Alaskans who support the constitutional right to keep and bear arms, shooting sports, hunting, gun collecting, and historical firearms are gathering in Palmer for the state’s largest annual gun show next month.

The event is held by the Alaska Gun Collectors Association (AGCA). According to the group’s website, it “believes that our 2nd Amendment right to keep and bear arms is an essential part of our history and future. We are committed to helping preserve and promote these rights by providing events where our community can view historical firearm collections, add to their own collections, and experience the power and responsibility of safe firearm use.”

The 2020 AGCA gun show is set for Oct. 24-25 in Raven Hall at the Alaska State Fairgrounds in Palmer. The event runs from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. both days and admission is $5.

The AGCA held its first gun show 48 years ago.  Through the decades it has sponsored two or three gun shows annually and has amassed the “largest and most extensive collection of Alaska commemorative firearms in the world.”

“We work tirelessly to bring you the best vendors and awesome historical displays,” the AGCA website notes. “Whether you’re looking for something new or used you’ll find the guns, ammunition, and accessories that you’re looking for. Bring your family and be sure to check out all of the historical firearms and read the stories behind them.”
Instilling an appreciation of gun rights and ownership in the next generation is a top priority for the AGCA. For more than 30 years, it has hosted its Youth Shooting Appreciation Day where children ages 12 to 18 are introduced to the various aspects of shooting sports and the importance of firearms safety. Roughly 500 children attend the annual event.

The AGCA also donates to Olympic shooters, high school and other rifle teams and shooting programs, veterans’ programs, Friends of NRA, and to other civic organizations. Additionally, they offer a scholarship program for youth interested in pursuing the shooting sports beyond high school.

All gun shows are family friendly.

“This means your children will not be exposed to inappropriate materials or foul language,” AGCA affirms. “We host the Borealis Shooters, where your child can try their hand with an air rifle under the supervision of experienced instructors.”

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