Import Marks

[Bill_in_VA]

Originally Posted by Pistol

[...] Unfortunately, I did not realize a manufacturer import mark would regulate it to a "shooter" category.

I don't think anyone is talking about manufacturer's markings (i.e., those markings applied by the manufacturer at the time of production.) The "Made in Belgium/Assembled in Portugal/Browning Arms Co./Provo, Utah" markings on my Mark III High Power aren't importers' markings; they're manufacturer's markings.
The ones I and many others refer to as "importer markings/stamps" are those appiled by the importer under BATF direction, e.g., "CAI. ST.ALB.VT/ GERMANY 9MM", or "SDI Swan, VT/Argentina 7.5mm." Those weren't applied by the original manufacturer.
Speaking strictly for me, yes, those kinds of import stamps DO put it directly into the "shooter" category. My f-block byf 42 is all-matching (minus the magazine) but because it's got a big old hairy Century Arms import stamp on the underside of the barrel it's a shooter, not one of my collectibles.
YMMV