I would tread lightly with the whole "restrictions aren't law" responses. While it is true that you can't get charged with unlawful possession, you could be charged with the catch-all provision in section 15 of the penal law (400) which says any violation of your license is a misdemeanor. Even if the only thing that happens is you get your permit yanked, you will have ALL guns seized. Depending on your collection this could be the equivalent to a $1,000, $10,000, $25,000 fine etc. Plus as an added bonus you forfeit your 2A rights! Cool huh? But at least you didn't get charged because restrictions aren't law! You showed that judge whose boss! You can now see how that is terrible advice. Ignore it.
On to your actual question now. The licensing law is state law. State law says you may be issued a carry concealed permit when proper cause is shown. Some counties only require a brief explanation while others will make it a bit more difficult, meaning you need to put more work into formulating it. But the law is clear - if you can in fact establish it, you can get the concealed carry license (the real one). That's the law. Not trying is only hurting yourself. That's what they want. To discourage you from even trying. Get busy. Research what worked for others in your county. Get creative. Pay a lawyer to write up a proper cause statement on letterhead. It'll show the judge that you're serious and that if he denies you that a legal fight is likely coming his way. (Let him think it even if it's not true). Good luck and get going.