Category Archives: R. Doug Wicker

Ursula and I recently got back from another 33 days abroad, on three back-to-back cruises once again involving Iceland, Norway, and England, but this time with a stop in Halifax on the initial transatlantic crossing. So, imagine my surprise when I got back and, without warning, found that my favorite local gun store had relocated from the eastside of El Paso back to the westside, which is where they originally were twenty years ago. This is Collector’s Gun Exchange, and if you’re a collector, this is the place to go for an excellent selection of collectible firearms as well as the new stuff.

I’ve been giving Paul Lee of Collector’s Gun Exchange the bulk of my business for the better part of two decades. I won’t go into what prompted the sudden, unexpected change in location save to say that Paul only had a month to find new digs and make the move. This was unfortunate for him, as it left precious little time for him to advertise his sudden relocation. So, rather than the usual three blog weekly articles, this week I’m posting a special fourth one to help him get out the word.

Paul is a charming, friendly FFL (federal firearms licensed dealer) who really knows his stuff. He’s fun to chat with, and I always learn a lot whenever we converse. The same goes for Eddy, his most senior salesman:

If the names and business sound familiar, it’s because I’ve mentioned them before. If you want to know just how honest these guys are, and how much they’re willing to help a collector with whom they’ve an established relationship, read Beretta 81FS Cheetah — And tips on Gun Collecting.

So, what do I mean about carrying collectible firearms? How about a 1943 Inland M1 Carbine still sporting the original high wood stock, two-rivet handguard, pushbutton safety, and type one barrel band; or an early Winchester M1 Carbine that’s not quite as original but still desirable; or an M1 Garand that appears to be a CMP rebuild:

Want to know the prices? Here you go:

And, yes, he has some classic handguns as well, including this Colt Frontier:

Here’s a classic High Standard Sport King:

Centered in the image below is a nickel-plated .357 Magnum Smith and Wesson Model 27-2 with a pinned barrel and recessed cylinder chambers:

Want something a bit newer, but still classic? On this visit Paul had the full barrel-length assortment of new Colt Pythons:

Here’s an increasingly difficult-to-find handgun. It’s a Wilson Combat Beretta 92G Brigadier:

Or, how about two SIG P226 pistols? The one on left is a single-action only (SAO) Legion in the original, since discontinued PVD finish. To the right is a rare Blackwater variant, which I believe was only made for one year:

Want a place to park the spouse while you go hunting? Here’s a nice place, although quite truthfully it could use a more comfortable seat that’s not quite so low to the ground (are you listening, Paul?):

Guns aren’t the only thing you’ll find here. There’s also a wide selection of holster, including classic Western styles, knives, and other stuff:

Don’t live in the area? Paul ships… but only to a local FFL in your area. That’s the only legal way to do it. If you see something you like, or want something Paul might be able to find for you, give him a call at (915) 771-7399. Just tell Paul, or Eddie, orJohn, or Ashley, or Cameron, or Wily that Doug Wicker sent you. I’ll leave you with these additional store views.

And before you ask, I am not being compensated for this article in any way. It was entirely my idea to give Paul a hand because of his short-notice relocation. His business is still recovering, and his clientele are not yet fully aware that he has a new site.

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