S&W 1917 Modified Grip Frame

[steelslaver]

How about this 1917 grip frame. I kept the original serial number attached to the frame the entire time while I modified it. First cut one side loose, did what I wanted heated and formed and welded that side back up then cut the other side loose and made my mods them welded it back up. I can not remember what possessed me to use stainless filler at the time. LOL

 

[steelslaver]

I obtained a gunsmithing FFL in 1977. In the first several books of regulations that I received from BATF, it was stated that a gunsmith could remove a firearms serial number provided it was stamped somewhere else on the frame first. Later editions removed that stipulation.

I have always heard that. How would anyone actually prove just when the number was re stamped. Obviously a gun made after they decided to drop that regulation would be a problem. If the serial number is located in another spot it would be hard to prosecute the owner of gun such as that 1917.

And No, I do not want to be the test case.