Kelsey Klont
Contributing Writer

(Photo by Kelsey Klont/TCJ – Trevor Watson opened Countryside Armory on August 19.)

Countryside Armory is a new ammunition and gun shop in Bellevue. Owner Trevor Watson said he was surprised when he went to open the doors on August 19, 2023, and saw a line down the block!

Watson grew up in Hastings during his childhood and currently lives just north of Battle Creek. Watson and his wife Sarah, who works at Bronson Battle Creek Emergency Department, have a 17-year-old daughter and a 10-year-old son, who helps Trevor out at the store.

Watson shared that his inspiration for opening Countryside Armory came after he beat cancer. In May of 2022 he was diagnosed with Stage 3 Colorectal Cancer. Treatments included two types of chemo, radiation, and surgery – and he came out on top. When he became cancer free, he decided to do something that he has always wanted to do, get his Federal Firearm License (FFL). This license allows him to sell firearms out of a shop, and he knew Bellevue would be a good location for the Countryside Armory storefront because he likes the small-town feel and the community.

Watson said that he appreciates small businesses. He went on to say, “Small businesses are only as good as the service you provide to the community, so I try and make everyone feel appreciated.”

Countryside Armory sells a wide selection of popular firearms, ammunition, knives, and optics, as well as some bow accessories. Watson said he eventually would like to buy another building and make that a pistol range.

“Trevor specializes in all types of firearms needs, he can even special order anything you want. I have been one of his customers since the beginning and he has always taken great care of me. Trevor is very knowledgeable and friendly with all customers,” says longtime customer and brother-in-law, Nathan White.

Watson is very knowledgeable from his long experience in the firearm industry, he is even an approved contractor for the Department of Defense. Currently the staffing includes Trevor and one part-time employee. Countryside Armory just held a Labor Day sale, and there will be more sales coming in the future, including for opening season. You can find Countryside Armory located at 124 N. Main Street in Bellevue. Call them anytime at 269-298-9366. Hours are Monday-Wednesday 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., Thursday 10 a.m. to 7 p.m., Friday 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and Saturday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. The business is closed on Sunday. To see what Countryside has in store for you please visit them on their website at www.countrysidearmory.com.