[konaseven]

I have a C&R handgun that needs refinishing. The import markings are very light. I am afraid removing what's left of the original finish and then prepping it for refinishing will obliterate them.
What are the consequences if I ever want to trade or sell this gun in the future?

Thanks

[bill larry]

What kind of gun? Also, what kind of finish are you thinking about...duracoat? Re-blue? We need more info to really help you.

Chances are, if it's a run of the mill surplus gun, like a CZ-52, you really won't hurt any value by duracoating it, and you'll probably end up keeping it so it'll be a moot point anyway. ;)

[SaxonPig]

Are you worried about the monetary value or the C&R status?

Refinishing destroys value but won't affect C&R eligibility.

The only guns deemed by the ATF as no longer C&R are military rifles (ruling specifically says rifles) that have been altered from original configuration.

[konaseven]

My question comes down to this, I suppose. Is it okay to remove the import markings from a gun? Whether intentionally or otherwise.

Thanks

I am not worried about the value. It is a CZ82

[SaxonPig]

The importer is required to put them there but I don't know if the buyer must leave them. I doubt it.

[konaseven]

Thanks for the comments. That is what I have come to discover from speaking with a few others.

The importer is required to put them there but I don't know if the buyer must leave them. I doubt it.

[GRIZ22]

You need to get in touch with BATFE to br sure.

[konaseven]

GRIZ22 wrote:
You need to get in touch with BATFE to br sure.

I tried taking your advice. 56 minutes on hold the first day. 30 minutes today. :fire:

ETA: hung up in frustration each time.

[parisite]

You can obliterate the import markings all you want, but you must leave the serial number on the frame. If it has a serial # on the slide you can do away with that too. It is only a "part". The frame is the gun to the ATF.

[konaseven]

:):)
Thanks. Do you have a source for this info? The statutes that came with the C&R do not address removal of markings. Just that importers must mark to a specific depth and use a certain character height.

and

Section 178.92 also requires licensed importers and licensed
manufacturers to conspicuously place the following identification markings on the frame, receiver, or barrel of each firearm imported
or manufactured in a manner not susceptible of being readily obliterated, altered, or removed:
1. The model, if such designation has been made;
2. The caliber or gauge;
3. The name (or recognized abbreviation of same) of the manufacturer and also, when applicable, of the importer;
4. In the case of a domestically made firearm, the city and State (or recognized abbreviation thereof) where the licensed
manufacturer maintains its place of business; and
5. In the case of an imported firearm, the name of the country in which manufactured and the city and State (or recognized
abbreviation thereof) where the importer maintains its place of business.

[DMK]

Refinishing destroys valueIt depends on the gun and the condition. I've refinished guns that sold for the same or even slightly more than I paid for them because they looked really nice.

It also depends on the buyer and his/her intent. A true, diehard collector will want it all original, no bluing, pitting, patina, etc. Someone who just wants a shooter might appreciate a prettier gun.

I plan on Gunkoting one of my CZ82s gloss black. That should replicate the original finish pretty closely. In fact it will be better than the original finish.