How to Check If a Gun Is Stolen
Complete guide to firearm serial number verification. Protect yourself from federal crimes by verifying any firearm before purchase.
Important Legal Warning
Possessing a stolen firearm is a federal crime under 18 U.S.C. § 922(j), punishable by up to 10 years in prison. This applies even if you didn't know the firearm was stolen.
Always verify firearms before purchase to protect yourself legally.
Why Firearm Verification Is Critical
300,000+ Firearms Stolen Annually
According to the DOJ, over 300,000 firearms are stolen each year in the US. Many end up resold through private sales and gun shows.
Federal Crime - Up to 10 Years
Possessing a stolen firearm, even unknowingly, violates federal law. Convictions result in prison time, loss of gun rights, and felony record.
No Compensation
When police recover a stolen firearm, you lose both the gun and your money. There's no legal recourse to recover your purchase price.
How to Verify a Firearm Serial Number
1. Locate the Serial Number
- • Handguns: Usually on the frame, near trigger guard
- • Rifles: Typically on the receiver
- • Shotguns: On the receiver or barrel
- • Check multiple locations if unclear
2. Verify with SafeOrStolen
- • Enter the full serial number
- • Include make and model if possible
- • Check before agreeing to purchase
- • Save verification results for your records
Ready to verify a firearm serial number?
Verify Firearm Now - FreeRed Flags When Buying Firearms
Firearm Verification FAQs
How do I check if a gun is stolen by serial number?
Use SafeOrStolen's firearm verification tool to check the serial number against stolen property databases. This helps identify firearms reported stolen to law enforcement.
Is it illegal to buy a stolen firearm?
Yes. Knowingly or unknowingly possessing a stolen firearm is a federal crime punishable by up to 10 years in prison. You'll also lose the firearm and any money paid.
What should I do if I discover I bought a stolen gun?
Contact local law enforcement immediately. Do not attempt to sell or dispose of the firearm. Cooperating with police is the best way to protect yourself legally.
Can I check a gun serial number before a private sale?
Yes. Before any private firearm purchase, ask for the serial number and verify it with SafeOrStolen. If the seller refuses to provide the serial number, walk away.
Do gun shows sell stolen firearms?
While most gun show vendors are legitimate, stolen firearms do occasionally appear at gun shows. Always verify serial numbers regardless of where you're buying.
Protect Yourself - Verify Before You Buy
A 3-second verification could save you from 10 years in federal prison.