Organizers said attendance at this year’s South Alabama Gun and Knife show was one of the best in club history.

Joe Caton said weekend thunderstorms helped draw crowds numbering in the thousands.

“I would say by far, this is one of the biggest shows we’ve done,” Caton said. “Saturday, when the flood gates opened, it was like Wal-Mart at Christmas in here. By Sunday afternoon, attendance was up by at least 150 people from the same time last year.

“I think, too, that the big selection really drew crowds,” he said. “We had 170 tables sold with a waiting list if anyone cancelled. To us, that says success.”

Vendors included a variety of arms dealers, knife makers and even jewelry and candle vendors for the ladies.

The event was held Saturday and Sunday at the Kiwanis Center. Funds raised are used to operate the club’s 20-acre shooting range.