Some states are exploring or attempting to build a state database of lost or stolen firearms that is searchable by the public, online. While there have been attempts at creating private searchable internet databases where individuals self-report their lost or stolen guns, these usually contain only a fraction of the number of actual stolen guns, and the information is not verifiable. Unfortunately for purchasers in private sales, only law enforcement agencies are allowed to request a gun serial number check or search of the lost and stolen gun database.
These reported firearms are entered into a gun database maintained by the FBI’s National Crime Information Center (“NCIC”). In fact, if a gun is lost or stolen from an FFL, the law requires the FFL to report the missing firearm to the Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms & Explosives (“ATF”). However, some police stations will run checks through the National Crime Information Center to see if the gun is listed as stolen.When a firearm is lost or stolen, the owner should immediately report it to the police. Tracing a gun's serial number through the ATF to see if it was involved in a crime is only permissible for law enforcement agencies involved in a bona fide criminal investigation where a gun is recovered or suspected to be involved. Get a notarized bill of sale for any gun you purchase so you'll have some protection if the gun is later identified as stolen property. People who lose their guns' serial numbers won't be able to report them on the sites. The sites' information comes from citizens reporting their stolen guns. Not getting a hit doesn't mean the gun isn't stolen, however. Check the serial number online through HotGunz, Stolen-Property or other stolen firearm sites.If the sale is illegal, chances are the gun is too. Not all states allow private individuals to sell firearms without going through a licensed firearms dealer.
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