Now that my 2nd Amendment Is Restored, Where to Buy? (Vanity)

Vanity | 06/26/2008 | jack_napier

[jack_napier]

Ladies and gentlemen, as you now know, the DC gun ban is struck down. I'm a DC resident looking to take full advantage of my restored Rights! I've used guns in the past and fired a handgun before, and I'm looking to pick up a good arm. Right now I'm thinking a Glock as this is what law enforcement uses and in case of an incident it's better than the 'unsafe' perception of a single action. Does anyone know a good, reputable dealer in the DC Metro area? Particularly in NOVA?

[jack_napier]

Ladies and gentlemen, as you now know, the DC gun ban is struck down. I'm a DC resident looking to take full advantage of my restored Rights! I've used guns in the past and fired a handgun before, and I'm looking to pick up a good arm. Right now I'm thinking a Glock as this is what law enforcement uses and in case of an incident it's better than the 'unsafe' perception of a single action. Does anyone know a good, reputable dealer in the DC Metro area? Particularly in NOVA?

[manapua]

Congratulations on your Constitutional rights being affirmed!

Now I wonder what sort of Kafkaesque bureaucratic hoops you will have to negotiate in order to register your firearm in the District. I'm sure Fenty's fascists will figure out some particularly nasty surprises in the future.

[shag377]

I am going to assume that you are serious.

If you are going to purchase a handgun, there are a few questions you need to ask yourself:

1. How much do you realistically want to spend? A decent one will set you back 450-700.
2. Do you want a revolver or an automatic?
3. What caliber do you want, based on the primary purpose of owning one? A 9mm is not going to do much for a hunting arm, and a .500 S&W is too bulky for a CCW.
4. Do you plan on leaving it at home or taking it with you?

Answer these, and I can help you decide what to look for in a good fit. I am not going to extol one over another, because buying a handgun is like buying a car. You have to find what fits you and your hand. I can’t do that for you.

[NewJerseyJoe]

Just keep driving until you see “Virginia Welcomes You.” :-)

[JackRyanCIA]

I like my model 629 44 mag. I keep it right next to my easy chair. For protection though, I have my 9r 12 ga. Riot gun next to my bed. I space em slug, 00, slug, 00 etc. My M14 is converted into a sniper rifle with 308 varmint barrel and 20r clips. I'm ready to rock and roll anytime, anywhere. ;-)

[theDentist]

C'mon down to Virginia! We'll happily sell you a few!
(I hope Brady bunch reads that and have a freakin' fit.)

[LouAvul]

It's often cheaper to simply find a local FFL who will do a transfer for you for $20 or so. Then you can order via the internet. These dealers have solid reps.

http://www.ajcsportshop.com/

http://www.armchairgunshow.com/

http://auctionarms.com/

http://www.budsgunshop.com/catalog/index.php

http://www.bullocksguns.com/

http://www.calssportingarmory.com/

http://www.cdnninvestments.com/dowournewcat.html

http://www.centerfiresystems.com/

http://www.collectorsfirearms.com/

http://www.dallasguns.com

http://www.discountgunsales.com/

http://www.eastcountyguns.com/

http://www.galleryofguns.com/

https://www.gilbertsguns.com/

http://www.impactguns.com/store/

http://www.kyimports.com/

http://www.ozarkguns.com/index.htm

http://www.sportingarms.com/

http://www.simpsonltd.com/

http://www.summitgunbroker.com/index.html

http://www.the-armory.com/

http://www.thegunsource.com/default.aspx

http://www.ordnanceoutsellers.com/index.htm

As to what kind of gun you should buy, you're something of a novice. (No offense) I'd suggest a revolver. I'd avoid newer Smith and Wessons (I like the old stuff).

I'd go with a stainless Ruger GP100 with a four inch barrel. It's a 357 mag which will allow you to shoot cheaper 38 special ammo. It's solid, which absorbs felt recoil. And it's built like a tank. Just my $.02.

[Hawthorn]

> Does anyone know a good, reputable dealer in the DC Metro area? Particularly in NOVA? <

You’re probably outta luck for the time being, since current federal law allows you to buy handguns ONLY from a dealer or individual who is also resident in the state where you live.

So you’ll either have to buy from a licensed dealer in DC (there are one or two at present, but they sell only to cops and security guards — at least for the time being), or from another DC private citizen who’s willing to sell you a used item.

No background check would be required in the latter case. But how many legal DC handgun owners will want to part so quickly with their treasures? Not many, I’ll bet!

[rstrahan]

Go on-line and find a nearby Virginia dealer with a range, who will let you try out a range of guns. We can all suggest our favorite, but the one you want is the one that fits your hand, fits your pocket book and one that you are comfortable with.

For example, I went to a dealer and tried out the ubiqutous Glock 9mm. However, I found that a Czech knockoff, which was cheaper, actually was more comfortable in my hand, and I could shoot it easier.

So, go try before you buy.
Welcome aboard the Gunowner train.

[Natchez Hawk]

Right with you, freind. NOVA must have the best selection. Will wait for specific info.

G-d Bless the Supreme Court of these United States!

[Resolute Conservative]

I carry a Glock 32 every where I go, and have 2 other strategically placed around the house. I also have a 12 ga pump loaded with slug, 00 and my Ruger 77 .300 mag and AR-15 ( 6 loaded 30 rd clips ) poised and ready in the safe.

Call me paranoid, but I sleep well at night.

[JackRyanCIA]

YES, IT’S GOOD TO BE PREPARED.

[LongElegantLegs]

Personal reccomendation: Glock 27

[Kirkwood]

Jack was asking WHERE to buy, not what to buy. Having someone on the internet choose a gun for you is just plain nuts. Let Jack work that out with the dealer.

Jack, I’m not from that area, so I can’t help you.

[CrazyIvan]

If you like the Glock type of pistol, look at the Springfield Armory line. I recently bought a XD-40 and
like it very much.

[Harley]

It’s already all over the wires that the DC Mayor says that semi-automatic hand guns will still be banned. On the Fox News channel he’s talking about coming down with a whole set of regulations to control handguns, enforce by the police, because they are in charge of public safety according to the mayor. His attorney general made a statement about required trigger locks. Looks like some more challenges. The lawyers never run out of work. Good luck on getting your shinny new Glock. I recommend a .40 cal with Crimson Trace sights.

[cowboyway]

If you like the Glock type of pistol, look at the Springfield Armory line. I recently bought a XD-40 and like it very much.

I've got a Glock 21, two H&K USP Tactical's and a Springfield Armory Tactical 45 ACP.

The Springfield Armory is my favorite of this group.

[cowboyway]

I'm a DC resident looking to take full advantage of my restored Rights!

I've been exercising my RKBA for a while. Of course, I'm just a redneck in the hills of South Carolina..............

[Centurion2000]

Damn nice collection there. Love that little 5.56 pistol on the floor and the black scary rifles on the left.

The M-14s on the right are gorgeous.

[va_illini]

Problem is you need a valid VA drivers license, or otherwise be a resident, to purchase a handgun in VA. Long guns are a different story. I don’t know what the laws are in MD.

[va_illini]

Do you use a glock 27 for concealed carry? If so what kind of rig do you use?

[Stat-boy]

Wow. I am speechless. I need to contemplate on that picture for a while. Clearly, my personal standards need to be raised.

[7thson]

Since you live in the DC area, you probably know where the Upper Marlboro Show Place Area is located. The are hosting the Silverado Gun Show on July 19-20. You could go there to look around - I plan on going.

[MediaMole]

It’s my understanding that you have to purchase a gun in your state of residence. If you do purchase a gun out of state, it must be transferred to an FFL dealer in your state before it is transferred to your possession. That way the transaction takes place in your home state.

How does that affects a resident of DC? That’s open to question. Are there any FFL dealers in DC? Are those dealers willing to sell to a resident based on the results of the Heller decision?

The Heller decision is great for residents of DC, but there are still fights on the horizon. It will take time and more lawsuits before there is any real RKBA in DC.

[NewJerseyJoe]

How about a day or weekend trip to SC? That’s easily do-able from DC.

[NewJerseyJoe]

> It’s my understanding that you have to purchase a gun in your state of residence. If you do purchase a gun out of state, it must be transferred to an FFL dealer in your state before it is transferred to your possession.

I say, take a trip to SC, buy with cash, hide it deep in your trunk, and keep your car just below the speed limit while driving home!

[LongElegantLegs]

I haven’t got my permit yet, but I anticipate using a shoulder holster.
The 27 is small enough to carry in your pocket or on your belt, but it’s pretty heavy.

[Arrowhead1952]

I am jealous! I am currently refinishing two of these - 12 gage.

[GovernmentShrinker]

It’s my understanding that you have to purchase a gun in your state of residence.

Ah, but DC is not a state.

[Soliton]

My M14 is converted into a sniper rifle with 308 varmint barrel and 20r clips. I'm ready to rock and roll anytime, anywhere.

I've nefer heard of aqn M14 semi-auto in .308. Where did you get it?

[Billthedrill]

BTT. FR is a good resource for this. Nobody here has any strong opinions on firearms... ;-)

[MediaMole]

Don’t suggest that someone break the law. You’re suggesting felonies.

[NewJerseyJoe]

Is it a felony to buy a gun in SC? Is it a felony to transport a legally purchased gun across state lines?

[LongElegantLegs]

[NewJerseyJoe]

I didn’t intend the flip tone in my first reply. What I meant was this: Currently, it is legal to buy a gun in SC (no license or permit needed). It is also legal to transport a legally purchased and owned gun across state lines. AND, as of this morning, DC no longer has applicable handgun laws — SCOTUS declared them unconstitutional. Until such time as DC enacts gun laws that conform to the SCOTUS ruling, it seems to me that there is a “window of opportunity” for SC purchase.

[MediaMole]

It is not legal under federal law to purchase a firearm in a state other than your own. If you want to purchase a gun in another state, you need to have the gun transferred to an FFL dealer in your state of residence who can legally transfer the gun to you.

To purchase a gun in SC, he would have to falsely state that he is a resident of SC. Then he would have to transport that illegally purchased gun into DC.

[WOBBLY BOB]

I predict the NICS system will mysteriously crash and be down until around Jan. 20th 09.

[MediaMole]

Federal laws still apply. The laws regarding interstate purchase of firearms are federal, not local.

I don’t want to see someone being dumped into a legal wormhole.

DC still intends to ban many types of weapons. They are only allowing licensing of new weapons starting no sooner than 30 days. They still claim that semi-auto handguns will be illegal.

Unless the original poster is willing to participate in a new test case, he should follow all applicable laws. The DC government doesn’t look like they are going to make it easy for gun owners.

[NewJerseyJoe]

> It is not legal under federal law to purchase a firearm in a state other than your own.

Can you cite that, please? Thanks.

I purchased a .22 rifle in NY state (I'm in NJ), and at a reputable retail place. I showed my NJ rifle/shotgun purchase ID, I filled out all of the NY state paperwork, I did the NICS check, and there were no problems.

[cowboyway]

Love that little 5.56 pistol on the floor

Bushmaster Carbon15.

The M-14s on the right are gorgeous.

Those are the Springfield Armory M1A Scout Squad, one with an Aimpoint.

[cowboyway]

Damn zombies.............

[CrazyIvan]

The scene in “Tremors” “Broke into the wrong g*ddamn rec room now didn't we” (of something like that) comes to mind.

[ozzymandus]

I wouldn’t advise anybody I don’t know on what kind of gun would be best for him, but I can tell you one thing: Don’t buy a cheap piece of junk! Buy a quality gun made by a well-known maker. A cheap gun may cost you your life. I’ve owned a lot of crappy guns, and they’re fine for casual shooting, but don’t bet your life on one.

[va_illini]

Have you ever heard of anyone using an ankle holster for a Glock 27?

[LongElegantLegs]

I’ve read that alot of cops carry them down there as back-ups. I know Galco makes an ankle holster that’s supposed to work very well.

[jack_napier]

Unless the original poster is willing to participate in a new test case, he should follow all applicable laws. The DC government doesn’t look like they are going to make it easy for gun owners.
Either way it's not best for me to forge into that territory on my own. I'm looking/hoping for guidance on how to proceed. And I know Fascist Fenty is saying semi-autos are illegal, but he can't pass law by edict. The law that is there now has been struckdown. The city council would have to pass new legislation.

[va_illini]

I’ve read that too. I has hoping to find a civilian glock 27 owner with personal experience with an ankle carry. An ankle carry make sense in the warmer climates, but my two concerns are it flopping around because of the weight, and it printing through the pant leg because of its thick handle.

[Hawthorn]

MediaMole wrote:

> It is not legal under federal law to purchase a firearm in a state other than your own <

Correction:

> It is not legal under federal law to purchase acquire by any means other than inheritance a firearm handgun in a state other than your own unless said handgun is shipped to a licensed FFL dealer in your own state before you actually take possession of same <

Moreover, even if you acquire a handgun by inheritance in a state other than your own, you're not allowed under federal law to take it back home if your state's law prohibits your owning it.

Citation:

http://www.nraila.org/federalfirearms.htm#Sec.%20922

[NewJerseyJoe]

> Correction:

OK.

It seems to me that federal laws such as that are going to be ripe for challenge in the near future. Scalia did write that states can enact certain prohibitions, but he seemed also to be saying (I haven't read the whole ruling yet) that the Fed has no business in enacting restrictions.

T'will be very interesting to follow this, in the weeks and months to come....

[Hawthorn]

> It seems to me that federal laws such as that are going to be ripe for challenge in the near future. <

Wish I could agree with you. But I don’t see grounds in today’s opinion to challenge the current federal restrictions.

The greater likelihood, in my view, is that as more and more state and local anti-gun laws are relaxed, overturned and/or repealed, the U. S. Congress will take note of the “emerging consensus” (to quote Kennedy’s opinion on child rape) in state laws and as a result will change some of the more burdensome aspects of the federal firearms statutes. But the process will be slow and gradual.