Posted in: Comics | Tagged: Comics, entertainment

DS Arms Set Up At Wizard World Chicago For 90 Minutes – Then Replaced By Gel Packs

Published Sat, 20 Aug 2016 09:00:30 -0500

Last updated Wed, 24 Aug 2016 05:50:16 -0500

The story of Illinois arms dealer D.S. Arms setting up at Wizard World Chicago to sell and exhibit replica weapons for cosplay purposes has been a rather ridiculous one. Originally called out, Wizard World initially said they would be withdrawn from exhibiting. Then that they would still be exhibiting. Then they would no longer be exhibiting.

But as of Thursday they actually set up their booth at the show for 90 minutes before the decision was made to get them out of there. Photo by Cheryl V. Jackson for the Chicago Tribune, who quotes DS Arms owner Dave Salvaggio as saying "Just because people are fans of comic books and sci-fi doesn't mean they're not interested in protecting themselves and their family and their belongings" noting that "Maybe 90 percent of people walking around in costumes have (presumably fake) firearms".

So when representatives assure people that they were never going to be at the show after concerns were raised, that's just not true.

Instead, they have been replaced at the same booth by ClickItHot, a supplier of gel packs. Which will probably be a little less controversial. Although even more out of place.

The Chicago Tribune reports that DS Arms has bought space at car shows and horror movie festivals, and confirms plans to exhibit at Dragon*Con in Atlanta next month.

Hannah Lodge got confirmation that they will be attending, not as a vendor, but as part of The Armory, an exhibition quoting show reps saying,

Since 2009, Dragon Con has included an exhibit of historical weapons,. The Armory, as the exhibit is called, has at times included a full range of actual weapons or historically accurate replicas spanning time from the age of Alexander the Great to modern day. This exhibit is curated and staffed by noted military historian and weapons expert Kevin Dockery. DS Arms does have an informational table in The Amory, and firearms experts from DS Arms are among the volunteers who help staff this exhibit.

The Armory has its own website explaining their purpose – and rules.

Because of the nature of the specimens on display at The Armory, security is paramount. The Armory security staff (Red Shirts) are in constant attendance of the display room 24-hours a day. This security includes uniformed members of the Atlanta Police Department also in constant attendance of the displays. In general, specimens on display are not to be touched by the attendees. While on display, any items may be photographed, any further actions have to be requested of the security staff.

Absolutely no weapons or tactical gear worn by attendees will be allowed in the room at any time during the convention. If there is any question about a specific costume item, assume it cannot come into the display room. It doesn't matter if the items are secured to a holster or sheath, is obviously fake, or anything else; it will not be allowed in the display room. Convention attendees are responsible for securing their own materials. Any restricted items must be removed prior to entering The Armory, anyone carrying an item that cannot be removed will be turned away.

This rule is especially true for ammunition, of any kind, live, fired, or fake – it will absolutely not be allowed into the room period.

This remains a controversial topic. Although we hope they didn't get too heated and set off the fire alarms, as the second floor had to be evacuated yesterday.