I have.

Not all guns have the same restrictions. I was able to walk in a gun store in NY and walk out an hour later with a shotgun,after a background check. If you want a pistol, you'll be waiting a while. The guy at the gun store said he was seeing 4-6 months, but a couple weeks before that I was reference for someone getting their pistol permit and it took 10 months to complete for him. It feels like intentional feet dragging. They do a background check and call 3 of your friends. Shouldnt take that long.

In my current state, I was able to walk in, do a background check and walk out with a pistol. There are many more options of firearms and accessories available, as well.

Both of these experiences are in the last 3 years.