An interview with Khosro Peiravi, owner of Sporty’s, 275 U.S. Highway 30 , Clatskanie. (503) 728-2712

The outdoor sportsman will find everything he or she needs at Sporty’s in Clatskanie. Owner Khosro Peiravi offers a selection of fishing, hunting camping supplies, conversation, advice and even some insight into living a wonderful life. His motto is “All guns and ammo must go! (To a good home)” Open 9 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. Monday through Saturday.

Tell us about Sporty’s

“I have been at this location for 20 years. I am very well known in Oregon and Washington. I sell guns all across the U.S. I am a military and law-enforcement contractor. I buy, sell, trade and take consignments. According to my customers, we have the largest selection of ammo in the Northwest.”

What would you tell people about gun ownership?

“My message would be to read your safety rules one more time and live by it or someone will get hurt. What really bugs me the most is people who don’t keep a close watch on their guns. Keep your gun in a safe place so it won’t fall into wrong hands. I would also like to send another message: Please don’t sell a gun to someone you don’t know. Bring them to our shop for a background check. It is against the law to sell to someone not qualified to own a gun. We will run the check. It costs $10 and that goes to the police department. We do not charge for this service.”

Do you offer classes in gun safety?

“We offer concealed handgun classes through the Clatskanie Rifle and Pistol Club. Greg Smith is the rangemaster/NRA-certified pistol instructor. When the certification for a concealed weapon is issued, it goes to the sheriff who issues the license. They also offer hunter safety classes. We sponsor the Clatskanie Rifle & Pistol Club with free ammo, targets, you name it. You can learn more about the club at its Web site at www.crpcactionpistol.org.”

Should everyone own a gun?

“No! Every responsible person should own a gun. It is a fun sport. With lack of funding for law enforcement, people with guns make for a safer neighborhood. Show them you care. Buy a gun for America and become a member of NRA. If a gun kills, then a spoon makes people fat.”

How should someone get started?

“Go to a responsible gun shop and explain what you want to do, whether it is target shooting, hunting or self defense. We have a highly qualified staff to help choose what is right. We also have one of the finest rifle/pistol ranges in the area. For $50 a year a person can use the range at leisure. To become a member come to Sporty’s.”

Tell us about your volume of business.

“If it gets any better I will leave town. There are more guns in Clatskanie than there is population. I sell hundreds of guns a month.”

Do you have any specials right now?

“Everything is on special every day. Why pay more somewhere else when you can pay more here?”