BUT - they would not issue the Permit if the registrant on the permit does not match their file right? So, if I WERE to pick up the Permit, then pick up the pistol and register it same day, I would assume it would not run into this issue and thusly cause it to be confiscated, correct? Because the permit to acquire was approved and the registered owner was verified during that process.... right?
Sorry, but in reviewing this thread I may have not made myself clear about those 2 situations--in both cases HPD probably knew at the time that the pistol wasn't properly registered to the person who sold it to me (they do check registrations on the computer when you apply). They issued the permit anyway and I brought the firearms to them, at which time they then confiscated the pistols. AFTER they had the pistols in hand, they then called the seller and I was not privy to what transpired afterwards. So again, if the firearm is NOT properly registered to the seller, I believe HPD will make you jump through the hoops, bring the firearm to them, then they'll confiscate it.
If it is a "pre-94" long gun that didn't have to be registered they will register it to you as "no previous registration" as long as it is not stolen (of course).
So, in your situation if the seller can't remember if he registered the handgun in the first place you do run a risk of having it confiscated if it wasn't properly registered. HPD will not tell you who is the registered owner of firearm.