The 32nd annual Yorkton Gun Club Gun and Hobby Show was held at the Gallagher Centre Agripavilion over the recent weekend.
Yorkton Gun Club secretary-treasurer and show chairman for the past 20 years Eugene Duchnitski says while last year's show attracted about 1,200 patrons, this year 1,300 came through the doors on Saturday alone. "Maybe the minus 31 degrees was what made people come in here and stay here for a few more hours instead of just going in and out," Duchnitski comments.
This year the show attracted 50 exhibitors, Duchnitski reports. The displays were wide ranging including everything from rifles to handguns to toy pistols. On the collectibles side there were beanie babies, collectors' comic books, tupperware, coins, mock boots, almost whatever anyone desires. Noticeably absent this year were jewelry exhibits.
This year the Sask Conservation Department had an exhibit set up to answer questions, provide information about hunting and fishing in the province as well as promoting the T.I.P.S. program.
Exhibitors included individuals, families and the occasional group of exhibitors who work together at various show. In some cases returning exhibitors have brought their friends with them.
Many of the patrons of the show are sport hunters and fishermen as well as collectors and those simply curious about what the event offers. People looking of gifts and gift ideas. Some exhibits which offer giftware and collectibles also attract spouses, making the show a family event.
The show, which has evolved into the Yorkton Gun Club's major fund raiser, was originally started by two local gun club members, Ernie Anuik and the late Orville Pedde who simply wanted a show of interest to local hunters and sportsmen in Yorkton.
Currently there is some doubt how long the event will continue. Apparently changes to federal gun control rules are being discussed which may affect future shows of this nature, reports Duchnitski. Changes affecting limits of numbers of firearms at a show, and the number of exhibitors permitted to attend may affect future shows. The heightened restriction and regulations may well cause some exhibitors to stop their activity. Organizers of gun shows may also decide to stop the shows because it may simply be not worth the effort, Duchnitski suggests.
"I'm looking forward to next year's show," Duchnitski closes.
