Gun superstore opens despite recent shootings

TAMPA, Fla. (WSVN) -- It's the largest gun store in Florida.

A shooting superstore is open for business.

The store doesn't just sell guns. It comes complete with a firearms museum, shooting ranges, and specialized classes catering to men, women and children.

At a time when gun ownership and gun control are being debated across the country, a new gun superstore has opened in Tampa.

Shooter's World is calling itself the largest gun store in the state. "We wanted something to be wide open and very accessible to families, to women, to bringing your kids in to shoot," said General Manager Bruce Kitzis. "We have classes every day of the week from beginning to expert, from ladies only to children's courses and safety class."

The store is more than just a place to buy a gun. Inside, there's a shooting range and a firearms museum.

Guns are polarizing these days with gun control a hot topic following the Newtown, Connecticut shootings back in December.

A gunman opened fire on students and staff at Sandy Hook Elementary, killing 20 children and six adults.

The man also killed his mother, before turning the gun on himself.

Many believe tactical weapons like ones dominating a section of this store, will soon be banned and that has meant a run on guns.

The store manager said they aren't taking advantage of the big rush, instead limiting how much people can buy. "This concept was started long before the onset of this latest rush for guns," said Kitzis. "We had been planning this for a long time."

They said they're using the store as an educational opportunity. "I shot maybe six rounds today," said Renita Singh. "I experienced three different guns."

The megastore has already grown popular among gun experts and even those with less experience. "I heard Monday night is ladies night," said Singh, "so I'll definitely be back for that."

"I think it's a good thing that people are exercising their constitutional rights," said Kevin Headlee, "and deciding to be interested in doing something like that."

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