I think you should ask BATF...at least their opinion matters. Problem is, you might get different ones there too unless you can get them to cough up a document...
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Couldn't hurt to ask.
I'll fire off (hehe) an email.
EDIT TO ADD: I sent one including a link to this particular model.
Automatic reply says they strive to reply within 120 days.
I will update upon receipt of that reply.
I THINK the fact that the chamber has been opened would save you, since the piece could not be safely fired - but, you never know what some anti-gun weasel might come up with. Also, I'd imagine that display is of recent origin.
Dick,
That was basically my logic in the email I sent.
Essentially, it cannot be fired safely but the receiver would not appear to be demilled properly.
If this idea came to fruition, I'd have a recent origin cutaway too ;).
Imagine all those 1903s out there with scope mount holes smack on top of the receiver. What a lovely place to mill a cutout.
Pipe dream, perhaps, but it would be a great way to restore some glory to an otherwise ruined (collectible value wise) firearm.
Well that was quick!
I received a reply (robo-reply?) that stated simply, "A physical sample of the firearm would need to be sent in for evaluation."
Doesn't necessarily inspire me to run out, build one of these, and then have the ATF deem it "unfit."