will never shop here again if I'm going to be treated like Sh**. with poor customer service.
I thought the only jerks were in the Bullet Stop in Wichita. That place is just as bad or worst. I used to go there for years but after the current owner bought it, it has gone down hill. The people that work there are rude at best. I spent 20 minutes in there looking at guns in the cases and reloading supplies and the "help" saw me but never asked to help or even cared I was there. I've spent alot of money in that place but never again. The last time I bought a gun from them, they could have cared less. When I finally got someone to wait on me and told them I wanted to buy a gun the reply was," let's see if you can pass a background check", then after it went through he says, "how many more can we sell you". I paid my money and left, never to return. They are not good for the gun industry and salesman there not. I know several people that justed to be long time customers that will never return as well. Good thing Gander Mountian came to town.
ArodJohns
02-17-2008, 21:14
So a complete stranger tells you that your wife is cheating on you. Do you....
A. Pimp slap the stranger
B. Shoot your wife
C. Gather more info
:upeyes::wavey:
Been there, done that. I even have the T-shirt.
I gathered more info, and then promptly vacated the side of the state to avoid any violent out bursts. :supergrin:
4095fanatic
02-17-2008, 21:27
I posted on my Missouri board, I'll see if I can get some answers.
gladiator
02-17-2008, 21:35
I bet you never see the Anti-Gun people like the Brady Bunch act like this STEVE fellow , this is an example why us gunowners are losing an the anti-Gun people are winning because they stick together and there are no steve's around the Brady Bunch.
Rally Vincent
02-17-2008, 21:38
Rude slobs in a gunshop? No kiddin....
hey blownhemi
My buddys wife's shop isn't open on Saturdays and he didn't have any Walther stuff. I wasn't in the gun shop to buy a Walther - as I had just bought a P22 Friday evening. I was merely looking for extra magazines but knew from the phone call that Steve didn't have them in stock. Really we just wanted to check out his store and see what he had since it was close to our homes and we could shop there when we needed things - ammo -etc.
Yes I work for a large outdoor retailer (Well I work for their corporate office) but in this particular case they were overpriced on the P22 and they didn't have any accessories or extra magazines either.
Hope that explains my situation better.
And AaronKelly there's really no way Steve could have known my neighbor or put him together with his wife from the competing gun store. And even if he did we weren't in there being threatening. I was honestly in there seeing what he had for future purchases.
This evening I spoke with a coworker who's lived in the Springfield area all his life and he knew Steve right off the bat and has also had similar dealings with him and his rudeness.
sparky241
02-17-2008, 21:43
So a complete stranger tells you that your wife is cheating on you. Do you....
A. Pimp slap the stranger
B. Shoot your wife
C. Gather more info
:upeyes::wavey:
D all of the above:supergrin: J/k
Was that shop in the Ozarks? Did you hear Dueling Banjos in the background; or a pig squealing?
Stay away from that store!!
Trust No One:ufo::ufo:
Nixa... no dueling banjos just aholes...
jonusmcg
02-17-2008, 22:06
Personally, I hate dealing with 90% of the gun shops. The guys that work there are stuck up and think that they are better than you and know everything. little do they know that I have 8 years in the Marine Corps and MUCH shooting experience, probably MORE than them! Like when they tell me that Glocks are crap, and I ask them "oh yeah? and thats based off of what knowledge that you have of what tactical response situations?" Oh thats right, YOU'RE A FR**CKIN' CIVILIAN! Don't worry about those guys. They think they can talk down to everyone because they are allowed to carry guns in the store. My advice, pay no mind to the idiots behind the counter.:whistling:
Couple quick bad stories:
Jims' Pawn & Gun in Fayet-nam: Had absolutely horrible help behind the counter in the '80's and when I tried them again in the '90's. They were running mouth know-it-all's and you'd be lucky to even get a word out. Before you could finish a question they'd tell you what you really needed or wanted. Haven't been back since.
Went into a well-known gun shop just the other day here in Tidewater, VA. The sales dude immediately started bad mouthing the gun and manufacturer I asked about but without anything to back it up. After handling the gun I left. Went to the gun show Saturday (in the same town) and bought that gun from a dealer who was interested in selling one. At a significantly lower price I might add!
Good story: Want to deal with someone who is great? Ed's Gun Shop in Vass NC. I've known him since I drove a Pepsi truck (early 1990's) when his store was still in Southern Pines. He's always been one to listen to you then help you out. Good prices too.
Solesurvivor
02-17-2008, 22:36
Which shop were you at if you don't mind me asking?
Shooter's Vault on Greenway. I've always heard good things about them, but I've not had a great experience with them. Won't be coming back to them.
blownhemi
02-18-2008, 01:00
hey blownhemi
My buddys wife's shop isn't open on Saturdays and he didn't have any Walther stuff. I wasn't in the gun shop to buy a Walther - as I had just bought a P22 Friday evening. I was merely looking for extra magazines but knew from the phone call that Steve didn't have them in stock. Really we just wanted to check out his store and see what he had since it was close to our homes and we could shop there when we needed things - ammo -etc.
Yes I work for a large outdoor retailer (Well I work for their corporate office) but in this particular case they were overpriced on the P22 and they didn't have any accessories or extra magazines either.
Hope that explains my situation better.
And AaronKelly there's really no way Steve could have known my neighbor or put him together with his wife from the competing gun store. And even if he did we weren't in there being threatening. I was honestly in there seeing what he had for future purchases.
This evening I spoke with a coworker who's lived in the Springfield area all his life and he knew Steve right off the bat and has also had similar dealings with him and his rudeness.
Fair enough - sounds likes the guy is a real douche. It just sounded strage to be shopping elsewhere.
AWDTerror
02-18-2008, 01:01
This is nothing new, steve has always been like this.
He is a genius who know's it with a ego bigger than his shop, I haven't gone in there in years due to the fact that he never changes his stock, and his attitude, but i always stop by DG's gunsmithing next door.
H&K .45 AUTO
02-18-2008, 01:29
I dunno if they are still there... But, last time I was in Springfield (around 2005?) I went in a shop near BassPro called "Gunslinger's"... Good folks, decent prices, I'd go back.
Also, if ya' come to Kansas City there are lots of good folks to deal with. My favorite is Denny's Guns in North Kansas City. I also like going to Bob's Gun Rack on 3rd Street in Lee's Summit MO. Good folks at both shops who actually care about what their customers think and treat you accordingly. Also... American Firearms in Grandview on Blue Ridge Blvd. is another good one.
I'm an LEO in the KC metro area and have many friends at the Olathe Police Dept. How long ago did your dad retire? ... Or, is he still with them?
At any rate... I wouldn't go back to that shop either.
James Cox
02-18-2008, 01:58
Shooter's Vault on Greenway. I've always heard good things about them, but I've not had a great experience with them. Won't be coming back to them.
That's interesting, I started working there about a month ago. Do you remember the guys' name? I'm not the typical gunstore guy, I'm a southern guy. Swing back by some time and chat with me, I can promise you I won't try to pull a umteenthousand percent upsell or ignore you altogether. Money says it was Joe...
4095fanatic
02-18-2008, 02:01
Most people I know who went there say it was Steve. To quote:
This person got Steved.
I visited Steve's Guns (now EDI) once, years ago when he was still in Springfield. I immediately vowed I would never return, and I never have.
And I never will. If someone wants to pay me $300 to walk into that shop and spend a few minutes there, I'll do it. But for any amount less, you can have it.
How Steve stays in business, I have no idea. Nor do I care. Obviously he makes enough of a living for his tastes. He obviously doesn't want my business. Which is fine by me, because he'll never get it.
--------------------------------------------------------
We all know the "Soup Nazi" from Seinfeld... Well, Steve is usually called (behind his back) the "Gun Nazi"
----------------------------------------------------------------------------
This is nothing new, steve has always been like this.
He is a genius who know's it with a ego bigger than his shop, I haven't gone in there in years due to the fact that he never changes his stock, and his attitude, but i always stop by DG's gunsmithing next door.
----------------------------------------------------------------------
If you want anything firearms-related in Springfield, go by 417 Guns. In my (admittedly brief) experience, 417 Guns is run by real and decent human beings, and they'll treat you right.
I've never bought from a gunshop Most purchases are from private citizens, otherwise ordered and shipped to my FFL.
Travelin' Jack
02-18-2008, 05:19
I dunno if they are still there... But, last time I was in Springfield (around 2005?) I went in a shop near BassPro called "Gunslinger's"... Good folks, decent prices, I'd go back.
If you want anything firearms-related in Springfield, go by 417 Guns. In my (admittedly brief) experience, 417 Guns is run by real and decent human beings, and they'll treat you right.
These are the only two shops in Springfield I go to anymore. I've spent plenty of money in both and highly recommend them.
My Dad has been retired lets see 6-7 years now. He was a Sargent... If your friends know him his last name is Beach.
Be safe in KC Metro and thank you for your service!
I actually bought an HK USP from this a**hole a few years back. At the time, he was the only guy that had any in stock for 150 miles. Got a small taste of his rudeness on the phone. Got to his shop after a 3 hr drive, just about had to snap my fingers in front of his face to get him to acknowledge my presence. He was busy with a bunch of inbred cronies at the time:upeyes:
I spoke clearly and concisely with patience. Said "yes sir and no sir". He still treated me like some annoyance. Guess he kinda dented my ego as I clearly could have his behind for breakfast if necessary:steamed:
Why are 75+% of gunshop owners such you-know-whats?
Avoid this tool.
Check out 417 guns, Bass Pro, heck anywhere but EDI/Steves!!
bassdeer
02-18-2008, 08:51
I would of droped the brochures on the floor.
we all meet someone like that in the gunstore with the people that work there
mine was with a friend that is a phx police officer when we were looking at glock pistol for his girlfriend to carry for her ccw course that she was going to take
the guy behind the counter kept asking us if we need help and we told in a minute we would like to see the m-19-pistol that was in the case we were talking about if the pistol would be the right size for her
the guy came up and ask us where we going to shop or just look around and not buy anything
when saw the badge on the my friend belt i got real helpfull qiuckly and said that they had a lot of just lookers that day instead poeple that wanted to by
we turned around and walk out of the store with out saying a word
he took me to a another gunshop in the area and it was night and day diffence the guy said hi when we came in and said if need anything just yell and he would be there in a minute also said there coffee on the table to help oursleves to it if we wanted any
we talk to the guy behind the counter and we told him what we wanted and he said that was good idea and and give my friend a great deal with pistol and four mags and 200.rds of ammo for certian amount of cash when he found out my friend was a phx officer gave anthor discount on the ammo with throwing in another 100.rds of ammo for personal defense
i say that my friend has a better idea where to get the best serivce around
the gunshop is off the west 27th ave in glendale az iam not sure right where it is my friend was driveing that day when we were out and about have a guys days out when our girlfriends where doing the shoping trip deal
i have to say that there is gunshops and there gunshops that know how to take care of poeple
plus i will not go the shooter world anymore after the way that they treat a friend of mine
i left az in 2004 to take a job with my company in another state
i go back home every now then for the sar show and my friend and his wife now show me the diff in places where we used to go shoot and hunt in the area have grow over with houses
Capitalzation and puctuation would help if you really want us to read your posts. ;)
This is becoming humorous the sheer number of people that I've talked to since Saturday about this "incident" and how many of them have said something to the effect of either "Yeah I know Steve and he's a pr*ck of colossal proportions" or "I've had a similiar experience at that place."
At any rate its nice to hear there are better places in the SW Missouri area!
It's too bad we can't calculate the profits lost for EDI due to his attitude and treatment of customers...
Deadduck
02-18-2008, 10:04
I would of droped the brochures on the floor.
Exactly what I was thinking.
I've had a few rude experiences over the years, and not just at gun shops. The most recent one was at a ATV/Motorcycle dealership when I went to the parts counter to get an oil filter for my 4-wheeler. The parts guy was busy BS'ing with a friend of his, and even though he saw me standing at the counter, never said hi, asked what I needed or anything. I finally had to interupt their conversation to tell him what I needed. He made some sarcastic remark, got me the filter, told me how much, but never really stopped his converstation with his friend. Never said thanks, go to hell, or really even made eye contact with me. If I wouldn't have really needed the filter and not wanted to drive 20 miles to the next dealership, I'd have left it sitting on the counter.
A few years ago I went into a gun shop with the full intention of buying a Ruger Blackhawk .44 magnum revolver. I was probably 29-30 at the time. The guys behind the counter were busy talking to one another, and a "customer" who wasn't looking at guns, just talking. When I asked to look at the revolver, one of them told me to wait a minute. He finally waddled over and asked, "what do you want?" in a very unfriendly tone. I told them I wanted to look at a Blackhawk. He pulled it out and handed it to me, then proceeded to ask what I wanted with something like that. I replied paper punching and possibly hunting. He then took the pistol from me with the guise of showing me something and asked to see my ID. I asked him what for, and he said he wanted to see if I was 21. I showed him my DL, just to prove I was way over 21, then walked out, telling him I wouldn't buy from him if he gave me the gun. Life's too long to have to deal with ***holes all the time.
Capitalzation and puctuation would help if you really want us to read your posts. ;)
...or at least a period so we'd know where to stop!:tongueout:
That sucks, bbeach. I have had similar experience in a certain motorcycle shop in Washington, MO. I drive the other way now for parts, filters, etc. and have even made a special trip to Columbia to avoid these a-holes. (Hey, the motorcycle is meant to RIDE, right?)
Anyway, good to know. I get that way once in a while and have a "bad" habit of stopping in little gun shops when I'm traveling, especially in Missouri. And, yes, sometimes I walk out with a new toy! ;)
paul1973
02-18-2008, 10:46
So a complete stranger tells you that your wife is cheating on you. Do you....
A. Pimp slap the stranger
B. Shoot your wife
C. Gather more info
:upeyes::wavey:This must be Steve from the gun store:rofl:
ArmaGlock
02-18-2008, 11:49
How about throwing the magazines across the store and telling him what you think of him, maybe embarrass him in front of his buddies a little.
Sounds like somebody needs to put this guy in his place.
Typical gun store behavior. In order to keep myself out of trouble I stay out of places with customer service representatives that act like that. My mouth will not stay shut, treat me like crap, and I'll treat you the same.
I had the same experience at a place near me as well. I've bought 3 guns there and each time you buy one you get a years membership on the range.
I bought an AR for $800 something and the guy I usually deal with wasn't there. Instead there was this guy who's always there ignoring people and surfing the web on the computer they use to check prices.
After being ignored several times, I go "Can I get a renew on my membership card for the range? I just picked up my AR" He doesn't even look up and goes "That's only if you buy a new gun." I said "Yeah...I just picked up my Bushmaster that I ordered. It's new". And he goes "How much was it?" with this annoyed tone. I go "$800 (something)" and he goes "Oh you need to spend $1000 to get the free range time" Which I knew to be complete bull****.
Then he goes "I'd better not catch you SNEAKING that in here, we're not rifle rated" I looked at him and said "I shoot here all the time, I'm aware of the range rules but thanks for the reminder. I think Top Gun is rifle rated. Maybe I'll just go there from now on and not bother you since you're obviously so busy."
I've never been back and although Top Gun is a lil more pricey, they're polite and a real sharp operation. I go there for all my handguns and rifle needs.
I suppose I could have called the first place (Wolverine Shooting) and complained but I figured, "Hey you want to be a jerk? See ya." I've never been back.
kgain673
02-18-2008, 13:13
I'd hate to say this but most ( not all ) gun stores are very rude, and come off like snobs ( similar to art snobs in art galleries), but less "classey". This is just my opinion so dont flame me guys. Many of the gun retailers that my brother and I enter treat us like we have no business buying a firearm. My brother is in the army and knows how to handle a rifle better then most of the fat mall ninjas, and they refuse to think anyone knows more then they do. The truth is they are retail, they know only what they have to sell. I'm sorry guys but I've have very few good gun store visits. My point is that any high end retail store you enter should treat customers with respect, when they are trying to seel you a tool for 300-900 dollars.
I'm beginning to see a reason why the shooting sports don't attract many new shooters...
This needs to be corrected for our own long-term benefit.
Now how....
We do pretty well f2f with folks but how do we get (all) gun shops to show a positive face?
BustedFlush
02-18-2008, 13:33
Capitalzation and puctuation would help if you really want us to read your posts. ;)
An extra press on "Return" key does wonders as well.
See, I just did it.
Sounds like a gun shop I would enter at most once.
BF :wavey:
aaronrkelly
02-18-2008, 16:53
I actually bought an HK USP from this a**hole a few years back. At the time, he was the only guy that had any in stock for 150 miles. Got a small taste of his rudeness on the phone. Got to his shop after a 3 hr drive, just about had to snap my fingers in front of his face to get him to acknowledge my presence. He was busy with a bunch of inbred cronies at the time:upeyes:
I spoke clearly and concisely with patience. Said "yes sir and no sir". He still treated me like some annoyance. Guess he kinda dented my ego as I clearly could have his behind for breakfast if necessary:steamed:
Why are 75+% of gunshop owners such you-know-whats?
Avoid this tool.
Check out 417 guns, Bass Pro, heck anywhere but EDI/Steves!!
Well, apparently he can treat customers like this and they STILL BUY from him.....like you did. Maybe hes doing it right.
Hes got YOUR money in his pocket and you put up with it.
Well, apparently he can treat customers like this and they STILL BUY from him.....like you did. Maybe hes doing it right.
Hes got YOUR money in his pocket and you put up with it.
Touche!
You are correct, however when somebody drives 3 hrs one way, spends $75 in gas, I decided to take the good with the bad and move on.
Maybe you guys would get along fine?
PRECISION4808
02-18-2008, 17:21
I would of droped the brochures on the floor.
I was thinking the exact same thing!
aaronrkelly
02-18-2008, 17:22
Touche!
You are correct, however when somebody drives 3 hrs one way, spends $75 in gas, I decided to take the good with the bad and move on.
Maybe you guys would get along fine?
Probably not, I have principles and treat people with respect until they prove otherwise.
He would have proved otherwise on the phone and would have saved me the trip. If not, I could care less at what cost or time, I would not have walked out of that store with a gun and I would have told him why.
I wouldnt have bought water from him if I was dying of thirst.
I have been known to go out of my way to prove a point, even at my own expense.
People that continue to buy from stores like that, for whatever reason, are why that guy thinks he can treat people like he does.
Because he can, and they still buy.
.....just doesnt make since.
Thank god you didnt have a problem with that gun and have to interact with him again.....that would have really sucked.
T. R. Graham
02-18-2008, 19:21
I make my living by manufacturing firearms and doing firearms customization.
The CUSTOMER is the entire reason why we are in business. They are not there to waste our time.
Some folks forget this.
TR Graham
The Glocksmith
Riflesmith, Elk River Tool & Die
Doug Fresh
02-18-2008, 19:54
I was in a gun shop in N.H. I brought a friend there to look at a rifle. The owner handed my friend a brand new browning bolt action in 300 wsm. Then my buddy passed it to me to look at. Upon handing it back to the store owner he gave me a dirty look and then turned to his wife and said " clean this one up real good they got their prints all over it". What a rude thing to say to two potential customers. I won't go back. I feel your frustration.
I make my living by manufacturing firearms and doing firearms customization.
The CUSTOMER is the entire reason why we are in business. They are not there to waste our time.
Some folks forget this.
TR Graham
The Glocksmith
Riflesmith, Elk River Tool & Die
Amen!!!! Ain't that the truth!
The CUSTOMER is the entire reason why we are in business. They are not there to waste our time.
Some folks forget this.
TR Graham
The Glocksmith
Riflesmith, Elk River Tool & Die
This is true, regardless of you chosen profession.
James Cox
02-18-2008, 21:00
I make my living by manufacturing firearms and doing firearms customization.
The CUSTOMER is the entire reason why we are in business. They are not there to waste our time.
Some folks forget this.
TR Graham
The Glocksmith
Riflesmith, Elk River Tool & Die
THANK YOU!
Not all of us are inconsiderate rude jerks. We're out there, just gotta know where to look ;)
I've never posted here but lurk around and read occasionally, but this story was enough for me to register so I can comment. I can tell you for a fact as I live and work in Springfield MO, that Steve/EDI Plus is absolutely the worst you will find. This guy is a top-of-the-line azzhole. I've bought two guns from him in the past, and both were miserable experiences. A handful of my friends have tried to buy guns from him and only one ended up actually getting one.
As pure dipchits go, Steve is first class. He sells guns 15 bucks cheaper than everybody else, but I sure as hell have no idea how that helps him when the moment you walk into his gun shop you are going to be belittled and condescended.
I don’t know anybody that wouldn’t pay an extra $20 to have good customer service.
I’ll never go back, my friends will never go back, and most people that have ever shopped there have similar stories and will never go back.
Any more I tell them when they are Richard Craniums and walk out. Over priced guins and extreamly low IQs make me want to throw up!
Well today was a welcomed change! First time visiting Pistols Plus in Lake Ozark, MO (right off HWY 54)... FANTASTIC Customer Service! Very knowledgeable salesman, we talked guns for a bit, talked about some different ammo! He didn't have the magazines I was looking for in stock but offered to order them in and either ship them to me or call me when they came in. Super Nice guy and very very nice gun shop! One of the nicest shops I've ever been in. Huge selection of pistols too all on a big glass wall box. A lot of Glock stuff too - shirts, polos, range bags, etc. Anyway just thought I'd comment on a good shop to go with the bad one!
I knew there were good ones out there!
Well today was a welcomed change! First time visiting Pistols Plus in Lake Ozark, MO (right off HWY 54)... FANTASTIC Customer Service! Very knowledgeable salesman, we talked guns for a bit, talked about some different ammo! He didn't have the magazines I was looking for in stock but offered to order them in and either ship them to me or call me when they came in. Super Nice guy and very very nice gun shop! One of the nicest shops I've ever been in. Huge selection of pistols too all on a big glass wall box. A lot of Glock stuff too - shirts, polos, range bags, etc. Anyway just thought I'd comment on a good shop to go with the bad one!
I knew there were good ones out there!
That's good to know... I get through that area from time to time on business. I may have to stop in and buy something!
It doesn't look like a very large gun shop from the road, but wow inside was really nice! And they have two rooms of Assault Weapons for display that was really neat to look at too!
It doesn't look like a very large gun shop from the road, but wow inside was really nice! And they have two rooms of Assault Weapons for display that was really neat to look at too!
Wow! They sell full auto weapons there? (Sorry, I couldn't resist - the anti's even have US calling them "assault weapons" :tongueout:)
Seriously though, I look forward to getting that way!
4095fanatic
02-24-2008, 20:58
I hate to say it, but I usually just buy online... even with shipping and FFL fees it's usually cheaper. Only exception I make is for GLOCKs, due to local shops pretty much all offering the same discounted price within $25.
Wish I had seen this sooner. Steve, what a guy! I live about 70 miles away in his home town, I have bought a couple of guns from him. I first heard of him from a guy working at Wilson Combat, told me what he was like and what to expect. First time in it was like pulling teeth to get waited on. After I bought the first gun it got easier and went from there. Of course, finding out I knew his Brother and Dad gave us something to talk about which helped. But I have seen people walk in, stand around and never get waited on! Heck of a way to run a business. Always seems to be selling to LEO when I was there, which was before he moved south to Nixa. Still the cheapest I can find on most guns and I wouldn't rule out buying another from him. My wife says we get along because I'm an a##hole just like him! Not a very nice thing to say!
Abull
As a retail salesman since the day I turned 16, it sickens me to hear these stories. Unfortunatly, around Memphis it's like this. There are 2 big ranges in Memphis, one has about 12 lanes and is about 40" long with a dirt berm indoors, they don't have a lot of stuff to rent, but they are the nicest people and have always treated me great.
The range on the north side of town has nicer facilities, but I've only had a good trip maybe 30% of the time. Just because I'm only 21 doesn't meen I don't know safety. I prefer earplugs to headphones and it never fails that someone working there grabs me when I walk to the range entrance to tell me that I need hearing protection. Thier consistency is a little off also. I took my girlfriend to shoot 3 times while she was 19 and 20 with no problem. The 4th time we had been shooting for almost half an hour before we were stopped and told she had to leave because she was under 21. We explained that we had done this before and all we were told was "Well he(previous employees) ****ed up, ya'll need to get on outta here." He then refused to give me a refund on the rental and lane fees(we paid 15$ for a lane for an hour, sholdn't I get 7.50$ + half the rental fee back?). We eventually got our refund from another worker after he picked up a gunrag and quit acknowledging us.
502_Eagles
02-27-2008, 04:45
Two of my favorite places to go. Guys are good honest people, good prices and good service. First time I walked into Horizon I told the guy I was just checking it out because of the limited selection in Flag. He told me if I needed any help just ask, and that he could order me parts if they didn't have them in store. Bear Arms has some of the best prices I've found and the guys are nice and answer questions instead of laughing. Got my Glock 21 with factory night sights and a surefire for $500. Went to another store to by something a month later and they asked how much I paid for the light, couldn't believe that it pretty much came with the gun.
I must have caught Steve on a good day because the only time I went to his store(before he moved to Nixa), He waited on me immediately and went in the back and got out the guns I was interested in looking at. He didn't say anything out of line or act like an a**hole. I know a lot of people who he treated like crap.
Wayne
Jwhargrove
07-15-2008, 10:48
Maybe a group of us should drop in and sing a few rounds of kumbiah and ask Steve how he feels about P22s and giving away free literature!
:upeyes:
EDI Plus 1250 Kinder
Nixa, MO 65714 417-724-0181 (P)
417-724-1002 (F) ediplus@gmail.com
Reminds me of Julia Roberts in "Pretty Woman". The shop keeper is rude so she goes elsewhere to make huge purchases. On her way home she walks into the rude shop, lets them take a look at her new clothes and boxes of stuff she is carrying.... and says:
"Big mistake... BIG MISTAKE!"
Jwhargrove
07-15-2008, 18:23
Reminds me of a spoiled little brat that never had to work hard for anything. You have to appreciate your customers, and most of all, your good name.
I make my living by manufacturing firearms and doing firearms customization.
The CUSTOMER is the entire reason why we are in business. They are not there to waste our time.
Some folks forget this.
TR Graham
The Glocksmith
Riflesmith, Elk River Tool & DieYears ago, Mr. Graham used to live in my area and frequently had a table at the local gun shows. I always tried to go to his table and watch him work for awhile if he was at a show I attended--I've still never seen anyone who could detail strip a glock as fast as he did.
Not only is he obviously very good at what he does, he was always willing to answer questions politely and with a smile on his face, even when the person was clearly not going to buy anything and even when the question was one he'd clearly heard a million times since that morning.
It has to have been around 15 years since the last time I saw him at a gunshow, but that kind of attitude makes a lasting impression.
hollywood_5150
07-15-2008, 23:12
I was reading all of this and wanted to laugh. I have been dealing with Steve for over 10 years, and frankly this is the only shop I go to. His prices are the best, and if you are kind enough to wait until he is finished with his other customers, I find Steve to be quite friendly. The one thing you have to remember, when I am in his shop it is usually full of customers, and only one Steve to wait on them. If I am busy at work and someone says "I'm just looking" I will go to the next person. If you would have said "I called about the P-22 mags" he would have known who you were. I was in his store on a Saturday 2 weeks ago for about 45 mins., and he sold 9 guns while I was there so I think he stays fairly busy. So, complain all you want. He may be blunt and to the point, but it's his business. And all the cronies you mentioned, I'm guessing most of the time they are Springfield, Nixa, Ozark or Greene County officers, and very good customers.
If you don't like it, shop somewhere else. He's been in business a long time, so he must be doing something right. Or better yet, open your own shop so we can talk about you.
Jwhargrove
07-16-2008, 09:18
Capitalzation and puctuation would help if you really want us to read your posts. ;)
As you misspell capitalization? :rofl:
Jwhargrove
07-16-2008, 09:27
I was reading all of this and wanted to laugh. I have been dealing with Steve for over 10 years, and frankly this is the only shop I go to. His prices are the best, and if you are kind enough to wait until he is finished with his other customers, I find Steve to be quite friendly. The one thing you have to remember, when I am in his shop it is usually full of customers, and only one Steve to wait on them. If I am busy at work and someone says "I'm just looking" I will go to the next person. If you would have said "I called about the P-22 mags" he would have known who you were. I was in his store on a Saturday 2 weeks ago for about 45 mins., and he sold 9 guns while I was there so I think he stays fairly busy. So, complain all you want. He may be blunt and to the point, but it's his business. And all the cronies you mentioned, I'm guessing most of the time they are Springfield, Nixa, Ozark or Greene County officers, and very good customers.
If you don't like it, shop somewhere else. He's been in business a long time, so he must be doing something right. Or better yet, open your own shop so we can talk about you.
The original post said that some guy standing behind the counter who said "he didnt work there" yelled to Steve from behind the counter. How could you know that if you never have been there before if "Steve" was with a customer? And most people don’t like attitudes from store keepers especially if they intend to spend some money.
I find that loud mouth people with attitudes have a following of people that want to kiss their ***** and be "in" with them. I have one in my neighborhood that laughs at the other guys that try to buddy with him behind their backs. He too will be a jerk to people, talks about his fighting days, loud, belligerent and these guys just hover around him. I don't do that and visits me and is always cool with me.
Yep, guys like Steve always have a following of ***** kissers. It's not his "great" prices that keep you there Hollywood. But if his business is lucky to be successful despite his attitude, think how well he would be if he just treated people with common courtesy. I bet he gets bent out of shape if somebody talks to him like that.
I will "find" a better price if I have to before I give that guy my money. Gun elitist is what he sounds like. Wish his store were in Texas, I would visit him today.
Cody Jarrett
07-16-2008, 09:32
Throw the brochures on the floor and walk out.
Jwhargrove
07-17-2008, 08:25
Look at him in the eyes, throw them on the floor. Exactly right. Then turn and walk out the door.
This guy would have to chase you out the door to uphold his rep with his buddies.
Thats when you have your phone ready to dial 911.
I was reading all of this and wanted to laugh. I have been dealing with Steve for over 10 years, and frankly this is the only shop I go to. His prices are the best, and if you are kind enough to wait until he is finished with his other customers, I find Steve to be quite friendly. The one thing you have to remember, when I am in his shop it is usually full of customers, and only one Steve to wait on them. If I am busy at work and someone says "I'm just looking" I will go to the next person. If you would have said "I called about the P-22 mags" he would have known who you were. I was in his store on a Saturday 2 weeks ago for about 45 mins., and he sold 9 guns while I was there so I think he stays fairly busy. So, complain all you want. He may be blunt and to the point, but it's his business. And all the cronies you mentioned, I'm guessing most of the time they are Springfield, Nixa, Ozark or Greene County officers, and very good customers.
If you don't like it, shop somewhere else. He's been in business a long time, so he must be doing something right. Or better yet, open your own shop so we can talk about you.
Hi Steve. :)
THANK YOU!
Not all of us are inconsiderate rude jerks. We're out there, just gotta know where to look ;)
Maybe this is a regional thing? I've been to gun shows and gun stores all over the South, and I've never been treated discourteously. I've gotten bad info and been asked to pay ridiculously high prices, but nobody has ever been rude to me.
And I am amazed at how many people from Missouri are on this forum. You guys must be armed to the teeth out there. :supergrin:
RichardB
07-17-2008, 11:35
Is there a basis for a law suit by the parties discussed this way in a public forum. Nothing is private on the internet.
Is there a basis for a law suit by the parties discussed this way in a public forum. Nothing is private on the internet.
America is the land of litigation and just about anyone can sue anyone else over just about anything. But in cases of libel or slander, truth is an absolute defense. Just don't say anything that is false and you are ok.
Jwhargrove
07-17-2008, 16:22
Is there a basis for a law suit by the parties discussed this way in a public forum. Nothing is private on the internet.
Do you read any false libel in here? One person expressed their experience with Steve the owner of the establishment and based on that and now other input, we have a forum.
Just like the word of mouth passes around if you give good service, it works the other way too. It's called consequences!
Maybe this is a regional thing? I've been to gun shows and gun stores all over the South, and I've never been treated discourteously. I've gotten bad info and been asked to pay ridiculously high prices, but nobody has ever been rude to me.
You've never been to Jim's Guns on Yadkin Extension, Fayetteville, North Carolina!!
:)
You've never been to Jim's Guns on Yadkin Extension, Fayetteville, North Carolina!!
:)
I've been to the Special Ops Museum in Fayetteville but I missed Jim's. I'll check it out the next time I'm over that way. :supergrin:
I've been to the Special Ops Museum in Fayetteville but I missed Jim's. I'll check it out the next time I'm over that way. :supergrin:
It's been years for me but every so often I'll stop by just to see if anything has changed and if their staff is still rude know-it-alls (at least the ones I've been in contact with) who won't let you get a word in edgewise telling you what you SHOULD like or not.
I'll stand back and listen in on other sales-customer conversations. Only takes a minute to confirm...
RichardB
07-18-2008, 16:49
I've been a customer at Jim's for several years. They have the best gun selection in town. There is always someone there to wait on you if you have a question. The staff appears to be retired soldiers which fits in well with a major customer base here.
I've always been treated with courtesy and personally never heard any wild recommendations, although I've walked away when the questions seemed too elementary from one who intended to purchase something as serious as a firearm. :whistling:
Jwhargrove
07-19-2008, 00:21
Hi Steve. :)
:rofl:
I just saw that. You mean, hi Steve's mom!
hollywood_5150
07-19-2008, 00:51
Sorry, I'm not Steve. I was in his shop this week, bought several things. Once again, his shop was full of people with several buying guns. He must be doing something right.
Is there a basis for a law suit by the parties discussed this way in a public forum. Nothing is private on the internet.
Please elaborate, your law degree is from where? :dunno:
RichardB
07-19-2008, 06:25
I asked a straight question. Don't need legal training to ask. Thought one or more of the knowledgable folks here might have an answer or even some experience.
smitty81
07-21-2008, 04:31
I once bought a Beretta 90-two from scheels in lincoln nebraska...........Man i the customer service in that place bad.
First off let me tell you something, I am 22 years old and an avid hunter. I might look a little younger then 22, therefore not a one single salesman will ask me if I need help. 9 times out of ten, no one will ever ask me. Then i go in with my dad, and about 5 guys ask him if he needs help within the half an hour we were there.........talk about being mad.
So I have this bad itch to get a new handgun and I am looking around for about 10 min before I HAVE to go ask for help. I finally decided upon the 90-two. I spent about 700 some odd dollars that day there.
I finally get around to shooting the gun and its accuracy has the worst I have ever seen in a handgun. 6 low and another 6 to the left. Got the same results after 2 mags.
I had jut purchased a handgun that cost me about $800 and it idnt shoot worth a crap. I ended up taking it back to Scheels to tell the salesman (a different guy then who sold it to me) that it needed to be sent back to beretta and something needs to be fixed on it.
He asked me why and i told him that i had just got it, Its Brand New and explained to him what had happened. He kind of laughed at me and told me that all semi auto handguns or "DEFENCE" handguns to be exact are not accurate. Im thinking to myself that he just thinks im some dumb city kid that wants a gun. Remember, I was raised around guns. I live in rural nebraska, this is what we do for fun.
So I said to him.........hmmmmm thats funy, so you mean to tell me that even though the state patrol and other law enforcement trust their lives to these, they are never accurate?
The salesman said that they shoot it so much they just remember where it hits everytime..................YEA..........I CALL BS!!!
Then I got mad (I HAVE A REALLY BAD TEMPER) I said im not just some dumb kid that came in off the street an decied it would be cool to have a gun. I have been shooting guns since I was a little boy. My dad has over a hundred firearms and none shoot this bad sir.
He then laughed at me and i told him to just give me my money back......
I was so mad that i made myself promise to never go back.
I would drive the 60 some miles just to go to cabelas then to go back to scheels.
They are rude and dont know their head from their feet. As a matter of fact, I seen a guy there that was selling shoes one day selling guns the next.
I called the manager and he told me that all his employees have an extensive training in their field otherwise he would not hire them......I CALL BS AGAIN!!!
I could go on forever about my horrible expierences there.......DONT SHOP AT SCHEELS!!!! GIVE THE LOCAL GUN SHOP A TRY BEFORE YOU GO TO A CORPERATION!!!
aaronrkelly
07-21-2008, 04:38
I prefer Scheels....that 30 day money back, no questions asked return policy on new and used guns is handy.....and they arent BSing either.....I returned a few and never got hassled once.
... I am amazed at how many people from Missouri are on this forum. You guys must be armed to the teeth out there. :supergrin:
:supergrin:
Jwhargrove
07-21-2008, 12:25
Its funny, you have to wonder if people aren't just playing the devils advocate in here.
You could say some guy in their home town sucks and is likely a terrorist. Then somebody in here would say that they know that terrorist personally and he is actually a very good guy!
"You know...I heard say that fried poop on a stick stinks and taste real bad!"
Retort: "Actually, last year at the Arkansas state fair I had fried poop on a stick, and it was actually pretty tastey!":rofl:
"You know...I heard say that fried poop on a stick stinks and taste real bad!"
Anyone know how to clean diet soda off a computer screen? :rofl:
larry starling
07-21-2008, 15:46
I've been a customer at Jim's for several years. They have the best gun selection in town. There is always someone there to wait on you if you have a question. The staff appears to be retired soldiers which fits in well with a major customer base here.
I've always been treated with courtesy and personally never heard any wild recommendations, although I've walked away when the questions seemed too elementary from one who intended to purchase something as serious as a firearm. :whistling:
Only problem I have ever had a jims was their high prices.....Carolina Firearms on Bragg Blvd will get you anything you want and at great prices....:rofl:
I found Ed's Gun Shop in Southern Pines in the early '90's. He's since moved to Vass but he's always been fair and decent. Real standup guy and store. There's no sense in supporting over-priced and over-bearing gun shops when there are really decent ones out there!
http://www.edsgunshop.com/
He's expanding. Site shows he's opened another store in Newport, NC.
bearwitme
07-22-2008, 09:07
You seem to be defending your statement when you should not have to..Customer service is customer service. does not matter whether it is in a gun shop or a toy store. These days most are all rude and one should not have to put up with it. I have been know to ask to speak to the manager when this happens and report them. Sometime it gets resolved sometimes it does not. And I also do not have to shop there. There are other places to shop at that will treat you well. Don't know why all the questions as to why you did or didn't do this or that. Point is customer service sucked and you were letting others know..
Ok off my soap box now..
hey blownhemi
My buddys wife's shop isn't open on Saturdays and he didn't have any Walther stuff. I wasn't in the gun shop to buy a Walther - as I had just bought a P22 Friday evening. I was merely looking for extra magazines but knew from the phone call that Steve didn't have them in stock. Really we just wanted to check out his store and see what he had since it was close to our homes and we could shop there when we needed things - ammo -etc.
Yes I work for a large outdoor retailer (Well I work for their corporate office) but in this particular case they were overpriced on the P22 and they didn't have any accessories or extra magazines either.
Hope that explains my situation better.
And AaronKelly there's really no way Steve could have known my neighbor or put him together with his wife from the competing gun store. And even if he did we weren't in there being threatening. I was honestly in there seeing what he had for future purchases.
This evening I spoke with a coworker who's lived in the Springfield area all his life and he knew Steve right off the bat and has also had similar dealings with him and his rudeness.
nedrgr21
07-29-2008, 14:54
Yup, Steve definitely has a reputation among non-LEO folks down there; but he does know his stuff when it comes to guns and has parts most don't carry. Leven's Guns is kinda out in the sticks. My uncle bought a G21 from him and the owner let him test fire it before purchase.
I guess we are a little lucky in Pennsylvania. I deal with 5 gun shops and have always been treated like a customer should. But when a stranger walks in and just starts looking around, the clerks do change character, at least until the new guy starts bs'n about guns or reloading etc. Every gun shop that i've been in; the man behind the counter is packing on his hip. You never saw that 20 some years ago.
plainsman
07-31-2008, 01:51
Typical of any poor sales person who ignores a client. Had a bugspray guy who make hundreds off me, tell a friend I referred, that he was too busy, after not showing up one day at all. He won't be getting any more of my money either, and this is in a small town where I see this AH out eating breakfast every day, cant be too busy not to hang out and eat!
I have a saying about the thousands of dollars inept sales people cost businesses. No reason not to be polite, unless you are a millionaire, and you are sure you will never have to run into that person again for anything!
briansp82593
07-31-2008, 02:50
Sorry, I'm not Steve. I was in his shop this week, bought several things. Once again, his shop was full of people with several buying guns. He must be doing something right.
Yeah sure Steve, we have all heard this one before :upeyes:
exactly why you have two posts here, and they are in this thread.
Dirty Dealer
07-31-2008, 02:51
I think most gun shops have rude people working in them, maybe that's why I buy my guns online.
Sorry, I'm not Steve. I was in his shop this week, bought several things. Once again, his shop was full of people with several buying guns. He must be doing something right.
Thread started in Feb 2008.
Your profile was made in Jun 2008.
Only 2 posts ever - both in this thread.
Hi Steve. :)
Jwhargrove
07-31-2008, 14:44
Ha ha,
I dont think its Steve. If he doesnt care enough about his reputation to speak to people the way he does, then behind the safety of the internet, he surely wouldnt be any different.
He has his little followers, he has all the parts that nobody has, he knows his guns so he doesn't need GT.
Maybe it's his mom or sister or most likely, one of is toadies. The guy behind the counter that doesnt actually work there?
Are ya gonna take those magazines.........boy?
redrooster
07-31-2008, 18:11
Holy Crap !!! I can't believe I haven't seen this thread before now... but I completely agree with the original poster that Steve at EDI is a major tool.
I called one Monday morning to check on the price of a Kadet Kit for my P-01. It went as follows:
Steve: Hello... (in a rude tone)
Me: Morning, is this EDI Plus?
Steve: This is Steve (again, in a rude tone)
Me: I'm sorry, I was looking for EDI Plus, I must have the wrong number.
Steve: You wanted EDI and you got it...what do you want? (very rude this time)
Me: I wanted a price on a Kadet Kit for a CZ
Steve: We have them in stock...why don't you call when we are actually open.
Me: Later...(I hang up)
My thoughts afterward: What kind a idiot has his business phone transferred to his house...answers it on his day off...and then gets pissy when he gets a gun related call? If he doesn't want to talk "business" on his days off then he needs to set up an answering machine and leave it at that.
I seriously think he's got mental issues and has no business owning a gun much less selling them. If he is still in business then I would honestly have to guess that he has some items going out under the table. Nobody can be that rude and stay in business. There are too many other good gun shops in the Springfield area.
wow I haven't seen this thread in a long time... It actually came up when I was searching for gun shops in the Springfield Area on google.
RedRooster I'd steer clear of EDI... Can't believe he is still in business. I'm considering returning his brochures to him (I'm done with them now)...
wow I haven't seen this thread in a long time... It actually came up when I was searching for gun shops in the Springfield Area on google.
RedRooster I'd steer clear of EDI... Can't believe he is still in business. I'm considering returning his brochures to him (I'm done with them now)...
wipe you ass with them first :rofl:
Jwhargrove
09-04-2008, 22:54
He would probably just put them back on the counter and never even notice the skid marks.
Right next to the box of parts nobody else has.
I wonder why nobody else has all of these hard to get parts lying around. Maybe they have strangers that come in their stores and buy them up. What are they called again? Customers?
Funny I came across this thread here. I am from Springfield and have had dealings with Steve as well. I vowed never to go back to Steve's shop in Nixa because of similar experiences.
It is a great wonder how Steve is still in business. The way he treats customers is appalling, and cost's him alot of business. I know quite a few people that refuse to do business with him.
BTW, when I used to go in there it was never busy. It was always just him and his cronies. Whoever posted that Steve's was such a happening place........ is full of crap.
Alot of people in this area go to places like Cherokee firearms, Gunsmoke, Loftis, 417, or Gunslinger (dont care for gunslinger either). Why would they go there when there are so many other nice gunshops around.
redrooster
09-15-2008, 17:25
+1 on gunslinger. Everytime I've gone in there, the owner has said or done something offensive.
I would highly recommend Doc Holliday's and Loftis across from Bass Pro.
Either Steve has money outside of his business or he does some shady dealing. Nobody can be that rude and stay in business.
Clyde in CO
09-15-2008, 18:31
this thread makes me want to go to MO and cause a disturbance in his shop.
I have had an experience like this before. There is a irish pawn shop near my school that i went into one day while i was waiting for my car to get fixed. As soon as i walked in the person behind the counter asked if there was anything i was looking for and i told him i was just looking. After looking at the knives i moved onto the pistols. I saw a pf-9 in the case for a very good price and asked if i could see it. He immediately asked if i was going to buy today, and i told him if i like it it would probably be sometime next week. He straight up told me no and that he would take it out for me the day i am ready to buy it. Needless to say i have not been back since and dont plan to. He would have had a really easy sale if he would have let me see it because i ended up buying one soon after and have since swayed people away from going their due to his rudeness to me.
Jwhargrove
09-15-2008, 23:24
You can't buy character or the respect of others.
Why dont you post steves phone number so we can call him and see if he has free magazines. I'm sure he would love 30 calls in one day :-)
RichardB
09-16-2008, 16:43
If he is as bad as stated he would have driven all his customers to the competition. He is still in business despite several unhappy former customers. I would be curious to read his side of these anecdotes.
Respect has to be earned!
Jwhargrove
09-17-2008, 23:44
This isn't truly directed towards Steve as it is all people who act like this.
He didn't get this reputation from excellent customer service. Everybody has a point of view. Perhaps his is he's tired of all the idiots that come into his store day in and day out to bug him about gun crap!
I know personally people like that. They don't belong in customer service type jobs in my opinion. As for having customers...enough guys like like us love guns and we would go most anywhere to look and even buy them.
I suppose for fun we can sit here and make excuses for him. Heaven forbid he can try to treat people with a little dignity and maybe people, even total strangers wouldnt be writing about him right now.
I will start with my "excuse for Steve".
Maybe he needs to buy some doxidan. You know. Nature gives him a helping hand.
Next..
bdcochran
09-19-2008, 23:49
Why dont you post steves phone number so we can call him and see if he has free magazines.
I would post the number, but it is probably against the rules. I had no problem keying on the name of the business and picking up the number on the first pass. So, OPY, you go and post the number.
watsoncb
09-20-2008, 02:48
Just a Google search away: http://gunshops.blogspot.com/2008/01/missouri-gun-shops.html
Travelin' Jack
09-22-2008, 02:34
+1 on gunslinger. Everytime I've gone in there, the owner has said or done something offensive.
I've been in there a couple dozen times and have had nothing but pleasant experiences. There prices are pretty high though, so I've only bought accessories there. Loftis just down the street is probably my favorite shop in the area, though.
redrooster
09-22-2008, 06:21
I've been in there a couple dozen times and have had nothing but pleasant experiences. There prices are pretty high though, so I've only bought accessories there. Loftis just down the street is probably my favorite shop in the area, though.
It may be that he doesn't take me serious, because I'm a young guy... My dad seems to be well liked in there.
I am a fan of loftis though...when the time comes for me to buy my j-frame, I'm about 98% sure I'll pick it up at loftis.
If a store treats you bad, take your business elsewhere. That's what I would do.
When he asked about the magazines I would have said "I'm sorry" and sat them on the counter and walked out. Companies'll be happy to send you all that stuff.
When you go by there in the future, just smile to yourself and keep moving on past. Deny them your patronage. It's a pretty good feeling.
Jwhargrove
09-22-2008, 23:55
Vote with your wallet.
I re-read the original post. When he stepped away from the donut eating group and said rudely that he was the one who spoke to you, you shouldnt have quickly apologized. It's too bad that nice people dont expect that kind of behavior so we they are most likely trying to analyze the situation to determine what is happening before we can respond.
Unless you are cocked and ready to be a jerk when you wake up in the morning or know before hand what to possibly expect in there.
I will throw out another excuse. He is trying to buy into a popular donut chain and was meeting with investors and the chain sponsor. They were testing products when this customer demanded his attention.
tlpd242h
09-27-2008, 20:09
It seems that there are two types of store owners, those who enjoy guns and the sport of shooting, and those who get paid by the hour. We have ONE law enforcement glock dealer in the state and it happens to be a 3 hour drive from where I live. I have had the same type of experiences there many times, but have always found the employee very nice when the store manager happens to be in the store. I think the best way to handle that type of issue is to contact the manufacturer and let them know what is going on. I called my regional Glock rep and reported the incident that I had and got a phone call from the store manager telling me that he appreciated my business and that the employee would be dealt with. The price of guns these days is bad enough, without having a#$ hole salesmen make your experience just that much harder. As a firearms dealer, I apologize to you also for your bad experience.
Jwhargrove
09-27-2008, 20:53
Good post TLPD242H.
Ferox_Rex
10-16-2008, 13:34
Man, I can't believe all the negative posts about Steve. Wait... I was in his shop recently and I can TOTALLY believe what is being said here. Reading bbeach's initial post was like reading an account of my own ecperience at EDI Plus. Steve is the most abrasive person I've ever met. He's unprofessional in the extreme and his store is an organization nightmare. I don't like being treated like I'm somehow annoying a storekeeper for entering his shop with money ready to spend. I will never subject myself to entering his store again, and if anyone asks my advice on where to purchase guns and/or accessories, his store will not be one that I recommend. I would pay more for better customer service... period.
vBulletin® v3.7.3, Copyright ©2000-2008, Jelsoft Enterprises Ltd.