Like Penney, Arnold was interested in the military surplus business, eventually leading the two to team up togetherĪfter WWII the military surplus available worldwide was enormous. While Penney was employed at JPL, Arnold became involved with Pasadena Firearms and Golden State Arms. While employed at JPL, Penney maintained his interest in small arms, which eventually led him to leave JPL, team up with John Arnold, and start National Ordnance.īob Penney had met John F. For further on Gettler and Golden State Arms, refer to the web page on the Santa Fe Division of Golden State Arms. Shortly after Penney left Pasadena Firearms, Gettler relocated the business to 1165 E. In 1955 Penney separated from Pasadena Firearms to pursue a career in a different field,Įventually being hired by JPL in Pasadena, CA. Theirįirst purchase together was in 19 Mexican Mausers from Mexico. In addition to the retail shop, Penney and Gettler became involved in the military surplus import business. Suggesting they name the new store Pasadena Firearms. As a result of money Vasquez owed Alvin Gettler, Gettler acquired the gun store in 1952. In February 1950, Penney was hired by Vazquez & Company,Ī gun store owned by Roland Vazquez and Alvin Gettler, located at 972 E Colorado Blvd, Pasadena, CA. Army, then the National Guard, until just before the outbreak of the Korean War in 1950. Post WWII Commercially Manufactured M1 Carbines (U.S.A.)