Phil’s Army & Navy Outdoor

‘Shop Local’ and ‘Buy American’ are principles important to many in our area. By purchasing from locally owned businesses, your dollars stay in the community, and by purchasing American made products you are helping the American workforce maintain and grow. Phil Motl of Phil’s Army & Navy in Coeur d’Alene recognizes this, and it has been part of his business model for nearly 25 years.

“We try and have as much ‘American Made’ inventory as possible,” said Motl.

Phil went to work at the store in 1989, and when the opportunity to purchase came available in 2006, he jumped at the opportunity. This coming April Motl will have put 25 years into the business. “I’ve always had a job here. I like the business and I like the town, so it works out pretty well,” said Motl.

The son of a World War II Veteran, Motl caters his well stocked store for the outdoor enthusiast with an emphasis on the local vet population. You can find all kinds of military surplus from fatigues and packs to camping equipment and MREs (Meals Ready to Eat). Phil’s Army & Navy features a display case with an impressive display of roughly 10,000 pins from all different conflicts and branches of the armed service. These are some of the stores most popular items as many are rare and collectors love it. You’ll find high quality knives, cast iron cookware, and flags representing local colleges, military, causes, and pirates! High quality shirts, coats, and pants will keep you warm in the great outdoors. Motl recently partnered with Filson, a 100-year old American company that recently opened a manufacturing facility in Post Falls and will carry their line of high quality outdoor clothing and accessories this fall.

What really separates Phil’s Army & Navy from the big box stores is the incredible selection of boots. In fact, Phil’s is one of just two independent boot dealers in the Panhandle. His American boot aisle features household names like Redwing and Thorogood. The store caters to oil field workers, loggers, and firefighters but also has a great selection or hiking boots for kids and adults. Through his connections Motl can get scratched or blemished official Marine Corp rat boots that retail for $330 and sells them for just $129.

“I do custom boot orders for people all the time, typically about fifteen times a week,” said Motl.

Phil employs Pam, a member of the local Patriot Guard, and together they’ve created a ‘Wall of Honor’ featuring photos of local service members. Motl says it’s just another way to show appreciation for those who fight for us and encourages people to bring copies of their family photos to share as well.

“Bring your pictures down, and help celebrate and honor our local service members,” said Motl.

Whether it’s a pair of custom boots, U of I flag, work pants or a new multi tool, Phil’s Army & Navy has what every outdoorsman is looking for. If you don’t see what you’re looking for Phil will custom order for you. Try finding that at a box store.

#local #businessspotlight