Today I did something that I havent done for about 25 years. I tried to buy a firearm at a gun store. Not a Class III nor even an assault rifle. A simple single action pistol for "cowboy" shooting. Thats it. No "cop killer" bullets, no "Saturday Night Special," no armor piercing, no sniper rifle, just something to shoot for fun in my advancing years.
I dutifly filled out the requisite form and surrendered my drivers license to the clerk.
Several minutes later the clerk returned and advised me that purchase had been "denied," and the transaction was "delayed." After I picked my jaw up off the floor, I heard the clerk tell me that the government worker on the other end of the phone gave no reason (nor can they, apparently). In astonishment, I explained that I had been a professional law enforcement officer for more than 20 years. I had been a credentialed Federal Agent with firearm carry authority EVERYWHERE including passenger aircraft. I explained that I have a pilot's license, a USCG Captains License and even a HAZMAT endorsement on my CDL and formerly held a significant security clearance, and have had my backgound deeply investigated multiple times and there must be some mistake. Another employee agreed and called back on my behalf in response to my request for more information and a person to talk to. I was told that the transaction was "delayed" and that I could call and inquire - but only after three days - I was NOT to call immediately!"
I am not up to speed with what has been happening with firearms purchases lately, nor the criteria to instantly approve or deny who "may" purchase a gun, but we have come a long way in the wrong direction, in my opinion, from the days when I used to ride my bike up to the local convenience store a pick up some .22 or shotgun shells and take off into the desert for an afternoon of shooting.
I like gun stores and I wish there were more of them and it was easier for the dealers to make a living, but I gotta tell ya, this was in no way the fault of the dealer, but if this is the crap one has to put up with these days, I'll go back to buying and selling guns through my friends and "network."
Anyone have knowledge of this process that can educate and old Law Dawg?
El Rinche
BOLD #867