On the corner of University and16th Street, roughly a 20-minute walk from campus, is Ax-Man Surplus, a store filled with gadgets, supplies, gears and more. When entering the store, patrons are greeted by a number of unique items on sale ranging from telescopes to walking sticks and anything that might be in between.

The adventure truly begins when patrons realize they are not alone in Ax-Man, aside from the staff. All across the ceiling and throughout the many aisles of the store are creative sculptures of mannequin parts, machinery and plywood that can be found on full display. Along the walls are posters that catch the eye, some being vintage images of movies and TV shows, and some being original pieces of art.

The first aisle is home to a collection of dinnerware and art supplies. On one side are teapots, glasses and cutlery of unique shapes and styles. On the other side of this aisle is a row of art supplies of several practices: paints, brushes, markers, glues and even tools for cutting unique fabric. Artisans of all crafts will be able to find something that they can put to use here.

In the next aisle over, a row of toys and collectibles that catch the attention of many visitors. These can range from simple action figures and keychains to fun gags such as whoopee cushions and pen zappers. If someone is looking for novelty, this store is the place to find it.

Towards the center of the store, the dynamic begins to change. Down several aisles machine parts can be found, ranging from bolts and gears to car radios and metal pipes. For those with an affinity for making gadgets and motors, this is the place to be.

If you are more interested in computer technology, near the front of the store is a collection of computer parts, some as recent as a few years ago, with others dating back as far as the early 90s. With time and creativity, someone could craft a computer from scratch with the collection of parts supplied by Ax-Man.

“[I have owned] Ax-Man since March 2001,” Jim Segal said. “I have a background in sales and retail and thought this would be a fun business.”

Ax-Man has been in business since the 1960s, and its business model is very unique considering its catalog of items on sale.

“A throwback store, a DIY craft store and hardware,” Segal said. “Being around since the 60s, many families have passed through the doors and made memories. I love that place; people remember being there, you have to go there yourself. It can’t be explained!”

Ax-Man is open on Monday through Saturday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., and on Sunday from 12 p.m. to 5 p.m. Art supplies, machine parts and computer supplies are just the tip of the iceberg when it comes to the many items on sale at Ax-Man.

Whether patrons are going to the store for a specific goal in mind or simply to explore, there is always something new in the aisles, and once someone has been to Ax-Man, they never forget.