1. Yes, they will send you many letters begging for money. Solution: If you don't have money to spend at the time, walk to the circular file; deposit said offending letter. I think it absurd to let this be a reason not to join (unless you're a tree-hugger and can't stand the thought of trees dying to dunn you for support -not knocking tree-huggers, just stating facts). Pay what you feel is right - no more or less.
2. Budget: I don't know, but I too would like to see the breakdown, though I do know three things here (a) the folks at NRA are EXPERTS at preserving gun rights. They have been doing this for years and years and I personally more or less trust them to know the best use of my money (with a few minor reservations); if I didn't I'd start my own group; (b) make no mistake: NRA, though having many and varied activities, is of singular purpose: to preserve Americans' gun rights - they are sincere and focused on the right questions - results (i.e. fewer restrictions not more on gun rights/ownership); (c) their leadership/authority follows strict procedurers for the decision-making process,with the board of directors' elections, etc., which (in theory at least) ensures a fair process with the decisions representative of the majority/prevailing views - most important of course in the budget, much like a legislature.
As for you giving out your address, I have no clue.
[This message has been edited by Futo Inu (edited August 06, 1999).]