There is a hate on for governments, shilling, and the lack of reactive targets!
In all seriousness though, my transition to this hobby from my last (motorcycling) has shown similarities... and differences, that made me make a thread about the initial experiences, especially for future new-comers to the sport (or) hobby.
PATIENCE:
This is an act (or lack of in this case) that was originally broken by technology. And in every corner, it has seeped into every level of our lives and demanded that we hurry up and wait. An oxymoron. Most people acknowledge the fact, but don't correct it in themselves. The panic and apparent suffering some have displayed has been so over the top at times, a simpleton in another galaxy viewing us from a far would be left to think this place was coming to an end. In the 1800's, it was considered acceptable if a letter traveled across this continent within a 2 month time period.
Rushing this process is impossible. Keeping it on track (via calls to the CFO) seems to be achievable. Perfection of the licensing program is (unfortunately) an imperfect process - I've only run across one answer to which a member's girl friend gained acceptance in the minimum 28-day process.
LOYALTY:
Gun owners are genuinely a loyal group. Their preferences to different firearms are vast, and the knowledge can be thick and hard to get around. However, the loyalty program between the customer and the retail shops is at times embarrassing. After the first group of repeat/regular buyers, there's a group of 'customers' asking for discounts, special orders or deliveries of items beyond the capabilities of some (or all for that matter) stores. Even the simpler purchases of ammunition or accessories have made for eye-opening reading. Take time to educate yourself first, and then when you begin to shop seriously for that first firearm, the guy behind the counter will give you the time of day.
After visiting a local shop on a (VERY busy) Saturday, I asked "when" & was told that a mid-week morning was the best to come in for answers. 2 weeks later on a Wednesday, I entered the store, told the guy why I was there, told him I was green, told him I was signed up waiting on my certification course, and then spent 45 mins of ironing out my facts, and was given the time of day by the staff member who I was completely up-front with regarding my visit there.
Don't be a Weekend-Warrior and bother the sales guys about the 'heat' the rifle behind him packs when you’re standing in front of the register with the next issue of Guns&Ammo. Don't let your excitement become more important than the business you're visiting. (I own my own business, and story telling is fun - but doesn't put food on the table)
ASK the QUESTION(s):
If you ask, you will get answers. Some will be right, some might be wrong; others may miss what you were asking. But the "general" feeling of opinions can help steer you in the right direction. Trust no one, but listen to everyone. The amount of thoughts deriving from others products and experiences is by far overwhelming, but mostly insightful. You'll starting finding your way, and your interests.
And be kind about it.
You're a guest here.
In all seriousness though, my transition to this hobby from my last (motorcycling) has shown similarities... and differences, that made me make a thread about the initial experiences, especially for future new-comers to the sport (or) hobby.
PATIENCE:
This is an act (or lack of in this case) that was originally broken by technology. And in every corner, it has seeped into every level of our lives and demanded that we hurry up and wait. An oxymoron. Most people acknowledge the fact, but don't correct it in themselves. The panic and apparent suffering some have displayed has been so over the top at times, a simpleton in another galaxy viewing us from a far would be left to think this place was coming to an end. In the 1800's, it was considered acceptable if a letter traveled across this continent within a 2 month time period.
Rushing this process is impossible. Keeping it on track (via calls to the CFO) seems to be achievable. Perfection of the licensing program is (unfortunately) an imperfect process - I've only run across one answer to which a member's girl friend gained acceptance in the minimum 28-day process.
LOYALTY:
Gun owners are genuinely a loyal group. Their preferences to different firearms are vast, and the knowledge can be thick and hard to get around. However, the loyalty program between the customer and the retail shops is at times embarrassing. After the first group of repeat/regular buyers, there's a group of 'customers' asking for discounts, special orders or deliveries of items beyond the capabilities of some (or all for that matter) stores. Even the simpler purchases of ammunition or accessories have made for eye-opening reading. Take time to educate yourself first, and then when you begin to shop seriously for that first firearm, the guy behind the counter will give you the time of day.
After visiting a local shop on a (VERY busy) Saturday, I asked "when" & was told that a mid-week morning was the best to come in for answers. 2 weeks later on a Wednesday, I entered the store, told the guy why I was there, told him I was green, told him I was signed up waiting on my certification course, and then spent 45 mins of ironing out my facts, and was given the time of day by the staff member who I was completely up-front with regarding my visit there.
Don't be a Weekend-Warrior and bother the sales guys about the 'heat' the rifle behind him packs when you’re standing in front of the register with the next issue of Guns&Ammo. Don't let your excitement become more important than the business you're visiting. (I own my own business, and story telling is fun - but doesn't put food on the table)
ASK the QUESTION(s):
If you ask, you will get answers. Some will be right, some might be wrong; others may miss what you were asking. But the "general" feeling of opinions can help steer you in the right direction. Trust no one, but listen to everyone. The amount of thoughts deriving from others products and experiences is by far overwhelming, but mostly insightful. You'll starting finding your way, and your interests.
And be kind about it.
You're a guest here.
