Proof of Ownership Concerns

[PhillyGunner]

Wanted to make an E-file of my valuable receipts for the safety deposit box, and have been scanning the firearms stuff.

Was shocked to realize that several of my handgun purchases didn't come with a copy of the DROS. Never even thought of it until all this recent stuff.

If I have dated receipts with Serial #, is that sufficient? Should I be concerned?

Can I get a DROS copy (many years) after the fact from the dealer, or do I need to file an ownership request with Cal DOJ?

Lots of questions. Thanks in advance.

[paul0660]

What recent stuff?

You probably have as much as .gov does.

[PhillyGunner]

Recent stuff meaning all the attention that is being paid to firearms of late. Made me want to make sure all my paperwork was in order... you know, on handguns since they have been registered for me, so far as I know.

If I have a receipt that shows store, date, serial # and either a charge for DROS or some indication that one was performed, is that sufficient proof of ownership or do I need an actual copy of the DROS paperwork?

There was a thread on this years ago (think that's where I got the Cal DOJ 'Proof of Ownership' pdf from) but can't even remember where I had seen it.

[NewbieDave]

I wouldn't be concern unless you have the info for insurance purpose. You can go back to the store and see if they'll reprint it for you... some stores do that.

You can also request ownership info from DOJ. Google "AUTOMATED FIREARMS SYSTEM (AFS) REQUEST FOR FIREARM RECORDS"... its a form you fill out and turn in. It'll get you an updated list of handguns under your name on DOJ records. Long guns has no records.

As a side note... any court/LEO/DA/fed/gov/etc can run a check on your handgun for info, it's as easy as typing in your serial number. They shouldn't have to ask for any receipt... it's up to them to proof otherwise. Most would usually run the number to make sure it's not stolen and leave it as that, they won't do the leg work for no reason. As for non-LEO purpose... you shouldn't have to proof ownership.


dpc

[PhillyGunner]

Thanks, I'll take a look at the AFS page, if the store won't reprint it.

[Nor*Cal]

Handgun purchases do not come with a copy of the DROS unless you ask for a copy. Plus, they are really not of any value. Your perfectly fine with receipts for insurance purposes.

[Sakiri]

Handgun purchases do not come with a copy of the DROS unless you ask for a copy. Plus, they are really not of any value. Your perfectly fine with receipts for insurance purposes.

Funny, my LGS stapled a copy of the DROS to my receipt, folded it into thirds, inserted it into the gun box before closing it, putting it in a green plastic bag, and surrounding it with packing tape.

[Malthusian]

Funny, my LGS stapled a copy of the DROS to my receipt, folded it into thirds, inserted it into the gun box before closing it, putting it in a green plastic bag, and surrounding it with packing tape.

My LGS removed all of the oxygen from the bag first filling it with nitrogen, but I think the bag was also UV resistant.........

[Maddawg46]

I would not send the DOJ a thing! I would not worry about it. Shoot them and be happy. You may be just stirring up a mess for yourself?

[dwtt]

I don't even understand how this is even an issue. I don't have to prove to anyone I bought my guns and am the legal owner. To answer the OP's question, you have no need to be concerned. You should be more worried about how much your ammo is costing you, or how to clean the barrel after shooting lead bullets, or which powder will give the best accuracy while still meeting minimum power factor, or how to save up for a Dan Wesson 1911.

[Quiet]

Automated Firearms System (AFS) Request of Firearm Record needs to be notarized and you need to include a copy of your CA DL/ID.

[gsparesa]

OP, my dated receipts with Serial # also contains the DROS#. Check your receipts. The DROS # should suffice your handgun records.

[Zedrek]

You can file the paperwork with the DOJ but I would think that it's a waste of your time and money. I've heard from several people on here that it isn't always accurate. I have ten handguns and only have copies of the DROS for two of them. You don't need it. You receipt should be fine for whatever purpose you need. I took pictures of all of the serial numbers of my guns for my records also.

[Mani226]

If you order a handgun that's not in stock, the receipt won't have the serial #. If you buy/own a lot of handguns, sending in a AFS is a good idea.

The AFS is 'information on all firearms for which you are listed as the purchaser, transferee, or owner in the State of California.' If the list comes back with firearms (not long guns) listed in your name that you never bought or no longer own, you need to clear it up with the DOJ.

If the list doesn't include firearms that you own, you can register it with the State. Maybe others can chime in on what happens when a firearm's serial # is checked and it comes back as unregistered.