From just a layman's point of view I have a hard time understanding why any sheriff would knowingly allow portions of that federal form to be left blank. Seems like the potential is all downside, no upside to being 'discreet' about sharing data.
Granted it would likely never become an issue. Unless of course the gun was stolen and subsequently used in a crime. Or for that matter if the lawful owner went bad and used it in a crime, then vamoosed.
I get the idea of not wanting Uncle Sugar to have every last piece of data on my doings or possessions, but really if you're filling out one of these forms, you are telling the government you have a really, really, "EVIL" gun. What more harm is there giving the serial number?
Granted it would likely never become an issue. Unless of course the gun was stolen and subsequently used in a crime. Or for that matter if the lawful owner went bad and used it in a crime, then vamoosed.
I get the idea of not wanting Uncle Sugar to have every last piece of data on my doings or possessions, but really if you're filling out one of these forms, you are telling the government you have a really, really, "EVIL" gun. What more harm is there giving the serial number?
"I have decided not to vote, speak in public, assemble in groups or petition my government either directly or by writing to the newspapers.
Some ignorant person may become alarmed, and we can't have that.''
--CAR15A2, 3/31/09