Many credit enthusiasts utilize the “Shopping Cart Trick” (SCT) to explore credit card offers with a soft pull. My journey with Comenity Bank cards began without knowing about the SCT, but it ultimately led to securing the Sportsman’s Guide Visa. Initially, I acquired a $1700 Academy Store Card and later a $4500 Good Sam Visa. For the Good Sam application, having researched the SCT, I preemptively locked my Experian credit bureau, yet Comenity still pulled from Equifax.
Despite these initial successes, the Sportsman’s Guide Visa eluded me. I repeatedly attempted to trigger the prequalification pop-up, but without success. However, on July 20th, I decided to try again. Using Google Chrome in Incognito mode, I navigated to the Sportsman’s Guide website and swiftly added a scope, priced around $300, to my shopping cart. Moving through the address and membership sections without much anticipation, I proceeded to the payment page. To my surprise, the prequalification pop-up for the Sportsman’s Guide Visa finally appeared.
Following the strategy that worked for my previous Comenity cards, I locked all three credit bureaus – Experian, Equifax, and TransUnion – before proceeding. I completed the application process, providing the standard information and the last four digits of my Social Security number. Shortly after, I received confirmation of my approval for the Sportsman’s Guide Visa, with an expected card delivery within 7-10 business days. My credit limit was set at $3500. At the time of application, my Equifax score was 736, and surprisingly, I have yet to receive a notification of a credit inquiry.
Although I didn’t have an immediate need for another credit card, the allure of the $40 Sportsman’s Guide voucher and the satisfaction of finally experiencing the SCT’s success with the Sportsman’s Guide Visa made it worthwhile. The card arrived in the mail as expected, proving that persistence and the Shopping Cart Trick can indeed open doors to unexpected credit opportunities.
