Seems to be a comfort level for people that are new to ftf transactions. I have no problems showing ID, but dont want to sign for stuff because someone (seller) is a little paranoid about me going off the deep end and using their old firearm to do it with. And I guess for guys that aren't new to it or paranoid about it, its just limiting their audience for it and they are ok with that. To each their own, but I'll buy mine from that guy that cares that I am of age, not a felon, and resident. Anything else and I'll just go to the gun store for all that hassle and buy it new.