ST. ALBANS, W.Va. (AP) — Sen. John McCain made his first campaign stop in West Virginia since launching his bid for the White House — a private event Friday at a gun shop — as opponents and supporters waited outside.

While McCain met with invited guests and a handful of media members inside St. Albans Gun & Archery store, a crowd of about 75 gathered nearby. Many carried signs with messages like ‘‘McCain Will Bring More Pain,’’ ‘‘Invest in Health Care Not War in Iraq’’ and ‘‘I sold my gun for gas.’’

Stew Sheridan, an out-of-work tradesman, said he came out on the cool, overcast Friday morning to ‘‘see the man who’s going to get whupped by a woman.’’

The 42-year-old rode his bike several blocks from his home to the event because he said he can’t afford gasoline.

‘‘Bush just killed us,’’ said Sheridan, who lamented that his family of five had to go on food stamps. He said he thinks a McCain administration would add to his troubles.

When fuel prices were lower, Sheridan said he could travel out of state to find work. Now that gasoline prices are teetering near $4 a gallon, he says even that’s not an option.

Sheridan added, ‘‘If McCain gets in, there will be a revolution in this state. People aren’t going to stand for it. If they keep pushing the common man, he’s going to push back.’’

Supporters of the Arizona Republican included dentist Grant Mason who lives in Charleston and works in Beckley.