Monday, April 27, 2009

Gun&Reel Sports

115 1st Street West
Jamestown, ND 58401
701-252-2850
800-427-2850
www.gunandreelsports.com
My visits to Jamestown, ND. have taken me past this outdoor sports supplier many times. I kept telling myself the next time I came to town that I would go see what they had in their inventory. This past weekend became that opportunity. I would like to thank Gary Docktor, son of one of the original owners, for his time in sharing how Gun & Reel has come to be an outdoor sports supplier for the residents of central North Dakota and those like me who stop by when they are passing through. When I asked Mr. Docktor how things began, this is what I learned - Gerome Docktor and Bob Brastrup returned to Jamestown from their tour of service in different branches of the military. They each had different careers until a common interest in hunting and fishing brought them together. In 1953 they decided to become partners in a business to help meet the needs of those of like interest. In 1987, Bob passed away and Gerome incorporated to sell shares to his employees. Presently there are three partners, two of them are interested in retiring soon and Gary would like to keep the business in the family. He will be buying out those shares with hopes that eventually his son may decide to join him in running the store after his graduation from college with a business degree. The same route that Gary took after he graduated from high school. The original business began two doors to the east of their present location. As time went on the business evolved and moved to the vacant Montgomery Ward building, with more space came an expanded inventory to cover a wider range of needs. Present inventory covers hunting,fishing,athletic apparel,ATVs,motorcycles, lawnmowers and generators to name a few catergories. Gary said he enjoys mainly bird hunting( ducks,geese,and pheasant). There are enough of his friends that take larger game that he receives their extra to supply his table. Gary's son was mentored by his grandfather in the full range of outdoor experiences and shares the love of hunting the bigger game. I really enjoyed the family owned - hometown atmosphere that Gun & Reel Sports gives to those who enter their doors. It will be a place for me to stop again when I visit Jamestown.
Gun&Reel Display RoomGun&Reel Gun SalesGun&Reel DisplaysGun&Reel Display RoomGun&Reel ATV room
Stop by and take a tour through pictures, or maybe even onsite the next time you are passing through central North Dakota off Interstate 94.

4 comments:

  1. I always love the local shops and doing my part in helping support them. Hopefully all goes well with their business.

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  2. The Hunters Wife - I too wish them continued success.

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  3. Gotta love the family owned businesses. Thanks for that glimpse into the history of this store.

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  4. Kristine Shreve - Yes,big box stores can be fun, but the hometown/family owned stores have more personal touches. ;)

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