You guys might want to make arrangements via PM...his wandering up to random bald asians and asking "Hey can I fondle your Sig?" might not go over too well.
Im pretty sure most people would let fellow enthusiast fire their gun if they asked and provided their own ammo. This is just a way to make sure the gun you want to try is there when you are.
Hmmm not sure how I missed it...as a 'courtesy' I try to respond when quoted. It's a little late, but here goes...
While you are right that the shooting community is filled with friendly and helpful people. You'd be wrong to assume that "most" would let a total stranger handle, much less load and shoot their firearm. And that's not because of some "It's mine and I don't share" mentality, but simple common sense when it comes to safety and security. What does that mean? Well, if someone you don't know from Adam randomly asked to 'try', it would be irresponsible to just hand it over and say have at it. No long-time enthusiast would chance having their firearm be used in some random murder-suicide. Not suggesting that's what you'd do...just that there are just too many stupid/crazy people in the world. Something to consider when seeing the limited responses from only a handful of shooters. I highly recommend working out details via PM. Get a name, description, and/or phone number, then touch base before just meeting up.
Also, with regard to bringing your own ammo? When I do allow those
I know or trust handle and shoot my firearms, it's always my own ammo or that which I am familiar with. Again, this is a matter of safety.