Gun sales across the country are on the rise and one local gun shop says an increase in crime due to a poor economy is a reason.
Brad Rupert with Midwest Gun Exchange says, "When people are watching the news, they see abductions, kidnappings, people breaking into your house while you're watching TV. They begin to think it's time to get the ability to protect themselves."
Rupert says he's seeing a lot of first time buyers looking at hand guns.
Rupert says, "Everything from somebody who's old enough to buy a rifle or hand gun to a 60 year old woman who lives alone that figures it's time to defend herself."
Guns classified as "assault weapons" are are selling fast. According to Steve Evans with Granger Guns, it's because of President Obama.
Evans says, "It's a fear of the administration of what they might or could do to sales and supply."
It's not uncommon for gun sales to rise when a Democratic administration enters the White House.
Evans says he had a wall full of weapons classified as "assault weapons" and they sold quickly after the election.
Guns are not the only item selling fast, ammunition can't stay on the shelves. According to both gun shops, fears that more regulation combined with high gun sales are driving ammunition sales.
Because of that demand, there is a short supply.
South Bend Police Chief Chief Darryl Boykins says, "It is a shortage for police departments for certain types of ammunition needed for practice and for training that has to be updated every year."
Evans says, "Right now there're really no hand gun ammo that I could buy today or order. My wholesaler has nothing".
While stores are pleased with the increase in sales, they do want to make sure people know what they're getting into.
Evans says, "Don't be a liability to yourself or anybody else & just, you know, use your head."
Midwest Gun Exchange says they've also seen an increase in the number of people attending their safety classes. They say it's nearly doubles and it's is something they strongly suggest for anyone planning to own a gun.
