IVOR—Wayne Zimmerman always wanted to open a gun shop, so after working for a firearms dealer for six years, he did just that.

Zimmerman Security in downtown Ivor held its grand opening Saturday. “We had about 70 people during the day,” he said. “Many of them came just to look, but at least they now know where to come for all their firearms needs.”

Th e grand opening included a raffle for a Massburg 22-caliber rifle, which Dr. Winston Browne of Franklin won.

Located at 8273 Main St. across from the post office, the business is in a former grocery store. The brick structure was built and operated there as Rawls Grocery during the 1920s.

The store is stocked with shotguns, rifles and handguns, including pistols and revolvers, ammunition and magazines.

The store also features auto audio and video equipment, speakers and accessories, including installation.

“There is a market for firearms,” Zimmerman said. “People want them for protection and of course, this is the country and there are hunt clubs and hunters all around us.”

Zimmerman says he always urges people to learn how to handle guns correctly.

“There are a number of places available that teach firearms safety,” he said. “You can’t know too much about a gun.”

Zimmerman and his son, Nick, keep the shop open from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Tuesday through Friday and 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on Saturdays. For more information, call 757-859-6565.