Re: Who can ask for papers?
<div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: Graham</div><div class="ubbcode-body"><div class="ubbcode-block"><div class="ubbcode-header">Originally Posted By: pwc001</div><div class="ubbcode-body">Exactly, as long as we are "good little sheep" we won't get in trouble, and we don't have to worry. Just obey, obey, obey... </div></div>Obeying the law is what keeps you out of trouble. Being good is optional, and a moral question. Obey, obey, obey is the method by which we get NFA items in the first place, so it makes little sense to complain about having to do it when you have already done it and are enjoying the benefits. As for being 'sheep', that has nothing to do with giving an officer what he needs to leave you alone when he is obligated to inquire about you but would rather be somewhere else. </div></div>
This all goes back to the original question of who "is obligated to inquire." Unfortunately in Texas (of all places) there seems to be a some question as to what rules apply. I still interpret the National Firearms Act to cover ony BATF as the agency with jurisdiction.
If I was enjoying a day at the range with my suppressor and was hassled by whomever, I would at least impact their day as well by making them do some work before I showed them anything. If a LEO wants to act in his/her professional capacity, then I will at least be treated like I should under the law. If that means a call to a superior officer or even ATF so be it.
Ultimately, I would just show them my stamp before ending up in cuffs if it came to that.
As a side note, there is an interesting story that has made the papers in Norfolk, VA. Open carry in VA is legal. One individual won a lawsuit against the police department for his arrest and demand for social security info. I think this clearly applies to NFA concerns (at least in my locality). <span style="font-style: italic"><span style="font-weight: bold">Virginia prohibits local municipalities from regulating firearms </span></span>(gotta love VA). Here is a link to the story:
http://hamptonroads.com/2008/12/norfolk-pay-15000-harborfest-gun-arrest-case
So far, all the interest in my suppressor has been nothing but positive.