When I lived in NY, it was explained to me that there were 3 types of state pistol permits. Ownership, typically for business or home owners, and this is the easiest (a relative term) to get. However, you are NOT allowed to remove the firearm from the location where it's registered. That includes taking it to the range. I have no idea how you're supposed to legally take it to a repair shop if it breaks. The second is a range permit, where you're allowed to take it to and from a firing range. This is more difficult to get. The hardest to get is a concealed carry permit.
Mark
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The facts: A carry permit marked "Range" cannot be denied any US citizen who is a resident of NYS outside NYC as long as that individual is not a convicted felon, a mental patient or has an order of protection issued against him. There are 24 hour ranges set up to make this permit a de facto concealed carry...you are always on your way there or home.