Dunham's Sports

Dunham's Sports runs about 240 stores across 24 states, mostly through the Midwest and Eastern US. Started in Michigan back in 1937, they've carved out a decent niche as the practical middle ground between farm supply stores and the big destination retailers.

You know the type -- bigger selection than your local Tractor Supply, better gun prices than Dick's Sporting Goods (back when Dick's still sold real guns), but without the bass boat atmosphere of Cabela's. For a lot of Midwestern shooters, it's the most sensible place to actually buy firearms and ammo.

The timeline that matters: Founded in '37, expanded through the Great Lakes in the '60s and '70s, then grew into the bigger format stores they run today. Nothing fancy about the history -- just steady expansion into markets that needed a decent sporting goods option.

• •Key milestones in Dunham's growth from regional Michigan retailer to multi-state sporting goods chain

Dunham's stores run 30,000 to 50,000 square feet -- think warehouse style, not showroom. The gun counter sits in the back, ammunition is usually nearby, and everything's laid out for efficiency rather than ambiance.

The stores work because they focus on moving product, not creating an experience. You'll find what you need without paying for fancy displays or marketing overhead.

Here's what they do right: frequent sales that actually save you money, coupon culture that applies to guns and ammo, and locations in smaller markets where your options are limited. The ammunition pricing stays competitive when supply is normal.

What they don't do well: the online experience lags behind everyone else, staff expertise varies wildly between locations, and if you want premium or specialty gear, you're probably shopping elsewhere.

Dunham's runs percentage-off coupons that apply to firearms -- something most retailers won't do. That 10% or 15% off can add up fast on a gun purchase.

Check their weekly circular before you go. Dunham's runs percentage-off coupons that apply to firearms -- something most retailers won't do. That 10% or 15% off can add up fast on a gun purchase.

For a mid-size sporting goods chain, Dunham's keeps a surprisingly solid firearms selection. Not Bass Pro level, but way better than what you'll find at most general retailers.

• •Dunham's firearms department organization and product categories

• •Handguns: Glock, Smith & Wesson, Ruger, Taurus, Springfield Armory. They stock both concealed carry options and full-size pistols. Better selection than Big 5, not as deep as a dedicated gun store.

• •Rifles: Savage, Ruger, Remington, Mossberg for bolt-actions in standard hunting calibers. AR selection varies by state and includes Smith & Wesson, Ruger, DPMS, and Anderson -- entry-level stuff, but functional.

• •Shotguns: Mossberg and Remington pumps, some semi-autos, hunting-focused. Decent selection for upland and waterfowl.

• •Rimfire: Strong .22 LR options including the Ruger 10/22, Savage rifles, and Henry lever-actions.

The ammunition situation breaks down into several key factors:

• •Common calibers usually in stock (9mm, .223, .308, 12-gauge, .22 LR)
• •Competitive pricing with other big-box stores
• •Bulk options on select calibers
• •Purchase limits during shortage periods

Accessories cover the basics -- entry-level optics from Bushnell and Vortex, holsters, cases, cleaning supplies. Most locations have an archery department too.

When Dick's Sporting Goods scaled back firearms, Dunham's picked up market share in overlapping territories. They kept a full gun counter without the political theater.

When Dick's Sporting Goods scaled back firearms (dropped ARs, raised purchase ages), Dunham's picked up market share in overlapping territories. They kept a full gun counter without the political theater.

The 240-ish stores spread across 24 states, concentrated in places where people actually hunt and shoot regularly.

Heavy presence in Michigan, Ohio, Indiana, and Wisconsin -- their home territory with the highest store density. Good coverage through Midwestern markets where outdoor culture runs strong.

Growing presence in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Virginia, plus expansion into Kentucky, Tennessee, Alabama, Georgia, North Carolina, and South Carolina. Newer markets include Nebraska, Kansas, and Oklahoma -- still building out those territories.

Most stores sit in strip malls and shopping centers in suburban or small city locations. They fill the gap between farm supply stores and the big outdoor retailers, serving markets that need a solid firearms option without driving an hour to the nearest Bass Pro.

The stores are functional, not fancy. That's the point -- the savings go into competitive pricing rather than expensive buildouts and marketing budgets.

Dunham's works because they understand their role in the market. They're not trying to be Cabela's or compete with dedicated gun stores on selection. They're the practical choice for shooters in smaller markets who need decent firearms, ammunition, and accessories without the premium pricing.

Dunham's works because they understand their role in the market. They're not trying to be Cabela's -- they're the practical choice for shooters in smaller markets.

The coupon situation alone makes them worth checking before major purchases. Most retailers treat firearms like they're exempt from discounts -- Dunham's actually lets you save money.

Staff knowledge varies, so don't expect expert advice at every location. But for common firearms, standard calibers, and basic accessories, they'll get the job done at prices that make sense.

If you live in their footprint, keep them on your list. Here's how to maximize your shopping:

• •Check weekly ads for sales
• •Sign up for email coupons
• •Use for common firearms and standard calibers
• •Don't expect expert advice at every location