Finding the perfect gift for the outdoor enthusiast on a Christmas list is a breeze at Powell River Outdoors (PRO), Powell River’s trusted source for gear and local outdoors knowledge, says store owner Sam Sansalone.
The outdoor store has grown and expanded over the years but one thing has stayed the same, Sansalone’s commitment to providing hunters, fishers and backpackers the best gear they require to make the most of their adventures into Powell River’s back or front country.
“Whether it's firearms, fishing gear or backcountry supplies, PRO is your one-stop shop,” says Sam. “We’ve worked hard at that.”
In addition to its huge variety of products in stock, the store carries top brands including Vortex Optics, Black Diamond Equipment, MSR, Hotcore Sleeping Bags, Tilley hats, and PRO’s very own Fillet&Release Apparel.
After 16 years in business, Sansalone continues to innovate, providing new products and services. Most recently, he hired staff gunsmith Rocco Wenzel in October. Wenzel is an expert in fixing, altering and cleaning firearms, says Sam.
Rocco also does custom leather work from knife sheaths to gun slings.
“If you have any firearms-related questions or firearms you no longer want, we will buy or sell them on consignment,” says Sam.
The outdoor shop will be offering a firearms handling course in the new year, a program designed to give students hands-on experience at the shooting range with a variety of firearms the store provides, and a strong emphasis on learning safe handling. Anyone interested in the class should contact the store; no licence is required, says Sam.
To go along with PRO’s great selection of knives, the store is also providing a new professional knife sharpening service. Knifemaker and longtime employee Darcy Gaudet is bringing his expertise to ensure customers have the sharpest blades, explains Sam. Sharpening will cost about $5 per knife.
“This makes a great Christmas gift,” he adds.
The shop has provided snowshoe rentals for years and now has added flat-bottom aluminum lake boats and stand-up paddleboards to help customers get out on Powell River’s lakes.
PRO has also expanded its binocular and spotting scope lines.
“If you want to view whales out front, stop in and test our product; we have a great view at PRO,” says Sam.
With the fall/winter season comes darkness, and two of Sam’s favourite items in the shop are headlights and flashlights.
“If you want great lighting at a great price, stop in,” he adds.
Sansalone says he has been a strong advocate for shopping local for several years.
“Shop local whenever possible and you will see our local shops not only stock more products but hire more staff,” he adds. “Last time I checked, Amazon wasn't supporting any local teams or fundraising events. More and more people are shopping locally and it's great to see.”
Sam says that 99.9 per cent of the time, PRO will not only match the price, but beat it.
“If you don't believe me, just ask,” he says.
Sam says he is grateful for the community's continued support.
"With the advent of online shopping, it's gotten tougher," he adds. “We just want to say how much we appreciate our loyal customers.”
For more information, call 604.485.HUNT (4868), email sam.sansalone@hotmail.com or pro@proutdoors.ca. The store's emergency number is 604.414.8762 (text only).
Regular store hours are 9 am to 5 pm, Monday to Saturday.
“Bring the kids by the shop at noon on Saturday, December 8,” says Sam, “for Christmas photos with Santa Claus and Bruno the Bear.”
