In NC we can carry revolver or auto, and there is no qualifying other than shooting about thirty or forty rounds during your CC course. Some people borrowed guns from friends or family to use during the class.
To purchase a gun if you don't have a CC permit, you go to the Sheriff in your County, give them your drivers license they run a check and within ten minutes or so you can purchase four permits ($5 ea.) to purchase pistols. I have never checked to see how often you can do this, but have heard it's up to your local Sheriff.
I do enjoy NC much more than I did NY when it comes to gun ownership.

John