Tacoma is an underrated city, in my opinion. Suffers due to the constant and unavoidable comparisons to Seattle, but I think there's actually more to do in Tacoma than Seattle (assuming that you care about more than just good restaurants and trendy, expensive bars and nightclubs).
Previous posters noted the good gunshops in the area. I favor Mary's Pistols in Tacoma, but Bullseye is decent, and Cabelas (while overpriced somewhat) is great fun and a good day's entertainment.
As oldkim noted, Surplus Ammo & Arms and Tactical Tailor in Lakewood are worth a trip, too.
The waterfront is nice, downtown has some attractions, and I like all the Vietnamese restaurants on S. 38th.
Nice parks, decent zoo, plenty to do and see. Not dangerous at all unless you want to go hang out on the Hilltop after dark ...