sports

Jim Wright, 65, of the Twin Cities owns Crocodile Productions, which operates as many as 20 gun shows in Minnesota each year. He discusses his operation, including the so-called “gun-show loophole,” below.

 

Q: How long have you owned Crocodile Productions?

A: Seven years. I used to help the former owner when he needed a hand. I had an interest in guns, and when he sold, I bought it.

 

Q: How many gun shows do you produce a year?

A: They’re gun and knife shows, and we do 18 to 20. Two in Mankato and one in Duluth. The rest in the Twin Cities.

 

Q: The Minnesota Weapons Collectors Association also produces gun shows. Anyone else?

A: We put on the most shows, but there are some smaller shows around the state. Minnesota Weapons Collectors puts on the biggest shows, measured by customers. Their show at the State Fair Coliseum March 16 might have four times the customers our largest show has.

 

Q: Has show attendance increased this year?

A: Yes. And dealers’ sales have been better. Some have had to pass on some shows because they lack inventory. Not just guns. But ammunition and used military ammo cans, that kind of thing. It’s noticeable in retail stores also. Their shelves are bare of major pistol ammo and some rifle ammo, because so-called assault-style rifles use the same ammo as many hunting rifles.

 

Q: Do you have the same dealers at every show?

A: Half to two-thirds will be at every show. The remainder changes depending on the area. Keep in mind not all dealers sell guns. Some sell knives.

 

Q: Are gun shows held in every state?