As an update...
I thought I would call around and compare prices since there are probably 20-30 weapon stores in town. The online prices for the M&p 9 Compact were very different online, even when searching through local stores, but since each shop charges shipping differently they all come out to around $510. I also will need to pay $25 for a background check and I have to wait three days from the time the pistol arrives in their shop. I may have to continue saving for another week.
I don't understand why I can't fill out the background check info and pay the deposit on the same day; that way my waiting period would be over by the time the gun shipped, but I guess the shop has to physically hold the gun for 72 hours... oh well.
I also plan on paying $20 dollars for a 1 hour safety class. From what I understand and hopefully it will be like a private lesson on the basics of firearm safety and how to take care of my gun.
In the future it seems I may need to get snap caps and night sights, but I'm not too worried about that right now, the first thing I need to do is learn everything I can and get in as much practice as I can afford.
Nevada has a waiting period? And you have to pay for a background check?
Nevada has a waiting period? And you have to pay for a background check?
Gun snobs can be just as bad as MMA snobs. If you have a question about any brand, guntest.com is a pretty relaible and neutral source. Remember, buy what you like and fits you best, not what others tell you.
Be safe, and happy shooting...
+1
I've never been charged extra when buying a new gun from a dealer. In kansas... you walk into a gun shop... pick out the gun you want... fill out the background check form... the dealer calls BATFE for approval.. 5 mins (or less later) you are approved, hand the dealer your cash... and walk out with your new pistol/rifle.
So... another update.
My buddy who is a disabled veteran regularly goes to a nearby military base to buy things like furnature and groceries. My understanding is if you are a veteran buying from the base items are a little cheaper and you don't have to pay tax. We are going to head over there tomorrow to see if I can get the M&P. I'm assuming that he may need to buy it then transfer it to my name... I also am assuming that they will not allow me to carry a weapon while on the base, so maybe they will send to FFL holder. Regardless it would be $40-50 cheaper. Does anyone see any potential problems with this?
Otherwise I will buy online from a retailer with good reviews; either impactguns or buds. I originally thought buying locally would be a good idea, but since the gun is not in stock anywhere the local shop will be going through the same process regardless and marking up shipping. Ranging from $590-620 out the door. So... buying online seems pretty low-risk and from what I've heard of S&W customer service, any defect the gun may have will probably be repaired within 2 weeks. I feel pretty good.
Also, feel free to call me an idiot because this is probably a stupid question. :redface:
In the future if I wanted to get night sights, and the current model I've been looking into says 'fixed sights' does that mean I can't buy night sights and have them installed?
You idiot!!
j/k!
Of course, sights can be swapped. Night sights are a common upgrade, and a worthy one. Fixed sights means as opposed to an adjustable target sight. Adjustables can be adjusted for elevation and windage, fixed are not.
So... another update.
My buddy who is a disabled veteran regularly goes to a nearby military base to buy things like furnature and groceries. My understanding is if you are a veteran buying from the base items are a little cheaper and you don't have to pay tax. We are going to head over there tomorrow to see if I can get the M&P. I'm assuming that he may need to buy it then transfer it to my name... I also am assuming that they will not allow me to carry a weapon while on the base, so maybe they will send to FFL holder. Regardless it would be $40-50 cheaper. Does anyone see any potential problems with this?
Otherwise I will buy online from a retailer with good reviews; either impactguns or buds. I originally thought buying locally would be a good idea, but since the gun is not in stock anywhere the local shop will be going through the same process regardless and marking up shipping. Ranging from $590-620 out the door. So... buying online seems pretty low-risk and from what I've heard of S&W customer service, any defect the gun may have will probably be repaired within 2 weeks. I feel pretty good.
Well I definitely saved myself a long trip to the base. I spoke to my buddy and he didn't consider the fact that they wont sell to a non-family member civilian (He usually goes with his family)... Also he can't purchase a gun himself because of something relating to PTSD. So the plan is to order online tomorrow. Hopefully by the beginning of next month I'll have pictures and video in this thread instead of stupid questions. Thanks for the responses everyone.