Gun Sales Booming

By Chris Wright, The News On 6

COLLINSVILLE, OK -- While much of the economy is slumping, one industry may be recession-proof.  Nationally, gun sales are up an estimated 10% this year.  Experts say fears about the economy and the upcoming election are driving sales.

Despite the fact that both candidates have said they firmly believe in the Second Amendment, some in Green Country aren't taking any chances.

Tom Pirrone, a regular at Medlock Firearms in Collinsville, has loaded up on guns recently.

"I've purchased some, and plan on purchasing some more. It's a scary situation we're living in right now," said Tom Pirrone.

The scary situation, Pirrone says, is the potential election of Barack Obama next week.  He's convinced the Democrats will push tougher gun-control measures, and it's a belief shared by other customers in Collinsville.

"Everyone is kind of in a panic I think.  Well, everyone is worried about the upcoming election.  They're worried about what they're going to be able to buy in the future," said Becky Medlock with Medlock Firearms.

Specifically, Medlock says the fear is that they won't be able to get their hands on semi-automatic assault rifles.

The ban on assault rifles expired in 2004, and some gun-owners worry lawmakers will take aim at re-instating it.

Even though it's deer season, Medlock Firearms says it is the assault rifles that are flying off of shelves right now.

"I guess the common agenda is better buy one while you still can," said Jason Medlock of Medlock Firearms.

It's a philosophy Tom Pirrone subscribes to.  He says he won't wait to see if his worries become reality.  Instead, he'll continue to stock up guns before Election Day.

"I don't think anybody has that right to take it away from us, and I believe there's going to be a big problem if anyone tries to do it," said Tom Pirrone.

Experts say people often buy firearms in times of uncertainty.

The News On 6 spoke with several Tulsa gun stores, as well.  Some say assault rifles sales have also spiked.  But, other stores say they haven't seen much of a change this year.