Electron Backscatter Diffraction (EBSD) reads serial numbers in crystal lattice.

[CathyInBlue]

NIST Tech Beat for February 18, 2015

Before anyone asks, I was not searching for information on how to completely obliterate a firearm's serial number, I was perusing /. and this story came up. It had a firearms angle, so I thought INGO might find it interesting.

I found the comment at the end about manufacturers adding copies of the serial number in different spots that are then polished off for only law enforcement to know about interesting. Like is it even possible for such a thing to not get out to be known by "interested" members of the general public. Hiding VINs on a car is one thing. Hiding serial numbers on a handgun is another. Still, I predict that eventually, criminals looking to burn the serial number off a handgun will just dremel out the metal where the serial number is stamped and weld new metal in its place. The heat of welding will randomize any residual crystal lattice to the point that even EBSD couldn't recover it.

For that matter, if a receiver was heat treated (or anodized, or blued, or parkerized, or…) after purchase wouldn't that reach down into the crystalline lattice and screw with the information that EBSD relies on?

 

[USMC-Johnson]

There are other ways than the simple serial number on the plate for a gun to be traced. It is more in depth but manufacturers have their ways.

 

[Mgderf]

I'd bet this might mess with their test results as well, but I doubt many criminals would go to the trouble or expense,

Cryogenic Tempering Services, Cryo Treatment Services by 300 Below, Inc.

 

[ChalupaCabras]

HA! The guy in SB this weekend couldn't be bothered to cover his tracks in the snow. Who still tries to remove serials?

 

[NavyVet]

Eventually they will embed a 'chip' in the firearm... Much like they do with cats and dogs now. All it will take is a quick scan to retrieve the serial number.

Time to build a faraday shield for the car...