How to Find a Gun's Serial Number

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By Robin Noelle
eHow Contributing Writer

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(2 Ratings)

Federal law requires that all guns made in, or imported into, the United States have a serial number imprinted on the frame. Manufacturers must keep records on the retailers they sell guns to, and retailers must keep records on their customers' purchases. This helps law enforcement in cases where a stolen gun is used in a crime, and it helps gun owners recover stolen weapons if thieves sell them to pawn shops or others.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Step 1

Remove the gun from its case or storage box. Most people store their guns in locked boxes to prevent children or other people from handling them.
Step 2

Check to see that the gun is unloaded. Before handling a gun, make sure it isn't loaded and that there isn't a bullet in the chamber. Flip the safety lever to the on position to prevent accidents.
Step 3

Find the serial number. Serial numbers are located in various places on guns, depending on the manufacturer and type of weapon. You may need to examine the gun thoroughly to find the number. A common location for revolver serial numbers is on the bottom of the gun butt. You might also find it on the inside of the frame. For semiautomatic handguns, you will likely find the serial number etched on the side of the frame. For some makes and models, you can find the serial number on the frame under the front of the gun or on the frame at the rear of the gun.

Tips & Warnings

Always keep a record of your gun serial numbers in a safe place away from the gun so you can alert the police if your gun is stolen. Consider using microstamping, a technology that puts the serial number of your gun on spent cartridges. This will help law enforcement if your gun is used in a crime.