_ Aside from the big box gun stores, like Bass Pro Shops and Gander Mountain, Central Florida has a cache of reputable firearms dealers who have built up a following of their own. It may be one of the last industries who have yet to be overrun by the big chain concept.

We wanted to mention a few we have dealt with in the past, who had a knowledgeable staff, fair  prices, and a killer selection.

AAA Gun & Pawn , Deland: About a year ago, I walked in searching for a decent sub-$400 shotgun for home defense. I was surprised to find a group of helpful guys who loved to chat it up about all kinds of guns. It’s nice to see real firearms enthusiast behind the counter and not kids working a summer job. I walked out of there with exactly what I was looking for and made a couple of friends in the process.

Florida Gun Exchange, Port Orange: These guys run a tight ship, have a ton of guns in stock, and campaign the best prices in Central Florida. Sign up for their monthly newsletter/flyer. You will not regret it. Their staff is awesome. Friendly, and willing to make all kinds of accommodations to make sure you leave a happy camper.  They offer Layaway, which is huge when you want to pick up a new 1911 but the mortgage is due in two weeks. Not to mention, one of my best friends has practically taken residence at this place.

Gander Mountain, Lake Mary: I have purchased at least 7 firearms from this location. Mostly because of their proximity to me, their layaway program, and now they have one heck of a range. It’s a one-stop-shop for most gun enthusiast in this area. They have a decent selection of used guns as well, which is surprising. The only drawback is their constantly changing sales staff. Every time I go in, I find a whole new crew of guys, which is a little discouraging. However, it’s not a deal-breaker.

Shoot Straight, Casselberry:  I have been a customer of this location since 2000. I liked the small, sweaty, dingy range. They have since demolished the small building in favor of a CVS sized facility which includes a much larger range packed with more lanes and made the old facility’s location a parking lot. I’m stoked. This place has sentimental value for me and other residents of the area who love bringing friends, family, wives, kids to the range to practice and blow off steam. The staff is awesome, personable, and always willing to help. Great place to sell a gun as well. They offer fair prices, much better than you’d expect.  One of their guys – Sterling – would even call me to let me know about deals they were having in case I didn’t get the newsletter.  I always ended up heading over there and spending money, even if it was on ammo. That’s customer service!