Pawning Firearms: Legal Requirements & Police Notification

Question
could you pawn a gun to see if it is stolen

Answer
Clay,

When you pawn a gun, they are generally required by state law to supply the serial number and make of the gun to local law enforcement.  The idea is that the police will check to see if it is stolen or not.  Most pawn shops are required to hold the firearm for a certain period, usually 2-3 weeks to give the police time to check the gun.  They don't get 'clearance' from the police, but if the holding time requirement expires, they can sell it.  That could mean that a.  it is not stolen or b. that the police simply haven't had the time to check the serial number.

If all you want to do is check to see if the gun has been reported stolen, call you local police (the NON emergency number) and tell them you have acquired a gun and want know if it is stolen.  The model and serial number should be sufficient to let them check it.

If you pawn it, it will probably cost you some money and won't assure you that it hasn't been stolen...

Hope this helps...

Best wishes for a Happy New Year.

Regards,

Doug