Serial numbering a replica?
 

Is there a recommended system for numbering a replica, or I suppose even a parts gun? I'm confident fakers go to great lengths to insure numbers coincide with manufacturer and other markings, especially with Lugers. The question, I think, is valid even for listing a 'shooter'...non-matching.. for identification purposes. Maybe the frame number is adequate. Right now as near the end of my Borchardt build, I'm wondering how to number it. Bill

How about legally?

You have checked out the BATF regulations on building a firearm?

Actually, these days you may even require a manufacturer's license.

Ok it's a gray area,,Over on the gunsmiths fourm it widely stated that you don't "need" to mark a "homebuilt" firearm if. and it's an IF, it's for your own personal use and NOT for sale..

However if being built for sale then yes you need a manufacturer's license and it has to be marked with a serial number to be registered...

Now according to the ATF....

All firearms
manufactured, imported, or made
on and after January 30, 2002,
the engraving, casting, or stamping
(impressing) of the serial
number must be to a minimum
depth of .003 inch and in a print
size no smaller than 1/16 inch.

And....it states that you need to fill out an application and pay the tax on all firearms..
( fourm found here )
http://www.atf.gov/forms/download/atf-f-5320-1.pdf

Now comes the "gray area". if your not building your Borchardt with the intent of selling it, would you be considered a manufacturer? and if not, would it need to be marked?

Probally the best thing to do would be to contact the ATF and ask...(800) 800-3855

Is your Borchadt build going to result in an actual firearm? or just look like a firearm? If it isn't an actual firearm, then you don't need to concern yourself with the BATFE...

IF it is just a full size model, but isn't designed to fire real bullets without harming the device or yourself, then it isn't a firearm.

To my understanding, guns are like alcohol, you can manufacture either (within limits for alcohol) for personal use without a license or federal involvement. If you are making it for sale, then BATFE rules must be followed. I do not believe there is a requirement to number a personal, functional weapon

+ 1 :thumbup:

I can't point you to a specific thread, but Da Boyz at ARFCOM Build It Yourself are all about building up AR-15's from 80% machined receivers. If you have some time to spend, you can find the answer (from a BATFE guideline) somewhere on that Forum -

http://www.ar15.com/forums/forum.html?b=3&f=4

IIRC, BATFE strongly recommends that you put some kind of number/identification on a home-built, so that if it is stolen/lost, ownership can be established.

I remember reading this, but could not remember where in the regs, so wanted to point the gentleman in the right direction...


Ed

Thanks, guys. Like most things 'legal', the answer is: It depends.