Pin Numbers required for gun purchase

jimgansett

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Massachusetts
I've been looking around for a Model 617, and each site I've gone to tells me that no longer are gun shops in MA taking fingerprints but instead you have to provide the pin number issued to you when you receive your LTC.

That's never been the case up to now, at least I've never been asked for it when purchasing.

I wonder why the change now, is it all gun shops in MA and also are there other states that issue pins with their LTC?
 
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Since it is everywhere you look I can only assume there has been a change in state law and that is how it is now done. Ask management at any gun shop and I am sure this is what you will be told. Or, better yet, contact the agency that administers the carry/purchase permitting process and ask them.

WHY? Because your state legislature says so, they make the rules.

Other states? What difference, you live in Massachusetts and have to deal with that states regulations.
 
My last purchase about a month ago still used the finger pad. PIN is required on a gun sale. Both private transaction or FFL. If the gun store is not equipped with computer finger pad ID connection a PIN is also required for purchase.

Have a gun on order now. Supposed to arrive in a week or so. I'll drop you a PM and let you know.
 
What I heard is that Microsoft officially ended support of Windows XP and the fingerprint scanner drivers were not compiled for any more modern OS so the state had to discontinue the support for the finger scanner. I say good riddance, it was a major PITA.

Luckily the FRB can give you your pin over the phone instantly.

Chris
 
Since it is everywhere you look I can only assume there has been a change in state law and that is how it is now done. Ask management at any gun shop and I am sure this is what you will be told. Or, better yet, contact the agency that administers the carry/purchase permitting process and ask them.

WHY? Because your state legislature says so, they make the rules.

Other states? What difference, you live in Massachusetts and have to deal with that states regulations
.

Another pleasant member with a lot to offer. Why is it when someone asks a question do some members need to interject their nasty attitude and offer nothing of value (other than to show everyone his ignorance). The OP asked a question. If you have nothing to offer then don't reply. Get your post numbers by welcoming new members, twice if you feel the need.
 
They no longer fingerprint you when you apply or renew your license to carry. I went for my renewal a couple of weeks ago and was pleased to learn I wouldn't have black fingers and clothes when I left.
I had also heard that the computerized fingerprint system was outdated and buggy.
The bad news is some shops are now scanning your info into their computers even on non-controlled items like reloading supplies and holsters.
 
Yes, no more black ink in MA BUT just a couple of things... It took forever to get a clean fingerprint with that little scanner pad, didn't seem to work well.

Now, here is something worse. I know someone who recently applied for an LTC. $100, Supposed to be good for 6 years here in MA, right? So this person, who had a September birthday, applied in July of this year and when the LTC was received, it was only good for 5 years and 2 months, expiring in September of 2018.

So, the state screwed them of 10 months, rather than expire it in Sept of 2019 which would have given them their 6 years and an extra 2 months, but certainly more fair than being screwed 10 months.

On talking to the local chief, they were told that the state police have absolute control over issue/expiration dates and that he could do nothing.

I talked it over with them and they are going to meet with one of their state legislators to see what if anything can be done. However, it IS MA and highly unlikely for anything to change.
 
Jim, it's likely a Birth Date thing. Here in Michigan the Concealed Pistol License is renewed on your Birth Date every 5 years. EXCEPT when first issued, then you'll find your renewal is on your Birth Date in the year prior to the 5 year mark. I got hose by this with my first issuance, received the permit in October and the renewal came up in 4 years 4 months because my Birth Date is in February. A small bit of good news is that subsequent renewals are 5 years on the dot as long as I don't allow my permit to lapse, which is NOT going to happen with Detroit being just down the road.
 
What I heard is that Microsoft officially ended support of Windows XP and the fingerprint scanner drivers were not compiled for any more modern OS so the state had to discontinue the support for the finger scanner.

Chris

This is my understanding as well. Very nice to be up here in NH now and not have to deal with that stuff after many decades of living in MA.
 
I believe you are right, Scooter. My own LTC was renewed recently. The renewal is for a full 6 years. I renewed in July, even though my birthday is September. Renewal is Sept - Sept and I use the unexpired one until the new one takes effect. Still, while I suppose it is easier for the state this way, the least they could do if a license is not for a full 6 years is NOT charge the full $100.. Anyway, thanks for the reply Scooter.
 

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