POWELL, Tenn. — A Tennessee used-car dealer who gave a free rifle to anyone who bought a car on Saturday said the daylong pro-gun campaign lifted his sales considerably.
Greg "Lumpy" Lambert, who normally sells only four to five cars a month, said he sold three cars on what he called "Second Amendment Saturday" — a reference to the U.S. Constitution's provision on bearing arms.
"The day has gone fairly well," Lambert said. "Approximately 100 to 200 pro-gun rights supporters stopped by."
Advantage Auto Sales of Powell, Tenn., offered each car buyer a voucher redeemable for a used, bolt-action rifle at GunCraft Sports in nearby West Knoxville.
All voucher redeemers had to comply with government regulations showing they are qualified to own a firearm before acquiring the weapon, Lambert said.
Two pro-gun rights groups, the National Rifle Association and Rights Education Fund, also set up booths at the promotion, he said.
He also gave away 15 to 20 toy water guns to children whose parents came by the dealership.
Lambert said he was disappointed that no protesters had shown up. "One thing I really love about this country is that we can debate and express our opinion but still respect each other."
He said he would "probably not" make the gun-giveaway promotion an annual event. "But I am thinking about giving away Godiva chocolates and teddy bears on Valentine's Day," he said.