Lucky escape for NSW shop owner

A shop owner on the NSW south coast had a lucky escape after he was allegedly attacked by a gunman.

The gunman allegedly punched the 35-year-old owner and tried to shoot him with a revolver after being refused entry to the Milton store about 10pm on Tuesday.

The shop owner told police the gun failed to fire, though it was later found to be loaded.

He managed to wrestle control of the weapon before officers arrived.

A 53-year-old man has been charged with attempting to discharge loaded arms with intent to murder, possessing a firearm in public, and possessing an unregistered and unauthorised firearm.

He is due to appear at Nowra Local Court later on Thursday.