Ryan Williams examines a shotgun for sale at Hugh Hauser's in this 2012 file photo from the Medicine Hat Antique and Gun Show.--NEWS FILE PHOTO
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Medicine Hat’s largest antiques and gun show will return to the Stampede grounds this weekend for a 19th edition – almost and antique in its own right.
Antiques and Collectible Show and Sale organizer Tim Hittel took two ears off, of course, during the pandemic, but returned last year and upgraded from the Cypress Pavilion on the Stampede Grounds to the next-door field house.
That gives extra room for aisles, and ample room for 300 tables and vendors between items from memory lane and the concurrent Gun and Hobby show.
“We’ve had some vendors for all 19 years and they keep coming back,” said Hittel, ahead of the event that runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. on Saturday and 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Sunday.
They arrive from points as far as Winnipeg to Port Alberni, B.C., points in between, as well as the local contingent.
Hitter says the amount of furniture on display has fallen over the years, but coins, toys, sports memorabilia, glassware, art and jewellery are in increasing supply and quality.
Patrons can peruse not just historic or rare firearms, but also new models and accessories.
HALO will be on site selling fundraising calendars, while members of the Medicine Hat Fish and Game Association will be offering memberships and selling 50-50 tickets.
General admission is $6.