Doc Hoy That, although BATFE still recognizes their list, they do not intend to keep it updated.
They are going to rely upon the list as it is and the 50 year rule.
That was hearsay and I have no form of verification.
http://www.atf.gov/publications/firearms/curios-relics/index.htmlCurio and Relic List – Regular Updates
In our continuing efforts to provide the latest information on firearms added to the ATF Curios or Relics (C&R) List (ATF P 5300.11), we are providing regular C&R List updates. These updates may be accessed under the “Publications” link appearing under Firearms on this Web page.
I've also run into a few willing to ship guns that have manufacture dates both sides of the line. I ask for info to date a gun and get a "these are all c&r" response when I know they are not.
Of course there are many, many exceptions to the vague "50-year rule". Such as the pre-1965 1911, Hi-Power, P08, P1/P38, S&W/Colt revolvers, AR-15, and many other still viable handguns and long guns. Many of these firearms are of very special interest to collectors but still can fire popular ammunition and perform quite admirably.