Al; moderator or not; who the hell are you calling an elitist? At no time did I, Ralph, or anyone else who happens to disagree with you present an appearance that we think we are better, higher stature, smarter, wealthier, etc... If you disagree with our opinion, then fine; argue the opinion. But how about not taking it personal or going personal with those you don't agree with.
Yes, the system that is in place is not perfect. I know of very few things in life that are perfect. And yes, the ultimate answer to all government issues lies in the voting booth. And that is why I recommend recruiting more people to get involved with owning guns; and becoming knowledgeable about our constitution, the bill of rights within it; and the "Process" of our government in general. There are numerous threads on this and other forums that deal with CCW, 2nd amendment rights, open carry, laws, bans, etc...; and eventually they will all go back to dealing with politics. That's what this is all about.
Obviously, there is a difference of opinion on how best to proceed with improving the perception/opinion of the general public (Meaning the non-gun owners and anti-gun crowd); as well as how to preserve our rights and take back our government. This thread was started because an individual took their CWP class and wasn't impressed with how it was handled. And rightfully, it has evolved into speaking of CWP, permits, background checks, etc... en mas. This is totally appropriate.
I stand by my opinion that the 2nd amendment; as well as the other rights given to or born with; are designed for the "Responsible and Law Abiding" citizen. I don't believe that criminals should have certain rights. I believe that people who ABUSE certain rights, should have those rights curbed. (Freedom of speech is a prime example). We should all be allowed to express our thoughts; but if you purposely harm or affect a person in such a way that it infringes on their rights; then I think action should be taken. I.e. Verbally insulting with racist comments in public should not be tolerated under the blanket of "It's my right of free speech". I feel the same about guns. I have no problem with a process in place; even if it's not the most efficient; to try and restrict gun sales and possession to those who are criminals, mentally ill, under age, illegal immigrants, etc...
Yes, there are times when a law abiding citizen falls through the cracks and is denied. But there is also a system in place to appeal and correct the situation. It personally happened to me; prior to having a CWP. I tried to buy a weapon and the instant check came back negative. No sale. Mind you, I worked for the government; spent 21 years in the military; had a background security clearance high enough to get a nose bleed; etc... Found out that when the gun dealer called it in, the SSN# was typed in wrong by one of the numbers. It got resolved. Most states have exceptions for CWP for those in potential danger; i.e. woman with an estranged ex-husband/boyfriend. In our state, a CWP can be given in such cases within 24 hours by the sheriff.
So no, the system isn't perfect. But some of the bureaucracy is warranted. I don't believe that ANY of the 300 million; plus however many illegal immigrants are in our country; should be able to just walk into any gun store; any place in the country; point to a weapon; and buy it in cash. And if there's going to be rules such as 18 years old, U.S. Citizen, Non-Felon, Non-Mentally Ill, etc...; then there's got to be a background check or some system in place to VERIFY that. For that, I am for. I am not for each state having DIFFERENT rules on who, when, how, where, etc... people may have and use guns. The 2nd amendment is a federal right given to citizens of all 50 states. It shouldn't be interpreted different by each state. A person should who can legally buy a weapon; should be allowed to go to any of the 50 states and buy a weapon. A person should be allowed to mail a weapon to themselves and from themselves at any time. (We should be able to trust the post office). A person authorized to be able to have a weapon, should be allowed to have ANY weapon and carry it. That includes class 3 or any other type. So, I'm all for a background check; and I'm all for a CWP permit (Free of charge); but these need to be national. I should be able to carry concealed in all 50 states; with the same restrictions (e.g. courthouse, police, jail, etc...) in all 50 states.