Officials focus on safety as the number of pistol permits granted is on the rise

Officials focus on safety as the number of pistol permits granted is on the rise — You want a pistol license? You’re not alone. Hundreds of people do. Dan Sullivan, Oneida County’s assistant pistol license officer, said 528 people were granted pistol licenses in 2009. This year, the number will be about the same. That’s up from an average of about 325 in previous years. Historically, prospective license holders wanted pistols for target shooting and hunting, but Sullivan said two of the most-cited reasons he gets now are home security, and also the economy.