I just saw where a person bought a S&W 9mm EZ and it has a chip imbedded behind the serial number. How long have they been doing this and for what reason?

Question

Randy I. · Answer

never heard of this and think its a Tin foil hat. my new shield does not have a chip anywhere on it. I would call S&W and ask them By Telephone:
(USA)  1-800-331-0852 
Mon-Fri 8:00AM-5:00PM Eastern Time

Shannon S. · Answer

I believe what you are referring to is the QR code and not a chip.  This is a series of dots and spaces in the shape of a square and it is easily read by an automated scanner (like on smart phones or automated manufacturing line).  A lot of manufacturers are doing it these days; I have seen it on a few.  The purpose of it is simply for easier inventory control.  A computer reads these faster than reading numbers, plus they can contain more information than just a serial number, such as a link to the company website.

Randy I. · Answer

please post the link to where you saw this

Michael W. · Answer

Gregory, Shannon hit it right on the head. The so called chip is just a QR code stamp. It is a form of marketing and information. No tracking capability on the QR code. Just info that can be scanned.

Clarissa C. · Answer

Where did you see it?

James G. · Answer

Gregory, it is a QR Scan code for easy inventory control. Smith and Wesson has been doing this for a while, from at least 2013  :  http://smith-wessonforum.com/smith-wesson-m-p-pistols/329972-qr-code-my-new-shield-9-a.html

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