Buying a gun at a gun show...

[Nate]

I am planning on going to the gun show in York next weekend and I was wondering exactly what I need to buy a handgun from a vender. How many forms of ID do I need and how should I plan to pay for it?

I live an hour away and the last thing I need is to have to run home to get something.

[87vert]

usually just a drivers license, some dealers require another form with an address, such as vehicle registration or a bill just to verify where you live.

Most are cash only, some bigger dealers do take credit (some with a markup)

[Nate]

Ok, thanks that tells me what I needed to know.

[Holleta]

Just as 87 Vert said ( Mustang?) though I have never been asked for a second form of ID. The process is the same for a Gun Show as it is for a local Gun Dealer you may walk in to and purchase a handgun from.

Pick out handgun.
Fill out forms.
Present DL
Dealer calls in to PICS to verify your eligibility
Present cash or CC to dealer
You and gun start a meaningful relationship together

[Nate]

Sounds easy enough, I'll use my carry permit as my second form of ID if needed.

"You and gun start a meaningful relationship together" I can't wait

[Mike45]

Nate,
While filling out your paperwork, be careful to guard your personal information. A gun show is an easy place to pick up an extra social security number or two. I have seen people filling out the forms and have been able to read just about all of the form easily as I walked by the table...Mike45

[Nate]

Nate,
While filling out your paperwork, be careful to guard your personal information. A gun show is an easy place to pick up an extra social security number or two. I have seen people filling out the forms and have been able to read just about all of the form easily as I walked by the table...Mike45

hmmm... never really thought about that but I can see it happening very easily. Thanks for the warning

[Lougotzz]

Thats why I dont buy guns from shows. To much confusion. Go to a good gun store and get what you want.

Also guard your money because when you are engrossed in all the paper work you are an easy target for theft. Some of the big shows are real crowded. I only buy accesories at a show.


Show prices are no bargains anyway.

[TRB]

I've purchased a few guns at the shows. You're right, the prices aren't the cheapest most of the time but I've found a few bargains. Here's a few tips on buying at a show. When filling out the paperwork, ask the vendor if you can use a chair inside the booth while doing so. If he asks why, explain about information theft. Or tell him about your bad back. Either way, most guys will be happy to help. Don't pull your money out in a crowd. Again, from his side of the table it's easier to do this discreetly. But if you have to operate from the other side then it is easier if you carry money in your hip pocket rather than in your wallet. Instead of fumbling through credit cards and trying to count money in a pouch you are counting through your money with it in your hand just as you would if you were counting money in a bank. It's easier and happens much quicker with less room for errors or unwanted observers prying into your business.

Just my two cents.