FTF private sale

[Next]

A guy has a 1911 for sale, he knows I'm into guns and cam to me asking if I wanted to buy one at work.

He is a good guy but the area I work in and he lives in is shaaaaaady.

Is there a way I can check to see if the gun is stolen or hot?

[Zoff12]

If you feel that hinkey about it, run the deal through a local FFL. Some police departments may be willing to run the numbers for you to make sure it's not stolen.

[alismith]

If you have a friend who's a cop, ask him to run the serial number. I'm not sure if a private citizen can do that.

If an FTF purchase isn't illegal in your jurisdiction, then take the number to the Sheriff's office and ask them to run it for you. It might cost a nominal processing fee, but it might be free, too. I've never done it so I don't know for sure.

[Blacksmith]

Ask him where he got it from.
If you think the guy could be a thief, I would avoid it. other than that, I would just go the cash and carry option. (If that’s legal where you are at)

[Randomluck]

I'd cover my ass and get a bill of sale from the seller with the serial number and his DL# just to be sure. Signed by you both. Say it's to cover you both just in case...... You can couch it in terms he'll understand.

[Next]

Thanks for the advice guys.