Little Creek,
I believe the local ATF agent misread the law. A pre 1899 gun is an antique regardless, but a replica of a pre 1899 gun must fire ammo not available in normal trade channels, or not fire fixed ammo.
Mike
Thats the way the ATF states it as well.
ATF :
ATF Newsletter As defined in section 921(a)(16) of Title 18, U.S.C.
the term
“antique firearm” means –
(A) any firearm (including any firearm with a
matchlock, flintlock, percussion cap, or
similar type of ignition system)
manufactured in or before 1898; or
(B)
any replica of any firearm described in
subparagraph (A) if such replica —
(i)
is not designed or redesigned for using
rimfire or conventional centerfire fixed
ammunition, or
(ii) uses rimfire or conventional centerfireAs defined in section 921(a)(16) of Title 18, U.S.C.
the term “antique firearm” means –
(A)
any firearm (including any firearm with a
matchlock, flintlock, percussion cap, or
similar type of ignition system)
manufactured in or before 1898; or
(B)
any replica of any firearm described in
subparagraph (A) if such replica —
(i)
is not designed or redesigned for using
rimfire or conventional centerfire fixed
ammunition, or
(ii) uses rimfire or conventional centerfire