Letter: Keep gun buyers honest after sale

Friday, May 28, 1999 | 10:29 a.m.

A person wanting a gun for home protection doesn't need an automatic that is almost a machine gun.

The buyer must be informed his background must be checked -- if it is a bit shady or has just a few days ago bought a gun, no sale. If he passes the check he gets a registered weapon in his name and address.

That is fine but there should be one more step, and this is where I gain the enemies for even suggesting it.

The buyer must sign a two-copy form, stating he understands he may be visited and asked to produce the weapon, at any time.

If he will not agree, he doesn't get the gun. A large poster should be in view in all gun stores or at each stand at gun shows announcing this information.

This is a rider that I strongly suggest should be attached to the registration law. There should be a group of uniformed officers assigned to do the visiting on a spot check plan.

If a weapon is not produced a valid reason must be given, a slip showing it has been stolen or pawned or legally sold. Otherwise there is an arrest, and the whereabouts of the weapon must be divulged; an improper disposal brings a stiff penalty.

This would soon stop adults from supplying weapons to teens or anyone else who is for any reason not qualified to possess a firearm. It would be expensive but it could prevent a tragedy.

Before long it could be discontinued at least partially.

ARNOLD R. WINTERS