Thread: Firearm Registry Data Questions and Answers

Originally Posted by Mintie

My question I posted elsewhere but didn't seem to get any interest on is around these "custom" serial numbers - If we are to make up our own serial numbers then what happens if 2 people choose the same number? Or if different manufacturers have unknowingly used the same serial number? I see 2 possible scenarios and they both have issues.

1 - If they force exclusive serial numbers then what happens if one manufacture has used the same serial number as another? Is one person going to have to modify their serial number to be able to comply, where does that then leave that person when it comes to a warranty claim where the manufacturer no longer accepts the rifles serial number because it has been tampered with?

2 - If they don't force exclusive serial numbers then what happens if one rifle is marked as "stolen or otherwise wanted by the police" but there are multiple rifles with that same serial number? I'm sure the system will end up with a way of tagging "wanted" serial numbers and gunsmiths or shops will be forced to confiscate anything they search that comes up as tagged which could lead to some pretty frustrated people that have done nothing wrong.

It is my belief that same serial numbers across two different firearms, with a different marque, model and calibre description will probably be ok. I have not had this confirmed but this is my suspicion...