Check If Firearm Is Stolen
Verify any gun's serial number against stolen firearms databases before purchasing. Protect yourself from legal consequences.
Check Firearm Serial NowWhy Verify Firearm Serial Numbers
Federal Crime: 18 U.S.C. § 922
Possessing a stolen firearm is a federal felony punishable by up to 10 years in prison—even if you didn't know it was stolen. Private party purchases don't require background checks in many states, making verification essential.
Legal Protection
A verification record proves you took reasonable steps to ensure the firearm wasn't stolen—critical if law enforcement later traces the gun.
Avoid Seizure
Stolen firearms are confiscated with no compensation. Lose a $1,500 handgun because you didn't spend 30 seconds checking.
Where to Find Firearm Serial Number
Federal law (18 U.S.C. § 923) requires all firearms manufactured after 1968 to have serial numbers engraved on the frame/receiver.
Common Locations by Firearm Type
- Handguns: Frame (usually near trigger guard), barrel, slide
- Rifles: Receiver (lower part where trigger mechanism is housed)
- Shotguns: Receiver, sometimes barrel
- AR-15 style: Lower receiver
Warning: If the serial number appears scratched off, filed down, or altered, the firearm may have been used in a crime. Do not purchase—possession of a firearm with obliterated serial is a federal crime.
Databases We Check
NCIC Stolen Firearms Database
FBI's national database of firearms reported stolen—the primary law enforcement resource
State Law Enforcement Records
State-level stolen property reports not yet uploaded to NCIC
Insurance Claims
Firearms with theft claims paid by insurers
Community Reports
User-submitted stolen firearm reports (verified before inclusion)
Verification Process
Get the Serial Number
Ask the seller for the serial before meeting. Photograph it when inspecting the firearm.
Run the Check
Enter the serial number in SafeOrStolen. Results in under 3 seconds.
Save Your Receipt
Keep the verification receipt as proof of due diligence. This is your legal protection.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I check any firearm type?
Yes—handguns, rifles, shotguns, and any firearm with a serial number can be verified.
Is this a background check?
No. We check if the firearm is stolen, not the buyer's eligibility. For eligibility checks, contact an FFL dealer.
What if the serial isn't in any database?
A "not found" result means it hasn't been reported stolen to databases we check. It's a good sign, but verify the seller's story and paperwork too.
Check Before You Buy
Verify firearm serial numbers in seconds. Protect yourself from federal charges.
Check Firearm Serial