Hardcore Pawn follows The Business lives of the Gold family. Father, Les, and his adult children, Seth and Ashley own and run a pawn shop in the heart of Detroit, Michigan. Their shop, American Jewelry and Loan, is constantly bombarded by characters of all types, and the family themselves are interesting characters as well.

Hardcore Pawn shows the good, the bad, and the ugly side of the pawn world. It also chronicles the rewards, as well as difficulties that come from working closely with your family. The family business relationship, as well as the pawn shop customers, are the main theme of the show.

Seth and Ashley do not get along well, and this often leaves their father in the middle of their frequent disputes. Other disputes, ones that involve unhappy customers are a common theme as well. Verbal altercations are a weekly occurrence on the show. Physical fights happen less frequently, but do occur on a regular basis.

Not everything that happens on Hardcore Pawn is drama filled. The show allows you to see the good side of this service, and demonstrates how many people benefit from the ability to get cash for their items. Les, who has been in the pawn business for several generations, has a firm, yet gentle approach that makes him endearing to many viewers.

There is a backup cast that includes Lili Gold (Les' wife), and sales associates Rich, Brian, and Amber. Other miscellaneous associates are featured from time to time.