Mark Campbell — Mid America Arms, St. Louis, Mo.
Like many other gun shops, Mid America Arms is seeing a surge in demand for smaller, concealable handguns.
But, notes owner Mark Campbell, he’s still moving a good number of full-sized 1911 model semi-automatics.
Currently, his top selling 1911 is the Remington R1 in .45 ACP. Models range from $700 to $1,100, with most sales coming in at the $750 to $800 mark.
Customers increasingly want laser sights on their handguns, and many are opting for handgun-and-laser packages right from the manufacturer, with models from Ruger, Smith & Wesson and Kimber leading the pack.
Local snow goose hunters are purchasing decent numbers of Benelli Super Black Eagles and M2 shotguns.
Benelli’s newest shotgun, the Ethos, has yet to arrive at his shop at the time Campbell was interviewed, but he had already has a number of orders for this $1,800 scattergun, sight unseen.
“My distributor says they are shipping the Ethos out this week,” he said. “I think it’s going to be a really good seller.”
Editor's note: This brief originally appeared in the March 27, 2014 edition of Gun Digest the Magazine.
1911: The First 100 Years
In 1911: The First 100 Years, take a journey back through a century's development and history of John M. Browning's timeless pistol design, the .45-caliber M1911. Even if you have just a passing interest in the 1911, this fully-illustrated full color hardcover book belongs in your library. But if you're a real diehard fan of the 1911, this classy, well-researched book will be the centerpiece of your references. You'll learn about everything from the origins and earliest designs of the handgun to today's hottest tactical 1911s for concealed carry and competition.
Why You Can Trust Gun Digest
Since 1944, Gun Digest has been a trusted authority on firearms, shooting and shooting gear, delivering expert firearms reviews backed by nearly a century of experience. We go beyond standard reviews, combining hands-on independent gun testing, in-depth research, and expert insights from industry professionals and manufacturers.
Our reviewers are the bedrock of our testing and come from a comprehensive cross section of the shooting world. Their diverse backgrounds include law enforcement professionals, military veterans, competitive shooters, seasoned hunters and life-long firearms enthusiasts. In addition to being firearm experts, we are also thorough journalists adhering to the strictest standards of the profession.
For our readers, this means objective, unbiased reviews, free from outside influence. Our priority is to provide the information you need to make informed decisions—whether a firearm or piece of gear is a must-have investment or one to pass on.
Find out more about our Editorial Standards and Evaluation Process
