Identifying Pre-Ban Handguns
Greetings,
I'm new to firearms, and need to know the basics about the differences between pre-ban and post-ban handguns, particularly, how to identify those pre-ban firearms.
Also, can someone direct me to a web page where the laws regarding these issues could be found?
Thanx,
Frank
I'm new to firearms, and need to know the basics about the differences between pre-ban and post-ban handguns, particularly, how to identify those pre-ban firearms.
Also, can someone direct me to a web page where the laws regarding these issues could be found?
Thanx,
Frank
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For the most part handguns didn't change much due to the ban, the mags that went in them did. The ATF webpage has all the specifics. On some of the so-called "assault pistols" like the TEC-9 and the MAC series they did away with features such as the threaded barrels and shrouds to hinder all them legal Class III owners from doing the drive-by shootings they're so prone to doing[;)] 
SUPPORT THE I.N.S. , THE COUNTRY THEY SAVE COULD BE YOUR OWN0 -
What I am mainly interested in is magazine capacity. I have an HK USP, .40 S&W. I understand that there are hi-cap magazines that will function in this handgun, but since the handgun's serial number indicates that it was manufactured post-ban, it is illegal for me to use the hi-cap mags.
Given this, I am interested in purchasing a pre-ban handgun, probably a Glock, that can legally use a hi-cap magazine. I've seen them offered in advertisements, but darned if I know just by looking at it if it is pre or post-ban manufacture.
I suspect that there is some sort of database available, wherein I can check the serial number to determine if it is pre or post-ban manufacture, but again, darned if I know where to look.
I also hear that the ban on hi-cap magazines might expire soon. Does anyone have any info on that also?
Thanx again
Frank0 -
You can put a preban mag in a post-ban gun. All hi-cap mags made after the ban are labeled to designate LEO/military/export use only. Possessing one of those marked mags is illegal, but using a preban mag is not.
SUPPORT THE I.N.S. , THE COUNTRY THEY SAVE COULD BE YOUR OWN0 -
It is lucky for you that you stumbled across our little group because one of the greatest sales ploys for unloading older handguns is to claim that they are "pre-ban" and then try to force a premium to an unsuspecting newbie. Just as Joey told you; In the case of conventional pistols (like a Glock) it is the magazines themselves which are pre/post ban and not the actual firearm. Under federal law you can legally use a magazine built in 1990 in a Glock 17 which was produced yesterday.
Mark T. Christian0 -
OK, so if I understand this correctly, all POST BAN hi-cap magazines will be marked and identified, so a person won't accidentally possess one? 0 -
That is correct. Any magazine imported into the United States or produced AFTER 13 September, 1994 will be marked as post ban. Here is an example of what I would consider a typical marking for a restricted magazine taken from one of my own Walther P99 magazines.
RESTRICTED FOR LAW ENFORCEMENT, GOVERNMENT USE AND/OR EXPORT ONLY. Such magazines are then stamped with the date on which they were produced (in this case the magazine was dated 9-95). Restricted markings may vary slightly but all convey the same basic information. Any magazine not so marked is considered to be unrestricted and may be sold or traded through normal commercial channels.
Mark T. Christian0 -
As far as buying a post ban hi capacity mag, most dealers will tell you that those mags are for law enforcement personell or military sales only. Unfortuneately, idiots in the govt have bleened up the fun for everyone by created that stupid 10 shots or less rule.
WordBorn!!0 -
I'll just mention too that the law that created the "ban" is set to expire automatically this coming September--unless our Congress acts to extend it.
You'll pay a significant premium for quality pre-ban magazines right now. Prices will drop substantially after September if the ban is allowed to expire.
Contact your Senators and Representative (and have your friends do it too) if you want to see the ban end. Tell them to stop imposing restrictions on firearms that affect us law-abiding citizens; stop crime by getting tough with criminals, not by passing gun control laws!
One last thing: I didn't check what state you're in--but some states and local governments have their own bans on magazine capacity, so check on that before trying to purchase a high-capacity mag.0 -
quote:Originally posted by The Tinman
Also, can someone direct me to a web page where the laws regarding these issues could be found?
The Bureau of Alcohol, Tabacco and Firearms and Explosives is in control of enforcing the national laws on firearms; they would be the authoritative source:
http://www.atf.gov/
Try the FAQ's for specific issues.0 -
There are some high capacity mags for hk's available from time to time..hell, even ebay sells them with a runaround disclaimer that says "As per ebay policies, we have to state that this mag only has a 10rd capacity" Albeit it is banned from ebay, people still do these idiotic things. Also you will pay royally for getting those two extra rounds to fit in that mag, if in any case you find one. I suggest making a post here (on the want ads) or looking it up on guntrader/shotgun news.
Personally, I am not into high capacity mags. If I cant hit it with 10rds or with 7 on a 1911...Im going to start runnin or find a good place to hide till I can reload.
be safe,
John
Life is simple.
Living is what makes it complicated.0
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