1885 question for Bert

CaptFun

August 02, 2012 08:12

Would it be unusual for this receiver not to have a serial number?

http://www.gunbroker.com/auction/ViewItem.aspx?Item=296068906

As I understand it the serial was on the removeable lower tang.

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  TRAP55

  August 02, 2012 08:38

  The serial number was destroyed when the lower tang was bent to a pistol grip config, ALL the Hiwall and LoWall rifles were serialed.

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  CaptFun

  August 02, 2012 08:49

  quote:Originally posted by TRAP55
  The serial number was destroyed when the lower tang was bent to a pistol grip config, ALL the Hiwall and LoWall rifles were serialed.
  
  
  I see... that part was removed converting the tang. Any legal problem with missing the serial?
  
  

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  TRAP55

  August 02, 2012 09:02

  I would leave that question to the ATF law experts, but I do believe there's a section that addresses the removal of serial numbers to include guns made before they were required?
  Without the serial, the status of "Antique" or "C&R" would come to question also.
  
  Edit: CaptFun, I would wait for Bert to reply, before you make a decision on that one. With all the dealings he does on the 1885's, I'm sure he's run into this before.

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  MP

  August 02, 2012 09:18

  1885 replacement tangs did not have a serial number. Many target rifles will be found with replacement triggers and lower tangs without numbers.
  
  Yours however looks modified and most likley removed at that time.

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  GuvamintCheese

  August 02, 2012 10:00

  Looks like it should be serial no 13x,xxx. With the flaming bomb it fits in the range. Bert should be able to put an estimate of year. Born a 22 short 3rd gen. winder musket In the 1920's. They were used by the military for training. The 1st two generations were high walls for military. Bert will be all over this one.

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  Bert H.

  August 02, 2012 10:27

  The receiver and lower tang were manufactured in late 1918 or early 1919 and it was originally a Model 87 Winder Musket. As mentioned, the lower tang has been cut off and bent, leaving just a few digits of the serial number. I doubt that the BATF would make any fuss about it, but it would best to check with them.

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  CaptFun

  August 02, 2012 11:02

  Thanks. We have a call into them now.

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