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Related: Editorials & Other Articles, Issue Forums, Alliance Forums, Region ForumsWhere can progressives buy guns?
I live in upstate NY, in an area which is somewhat rural and right-wing. I have concerns about some of my right-wing neighbors, and one threatened me and my dogs with a snow shovel last week when I was walking on the road in front of his home, I’m seriously thinking about purchasing a gun and applying for a concealed carry permit. But I don’t want to patronize any of my local gun stores that that all are run by right-wing nutters. Where might a good progressive purchase a gun?
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JohnSJ
(98,144 posts)
Grins
(8,135 posts)
Hope22
(3,733 posts)If you carry a gun you must be prepared to kill and a million dollar insurance policy is a must. Stay safe out there. 🙏🏼💗
Aviation Pro
(14,092 posts)Such as US Law Shield or CCW Safe.
Aviation Pro
(14,092 posts)And get a Glock 43X MOS and add a Holosun red/green dot site on it along with a firearm safety course.
Then practice your ass off with it.
Polybius
(19,501 posts)I haven't seen a gun shop here since I was like 5 in the 70's.
eShirl
(19,194 posts)instead.
Renew Deal
(83,659 posts)
H2O Man
(76,377 posts)wasp & hornet spray and a lighter.
MineralMan
(148,692 posts)I don't see the problem. They won't ask you any political questions. And they'll be happy to take your money in exchange for guns and ammo. No problem there at all.
Du916
(69 posts)But I don’t want to give my money to a business or person that supports the GOP and Trump, unless it is utterly unavoidable.
MineralMan
(148,692 posts)I don't know of any gun shops that are run by progressive Democrats, really. If you find one, let us know its name.
The gun-selling business is all about fear of people. It's not about helping anyone, really. Fear of brown people. Fear of the gubment. Fear of the unwashed hordes. You need guns to protect yourself, see, and they have 'em . They'll sell you as many as you want. No problem.
Cirsium
(2,040 posts)Or are you applying this to everything you buy?
Mike 03
(18,261 posts)a gun shop had to be pressure to remove a sign saying something like "Democrats not welcome" or something along those lines.
I've also heard rumors that some businesses around here are asking customers who they voted for and refusing service to those who supported Kamala Harris.
Now, I guess you could lie. But some of us are terrible liars.
CanonRay
(15,136 posts)none of your fucking business.
MarineCombatEngineer
(15,008 posts)
ibegurpard
(17,022 posts)What type depends on your state regulations I would think. Knowing how to use it and where to get practice will be more difficult if you're trying to avoid the type of people we're talking about.
Renew Deal
(83,659 posts)There are some Bass Pro shops in upstate NY (according to a quick search I just did). I don't know where their politics lean, but they do not have political messaging in those stores.
Bluethroughu
(7,038 posts)Bass pro is about responsible gun ownership. If I had to buy, that is where I'll go.
Dumpy
(91 posts)But now think you need one because of a neighbor with a shovel. You were able to get through the situation without a gun. Do not take a gun to confront someone, it is going to get you into trouble.
There are pepper sprays or other non-lethal devices that would afford you protection.
Think about alternatives….
kelly1mm
(5,654 posts)you have to even unholster your weapon, let alone shoot someone. It literally should be your last resort. You will probably face legal ramifications (get gun owners legal insurance) and very likely will have psychological trauma.
Much better to run away from a situation than stand your ground. Only unavoidable situations are an exceptions such as a home invasion where you are protecting your family (and even then if you can slip them out the back door safely DO SO).
DeepWinter
(931 posts)I'm an owner. My experience is thay've all been friendly and cater to the full spectum of society. Mine are very Hunter centered, being deep in flyover country.
Just be straight forward, you're new to this, looking for an entry level handgun. (Fair warning price is $450-$600)
I'd suggest 9mm. Mild-moderate recoil, very available caliber, affordable price. (Personal bias)
Many stores offer a Handguns 101 class. (Usually $200 for 4 evening classes) Basic gun safty, breakdown of parts and operation of a handgun, cleaning, mainenece,and some range time with an instructor right at your side. They are super used to and understanding of someone completely new. Super helpful for any non-owner to step in and learn everything you didn't know you didn't know and breaking past that feeling of unease you have with something really outside your box.
sop
(13,199 posts)You don't see many anti-gun people going to gun shops to buy firearms.
Skittles
(162,608 posts)yeah OK
this is gun humping America, GUNS ARE EVERYWHERE
Renew Deal
(83,659 posts)Gun dealers will have clearly RW messaging, so you're going to have to suck it up. They shouldn't ask you political questions or what you want them for beyond the surface level.
WhiskeyGrinder
(24,504 posts)Renew Deal
(83,659 posts)You can try before you buy at some places, but only if they have a range.
hunter
(39,404 posts)
Otherwise I'll lay low until the shooting stops.
I don't let anyone I'd care to shoot live in my head.
My dad and my father-in-law both served in the military and were entirely disinterested in guns. My dad was a nearsighted Radar O'Reilly Army medical clerk and my father-in-law was a Navy corpsman assigned to the Marines. Either one of them could have ended up on the battlefields of the Korean War and it was just the luck of the draw the didn't. They still weren't interested in guns.
I'd be a pretty good hunter if I cared, I was taught the skills and have family who still hunt, but here in the 21st century it doesn't seem like the right thing for me to do. My wife is a vegetarian and most days of the week I am too. I'm not living in the world of my Wild West great grandparents who killed with their own hands most of the animals they ate.
I've lived in rough neighborhoods where shootings were common, I've witnessed gunfights and the police shooting people. I've been threatened by people holding guns. Even so I've got no interest in owning a gun for "self defense."
Gun fetishes are disgusting.
Cirsium
(2,040 posts)Just get a snow shovel. That should handle the problem. What? You don't want to consider clobbering your neighbor with a shovel? But you want a gun. What will you do with the gun? Shoot the neighbor? Try to intimidate him with it?
Note: I am not advocating snow shovel violence
I sense a fishing expedition, and I'm thinking a fishing rod might be a better choice, considering the bait being thrown out there. Pretty "spooky" OP, in more ways than one possibly. The content is not something that anyone on the left of sound thinking would advertise publicly in the best of times, let alone the worst of times. The lack of street smarts from people responding to shit like this online in a serious way is astounding.
msongs
(70,867 posts)
LexVegas
(6,669 posts)Mike 03
(18,261 posts)You order the gun online and that gun shop transfers the weapon to a local gun shop and you go pick it up? That would avoid the embarrassment of being asked who I voted for or my party affiliation, I think.
spooky3
(37,197 posts)
Fla_Democrat
(2,591 posts)I don't recall seeing that question on a 4473.
EX500rider
(11,756 posts)I've purchased pistols and rifles and none of that ever came up
I own guns and long ago was a federal firearms dealer. I have purchased several guns over the years in various gun shops and gun shows and never once bean asked any political questions in the process. Just be prepared to fill out the background check paperwork honestly, and if you have ever had or presently have a medical marijuana card you cannot legally buy a gun by federal law.
CuriousSavage
(15 posts)You're not going to find the Whole Foods of guns.... it doesn't exist. You cannot avoid the gun industry and the rabid 2A types. Blend in, they think everyone thinks the same as they do. It's their weakness. Bite your tongue and keep your thoughts to yourself. Think of yourself as being undercover.
Is a big leap from buying your first handgun and thinking you can use it to protect yourself with it. First things first, research the applicable laws and procedures for your county. If you're serious, prepare the licensing documents to the letter, and submit asap. It will take some time to process.
Be careful with online advice, 9mm isn't enough, .45 ACP has stopping power, .380 is a toy..... Your head will spin. The firearm that YOU can fire well and reliably, is the perfect one for you. There is a sweet spot for everyone. A local gunshop might be helpful for advice (but they will not let you handle any handguns without a license). Just ask questions... don't get into politics... don't react to any provocative comments by other customers or staff.
After you get the baseline target-only license, you don't have to rush and purchase like I did. Look up local firing ranges, some allow you to rent handguns to test out. Once you decide on a firearm, you must practice. You must overcome your fear of the weapon. You must understand how it works, how it aims, your grip, your footing, the ammo it prefers, how to clean it, on and on. Do that over & over and become proficient. Then maybe consider if you are ready for concealed carry license upgrade.
I also live in NYS and could easily obtain the concealed carry upgrade, but I have been putting it off. Someone once told me that the aggressor already has the element of surprise and is prepared to do you harm while you will be completely off guard. If you pull out that handgun in a defensive situation, you will be thinking about 1000 other calculations and be at a disadvantage. Once that gun is out, nothing good can happen. I am NOT saying not to do it.... just take the necessary steps to be prepared for the responsibility. Get your license, do your research, purchase, practice and then practice some more.
If things really begin to go (further) sideways in the next couple of months, I will definitely put my papers in.
Look up a Reddit group called "r/liberalgunowners".
Check out S&W Shield Plus 9mm optics ready, NYS compliant w/ 10 rounds and manual safety. Gets my rec.
hunter
(39,404 posts)Where can I get a hydrogen bomb? Is there a Liberal Hydrogen Bombers group?
In my own personal experience, once the guns come out everything is FUBAR.
DSandra
(1,562 posts)I am still working my way up to going to one of these places when they have reasonable suspicion of who I voted for and who I am.
CuriousSavage
(15 posts)If you are willing to accept the responsibility, you don’t owe them the guy behind the counter anything. You’re not there to make friends. They are so sensitive about their constitutional rights… We have every right to exercise our own. I heard that there are many first timers purchasing firearms. The guy should respect that a woman wants to protect herself. Fuck them if there’s judgement. If it gets to that point, make eye contact and ask them coldly if they want to lose a sale. They’ll shut up. If not, walk. There are no political qualifications that you have to meet. Once you have your license, you have options.
Wuddles440
(1,668 posts)I've found S&W, Ruger, Sig Sauer, and Glock to be especially Trumpy (they literally have models dedicated to him). Although I do own a Glock (legacy firearm from my days as a LEO), I prefer and recommend products from Beretta, HK, Walther, CZ, Springfield Armory, and FN.
CuriousSavage
(15 posts)I hear you 100%. All of these companies pander to the hardcore 2A crowd. It’s where the money is. Big fan of Beretta too but the documents that came with mine included invites to join the NRA. I took pleasure in throwing them out.
maxsolomon
(36,088 posts)"Welcome to DU".
Skittles
(162,608 posts)kind of like, well, Trump
maxsolomon
(36,088 posts)DU is so helpful when it comes to firearms. Everyone loves guns now, I guess.
Skittles
(162,608 posts)fucking sickening
EX500rider
(11,756 posts)Mine had the Ruger Security 9-9mm for $299
orangecrush
(23,743 posts)Than is in your post.
I'm with the others who suggest non lethal options.
I'd get a gun if I were receiving death threats or threats of harm to myself or family
Your situation on its face does not warrant that.
Renew Deal
(83,659 posts)I addressed the “liberal gun store” question, but simply having a gun puts everyone in this situation in greater danger. Someone might pull it out just because they have it and are angry or scared.
It’s better to avoid confrontation and deescalate.
orangecrush
(23,743 posts)Rainman4u2C
(53 posts)Please think long and hard before you do this!! I have been shooting/handling guns for most of my life. This is not a decision to be taken lightly!! If your going to buy a handgun PLEASE BUY ONE WITH A PHYSICAL SAFETY, NOT A TRIGGER SAFETY!!! Additionally recognize;
First: The only sure way to win in a violent confrontation is to avoid the confrontation altogether.
Second: A gun is a tool of Last Resort. It is not to be used to resolve petty arguments etc, it is only to protect innocent life that is in imminent and immediate jeopardy.
You can read more here.
https://www.defensivestrategies.org/blog/carrying-a-gun-for-personal-protection
Mountainguy
(1,594 posts)for over 15 years now with no problems.
Don't put your finger on the trigger unless you plan to shoot.
Don't point at anything you wouldn't want to shoot.
If you have kids in the house keep it locked up when not carrying it and/or leave the chamber empty when storing.
Most of gun safety is just not being an idiot.
sweetapogee
(1,201 posts)FYI, buying a handgun in NY is not the same as buying one in say, Pennsylvania or Vermont. And you can't simply go out of state and buy one expecting to just take it home. Strange but true, even here in PA they run a background checks thru NICS. But I digress. My brother lives in upstate Clinton County and he cannot believe it when he comes to visit me. In NY you need a license just to purchase a pistol or revolver. A carry permit is not too likely, not impossible, but quite difficult. Then there is the small detail of learning who to use the darn thing, gain some proficiency, do some practicing. One of the posters in this thread suggested a red dot sight. Great for target shooting and some competitions but by the time you get the sight turned on, your body has already started to cool. BTW, I have never been asked who I vote for when purchasing a handgun.
Mountainguy
(1,594 posts)The proper way is to practice enough that you know where your natural shooting stance brings the gun to and put the target in that spot.
In a real gunfight you won't have time to aim anyway.
You can even buy a gun online. It'll just have to be shipped to a dealer who will complete the legal requirements of the sale.
Wuddles440
(1,668 posts)Many red dots are motion activated so you don't need to manually turn them on. They're extremely accurate when co-witnessed with the iron sights.
Hotler
(12,875 posts)https://www.impactguns.com/
Bass pro Shops
Cabela's
If you're interested,
https://theliberalgunclub.com/
The mission of The Liberal Gun Club is to provide a pro-Second Amendment voice for left-of-center gun owners in the national conversations on firearms.
Wuddles440
(1,668 posts)Range USA and Brownells to that list. Range USA gives the appearance of being apolitical unlike many other vendors/ranges that I've patronized.
Straw Man
(6,849 posts)First of all, I assume you're thinking of a handgun, because you mentioned going out walking. The CCIA (Concealed Carry Improvement Act) of 2022 mandates an 18-hour course for a handgun license. This course is not provided by the state; you will be taking it from private instructors, probably at a gun range, at your own expense. Then you will need several character references, who can't be relatives. (This has always been the case, not just since the CCIA). You will need to be fingerprinted. Your application will be reviewed by a judge, and you will most likely be called in for an interview. Among other things, you will be asked your reason for wanting a handgun. Be calm and respectful, because this judge will have absolute discretion over granting or denying your permit.
Expect the processing of your application to take six to twelve months, depending on what county you live in. When you acquire a handgun, it will need to be listed on your permit. You will bring a receipt of the purchase to your sheriff's office, where you will fill out an amendment form to add this gun to your permit. After a judge has reviewed your amendment, which can take 3 to 6 weeks depending on your county, you will be called back to the sheriff's office and be given a coupon that allows you to take possession of the gun. You will then return to the dealer to complete the transaction. You will have to undergo a NICS check (instant background check) at the dealership before taking possession of the gun.
Rifle and shotgun purchases are much easier, requiring only the NICS check: no permit, no judge sign-off. The exception is semi-auto rifles, which require the same permitting as handguns, but not the approval of each individual purchase. If you think you will ever want a semi-auto rifle, you may as well get that endorsement on your handgun permit; there is no additional training or cost involved.
As for the politics, most gun shops, at least in my part of NY State, aren't vocal about it. They may have some posters on the wall, etc. but they are businesspeople who realize that liberals buy guns too. This is especially true of bigger chain stores, like Gander Mountain, who are more corporate and therefore less overtly political.
amerikat
(5,043 posts)Thanks I was wondering about that. I live near the Vermont border. Do you know if I can purchase in VT? Is it any easier?
Depends on what you're buying. You can buy a handgun in Vermont, but you can't take possession of it there. It will have to be shipped to a dealer in NY, who will do the paperwork and the NICS check. So I'd have to say that it really isn't easier. You can buy a rifle or shotgun and bring it back legally, as long as it doesn't meet the NY definition on an assault weapon:
https://giffords.org/lawcenter/state-laws/assault-weapons-in-new-york/
All you'll have to do is the NICS check, which is a federal requirement.
amerikat
(5,043 posts)cadoman
(1,149 posts)According to AI anyway, but that's not the most reliable thing. I don't see anything liberal on their website though.
https://centraltexasgunworks.com/
You can order online from them. Beyond that, I'd suggest Bass Pro or similar if you have it.
Fla_Democrat
(2,591 posts)He's awesome. He challenged a regulation issued in trump's first administration and fought it to the Supreme Court, winning in Garland v. Cargill. 
https://www.scotusblog.com/case-files/cases/garland-v-cargill/
LoveSucky
(25 posts)
JoseBalow
(7,036 posts)
SAME PLACES GUN HUMPING REPUKES BUY THEM
JoseBalow
(7,036 posts)Where there's a will, there a way! 
DFW
(57,515 posts)I'm sad to say.
Oneironaut
(5,917 posts)That’s unless you want a gun for practice shooting, general self defense, etc.
Pepper spray is a non-lethal option, unless you feel your life is being threatened.
Wuddles440
(1,668 posts)non-lethal, defensive option, there obvious limitations to its use such as breezy weather conditions, distance from the threat, and failure to keep the propellant mixed with the reactive agent by routinely shaking the canister.
Patton French
(1,509 posts) 
The Grand Illuminist
(1,780 posts)It will take a lot of research to find a reliable dealer to your taste. Hope it goes well.
Autumn
(47,557 posts)not divived into progressive and MAGA. Good luck finding a progressive who gives concealed carry classes.
sarisataka
(21,623 posts)but I am only registered in Minnesota
99MainSt
(70 posts)If you really want a gun you will have to abandon your scruples about buying from right wing nuts. There might be a progressive gun dealer here and there but they are as rare as chicken lips.
Happy Hoosier
(8,820 posts)There isn't much can do about that. If you feel the need to arm yourself "just in case," then know what you want before you go in the store. If you have a Cabela's near by, they are a good option. Verify stock and price before you go. Minimize conversation and make your purchase. Do the paperwork and GTFO.
Vinca
(51,768 posts)when I was a police officer (dinosaurs were still on the earth). After I left the force, it sat in a box on the shelf for about 10 years until I finally took it to a licensed gun dealer to be sold. My husband suggested I wait and see what happens. In any case, the crazies on the right seem to think lefties will just sit back and accept their rampaging mobs. Nope. Won't happen.
emulatorloo
(45,728 posts)