Florida Gun Show Vendors: How to Sell, Set Up, and Succeed
Florida gun shows draw thousands of buyers each month, making them one of the best opportunities for small businesses, dealers, and hobbyists to sell directly to the public. From firearms and ammunition to accessories, apparel, and collectibles, Florida gun show vendors enjoy strong sales and repeat customers.
If you’ve ever thought about selling at these events, here’s a step-by-step guide to becoming a successful vendor in Florida.
Research Florida Gun Shows Near You
The first step for new vendors is to find out where and when shows are happening. Florida hosts dozens of gun shows each month in cities like Orlando, Tampa, Fort Lauderdale, Miami, Jacksonville, and West Palm Beach.
- Check major promoters
- Use directories such as TheGunShowDirectory.com to find upcoming shows across the state
- Visit a show as a customer before you book, it helps you see which products sell well and what kind of table setups attract attention
Decide What to Sell at Florida Gun Shows
Florida gun show vendors sell a wide range of products, such as:
- Firearms (with proper licensing)
- Ammunition, magazines, and cleaning kits
- Knives, tactical gear, holsters, and self-defense items
- Hunting, outdoor, and survival equipment
- Collectibles, antiques, and military surplus
- Apparel and specialty items like t-shirts, leather goods, or handmade gear
Tip: Niche items, like non-lethal defense gear, unique accessories, or lifestyle products often stand out in a crowded show.
Understand Vendor Licensing and Legal Requirements
If you’re selling firearms, you’ll need a Federal Firearms License (FFL) and must follow all ATF rules, including background checks.
For accessories, knives, clothing, or non-firearm products, you don’t need an FFL, but you do need a Florida sales tax certificate from the Florida Department of Revenue.
Always double-check state and federal laws before applying to be a vendor.
Contact Promoters and Book a Table
Once you’re ready:
- Go to the promoter’s website and look for the Vendor / Exhibitor or Dealer Info section.
- Expect to pay $75-$150 per table for a 2-day weekend show, depending on the promoter and location.
- Apply early. Popular Floridagun shows often sell out of vendor tables fast.
- Ask about extras like electricity, corner or wall tables, and additional employee badges.
- Find out about vendor setup times. Most shows allow setup on Friday before the event and again on Saturday morning. Whenever possible, set up on Friday. If you forget something, you’ll have time to fix it before the doors open.
Table Setup Tips for Florida Gun Show Vendors
Presentation is everything. For your table to stand out:
- Use a professional table cover or banner with your logo.
- Arrange displays so customers can browse easily.
- Bring a credit card reader, plus cash for change.
- Keep plenty of bags, receipts, and business cards on hand.
- Share QR codes that link to your website or social media.
- Bring sheets or covers to place over your table at night. Promoters lock the venue and provide overnight security, but covering your booth keeps it private and ready for the next morning.
Market Yourself Before, During, and After the Show
Don’t just rely on foot traffic, let people know you’ll be there.
- Post about the show on social media and tag the event.
- Add your listing to TheGunShowDirectory.com so buyers can find you online.
- Offer a giveaway or discount for customers who mention seeing your post.
Build Customer Relationships
Successful Florida gun show vendors know it’s about more than sales. Many attendees come back month after month, so focus on:
- Being approachable and knowledgeable
- Offering bundle deals or show-only specials
- Collecting emails for future promotions
- Networking with other vendors for tips and opportunities
Review and Improve After Each Show
After your first gun show, ask yourself:
- Which products sold best?
- Did your booth attract attention?
- What questions did customers ask most?
- Was the profit worth the cost of the table and travel?
Use these insights to improve your setup and sales strategy for the next show.
Final Thoughts
Becoming one of the successful Florida gun show vendors takes planning, preparation, and consistency. Start by choosing your products, securing the right licenses, and booking a table early. Set up professionally, market yourself, and build strong customer connections. Over time, gun shows can become a powerful revenue stream and community for your business.
Ready to take the next step? Check out The Gun Show Directory for a full list of upcoming Florida gun shows and promoter contacts.