I have twice stopped FFLs from using the assy number on the yoke cutout for the serial number on pre model guns. I thought about letting them go ahead, but, if I ever had to prove where I got the gun I wanted it right.
Sad story - M&P Model of 1905
- Thread starter jmace57
- Start date
spad124
Member
I recall reading a thread on either this forum or maybe The Highroad forum in which someone had a similar situation and petitioned the BATFE to have the number re stamped. It's been maybe two years since I've read the thread but my recollection is that a FFL has to contact the BATFE about it, the BATFE will ask the FFL to use a chemical, I don't recall what chemical, over the area that will bring up the denser material left by the original striking if the area hasn't been ground down too far. Then, if the number can be read the BATFE will direct the FFL to re strike the SN.
I think the discussion came up because of "lost" ex USGI 1911s collectors occasionally run into that were brought back in duffle bags after WWI or WWII with US Government markings and the owners tried to grind off the property marks. That was before guns were required to have a SN and some thought it the gun had no SN no one could prove it was stolen from the U.S.
Apparently back in the 20s and 50s some people also had a concern that a surplused 1911 with U.S. Property stampings might be stolen and ground those off also.
You might try searching under "restamping a serial number" or "1911 without serial number "
Absalom
SWCA Member, Absent Comrade
The re-stamping discussion here is based, first, on the assumption that the removal of the serial number does not indicate a nefarious context, and second, that the gun is clean if it does not show up when run through the stolen gun databases.
Especially in view of the removal of the cylinder serial, the only other one besides the butt easily visible to someone handling the gun in a normal fashion (you have to know where to look for the others), I would say both those assumptions are a real stretch.
Especially in view of the removal of the cylinder serial, the only other one besides the butt easily visible to someone handling the gun in a normal fashion (you have to know where to look for the others), I would say both those assumptions are a real stretch.
flagman1776
Member
I had an 01 FFL as a gunsmith back in the 1980s. There was a lot of customization going on. It was possible to apply to the AFT to move the SN in advance... in which case it was required to stamp the new one before removing the old one. I don't know if this can still be permitted.
My hobby is now repro blackpowder artillery. I have been advised that typical ATFE field agents are not a reliable sources of information. Firearms Technology Branch does not answer the phone. For questionable builds, one must submitt a letter with drawings or sketches & explain what you want to do & they'll research the applicable statute & eventually write a letter back and say yes or no & the reason.
My hobby is now repro blackpowder artillery. I have been advised that typical ATFE field agents are not a reliable sources of information. Firearms Technology Branch does not answer the phone. For questionable builds, one must submitt a letter with drawings or sketches & explain what you want to do & they'll research the applicable statute & eventually write a letter back and say yes or no & the reason.
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