How to Verify a Gun's Legitimacy: A Comprehensive Guide

Introduction

The purchase of a firearm is a significant responsibility, and ensuring that the gun you acquire is legitimate is crucial. This article aims to guide you through the process of verifying whether a gun is stolen or not. We will explore the reasons for this verification, common scenarios, and steps to take to ensure you are not unwittingly purchasing a stolen firearm.

Why Verify a Gun's Legitimacy?

Verifying a gun's legitimacy is important for several reasons. Firstly, purchasing a stolen gun can result in legal complications and potentially severe consequences. Secondly, verifying the gun's legitimacy provides peace of mind regarding its history and ownership. This guide will help you navigate the steps to verify a gun's legitimacy, ensuring you act responsibly and protect yourself from unwanted legal issues.

Common Scenarios and Red Flags

There are several scenarios and red flags to be aware of when considering the purchase of a gun. These include:

Sketchy Sales

Purchasing a gun from a sketchy individual, such as someone selling from a street corner, can be risky. In such cases, the gun is more likely to be stolen or illegal. Always exercise caution in these situations and avoid such transactions. For example, if a seller is named 'Fingers McGee' and is offering a gun for 'certain favours,' it is best to avoid the transaction.

Original Branded Case

Purchasing a gun from a reputable gun shop, where the gun is handed over in its original branded case, decreases the chances of the gun being stolen. This is the safest way to purchase a firearm. However, it is still crucial to verify the gun's legitimacy to ensure it is not stolen.

Verification Steps

While you, as a private citizen, don't have direct access to an official database, there are steps you can take to verify the legitimacy of a gun:

Contact Law Enforcement

You can provide the serial number of the gun to law enforcement. They can run the number through their database. If a gun is stolen, the best-case scenario is that the police will take it. However, the worst-case scenario is that you could be charged with possession of a stolen firearm and additional charges.

Take It to an FFL Dealer

If you do not have access to law enforcement, you can take the serial number to a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer. While they may run the numbers, if the serial numbers were not recorded before, there may be no way to know if the gun was stolen. Even with modern background checks, it may take weeks to determine if a gun was stolen.

Preventing the Purchase of Stolen Guns

To prevent the purchase of a stolen gun, follow these guidelines:

Avoid Sketchy Sellers

Do not buy a gun from a sketchy individual or from a street corner. Always verify the seller's credibility and the legitimacy of the gun. If you are unsure, it is better to avoid the purchase.

Purchase from a Reputable Dealer

Purchase a gun from an FFL dealer. These dealers check the firearm's legitimacy before selling it. If they don't, they risk losing their license and their job. Additionally, it is crucial to confirm that the legal owner has reported the theft or loss of the firearm.

Conclusion

Verifying a gun's legitimacy is a critical step in ensuring the safety and legality of firearm ownership. By following the guidelines outlined in this guide, you can confidently prevent the purchase of a stolen gun and maintain legal compliance. Remember, vigilance and caution are your best defences.