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COLORADO SPRINGS, COLO. -- For all you last-minute shoppers that don't want to deal with the crazy crowds at the big-box stores, local pawn shops have turned into a hot spot for holiday gift-giving on a budget.

"People are coming to pawn shops instead of a retail shop to buy that iPod for $110, where that would cost you $240," Eddie Leon, owner of Zap's Action Pawn, said.

The promise of half-priced items is bringing in more customers than usual for the folks at Zap's Action Pawn.

December is always their busiest month, but so far year-to-year business is up 20 percent.

And it doesn't stop with people looking to buy. The need for quick cash has locals pawning their possessions.

"It helps out a lot.  There are days where there's certain things I need for the kids like milk, and I'll be down here because I know they'll help me out," Donna Benton, a pawn shop customer, said.

While big savings are bringing in customers, there's definitely some stipulation as to the quality of the merchandise at pawn shops.

And if there's anyone that understands the stigma, it's the store owner.

"A big fat guy behind the counter with a cigar trying to rip you off and get your stuff for free, which is totally not true here," Leon said.

So, Zap's tests all of their products when they come in and when they go out.

They also offer a 30-day warranty to make sure everything you buy lasts.