Is it a real .357 Smith & Wesson revolver or a really good replica?

That was the question Aylmer police were asking after finding what appeared to be a handgun during a traffic stop involving a 17-year-old on Monday night.

Police said the gun turned out to be an imitation, but because of the attention to detail in its design it was nearly indistinguishable from a real .357 Smith & Wesson revolver.

Officers used the incident as an opportunity to educate the teen on ways to keep the fake gun out of sight and locked in a case to prevent future misunderstandings, accidents or theft.

“The message is simple: Police cannot tell if your gun is real or fake. Avoid a confrontation. Do not show an imitation gun in public or leave in a vehicle,” police said in a public safety message issued on Tuesday.

Replica guns can include Airsoft, BB, pellet, prop, paintball and toy guns.