Galls — Local services in Des Moines

EDIT (2018-02-05): This business doesn't appear to welcome non-law enforcement. Made me feel unwelcome, as if my business isn't worth their time. I won't be returning here as their customer service is no longer worth the B&M quality it used to have.

EDIT (2017-09-07): I found out that they do NOT honor sales that are made by the manufacturer in store. If 5.11 has a sale, Galls does not honor it. Period. I might not return after the experience I had, as the associate wasn't very friendly when I tried to recommend a discount, considering the amount of clothing I intended to purchase (10-12 pairs of pants, 8-10 shirts...the cost was significant). My recommendation, do some shopping online, then call ahead. B&M stores let you try the clothing on, but you can usually get significant savings elsewhere.

EDIT (2016-03-15): Also, returns are pretty straight forward. Worked with Destiny. Very friendly, helped me find what I needed (and got a hem in-store, free of charge). Only three weeks on the job and a GREAT person to go see. They really do know how to invite a customer in and make them feel welcome.

OLD REVIEW: Working with April was an absolute pleasure! She knows her products, very relaxed, and understands customers' needs. Spent the better part of 45 minutes with me, finding the right fits. Highly recommend this great, low-stress environment for all your...

As someone who works in the industry and has worn 5.11 gear for years, I was really disappointed with the customer service I received. I came in to return a pair of pants that had never been worn. While I had removed the tags thinking I’d keep them, I had a change of heart after trying them on at home. I came back to exchange them for a more expensive pair—the 5.11 Apex pants—but was told the return couldn’t be accepted solely because the tags were off.

I understand that stores have policies, but some level of discretion and customer service should come into play—especially when I was looking to spend more money in-store. Denying a $60 return when I intended to upgrade to a $100+ product just doesn’t make sense.

As someone who actively chooses to support local shops over ordering online, this experience at the Des Moines Galls location was frustrating and disappointing. Unfortunately, I won’t be returning. From now on, I’ll take my business to 5.11’s website or to 911 Supply Co., where customer service comes first and loyal customers are treated...

Adversarial customer service:

Glad I didn’t come to the store in person. Called to see if they had patches in stock. The sales rep, Heidi was terse, aloof, and unhelpful. She interrogated me to ask what they were for, then just told me “no” or to go talk “to a sergeant.” When I asked to have a name plate made; she corrected me (with the incorrect nomenclature) then said I would need to provide credentials to have a name plate made. She never gave me the actual option to make them or order anything.

I called 911 supply directly after in whom were much friendlier and approachable. And took care of my needs immediately.

BOTTOM LINE: consider going elsewhere whether you’re Law Enforcement, Fire, EMS,...