Just thought I'd share my results of my "interview" with Paul Fitzgerald today in regard to an application for CCW.
Got there a bit early to fill out the paperwork (about 10:40 for an 11:00 appt.) and he was right on time. Very respectful guy. He basically just went over the application with me, and had me clarify a couple things he couldn't make out (my handwriting has often been compared to that of a primate on more than one occasion
) and gave me the standard "strong warnings" that I've heard so much about. Basically said if I commit any of the offenses that precludes one from firearm ownership in the first place (domestic violence, assault on emergency personnel, felonies, etc.) then the permit gets revoked (well duh...kinda goes without saying, but no big deal). He also said he affixes a stamp to the permit that disallows concealed carry in any establishment that serves alcohol. Other than that, it really wasn't that bad. Yeah i could tell there was some apprehension toward a "civilian" wanting to carry, but having my 03FFL, military firearm training both on the m16 and m9, and participating in an IPSC match every once in a while definitely helped to reassure him that I know the "do's and don'ts" of firearm safety.
It really just boiled down to him wanting a face-to-face with the people who apply to make sure they're not some random wacko that wants a gun. I just told him that my wife and I travel to many places around not only Iowa but many of the reciprocal states as well, and a good number of those places we're just not sure what the area is like, and I would feel much better having it on me just in case. He had no issue with that (or at least he said so). He asked me how many firearms i had in my C&R collection, and I made up a number. I personally don't feel he has any reason to know the real answer, but at the same time I definitely didn't want to say anything that might be perceived as "dick-ish" and end up getting denied.
I'll be getting a letter in the next week or so detailing when/where the April class is being held. Fitzgerald only accepts classes taught by a certified Iowa LEO academy firearms instructor. Might be a bit on the strict side, but if it makes him feel comfortable I don't have any problem with it. Cost is $35, and the class is usually from noon til 4 p.m. (according to the secretary in the front office).
Anyway, I'm really happy I was able to "pass inspection" so to speak. It was a lot less intense than I thought it would be, so if any Story Co. residents are on the fence about applying, and you feel you have a genuine "reason" to arm yourself (i'm just using the SCSO's words now
) go ahead and schedule an appointment.
Hell you could always use the reason I did, seemed to work for me.