Oregon Trail Trader

Oregon Trail Trader opened its doors in 1977 and has operated continuously out of 2312 Adams Avenue—a location that's been retailing firearms and sporting goods since 1959. The building itself carries shooting sports history, and the Trader continues that legacy under current owner Karl Baum.

Karl Baum grew up in La Grande, attended Eastern Oregon University, and brings 20 years of service with the Oregon Army National Guard, including two deployments to Iraq. He runs the shop with his wife and three kids, keeping the operation grounded in local values and practical firearms knowledge.

The Trader stocks a deep inventory across multiple categories:

• •New and used firearms across handguns, rifles, shotguns, and specialty categories
• •Optics and accessories from major manufacturers
• •Ammunition in stock
• •Firearms parts and components
• •Knives from established brands like Benchmade, Cold Steel, Spyderco, and others
• •Suppressors and NFA items
• •Gun storage solutions
• •Gunsmith services
• •Black powder and muzzleloader supplies

The product catalog spans 100+ manufacturers including Sig Sauer, Glock, Ruger, AR-15 components, precision rifle brands, and ammunition makers like Federal, Hornady, Winchester, and Fiocchi.

In 2022, the Trader purchased majority ownership in Windhill Holsters and relocated the operation to the Adams Avenue location. Windhill specializes in custom Kydex holsters built for specific firearms and carry styles. Each is handcrafted for durability, retention, and everyday carry comfort, with options for custom colors and configurations. This is now the home of Windhill Holsters.

The Trader has offered firearms consignment for years. Here's how it works:

Process details: - All firearms must be clean and in working order - Cleaning or repairs are assessed at reasonable rates - Items are priced at expected market value (fees included, not added on top) - After six months, prices are reassessed to move inventory - All firearms logged in bound book per federal requirements - Background check required to retrieve gun back to consignor's name

The Trader maintains links to the La Grande Rifle and Pistol Club, supporting the region's active shooting sports culture.

Nearly 50 years of continuous operation in the same location—through three generations of ownership—isn't an accident. The Trader understands the practical needs of northeast Oregon shooters and hunters. Whether you're looking to consign a firearm, outfit yourself with new gear, or get custom Kydex holsters built, you're dealing with people who've been in the community long enough to know what works.