TL;DR Got scammed for about $150 (20% of total order) cancallation fee as “restocking and card processing fee” given that the gun was back-ordered and part of the deposit was paid in cash. Also got rejected purchasing a gun, given that I have done multiple DROS in the past few months, because they have been told by the ATF that they will “get in trouble” if they process my laweful purchase.
Full story:
I previously had great trust in the range, so I initially ordered a CZ PCR last Sunday after being assured it was in stock in their distribution center and would arrive by Friday. However, when I called to check on it yesterday (5 days later), I was told it was actually back-ordered. Disappointed but still wanting to make a purchase, I visited there to buy a Ruger instead.
Upon arrival, I presented all the necessary documents. Despite being a frequent customer to their range, the staff seemed unsure about my eligibility to purchase a firearm. For context: I'm a non-US citizen but have a valid hunting license and have completed multiple DROS without any issues. After some back-and-forth, the manager reviewed my documents and made a phone call. I was then informed that, given my citizenship status, I could only buy non-semiauto guns. I showed them all my previous DROS forms, prompting another lengthy phone call by the manager.
After another 20 minutes of just watching the manager on the phone, they told me that according to the "ATF representative" they consulted, I am prohibited "by federal law" from making this purchase. They added that "CA DOJ might have approved my orders before (in the state level) but they could get in trouble (in the federal level) if they proceed my order" and recommended that I return to other FFLs where I've made previous purchases.
Here, for educational purposes, is what I cited directly from ATF official website:
“An alien legally in the U.S. is not prohibited from purchasing firearms unless the alien is admitted into the U.S. under a nonimmigrant visa and does not meet one of the exceptions as provided in 18 U.S.C. 922(y)(2), such as possession of a valid hunting license or permit.
[18 U.S.C. 922 (d)(5), (g)(5) and (y)(2); 27 CFR 478.11 and 478.32(a)(5) ]”
Yes I did show them a valid hunting license which was discussed over the phone.
To add insult to injury, when I chose to cancel the back-ordered CZ due to these issues, they slapped a 20% cancellation fee of about $150 on me, citing "restocking and card processing fees"—even though the gun was never physically there and part of my deposit was paid in cash.
I’ve always recommended this place for their good service and nice staff, but this has left a sour taste. Ff you are planning to buy something, I would highly recommend taking your...
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