I had only seen the rope up around the holidays. However, if you are a veteran, they have had some really good sales on Memorial Day and Veteran's Day last year. I know they put out a paper every week with some sale, but not always the best prices. As for the rope around the counter, if there is not a line, Ive gone up there and they have always helped me. I have even handled more then a couple firearms there as well. As was pointed out before, the gun library is the more expensive ones that they dont want everyone playing with. Good luck with your next visit. I usually try to hit up the local gun stores and try and support them.