doublegunshop.com - home Forums General Discussion DoubleGun BBS @ doublegunshop.com Import engraving

Group - I've been researching UK auctions and am considering bidding on a vintage Westley Richards. When I look into the importing info, I keep seeing importers stating they have to engrave certain info on the guns they import into the US. I've yet to see a photo or handle an old double with the added import engraving. I'm pretty sure I'm missing something in my interpretation of the rules. Any enlightenment would be appreciated. Thanks.

I brought in a J Dickson and Son from Graham Mackinlay a few years ago. Dan Morgan was the importer. He stamped in very small lettering on the barrel flats FER Woodstock VT. My understanding is that was required

I have also seen it on the underside barrel rib hidden by the forearm.

It is required by federal law that the name of the importer , city and state be engraved in a conspicuous place on the gun. barrels or action.


John Boyd

Here is a picture showing the import info on my Russell Hilsdon

Directly from the ATF web site....

Caliber or Gauge Name of Importer City & State of the Importer.

The importer must ensure that these marks of identification appear on each firearm. If the manufacturer did not mark them, the importer must place the required markings on the firearm within 15 days after their release from Customs and Border Protection custody. The Director, Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms and Explosives may authorize other means of firearms identification upon receipt of a letter application from the importer, submitted in duplicate, showing that such other means of identification is reasonable and will not hinder the effective administration of the regulations.

Also in my experience a lot of English guns may not have a serial number or just a serial number on the barrel loop. You would be required to create a number and have it stamped or laser engraved on the frame/receiver.

Sadly my new to me Boswell is import marked in a conspicuous place. I wonder if it can be rubbed out. lol.