Online Gun databases for Stolen Guns ????

Does anyone have any experience with websites for checking to see if guns are stolen? They seem like a good idea to use if you are purchasing a firearm from an individual. Doing a search I came across "HOTGUNZ.COM" which seems like a good idea but I don't want to get scammed because of my lack of computer knowledge. For the life of me I can't understand why my local law enforcement departments won't let someone call in to see if the gun they are about to purchase is stolen.

several years ago i had an agreement with the local cops to let me bring any firearm into their office that I had bought used.. they would run the numbers for me to see if hot. but I had to bring it in person. wouldnt do it over the phone. talk to your local cops maybe they will do the same for you.

Here is a link for Florida
http://pas.fdle.state.fl.us/pas/item/displayGunSearch.a