Expert: Robert P. Firriolo - 4/21/2009

Question
I plead guilty to possession of a Control Substance Class A misdemeanor in 1993 Paided a fine and 15 days time serve.  Also Attempt possesion of a Control substance in 1994, which I paided a $150 fine. Unauthorized use of a vehicle in 1993, I was sentenced to 3 days community service. NO Felonies or Domestic Violence convictions. All charges are from NYC. I moved to CT almost 5 yrs ago and would like to go hunting with my co-workers. I attempted to buy a rifle and the NICS check came back denied. Dealer said that's normal for people w/o a Hunting license and that I must wait the 14 days. What are the chances of me being able to purchase the rifle??

Answer
The question does not make sense. If you were denied by NICS, there is no waiting period. That's the end of the transaction.

If, however, you were delayed by NICS, and if the dealer has not received from NICS a final determination after three business days have elapsed since the delay response, it is within the dealer's discretion whether or not to transfer the firearm (if CT law permits the transfer).

If you were delayed and are eventually denied by NICS, you can contact FBI and appeal the determination. Be sure to get the NICS Transaction Number (NTN) from the dealer. According to FBI:

Individuals who are denied the purchase of a firearm may request that the NICS or the state which processed their transaction provide the reasons for the denial. The regulations address the process for filing an appeal. Appellants must include the NTN assigned to their transaction. Appeals may be submitted via facsimile at 1-888-550-6427; by e-mail at nicsappeals@leo.gov; or by mail to the FBI, Criminal Justice Information Services Division, NICS Section, Appeal Services Team, Post Office Box 4278, Clarksburg, West Virginia 26302-9922.