Ask the seller for the firearm’s serial number
Check the serial number against local, state, or national stolen-gun databases if available
Have a licensed firearms dealer run a background and serial-number check
Verify the seller’s identification and ownership documents
Compare the serial number on the gun with any paperwork or receipts
Look for signs of tampering, defaced, altered, or removed serial numbers
Refuse any gun with an obliterated or missing serial number
Contact local law enforcement to verify whether the firearm is reported stolen
Buy only through legal, licensed channels that require records of transfer
Keep a bill of sale with the seller’s name, date, firearm details, and serial number