Firearm Microstamping

Updated November 1, 2011

Firearm Microstamping Policy Summary

Firearm microstamping utilizes lasers to make precise, microscopic engravings on the internal mechanisms of a semiautomatic pistol, such as the breech face and firing pin.  Each time the gun is fired, a unique code identifying the gun’s make, model and serial number is stamped on to the cartridge  as alpha-numeric and geometric codes.

Firearm microstamping is an important law enforcement tool to investigate gun crimes because cartridges are much more likely to be recovered at the scene of a shooting than the gun itself. For detailed information, read LCAV's Firearm Microstamping Policy Summary (PDF).

Microstamping Resources

Coalition to Stop Gun Violence, Microstamping Summary

Coalition to Stop Gun Violence Report:  Microstamping Technology – Precise and Proven

Digital Communities, Microstamping Can Help Police Match Guns to Shell Casings, Study Finds (May 4, 2008)

Citizens Crime Commission of New York City Report: Illegal Gun Crime – Microstamping