Back in the late 90’s, when the 696 first came out, I stopped at the Bass Pro store in Gurney, IL. I approached the gun counter, saw they had one on display, and asked to see it. I was asked if I had a FOID card, answered no, I’m from Wisconsin just here visiting relatives. I was informed that I had to have the FOID card to handle the gun! If I’m an out of state resident why would I get said card…answer…because it’s the law. Been to Illinois many times since, even have an I-Pass for the tolls, but have never entered another sporting goods store in that state. Picked up my 696 about two months later when my lgs had them in stock.