BTDT,
Not unusual.. Some folks are deathly afraid of the ATF and breaking the rules. And maybe they should be. The MSM has them shaking in their boots. They don't know where to start. Often the local PO has told them a line of BS. I've gone as far as shopping for a "local to him", FFL. Doing this, you may also be able to have the FFL act as your escrow agent, protecting you. Send the FFL your MO, made out to the seller, then all the seller has to do is drop off the firearm and pick up his MO. Obviously, it may cost you some $, but it may be worth it. Some pawn shops seem to be open to this. They get foot traffic out of the deal and can make a few bucks. I'm mostly retired, so I have the time to put into it, whereas the seller may be very busy.
