Write down your serial numbers

You should really do this with any expensive equipment. We had a TV, stereo, and generator stolen a few years back. Having the serial numbers made it very easy to retrieve, and the arrest was made quickly.

Log and photograph not only SNs but unique visual characteristics like unusual figuring in woods, non-typical mods and upgrades, anything that makes it yours and yours alone. This is the odd case where a broken and repaired headstock without a $$$ refin can be a good thing -- headstocks never break identically due to variance in wood grain. Do this because savvy thieves can and will remove SNs, which could leave you completely hung out to dry without compelling photos.

For more proof, especially if you've got a more plain or run-of-the-mill instrument (stock and standard black strat, for example), put your contact information under the pickguard. I've also wood-burned personal signatures like birth dates and SSNs in neck pockets and control cavities for my clients.

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Log and photograph not only SNs but unique visual characteristics like unusual figuring in woods, non-typical mods and upgrades, anything that makes it yours and yours alone. This is the odd case where a broken and repaired headstock without a $$$ refin can be a good thing -- headstocks never break identically due to variance in wood grain. Do this because savvy thieves can and will remove SNs, which could leave you completely hung out to dry without compelling photos.

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I also photograph my drivers license next to the serial number on my guitars and firearms, figure it is just a little extra proof that it is my property.

Interesting, dumb crooks didn't understand how fencing works.

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What if I play on stolen equipment, still write it down?

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No, head to Guitar Center and sell it. Pay attention.