The local shops here in Scottsbluff are part of the "good ol' boy network". If you're not part of their circle, then the prices they offer you are going to be ridiculous. I get the best prices at Cabela's, seriously. I went to one of my local shops before I made my most recent purchase and they wanted to charge me $100 more for the same gun. They wouldn't come down off the price either. I'd love to support my local shops, but I have to support my family too. I don't mind paying a bit more, really I don't, but I'm not going to let you take me for $100. If they would at least try to offer me a reasonable price, I'd be more than happy to deal with them, but they don't and I don't think that's fair. Meanwhile, I know others who go into the same stores and walk out with awesome deals! How's that working?
I've not bought any guns from Wal-Mart and I don't know if I ever will, but I like the thought that they make it even more accessible AND acceptable by stocking them.