The charging handle on my AR-15 was inoperable and wedged. I was unable to pull the slide to expose the ejection port, without the charging handle gouging the receiver and firmly jamming.
I called ahead of time to inform the staff of the condition of the gun and express that I needed assistance. I made sure to disclose the ejection port was not exposed. I was told to bring the firearm in as is and it would be no problem. I didn't bring any ammunition, magazines, or additional firearms.
***I fully understand the safety aspect of having the slide pulled back and ejection port exposed. I was physically unable to accommodate due to the existing issue with the firearm.
Upon arrival, I greeted the staff cordially as I made my way to the counter. After reiterating what I had explained on the phone, the first staff member again jammed the charging handle, further gouging the receiver. I mentioned how long it took me to get it free and to please not further damage the receiver if doable. The second staff member, having more experience than the first, decided to step in and politely help.
Immediately the first staff member tells the second that I'm "mad" and to "watch his back" while assisting me. Creating an uncomfortable atmosphere for everyone in the store. After realizing how inappropriate the comment he made was, he then wanted to be "Johnny on the spot" to help me find a new charging handle.
After the first staff member walked outside, I assured the second that I was not a danger and that I appreciated his professionalism/assistance. He quickly acknowledged his colleague was overreacting. Then the "I run this store" guy with his grandpa's suspenders on, snidely asked if I would like to file a complaint at his gag gift grenade. He then tried to half-way justify the discriminatory comments made by the first staff member based off of their shared paranoia for public gun owners and "the world we live in".
As GM of a multi-million dollar organization, I am well versed in customer service, business ethics, and proudly serving our hard-working Americans. I would be absolutely appalled if any of my staff exhibited this deplorable level of behavior.
An over-inflated sense of paranoia for the general public is the last emotion anyone in this line of work should openly express. Especially someone in a managerial position. Nothing about my experience was good-for-the-woods.
This location deserves better leadership altogether. We are in Cortez, CO. Not the Kandahar Province.
To the thin, older, shorter gentleman with glasses that properly assisted me: I humbly applaud you for your performance and expertise. Wish I had gotten your name before I exited. read more