[skeet]

Originally Posted by Mr. 16 gauge

I think it's important to remember that there are a lot of really stupid people out there. I've always maintained that there should be more to hunter safety than what there is, and after seeing a guy try and put shells in a pump shotgun backwards I certainly haven't changed my mind.

I think a permit system is not a bad idea in that A.) it requires the permit holder to take a class not only on safe gun handling, but what the LAW allows them to do and not do, and that can end up saving tax payers in the long run. B.) While issuance of a permit, in and of itself, doesn't negate criminal activity, I would think that if a LEO stopped someone for a traffic violation, and new ahead of time that said individual might be carrying (via computer), and the said individual stated immediately on contact with the LEO that he did, in fact, have a concealed pistol on him, that it might put said LEO at ease a bit that he was dealing with a decent, law abiding citizen.
Just thoughts off the top of my head.

As quoted above is the crux of the problem..here.. Some people think it is better if the gummit KNOWS what you are doing..yep..lots of stupid people..HONEST LAW ABIDING stupid people. Here in Wyoming now the police automatically assume you may have a gun Why should a cop fear a law abiding citizen and why should the police HAVE to know your personal business?? Criminals are by definition not law abiding and carry anyway..I seriously have a problem with the government knowing what I do with my life. I also have a real problem with the bureaucrats in this country knowing if I have a gun or not..Some states require the permit holder to give the state model and serial of the guns they may carry..Personally that is what I consider registration in a very strict sense. As Adam said there are more stupid people carrying a license for an even more dangerous weapon..a car. In this day and age where the government could do away with your right to own a firearm by signing a treaty..I trust the government less and less...and yes..fear it all the more