UK Proofing Question

[Giove]

Hi Guys

Having read
Commission Internationale Permanente pour l’Epreuve des Armes à Feu Portatives
Permanent International Commission for Firearms Testing
“Marking Firearms”
And Council Directive 91/477/EEC of 18 June 1991

and sought some further advice it now seems as though the following extract is the pertinent

Proof-test marks and data registration
In accordance with C.I.P. Decision XVII-11, the firearm is marked by the proof house with the internationally recognised proof-test marks if it has successfully passed all the previously mentioned tests:
1) On all firearms with the exception of revolvers: on each barrel action body, frame or essential item of the closing mechanism;
2) For revolvers: on the barrel, cylinder and frame;
3) An identification mark showing the year of manufacture will also be indicated on all firearms (this makes it easier to trace the firearm in subsequent years);
4) The barrel weight, internal diameter of each barrel and length of cartridge chamber must also be marked on smooth-bore firearms.

So despite what the uk proof house says the actual answer is that as long as it has been through a signatory (CIP) proof house it does not have to have a stamp on the bolt.

Regards Chubbs

Yes.

What date do the markings show?

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[Chubbs]

Yes.

What date do the markings show?

Hi Glove

Marking is CM in the 3 sided box. Which I believe is 2014.

Regards Chubbs

[Stanforth]

Why don't you contact the Birmingham Proof House and ask.

The Birmingham Gun Barrel Proof House, Banbury Street, Birmingham B5 5RH, England, Tel. 0121 643 3860, Fax 0121 643 7872

[Buccaneer]

There is no problem in owning a gun in the UK without recognised proof marks, I have come across lots and I fully expect to see a lot more especially privately owned ex military rifles. You can even shoot it if you wish to do so, the problem arises when you come to sell it.
It is illegal to sell or even advertise for sale a gun that does not have either UK or CIP recognised proof marks something that even some dealers are quite happy to ignore at times.
If there is ever any doubt about the provenance of a gun then it is common sense to have it checked by someone who knows what they are doing, not necessarily your mate down at the shooting club who has got one like yours and then take advice on what if any proof marks there may be on the gun.
Remember military proof marks on British ex military rifles are NOT legal as far as the current proof laws are concerned, guns just showing military proof marks MUST be submitted to either the London or Birmingham proof house for inspection, testing and proofing.
I know that lots of people feel very aggrieved about the proof laws in the UK and the way the proof houses seem to be able to move the goal posts when it suits them but the law is what it is and not necessarily what we would like it to be...…..