Scott AFB Exchange now sells firearms Published March 5, 2014 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- The Army & Air Force Exchange Service here cut the ribbon Feb. 28 on the new counter dedicated exclusively to firearms and ammunition. While the Exchange is focused on saving Airmen time and money when shopping for rifles, holsters and other gun accessories, this new assortment does require rigid attention to safety not seen in most areas of the Exchange. "The background and setup requirements undertaken to offer this merchandise has been extensive," said Michael Patmon, Exchange general manager. "We followed a controlled timeline with check offs that had to be completed to bring these products onto the installation." After gaining command, fire marshal and security officer approval, the Exchange obtained a Federal Firearms License, secured an electronically monitored gun safe, constructed a control counter, installed trigger locks on all guns and trained personnel. Ongoing measures at the counter will include informing shoppers of federal, state and base regulations that must be complied with, recording sales transactions, and conducting instant background checks. According to the law, buyers must meet age requirements when purchasing firearms and ammunition. Buyers of rifles and shotguns must be at least 18 years of age; buyers of pistol-grip shotguns must be 21 years of age or older; those who wish to buy ammunition must be at least 21 years of age. Also prior to purchase, buyer must complete Alcohol, Tobacco and Firearms form 4473, and pass a national background check. "While we are focused on saving authorized shoppers money and time, our No. 1 goal is safety," said Patmon. "As such, we will be working closely with federal and installation authorities as we refine our security procedures." All buyers of firearms who reside on Scott must complete form Air Force Information Management Tool 1314, which registers the firearm with the 375th Security Forces Squadron. All buyers of firearms who reside on Scott must also fill out an AF IMT 1314, have it signed by their commander, and return it to the armory within 72 hours. If you live in privatized housing, members can store weapons in their homes. Dorm residents must store their weapons at the base armory. When transporting any firearm on base it must be unloaded in a locked case. The Firearm Owner Identification Card is issued by the state of Illinois, and is required to purchase firearms in Illinois. The cost is free for active duty military members. You can obtain a FOID card by using your permanent change of station orders and valid form of identification. Apply at https://www.isp.state.il.us/. Firearms safety--10 rules of safe gun handling · Learn the mechanical and handling characteristics of the firearm you are using · Always keep gun pointed in safe direction · Keep finger off trigger until ready to shoot · Keep gun unloaded until ready to use · Be sure of you target and what's beyond it · Use the correct ammunition · Handle it with care · Always wear eye and ear protection when shooting · Never use alcohol or over-the-counter, prescription or other drugs before or while shooting · Don't alter you firearm and clean it regularly