If you find yourself driving down East 20th Street in Joplin, Missouri, you’ll pass a lot of history. But one spot stands out for anyone who knows their way around a trigger guard. Brandon’s Gun Trading Co isn't just another retail shop. It’s a piece of the local landscape that’s been humming along since 1991, and honestly, in an era of big-box sporting goods stores that feel more like supermarkets, this place is a bit of a throwback.
Most folks looking for Brandon's Gun Trading Co are usually looking for one of two things: a specific piece of hardware or a fair shake on a trade-in. It’s a "pawn shop for guns only," which is a distinction that matters more than you’d think. Unlike general pawn shops where your rifle might be sitting next to a dusty saxophone and a 2014 flat-screen TV, this shop lives and breathes firearms.
The Reality of Brandon's Gun Trading Co
Walk through the door at 321 E 20th St and the first thing you’ll notice is the inventory. It’s dense. We’re talking over 30 years of accumulated expertise packed into one showroom. They carry the heavy hitters—Sig Sauer, Smith & Wesson, Taurus, and Ruger—but it’s the variety of the used racks that usually gets people talking.
💡 You might also like: How Much Jessica Alba Worth: Why the Numbers Are Changing in 2026
One of the biggest misconceptions? That a "trading company" is just a place to dump old gear.
In reality, Brandon Spaugy and his team have built a reputation on being "friendly experts." That’s a term you see thrown around a lot in Joplin, but here it basically means they won't look down their noses at you if you ask a "newbie" question. They offer firearms loans and layaway, which is becoming a bit of a lost art in the digital age.
💡 You might also like: Finding the Pinnacle Bank Customer Service Number and Getting a Real Human
Why the "Second Cleanest Restrooms" Matter
It sounds like a joke, right? If you look at their local advertising, they often boast about having the "second cleanest restrooms in the firearms industry."
It’s a quirky bit of marketing, but it tells you something about the culture of the shop. They don't take themselves too seriously, but they take the customer experience seriously. It’s that sort of self-deprecating humor that keeps regulars coming back. Plus, it’s a jab at the typical "grimy" gun shop stereotype that most people want to avoid.
Navigating the Inventory and Services
Whether you’re a collector or someone looking for home defense, the stock here moves fast. Because they act as a specialized pawnbroker, the "new to you" section is constantly rotating. You might find a Daniel Defense one week and a classic Rossi or Heritage revolver the next.
- Trade-ins and Loans: This is their bread and butter. If you've got a piece collecting dust, they're known for giving fair market evaluations.
- The Warranty Factor: Unlike a private sale in a parking lot, Brandon’s offers warranted guns. That peace of mind is why people drive in from Neosho or Carthage.
- Ammunition and Accessories: They keep the essentials in stock, though like everywhere else, the rare calibers can be hit or miss depending on the week.
Honestly, the service is where they win. They’ve been at it for over three decades. You don't survive that long in a town like Joplin unless you're doing right by the people walking through the door.
Hours and Logistics (The Details People Miss)
The shop operates on a pretty standard Tuesday through Saturday schedule, usually 9-5 (with a slight shift to 9-4 on Saturdays). But here is the kicker that trips up the out-of-towners: they are closed the first Saturday of each month. There’s a legendary bit of local lore—sometimes even printed on their site—that this closure is for "hangover recovery." Whether that’s a literal truth or just more of that trademark humor, the takeaway is the same: don't make the drive on the first Saturday of the month unless you want to stare at a locked door.
The Competition in Joplin
Joplin isn't short on options. You’ve got Steve’s Trading Post just a couple of miles away, and big names like Academy or Bass Pro (further out). However, Brandon's Gun Trading Co occupies a specific niche. It’s smaller, more personal, and deeply focused on the secondary market. If you want a corporate experience, go to the mall. If you want to talk shop with guys who have seen every model of Glock ever made, you go to 20th Street.
Getting the Most Out of Your Visit
If you're planning to head down there, keep a few things in mind. They accept the big three—Visa, Mastercard, and Discover—but they are a cash-friendly business.
- Call Ahead for Specifics: If you’re looking for a specific Sig Sauer model, just call 417-623-8787. The inventory changes daily because of the pawn side of the house.
- Check the Calendar: Again, watch out for that first Saturday of the month.
- Bring Your Trade-In: If you’re looking to swap, bring your firearm (unloaded and cased, obviously). They are much better at giving you a price in person than over the phone.
Basically, Brandon’s Gun Trading Co is a Joplin institution for a reason. It’s reliable, it’s a bit eccentric, and it’s arguably the best place in the 4-state area to find a used firearm that won't give you buyer's remorse.
Next Steps for Your Visit:
Before you head out, verify that it isn't the first Saturday of the month. If you are looking for a loan or a trade, ensure you have a valid ID and that your firearm is safely secured for transport. If you're a first-time buyer, don't be afraid to ask about their layaway options—it's one of the most flexible ways to secure a high-quality piece without dropping the full amount upfront.