About Smyrna Sporting Goods

About Us

Smyrna Sporting Goods has proudly served the Delaware outdoor community since 1954, when it was founded by Gene Hansberry with a passion for hunting, fishing, trapping and outfitting fellow sportsmen. Over the decades, the store has become a trusted, hometown destination for quality gear and friendly expertise.

In 2023, Ty and Katie took the reins, continuing the legacy with a renewed dedication to service, tradition, and community. At their side is Howard Fortner, who has been an integral part of the store for over 50 years. Howard stepped in as a guiding force, bringing with him decades of knowledge, experience, and commitment—helping shape the continued success that Smyrna Sporting Goods is today.

We proudly offer:

• A wide range of firearms, ammunition, and shooting accessories
• Quality archery equipment and accessories
• Reliable fishing tackle and gear
• Durable and functional hunting apparel
• Gunsmithing services
• Provided by M&D Gunsmithing to keep your equipment in top shape

At Smyrna Sporting Goods, we believe in honest service, expert guidance, and building relationships with every customer. Whether you're a lifelong sportsman or just getting started, you'll find a welcoming team ready to help you make the most of the outdoors.

Our Legacy: A Tradition of Firearms & Outdoors Since 1954

Smyrna Sporting Goods has been a trusted name in Delaware’s hunting and shooting community for over 70 years. From the beginning, we’ve been more than just a retail shop—we’re a piece of local history.

1954

Founded by Gene Hansberry

Our story begins in downtown Smyrna when Gene Hansberry, a passionate outdoorsman, opened the doors to a small shop focused on firearms, ammunition, hunting, trapping supplies and sporting equipment. His mission was simple: serve the local sportsmen with honesty, quality, and expertise.

1960s–70s

A Growing Hub for Hunters & Shooters

As the outdoor community grew, so did Smyrna Sporting Goods. The store became a central meeting point for local hunters, shooters, and anglers—a place to share stories, get gear, and prepare for the season.

2023

A New Chapter with Ty & Katie

In 2023, longtime customers and passionate sportsmen Ty and Katie stepped in to continue the legacy. With the help of Howard, they’ve renewed the store’s commitment to the hunting and shooting community—updating where needed, but keeping the heart of the store unchanged.

Today

Delaware’s Oldest Dedicated Gun & Hunting Store

We’re proud to be the oldest continuously operating gun and hunting store in Delaware. Our inventory now includes firearms, ammo, archery equipment, fishing tackle, hunting apparel, and expert gunsmithing services—but our core values remain the same: knowledge, integrity, and a love for the outdoors.

Whether you're shopping for your first firearm or just swapping stories at the counter, you're not just a customer here—you’re part of a tradition.