help with Kettner info

[Sam1911]

I have been advised by someone at the BATFE Technical Services Branch

Holy cow! Already?

Well, that's good, but remember, a phone conversation -- which they usually won't give -- isn't binding and can't help you much if there is trouble. You need an official letter, in writing, preferably addressed to you our your counsel.

C&R classification 29 CFR part 478.11 due to its uniqueness, rarity, age (over 50 yrs) and likely value (apparently alot).

Well, certainly! That was never in question. But C&R status doesn't negate machine gun status. There are many, many C&R machine guns and they all require prior entry into the registry and must transfer on a Form 4.

Please do share with us what you're able to get them to send you officially, that speaks to the "volley fire" aspect.

 

[Andy P]

I cheated. Had a contact at the FBI. He helped alot. And yes, there may yet be some paperwork involved but the general feeling is that going down the "machine gun" road is not where they see this heading. Of course my goal is to have all this in writing sooner or later. I had to go the phone route because you guys had me nervous. Not so much at this point.

 

[ugaarguy]

Andy, you have a fascinating firearm. Thank you for taking the time to share such a unique piece of history with us.

 

[Andy P]

It has been my pleasure to share this treasure with all of you. I have learned a great deal from those on this forum and cannot thank you enough. I have found everyone exceptionally genuine and respectful. My biggest fear was that initiating a dialog on an internet forum would lead to alot of misinformation about this gun and offers to buy it. I am happy to report I have received neither.

Andy

 

[Dr.Rob]

You might have Bonham's appraise that for you, it's likely worth a very pretty penny.

 

[waidmann]

Andy,
Before this thread slips away I'd like to take a shot at your hanging tag:
Single shot bird(fowl) shotgun
28 Gauge
29.5 inch barrel
Cockerill Steel (John Cockerill, Englishman, was Belgium's Krupp) Acier Cockrill
Side lever system
Radial lock
No engraving
3.96 pounds
About $15 to $20 US (at that time)

In my early 80's German a top-breaking single or double would be a Kipplauf (Tip-barrel).Is this perhaps an older Belgian where there is a side-moving lever in place of a forearm and the lock has a semi-circular rotation?

Anyway I needed the practice. How did I do?

This has been a lot of fun, thanks again,
Bill

 

[Andy P]

Bill,

I am impressed. You were right on the money. I could not have described this gun better with it sitting in front of me. So is ammunition readily available for this? It would be nice to at least have some. It is not likley I would fire it without it being thoroughly inspected. Andy

 

[waidmann]

Yes maybe. The (now Belgian) proofs need to be checked. If you can find 28/70 or 28-70 then the modern 28 ga. shells can be fired in the gun. If you find 28-65 or 28/65 then we are talking the old 2 9/16 inch chamber. If there is a 28 in a circle assume the latter. If you can't find anything assume the latter.

Yahoo (you always have other options) but I would drop the matter and opt for honorable retirement.

Andy, its been a pleasure.