When entering a stolen gun into NCIC/IDACS and multiple numbers are present, what should be entered in the serial number field?

When entering a stolen gun into the National Crime Information Center (NCIC) and Indiana Data and Communications System (IDACS), the serial number field should contain the serial number on the frame or receiver of the firearm. This is because the frame or receiver is considered the legal part of the gun and is the one number that is consistently traceable and recognized by law enforcement and regulatory bodies.

The serial number is crucial for tracking the ownership and legal status of firearms, and it provides an essential means for identification, especially in investigations related to theft or crime. Using the serial number on the frame or receiver ensures consistency and compliance with federal guidelines, as this is the number that is officially registered with the manufacturer.

Other identifiers, such as the manufacturer's number, barrel number, or registration number, do not have the same legal bearing and could lead to confusion or inaccuracies in law enforcement databases. Therefore, entering the serial number on the frame or receiver is the correct approach in this scenario.