The Rugged Outdoors story begins in 1947, shortly after World War II. A young couple from Chicago made their way south to Champaign-Urbana, to start a new military surplus business and a family. Two hard-working generations later, their retail legacy has endured and evolved.

Our roots are the best of small business: individualized service, quality merchandise, expertise, and close-knit employees with community mindedness.

Our capabilities are mighty: sophisticated systems, fast shipping, thorough inventory management, and top of the line facilities.