Lots of people complain about the big stores like Bass pro, Cabelas, Gander, etc., claiming that they take business away from the small guy and that they are less knowledgeable but I myself have never seen any small shop owners with any superior knowledge either. The small store is actually more likely to be pushy on trying to sell something to you since he doesn't sell as much as the big guys. The small shop owners generally have a much more limited selection of products also, so you really don't get to see everything that is out there and available so that you can compare items. The small store owner is more apt to push a product just to get it off the shelf. I think it's always best to do your homework before you go to any store to make any purchase. Store clerks recommendation shouldn't be the only thing one basis his purchasing decision on.