Tagging Firearms

Tagging firearms poses many challenges such as where to mount the tag and what type of tag to use.  Find out first how much abuse the tag will be subjected to. For instance, will it be used frequently, going in and out of holsters, or mostly stored? 

The initial problem you will encounter is whether to select a metal or non-metal tag.  If you use a non-metal tag the metal on the firearm may interfere with the tag.  Many metal mount tags are not thin and may stick out which could cause it to be accidentally knocked off.   

Finding enough surface area to place a tag is another issue you may run across, as most firearms do not have a lot of flat surface area to place an RFID tag.  The space you find needs to be flat enough for the tag, so the barrel of the firearm may initially seem like a good location. However, the barrel of the firearm may generate too much heat and in turn, the tag may be harmed. 

Consider the grip of the firearm or other areas that are plastic or composite material for tag placement, as these materials might not interfere with RFID tags.  You will want to avoid placing a tag on the stock, as this is easy to swap out and may not stay with the firearm. 

Once a location has been identified, test tag options to ensure that you can achieve the desired read range.  Scan your firearm at various orientations.  The RFID tag you choose should be durable against cleaning solvents that you may use to clean your firearms.