Westlake Classic Firearms: From Home-Based Venture to Full-Service Firearms Business

What began as a home-based venture has grown into Westlake Classic Firearms Co., a full-service firearms business built around personal service, professional guidance and a shared appreciation for firearms of every era.

Owner Eric Szytec received his Federal Firearms License in 2020 and began operating the business from his home. Those early years allowed him to develop relationships with customers and gain firsthand experience buying, selling and transferring firearms.

A major opportunity emerged in 2023 when he met the owner of Wild Wild Westlake, an established local firearms business whose owner was preparing for retirement. The two entered into a business agreement that allowed Eric to expand his operation while helping the previous owner transition into retirement.

Since then, the business has continued to grow. In August 2025, Eric’s wife, Karen, joined the company, making it a family-operated business. Together, they have worked to create a welcoming environment where customers can receive knowledgeable, personalized assistance—whether they are purchasing their first firearm, searching for a collectible or managing an inherited collection.

Today, Westlake Classic Firearms Co. maintains a public showroom with a selection of new, used, collectible and hard-to-find firearms. Customers can buy, sell or trade firearms at the store, while the company also reaches buyers nationwide through its GunBroker listings.

One of the company’s specialties is firearm collection and estate management. The business assists individuals and families who need help evaluating, organizing, consolidating or liquidating firearm collections. Depending on the circumstances, Westlake Classic Firearms Co. may purchase individual firearms or entire collections, or offer consignment as another option.

This service can be particularly valuable for families handling an estate. Firearm collections often include historically significant or valuable pieces, but determining their condition, market value and legal disposition can be difficult without experienced assistance. The company helps families navigate that process professionally, respectfully and in compliance with applicable laws.

In addition to firearm sales and estate services, Westlake Classic Firearms Co. offers concealed carry courses taught on-site by an NRA-certified instructor who is part of the store’s staff. The courses emphasize responsible firearm ownership, safe handling and the knowledge and skills needed by those interested in obtaining an Ohio concealed handgun license. Having an instructor on staff also gives customers a convenient local resource for firearm-safety education and training.

The company also provides gunsmithing, firearm cleaning and maintenance services. Whether a customer needs help with a malfunctioning firearm, routine maintenance or an older firearm requiring careful attention, the store offers convenient access to experienced assistance.

For customers interested in selling a firearm without accepting an immediate purchase offer, the company provides consignment services. Consigned firearms may be displayed in the showroom and marketed through GunBroker to reach a larger audience.

A layaway program is also available for qualifying purchases, giving customers additional flexibility when purchasing higher-value firearms.

Although the business has expanded considerably since its home-based beginnings, its focus remains personal. Customers can visit the showroom, speak directly with the owners and receive guidance based on their interests and needs.

From modern sporting firearms and personal-protection options to military collectibles and inherited collections, Westlake Classic Firearms Co. offers a broad range of products and services under one roof.

Westlake Classic Firearms Co. is located at 26314 Center Ridge Road in Westlake. For store hours, available inventory, upcoming concealed carry courses or information about selling or consigning a firearm, visit WestlakeClassicFirearms.com or call 440-385-7025.