Brownells began almost by accident when Bob Brownell began selling his custom guns through is gas station and sandwich shop in the 1930’s. It wasn’t long before he had more customers than he had time to accommodate through his location and he soon realized that his gun making hobby had potential to make big profits so he opened a part time gunsmithing business.
As he built guns and made firearm repairs for his loyal customers, Brownell soon realized that finding reliable parts was not so easy. So he would buy extra inventory to sell to his customers when he came across a good deal on quality tools or gun parts. This soon evolved into Brownells Catalog in 1947 and the company became known as “The First and Only Complete Gunsmith’s Supply House in the World”.
In 1997, Pete Brownell took on the family business and thrust the company into a new wave of success by offering their huge inventory of products online. As the Internet began to transform the way shooters bought their ammunition and firearms, Brownells capitalized on the changing market and adapted to meet modern needs. Today, Brownells remains the go to place for all tools, parts, and firearms. Whether you are looking for optics, gun cleaning gear, or gun smithing tools, you can find it all in the Brownells line. They have recently expanded operations to include survival and outdoor gear to appeal to preppers, hunters, and campers.