The exporter told me upfront that the fees on his side of the pond were going to be approx 325, thus i figured that into the cost. He also to me that I could do everything on this side myself side at no cost (there is the rub)!

In regards to duties: According to "Harmonized Tariff Schedule" If a firearm is at least 100 years old or more and you can provide proof of age, the firearm will be eligible for duty-free treatment under the antique provision in the Harmonized Tariff Schedule.

He responded to this by I quote "For the Tariff Schedule I affirm in writing with reference to Nigel Brown - British Gunmakers (the standard trade reference bible ) date of manufacture."