IMPORTING GUNS HOME

[chuckjordan2]

I'm in VA and having three .22lr target rifles imported from Germany. They are mostly from 1950's-1960's and two are collector pieces. I have a German export dealer applying for the export license and a US Importer (in VA) to fill out the form 6. Plus I have to pay a 3% import tax (based on the price I paid, not valuation) and this was mentioned above.

My question is about stamping the importers name, city, state on the firearm. Since 2 of mine are collector pieces, what are the rules/law on where they must stamp that info? I was told on the receiver,however, one of my receivers is covered in wood (can it be stamped on the receiver under the wood?). Any leeway on that?

Also, does it need to be etched (I was informed it was) or can it be stamped)? Do you know anyone that can laser etch it in? I'd prefer laser etching as it would look nicer than regular etching (and wouldn't detract from it's collector value

Here are the collector pieces, you be the judge & jury:
This is an early Weihrauch HW52
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k403 ... hbchse.jpg

This is a custom .22lr falling block (based off the Suhl action) by R.Eckhardt Bielefeld.
http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k403 ... 396ee8.jpg

http://i326.photobucket.com/albums/k403 ... 395f92.jpg

Any advice appreciated.

[davasmith]

Hot damn. I was biting my lip because what he did was the only RIGHT thing to do. But you never know whos reading what, and whos trying to make rank. Glad he got 'em home.

[Diomed]

Since 2 of mine are collector pieces, what are the rules/law on where they must stamp that info? I was told on the receiver,however, one of my receivers is covered in wood (can it be stamped on the receiver under the wood?). Any leeway on that?

The regulation is at 27 CFR §478.92. The barrel, frame or receiver has to have the required info (except for the serial number, which must be on the receiver or frame). The markings must be "conspicuous", which is usually interpreted as not being obstructed from view when the firearm is fully assembled.

Your importer can request a marking variance. Don't hold your breath though.

Also, does it need to be etched (I was informed it was) or can it be stamped)? Do you know anyone that can laser etch it in?

Any method that meets the depth requirements is fine. Be aware that most engraving lasers cannot meet the requirements - they do not displace material, merely color it.

[chuckjordan2]

Thanks for the reference Diomed.

So, Laser will not meet the depth reqs? Too bad, it sure could look purdy.

Anyway, trying to make a good situation out of what it is....

[Palladin]

Chuck - pm sent

[kanata67]

One of my buddies brought home a few rifles from his tour in Germany. He took them apart and sent them home as repair parts over a year's time, cost very little.
As U.S. citizens, we are obligated to never tell the central government the truth.

Jim

+1

amazing what can be fit inside a speaker when returning from a long deployment. Best part is the Gov't pays for the shipping

[utfanx2]

Well I would say the guns were shipped from a Military Base in Germany, which is technically U.S. soil, so if ATF didn't bother to ask for a tax when he brought them on base, then how can they charge for them now? U.S. to U.S. is not still U.S?
However, I am glad he got them in anyways.