Gander Mountain reports profitable third quarter

In 2007 in Q3, Gander Mountain posted a net loss of $5.1 million; which obviously is the kind of thing you don't want to see from a shooting/hunting store. However, in Q3 of 2008, Gander's financial statements are reporting a net profit of $0.77 million, which is a swing of about about 6 million dollars, give or take a few hundred grand.

Now, I know I post stuff about gun company's financials every now and then, and it's kind of dry - but there is a method to my madness. You see, whether or not you shop at Gander Mountain, their profitability has a direct affect on us. If Gander Mtn does well, it's a sign that the shooting and hunting markets are doing well; a statement which is reinforced by the screaming rise in NICS checks during the month of November. Now, if Gander Mountain is doing well, it means that people are buying ammo, guns, outdoor clothes, and all the other awesome little things that we need people to buy to support our sport.

Now, while a boost at Gander Mountain may not mean a boost for your local gun shop, the overall effect of a major retailer turning a profit in the third quarter speaks good things about the condition of our sport, from an economic standpoint. Of course, voting with your dollars also sends a strong political message, so if you've got ammo to buy, buy it up!