Every day should be open carry day in the United States.
I have to agree. Some 'free' nation when you aren't allowed the means to protect yourself until you jump threw all kinds of hoops and pay the right fees.
I'm okay with background checks for potential buyers however I believe that the service should be provided to every tax paying citezen at no additional cost. I also feel there should be no permanent records kept by any government organization, State or Federal, of such background checks or of any subsequent purchases once a license to purchase is issued.
The Wild West is a fallacy dreamed up by Hollywood. There was a lot less violent crime back then when everyone new anyone could be and most likely was packing protection.