[WLT17]

Is there any particular store I could hit that still don’t check inside?

Best Buy does not check sealed box returns.

In terms of the UK, I believe Currys operates In a similar fashion.

I have a friend who has a MacBook that genuinely has borderline “exploded” which is documented on video so would it be a good idea to serial method?

It's certainly well-suited for the fact that genuine photographic/video evidence can be provided on request, however most companies will expect the Item be returned - which you'll obviously need to circumvent.

Currys do check but hit and miss, would avoid.