Safe Handling Demonstration Exemption

[dshortone]

In the past year, I've completed approximately five handgun purchases from multiple dealers. Aside from Turner's, each one mandated that I complete a Safe Handling Demonstration.

Having read the laws pertaining to this, previously worked at a local gun shop AND having my "DOJ Certified Instructor" certificate, I know that being a member of the military exempts me from the demonstration as well as the HSC.

At each store I've politely called them out on it, but they always say "we're supposed to do it that way". At this point, I concede due to the fact that I'd rather give into their ignorance and "play the game" so I can get my handgun.

IMO, by having me fill out the demonstration affidavit, they are actually showing how poorly they understand the laws, and opening themselves up to more thorough DOJ audits.

(Ref: PC 12071, 12801, 12807)

[jptopz]

If you have a CCW they don't ask for a safe handling.

[Steyrlp10]

Don't feel so bad... I was asked too if I knew how to clear my Les Baer when I picked it up. I have more confidence in shops that are run by the book, knowing they're trying to do the correct and safe thing.

With all the new laws on the books, who wouldn't be confused???

Unless I've competed with someone personally, I don't assume what level of knowledge he/she has with a firearm and feel better if he/she can demonstrate that he/she understands how to make a firearm safe.

This is not to say that I don't think you'd be unsafe, but if I don't know a person, I think you would understand my need for caution

[dshortone]

This isn't some "new law" to get confused about, and honestly that's a very poor excuse for not having an understanding of the law. If you have a shop, I expect that you have a firm grasp on the laws that have existed for years now.

At the most recent gun store, they claim they even require peace officers to complete a demo.

jptopz, I wish there were more dealers around here that understood the PC better.

[whipkiller]

I've never been asked to copmlete this demonstration. (The most recent gun purchased in Feb.) Do they sometimes not do it "officially" if you demonstrate safe handling in the course of shopping & making the purchase?

[stix213]

I think its common if you present yourself as someone confident with firearms, then they don't bother asking you to do the demo. I've only had to do this demo once; it was during my first handgun purchase and I asked them to.

[JagerDog]

Each gun has it's nuances. Because you have a Sig, doesn't mean you know a Colt or even a revolver. What's the big deal? IMHO, there's lot stupider rules than that. That my gun lock had to be purchased in the last 30 days to name one. It can even be a used one.

[smle-man]

As I use my retired military ID for handguns I have never been required to do the safe handling business. Once or twice the clerk will start and then say something to the effect that I am exempt due to the retired military exemption. Works for me.

[monk]

I haven't been asked to demonstrate safe handling for my handgun. I was told one of the workers would show me safe handling but I think they didn't see a point.

[Bug Splat]

I agree that its a little silly for people who already own guns but there are so many stupid people out there that its better to go over it just in case. Even the 10 day wait is stupid for citizens who already own guns. I'd much rather have a 1 time all days safety course be required for new shooters much like a hunters safety course. I'd even be ok with a 5 year renewal of such a course. Too many idiots out there getting guns without a clue how to safely use them.

I buy all of my pistols from the same local dealer and from the same sales person. We have become friends over the many years and he has never asked me to do the demo. Even if he did it only takes a minute, no biggy.

[fiddletown]

I'm a certified HSC instructor, and it says so on my HSC; so I'm exempt from the demonstration. I've never been asked to give a demonstration.

[PRCABR4Christ]

If you have a CCW they don't ask for a safe handling.

+1, that's what I was thinking

[ckprax]

Neither of my LGS have asked me to do the demonstration. I am not exempt and I don't recall ever seeing anyone else being asked either.

[Bigtwin]

I have been asked every time to perform the "safe" handling demonstration! Even from the same store I have purchased other handguns from. Even from the same salesman. It is just a procedure they feel it is right to go through.

I have only been shown the way to do so for my very first purchase, I now just do it as would be instructed and they always say thanks now I can check it off!

Though I have no legal exeption to the law(LE, military and such).

[dshortone]

Each gun has it's nuances. Because you have a Sig, doesn't mean you know a Colt or even a revolver. What's the big deal? IMHO, there's lot stupider rules than that. That my gun lock had to be purchased in the last 30 days to name one. It can even be a used one.

Valid point but, according to the law, as a member of the military, I am exempt. My point is that there are A LOT of dealers who are a lot more willing to stretch the truth. I value integrity a great deal.

As I use my retired military ID for handguns I have never been required to do the safe handling business. Once or twice the clerk will start and then say something to the effect that I am exempt due to the retired military exemption. Works for me.

Doing their job, the way they should.

I'm a certified HSC instructor, and it says so on my HSC; so I'm exempt from the demonstration. I've never been asked to give a demonstration.

According to PC 12807, there isn't an exemption specifically for being an instructor, unless you use one of the others. (Quite ironic!)