Dissapointment in Beretta USA towards Retired US Armed Forces Personnel vs Retired LE

[Descreet38]

In looking at the Beretta 2010 America's Defenders Pistol Purchase Program I happen to notice the distinction between Retired US Armed Forces personnel and retired LEO's.

I sent the below to Beretta USA knowing they will blow me off but felt this is appalling. Not a question of fairness, but to me it is more a distinction or recoqnition of one class of retirees over another. Here is a link for the program.

http://www.berettausa.com/UserFiles/...se_program.pdf (http://www.berettausa.com/UserFiles/file/americas_defenders_pistol_purchase_program.pdf)





I am writing you concerning the qualifications for the above stated program. I am extremely disappointed in Beretta USA to see that a retired law enforcement officer qualifies for this program but a retired US Armed Forces individual does not is appalling.

There are LEO's who spend their entire career never having to use a firearm in the line of duty much less ever being shot at or otherwise have their life placed in danger.

In the Past 20 years our US Forces personnel have almost been guaranteed to be placed into a combat zone numerous times within their career.

I find this separation within the program qualifications to be inappropriate.

Please look into this matter at the highest levels of Beretta USA and fix this immediately. Please respond to me at *********@msn.com as well as your FAQ site.

Respectfully,

***** *****
CSM, Retired
US Army

[Bman505]

It would be interesting to see their response. Keep us updated.

[Descreet38]

Will do BMan

[Colt 45]

My goodness, I can't believe it! What a slam to our veterans!

Max

[Descreet38]

As of 15 minutes ago - still no reply. As far as BUSA (non-) customer service goes I am not really surprised.

When I bought my last Cougar the ad was for "buy this and get 2 free hi-cap mags". When I requested them BUSA told me the ad was wrong as to the ending date.

not even a sorry but glad you're a loyal customer or a kiss my ---.

Well they do have the loyal customer part correct but only because of the quality and reliability of their guns.

I love my Cat's and my 92's. Heck I even have a Beretta 451 EL SxS 12 Guage.

They aren't the oldest firearms company in the world for nothing. I will admit that I try to always buy the "made in Italy" product rather than made in USA. Not a big difference except for collectablity.

[Bman505]

Still, customer service goes a long way. They advertised it, they should honor it.

[Coyote_Slayer]

S&W has a program for Retiree's and Active Duty Personnel. http://mikecarron.com/images/S&W_page_1.jpg
http://mikecarron.com/images/S&W_page_2.jpg

[Descreet38]

Sorry to burst everyones bubble but this was the discount in 2009 which ended on 12/31. Another point is that the 40% was off S&W MSRP and the rifles were taking about 120 days to receipt.

I found that with careful searching on the internet you could get the same or less price with a 3-5 day shipping to your FFL.

For 2010 right now you can get (on a rifle) 5 free mags or a $100. rebate which is off of the negotiated dealer price so you could possibly come out ahead in either direction.

They may bring the discount back later in the year but I wouldn't hold my breath.

here is the url and part of the offer

http://www.smith-wesson.com/webapp/wcs/stores/servlet/Category4_750001_750051_757803_-1_757797_757797_image


http://www.smith-wesson.com/wcsstore/SmWesson2/upload/images/promos/nationsfinest_rev4.jpg (http://www.smith-wesson.com/wcsstore/SmWesson2/upload/other/promos/NationsFinest_Coupon.pdf)