How to Look Up Gun Serial Numbers: A Guide for Gun Owners and Sellers
As a gun owner or seller, it is crucial to know how to look up gun serial numbers. A gun serial number is a unique identifier given to each firearm by its manufacturer, and it’s an essential piece of information when buying, selling, or owning a gun.
In this article, we’ll provide a step-by-step guide on how to look up gun serial numbers, including the various options and resources available to ensure accuracy and compliance with Federal regulations.
Why Should I Look Up Gun Serial Numbers?
Before delving into the process, it’s essential to understand the importance of looking up gun serial numbers. In the United States, each gun is required to be serialized by the manufacturer under the National Firearms Act (NFA) and 18 U.S.C § 923. This serves as a unique identifier to help track the gun and prevent illegal activities.
**According to the Bureau of Firearms (ATF), “In general, a firearm means a firearm as defined by state law, and only those firearms that are explicitly designed or redesigned and rewired for use as, or readily convertible to fiery as, a machinegun.” (18 U.S. Code, Section 921; ATF Ruling 06-2001)**)
Look Up Gun Serial Numbers Methods
There are several methods to look up gun serial numbers, including:
Contents
Method 1: Look Up Serial Number on Manufacturer Website
Many gun manufacturers publish serial number databases on their websites. You can follow these steps:
- Go to the manufacturer’s website
- Check the "Support," "FAQ," or " Serial Number Lookup" pages for the serial number database
- Type in the serial number you want to look up in the provided field
- Follow the prompts or search results to find more information about the gun
- Note Some manufacturers may require creation of an account or user login to access the information.
Method 2: Contact the Manufacturer by Phone or Email
Manufacturers often have dedicated service departments that can assist in locating a gun’s serial number using its phone number or an email inquiry. You will need to:
- Contact the manufacturer’s service department via phone or email
- Provide the serial number or the gun’s make/model/ caliber to confirm
- Wait for a response, which typically includes information about the serial number, including the age of the gun, finish, and any notable customizations
Method 3: Check with Dealer or FFL (Firearm Licensee)
Used guns or those sold over-the-counter may have sales receipts or documentation that helps in locating the serial number. You can:
- Contact the glocksmith or gun retailer where you purchased or found the gun
- Ask if the sales receipt or documentation from the previous owner is kept
- If such information is available, proceed with the lookup process at one of the above Methods (1 or 2)
Method 4: Contact the ATF National Tracing Center
Federal authorities, such as local police departments or the NTF (National Tracing Facility), can assist by cross-checking serial number with their database. There may be a warrant or legal authority to trace required, pending case details.
Types of Gun Serial Numbers
There are six (6) main styles of gun serial numbers
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Step-by-Step Process When Buying or Selling a Used Gun
When buying a used gun, it is essential to follow these critical steps:
1. Verify the serial number in real-time by logging on to the manufacturer’s website or contacting the Manufacturer (Method 1);
2.Check State or Local Laws prior to the purchase to
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You have successfully looked up **Your Gun Serial Number in Four Ways**! Following the correct procedures and options available, you have unlocked information about your gun: including the age, style, caliber, and maybe more.