A gun serial number lookup is a process of tracking and retrieving information associated with a specific firearm. Each gun is assigned a unique serial number that serves as its identifier. For instance, if an individual purchases a handgun, the serial number is recorded on their firearm license and in a national database.
Gun serial number lookups hold significant importance in law enforcement, as they enable authorities to trace the ownership history of a weapon, identify stolen firearms, and track down individuals involved in criminal activities. Historically, the Gun Control Act of 1968 mandated the inclusion of serial numbers on all firearms, revolutionizing gun regulation and providing a valuable tool for law enforcement.