U.S. Defense Solutions

U.S. Defense Solutions opened in December 2013 when owners Mike Acton and Chad Laughner decided Indiana needed a different kind of gun store. Their focus: customer service and knowledge—staff who could answer questions without making customers feel small.

That approach worked. The business grew enough that they built it into a franchise model, but with a twist: instead of becoming a soulless corporation, they partnered with local owners to keep the "mom and pop" atmosphere alive while gaining the buying power of multiple locations.

• •Four locations across Indiana (Greenwood, Bloomington, Lawrence, Columbus/Greensburg area)
• •Staff trained to help without condescension
• •Loyalty program for repeat customers
• •Text notifications and online ordering
• •Modern convenience with local ownership

"We do not want to be a large corporation without a soul."

They're still growing—if you're interested in opening your own USDS location, they offer a walk-through process and funding options.