Thread: FIREARMS REGISTER: A very interesting conundrum.

I recently purchased a Smith and Wesson revolver, ex- NZ Police (the handgun that preceded the Glock in their armoury). The advertisement displayed the "serial number" (let's say it is 78******). Got the Permit to Possess, using that number, and completed the deal. When the firearm arrived, that number above, was rather crudely engraved on the grip backstrap. Smith and Wesson traditionally place the S/n on the bottom of the grip frame. When I checked that location, there was a different number to the one above. The Police had drilled through the correct S/n in order to fit a lanyard ring. I suspect the 78****** number is a Police identification marking put there when that batch of revolvers was received. So, when I take the firearm in for the AO to verify the "serial number" it's going to be an interesting conversation...so which number do I put on the new register? Confusing..?

Further to this, I have, like a lot of you, been dealing with Arms Officers for many decades. They have nearly always been serving police officers, or retired officers, and most have had an active interest in firearms (collectors, shooters, hunters, etc) and were generally knowledgeable and pro-firearms. I noticed on the Police website recently, adverts for AOs positions, and some are being taken up by civilians with no police background or interest in firearms seemingly a requirement. One I know has come from overseas with a background in IT consultancy. Interesting times ahead...