TAMPA, Florida — Florida Gun Show owners said they are seeing an uptick in business since the conflict between Israel and Hamas escalated.
Owners said admissions and sales are up by roughly 40% in the last nearly two months. Buyers, a number of whom are first-time gun owners, come from all different backgrounds. Firearm retailers have reported similar upticks in their own local stores in parts of the country.
"We've seen a major uptick in sales and admissions into the show just all across the board," said Robert Geisler, general manager for the Florida Gun Shows. "All the stores in Florida have been super busy."
The increase in sales comes amid reported increases in harassment cases against Muslim and Jewish communities, according to civil rights groups. Gun safety experts said traumatic events often question people's safety.
For instance, the Pulse nightclub mass shooting led to more LGBTQ+ groups enrolling in firearm training. Purchases of firearms also spiked heavily during the COVID-19 pandemic.
"They want to be able to protect themselves, or their family or their house first and they exercise the Second Amendment," Geisler said.
Tampa carry owner Ryan Thomas said more Jewish families have attended his training courses more recently.
"When we see major events like this, I think it kind of pops that bubble, makes people realize that violent attacks really can happen in the blink of an eye," Thomas said.
Thomas said people often share not knowing such atrocities were possible until they happen, therefore feeling a need to arm themselves.
Despite the efforts of some aiming to protect themselves, experts are urging people to be educated on proper firearm use.
Under the permitless concealed carry law, which took effect in July, people can conceal carry guns without a permit and previously required training.
Thomas said improper use of firearms can lead to killing one's self or others by accident.
"Firearms are extremely dangerous in the hands of somebody who lacks the proper training," Thomas said. "If you do not have a very deep understanding of firearm safety and shooting fundamentals, it is not a question of if you're going to shoot and injure an innocent person, it's only a matter of when."
Geisler said amid the uptick in interest, new owners have been able to take advantage of the courses Florida Gun Shows offer at the same time.
"We do a little bit of everything so we can kind of walk them through," Geisler said. "It definitely gives them a sense of security."
The Tampa Gun Show will resume at the Florida State Fairgrounds Expo Hall on Sunday starting at 10 a.m. through 5 p.m.