What should a gun license holder do if their firearm is lost or stolen?

A gun license holder must report a lost or stolen firearm to law enforcement immediately to ensure the proper legal procedures are followed and to help prevent the firearm from being used in a crime. Prompt reporting allows law enforcement to take necessary actions, such as entering the firearm’s details into national databases, which can aid in its recovery and help prevent it from falling into the wrong hands. This step is crucial not only for the accountability of the gun owner but also for public safety, as stolen firearms can contribute to criminal activities.

Other options suggest actions that do not align with best practices and legal requirements. For instance, replacing a firearm without proper reporting could also lead to legal implications, and delaying the report could hinder recovery efforts and increase risks associated with the misuse of the firearm. Therefore, the only responsible and legally appropriate action is to notify authorities right away.