Great American Outdoor Show Opens

by
posted on February 7, 2015
sci_ah2015_fs.jpg (14)

undefined“You don’t have to be a hunter or shooter to be a member or Pro-NRA, because there wouldn’t be the America we have today without it!” said staunch NRA supporter and Life Member Gabe Dellaventura of New York, as he puffed on his sweet-smelling stogie, keeping the general area warm with enthusiasm.

Thousands lined the cold concrete outside the Pennsylvania Farm Show Complex and awaited the 9-o’clock hour for their chance at bargain goods, hot new for 2015 products, and even chocolate covered bacon—a vital event for vendors and cottage industry presence, some of whom count on Harrisburg every year as a  mean income.

At the front of the cold and quivering line stood the lead protagonist and veteran of the outdoor show, Roy Kolk of Levittown, Penn. We asked Roy what time he arrived to gain the crowd advantage, he meekly muttered, “Oh, 6:30 a.m. or so.” Even with tickets purchased in advance, Roy was ready to enjoy his birthday amongst the gun-savvy and outdoor-oriented crowds.

The race was on like chickens fleeing the hen-house once security opened the door—beginning at the Cameron Street entrance with immediate routing to the Firearms Hall, attendee’s boasting bow cases rushed the quickest, as their 9:15 3-D archery shoot was approaching.

At the Archery Hall we were greeted by the excited local resident and show-staffer, Bill Dunkelberger. Bill’s story of the show dates back to roughly 1956 and he described tagging along as his father won the large deer award that year. Dubbed, “George,” the ten-point whitetail is perched today at the Dunkelberger hunting cabin.

As the week begins to transpire, expect long lines but plenty of eye-candy to distract you from the sore feet and thinning wallet. Plenty of events and seminars take place, boasting something for everyone, including a Family Fun Zone; children and adults alike may reprieve the crowds with a fun and family oriented trail including games and challenges.

Visit GreatAmericanOutdoorShow.org for the most up-to-date information and download the app on your mobile device to customize a show plan with in-depth maps and facts, furthermore enhancing your experience with NRA and theGreat American Outdoor Show, February 7-15, 2015.

Latest

Calling The Foggy Hills
Calling The Foggy Hills

Know How: Foul-Weather Toms

Wondering how to surprise a foul-weather tom? Scott Haugen has some answers in this month's Know How.

Hardware Review: Spandau S2 Realtree MAX-7

Those who are in the market for a new scattergun for wingshooting or even just a casual clay-busting session should check out the Spandau S2.

Henry American Construction Industry Tribute Edition

Henry Repeating Arms has debuted its American Construction Industry Tribute Edition, a new addition to its lineup of collectible Tribute Edition rifles that honors the men, women and companies who build America from the ground up.

#SundayGunday: Smith & Wesson Model 1854 Stealth Hunter

On this week's #SundayGunday, we’re checking out the Model 1854 Stealth Hunter, a field-focused pistol-caliber variant of Smith & Wesson’s popular new lever action. With a black synthetic buttstock and textured grip panels, the 1854 Stealth Hunter is ready for hard use no matter the conditions in the field.

Henry Repeating Arms Launches HUSH Series Optimized for Suppressor Use

Henry Repeating Arms has officially introduced the HUSH Series. This new line of suppressor-optimized lever-action rifle is the debut release from the company’s Special Products Division (SPD), a new R&D initiative focused on forward-thinking innovation.

Member's Hunt: A Tale of Two Treestands

This latest Member's Hunt comes from Erin Prajzner of Glen Rock, Pa.

Interests



Get the best of American Hunter delivered to your inbox.