Not so sure about it being a way to track who is buying or has guns because on the Federal form # 4473 (purchasing a firearm) your social security numer is optional. It may be a way of PA tracking Deadbeat Dads or convicted criminals who are not suppose to bear arms. Has anyone placed a call to Game Commission ih Harissburg and asked why a SS# is not needed to get a license?
It isn't a way to track firearms ownership. It is a 'deadbeat dad' harnessing tactic. Your SSN is no longer optional on 4473....just bought a new rifle on Friday and it is now mandatory. This has been discussed here and at a greater length on huntingpa.com. It isn't a PGC thing either as some would make you believe, it's a federal and state mandate.