The Kootenai Valley Sportsman Association hosted the first gun and horn show of the year in North Idaho, marking the 32nd annual event in Boundary County at the fairgrounds last weekend. 

Over 80 vendors participated, offering a variety of items including firearms — such as World War I-era pistols — knives, furs, jewelry, artwork, and horns, including those from mule deer in Boundary County, a species in decline that comprised only 6% of Boundary County deer harvests last year, according to Idaho Fish and Game.  

KVSA also invited renowned horn scorers from Montana to attend. 

The event was promoted not only in Boundary County but also in eastern Washington, western Montana, and as far south as Moscow, KVSA President Kevin Dye said. 

Dye said the event helps bring visitors to Bonners Ferry during a typically slow tourism season. Attendees and vendors from across the region, including western Washington and even Canada, come not only for the show but also to dine at restaurants and spend a night or two at a hotel. 

This year, the event raised funds for several local organizations, including the Senior Hospitality Center, Boundary Search and Dive Rescue Team, KVSA, Kootenai Valley Rifle and Pistol Club, and the Kootenai Valley Junior Rifle Club. 

“This is a great chance for us to connect with people and catch up,” Dye said. “It’s not a big-city show — if you look around, you’ll see all types of people. We don’t judge anyone.”