Vegreville Gun Show was a Venue for Folks who are Outdoor Enthusiasts

Vegreville Gun Show was a Venue for Folks who are Outdoor Enthusiasts

Rosanne Fortier - News Correspondent

Vegreville Wildlife Federation (VWF) 19th Annual Gun and Accessory Show was a one-stop site for outdoor enthusiasts where a record number of people gathered on Feb. 26 and 27.

The event was held at the Vegreville Social Centre. It attracted just over 1,000 people and featured 32 vendors from Saskatoon, Lethbridge, Grande Prairie, Sherwood Park and local areas. A total of 86 tables full of rifles, firearms, ammunition, war collectables, hunting gear, gun parts and accessories, fur, knives, food, concession stand, artwork, clothing, jewelry and more.

Daryl Sapp and Al Rusnak were Co-Chairs for this event. Sapp said this show is popular because we live in rural Alberta where firearms are enjoyed by many people and parts are available for firearms, accessories, and outdoor items. “The show satisfies a large interest or hobby of many people.

The VWF hosts the show as a fundraiser for the club which is a service for the community and is fun to be part of.

People explore the items at the show.

(Rosanne Fortier/Photo)

"I feel that we had more people attend than we ever did because after being cooped up for two years, they were looking for a great outing that they could enjoy going to,” Sapp explained.

VWF member Peter Varga, said it is a very vibrant club and they are always seeking new members to sit on the Executive Board.

“VWF promotes archery, and conservation issues relating to wildlife, and hunter training. We have one of the nicest outdoor ranges in Alberta. We are proud to be able to foster responsible gun ownership,” stated Varga.

Pat Doyle, Alberta’s Regional Director for the Canadian Shooting Sports Association, (CSSA) had

a booth at the show. “The CSSA is a pro-shooting sport and pro-firearms lobby group. Our primary purpose is to promote and protect the shooting sports in Canada.”

Doyle said Tony Bernardo, Executive Director of the Canadian Institute for Legislative Action (CILA) is working in Ottawa with democrats and politicians trying to abolish unfair gun laws and enhance public safety. “He is there to support the licensing of law abiding firearm owners.”

Gerry Kievit, Vice-President of Western Canada Knife Association, had an assortment of knives for sale. One very unique knife stood out. Kievit said Jay Neilson made the steel bar out of ball bearings and nickel powder, and he fashioned the knife out of the steel bar.