[bigbertha]

Hey guys and gals-

Ok, so here is the scoop on Tompkins county New York, ie Ithaca and surrounding areas. No big deal. This county does not issue for self defense so the Sheriff department pistol permit clerk, who is very nice and forthcoming, read my detailed reasons for the need to carry, whited out that section and told me to write "Hunting and Fishing". Those are the only reasons that a permit will be issued in this county.

Even if you work with large sums of money and ask for a permit to carry while you make drop offs, you will only get a permit with those restrictions, ie. no concealed carry unless you are hunting or fishing and any other times, like during transport etc. the pistol must be in a lock box with ammo locked separately. She told me pistols even, technically, must be in a lock box in your own home. Wow. NY is super tough on people who want to defend themselves.

She asked me a few questions about myself and had me sign a bunch of forms, took about 5 sets of complete prints and gave me more questionnaires for references to sign and have notarized.

It was a very pleasant experience. I get the feeling that the politicians just want to make it a huge pain in the ass to go through with the whole process so that most people won't bother. I mean there are a few hoops to jump through, not only for the applicant but for the people s/he asks to be refs.

Lots of time and expense and annoyance but I feel like it is worth it.