Is this normal?

[jgorman]

So I have recently started a career as an LEO. Went to a gun store in Ukiah, CA to check out some handguns for possible off duty carry. Decide on an off-roster handgun. The guy running the counter says I need to get a letter from my supervisor on official letterhead before I would be able to purchase it. I had my badge and LEO ID on me. Is this normal? Do most gun shops require a letter from your supervisor to purchase off roster guns? I'm sure my supervisor has better things to do then write me a letter just so I can purchase a handgun.

[greybeard]

non LEO. I think that is if you want to skip the 10 day wait.

[scootergmc]

Your FFL needs an education. You don't need letterhead for off-roster. AW, yes, 10 day wait exemption, yes, but not off-roster.

[Sacmedic]

jgorman-

Don't feel bad. Had a similar interaction with a local gun store here. They obviously aren't aware of the law, or choose to run their business as they are and risk alienating potential LEO customers. That is their right as the business owner, but it just seems silly.

Sacmedic

[Jonathan Doe]

I have bought plenty of off roster firearms with just my ID. You should not have a problem, either.

[BigDogatPlay]

Your FFL needs an education. You don't need letterhead for off-roster. AW, yes, 10 day wait exemption, yes, but not off-roster.

+1

If you happen to get down to the Santa Rosa area during the week stop in at Markell's. His business is largely LEO and he'll get you any handgun you want, on roster or not, based on your badge and ID. He is also an AW permitee and will happily fill your order (with your CLEO letter) for a RAW.

Markell Inc.
1520 Mark West Springs Rd
Santa Rosa
(707) 573-0792

[jgorman]

Thanks everyone for the replies. I thought that was a little different. They wanted me to overpay for the gun anyway.
Bigdogatplay, thanks for the info, I'll be in Santa rosa next week, I'll check that place out.

[tenpercentfirearms]

Print this out and take it to them. http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/exemptpo.php

Policy Change Regarding State Exemptions for Authorized Peace Officers

Effective immediately, peace officers who have legislative authority to carry and use firearms may, without a letter signed by the head of their agency or the agency head's designee, purchase non-rostered handguns and/or large capacity magazines. The peace officer must present a valid peace officer identification card and the dealer must retain a copy of the identification card on file. (PC 12132 & 12133). A letter is still required from the head of the agency to exempt the peace officer from the ten day waiting period. (PC 12078).

Then ask if they will sell it to you for the price you really want to pay. If they say no, then say, "Well I could have educated you on my dime today, but now your education is just free. Have a nice day."

[fullrearview]

Print this out and take it to them. http://ag.ca.gov/firearms/exemptpo.php

Then ask if they will sell it to you for the price you really want to pay. If they say no, then say, "Well I could have educated you on my dime today, but now your education is just free. Have a nice day."

Yep!

[tyrist]

Find another gun store. Their prices are probably extremely high as well.