That is true ... no CCW is required to carry concealed in Arizona. However, a CCW helps the gun purchase process. With a CCW the buyer walks out of the gun shop WITH their purchase that same day
Is that an AZ quirk? In your neighboring NM, I can walk in, buy my firearm, and walk out all within about 15 minutes (my last name is very unique, and my NICS check takes less time than waiting for a red light). No waiting period at all.
Not correct. With or without a CCW permit you take possession of the weapon upon purchase. You still have to fill out a 4473 but the FFL just doesn't have to phone it in, which saves you time and the FFL work.
The only benefits to having a permit that I can think of are interstate reciprocity and the fact that you can carry in an establishment that serves alchahol - if you're not drinking