Identifying a Stolen Gun (And What to Do if YOUR Gun is Stolen)

Buying or owning a firearm comes with significant responsibilities, one of which is ensuring that you have one that isn’t a stolen gun. On a similar note, you may be wondering, “What do I do if MY gun is stolen?” 

We’re here to answer those questions for you and address best practices when you come across a stolen gun or are the victim of gun theft yourself.

How Can I Tell if a Gun is Stolen?

While you can’t always tell at a glance if a gun is stolen, there are a few red flags that could indicate something is a little off:

1. Check the Serial Number: Every firearm has a unique serial number, typically found on the barrel, frame, or slide. This number can be used to verify the gun’s history, and a missing or absent serial number is one of the most obvious signs that a gun may have been involved in illegal activity. If you suspect something is amiss with a gun’s serial number, contact the police. They can run the number through their database to check if it has been reported as a stolen gun or used in a crime.
2. Request Documentation: Always request proof of purchase, such as a bill of sale, when buying a firearm. Ensure the documentation includes the serial number, date of purchase, and seller’s information. If the seller hesitates or cannot provide these, that should set off some major alarm bells.
3. Verify Through a Licensed Dealer: Purchasing through a Federal Firearms License (FFL) dealer helps you avoid possibly purchasing a stolen gun. Dealers are required to conduct background checks and keep detailed records, providing a safer, legal transaction.
4. Be Cautious: If a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is. If a firearm is priced way below market value, or the seller seems anxious or wants to rush the transaction, you may be dealing with a stolen gun.

If you’d like further tips on how to answer the question “How can I tell if a gun is stolen?”, check out our blog post on the topic, or watch this video from our National Director of Training, Austin Davis.

What Do I Do if MY Gun is Stolen?

Potentially buying a stolen gun is one thing, but what if you realize your own firearm has been stolen? It may be easy to simply panic, but there are a number of steps you can take to mitigate the issue if it happens to you.

1. Report the Theft to the Police: This should always be your immediate priority should you realize one of your guns is missing. Contact your local law enforcement and provide them with all relevant details about your gun, such as the make, model, caliber, and most importantly, serial number. This report will not only help with potentially recovering your firearm, but it can also protect you if your stolen gun is used in a crime.
2. Inform Your Insurance Company: If you have insurance for your firearm (which is always a good idea!), notify your provider as soon as possible. Depending on your policy, you might be covered for the loss. In fact, some homeowner’s or renter’s insurance policies actually cover stolen firearms.
3. Update Your Personal Records: Document the date of the theft and keep copies of the police report for your own records as well. This documentation can also help cover you if the stolen gun is used in a crime or recovered in the future.
4. Follow Up: Keep in contact with law enforcement for updates. While recovery of your gun isn’t necessarily guaranteed, staying informed can sometimes help.

What Are Some Preventative Measures I Can Take as a Gun Owner?

While we can’t predict everything that will happen, there are some steps you can take as a gun owner to reduce your chances of your firearms being stolen – or better handle the situation if the unthinkable happens.

1. Document Your Firearms: Keep a detailed record of your firearms, including photos, serial numbers, and purchase receipts. This information is invaluable if you need to report a theft. Need an outline of what information to put in your records? We recommend using this Personal Firearms Record Form template.
2. Store Your Guns Safely: This should always be a priority, no matter whether you’re trying to prevent theft or not. A gun safe or lock box is a small investment at the end of the day to maintain safety and peace of mind.

Firearms are valuable and can be targets for theft. Being proactive in verifying a gun’s history before purchasing and quickly reporting theft can prevent illegal use and help with recovery of a stolen gun. Ensuring the safety and legality of your firearms not only protects you but also contributes to community safety.

Stay aware, keep thorough records, and always report suspicious activities.

Want to gain access to even more helpful information and resources for firearm owners? Join the Coalition today with Concealed Coalition University and become a guardian always and a warrior when needed.