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New Yorkers spooked by the coronavirus outbreak — and the government’s reaction to it — are packing Long Island gun stores to stock up on firearms and ammo amid the chaotic situation across the state.
The demand for firearms at Coliseum Gun Traders Ltd in Nassau County was so high Tuesday that manager Kevin Romano said they’re only letting small groups of people into the store at a time.
“I think a lot of people feel their rights are being infringed upon, and they want to exercise their Second Amendment right before any possible gun restrictions are put in place,” Romano said at the Uniondale shop.
“People are mostly coming in to buy shotguns and ammo, and we are pretty well stocked. There is no fear we are running out,” he added.
On Tuesday afternoon, a line of about 30 people stretched outside the store.
David Straus, 53, who lives in New York City, said he was there to buy a shotgun because he fears what people might do if their jobs are cut.
“I think it’s better to be safe than sorry. I don’t know what’s going to happen if things get worse and people don’t have jobs,” he said.
“I need to protect my family and my home. I’m a big believer in prepare for the worst and hope for the best. I hope to never have to use it,” he added.
A 48-year-old Staten Island resident was waiting in line to buy ammunition with his 11- and 16-year-old sons.
“The problem is when you have the government getting involved in your daily life, closing stores and shutting down people’s opportunity to make money and feed their families, they begin not to respect each other’s borders,” said the man, who declined to give his name.
“You have to buy while supplies are high,” he said.
A 41-year-old Nassau County resident named Tony said he was also there to buy a shotgun “just as a precaution.”
“My preference from a self-defense perspective is a handgun, but the permit will take a long time, so I will buy a shotgun for the time being,” he said.
In nearby Albertson, Hunter Essentials gun store had been cleared out of shotguns by Tuesday afternoon.
“There are no more shotguns or shotgun ammunition. Another shipment may come on Thurs. or Fri March 19th or 20th,” a sign on the front door warned would-be gun buyers.
A 39-year-old Nassau resident named Justin was at the store to buy a pistol with his wife because she feared for their children’s safety.
“I have two kids at home I need to protect,” his wife said.
