Serial number requirements question

C

cens

New member
Folks,

I have a beater Browning Hi-Power that I want to do some cosmetic work on. The work I want to do might make the serial number on the grip unreadable. The HP in question also has a serial number on the barrel.

My questions:

Am I OK with just the serial number on the barrel? Or is the one on the frame the number the law requires (which is what I am guessing)?

If I do need the number on the frame, is it adequate to re-engrave the number after I finish my work. If so, can I put it anywhere on the frame? My thought was to re-engrave it on the side of the grip. It would be covered by the grip, but it is covered anyway with the wrap around Pachmyers that Browning provides.

Thanks!

Chris
 
I got my answer on another site. In short, BATFE would not be happy if I did what I was thinking about. Oh well, it isn't worth tangling with the Feds about.

Chris
 
There IS a procedure allowed where a gunsmith can relocate a serial number if custom work will remove it.

As example, the double action conversions that were done to 1911 pistols by a custom gunsmith.
To install the DA unit, the side of the frame including the serial number was milled away.
The serial was re-located to another place.

I can't remember what the procedure is, but it does have to be done by a FFL gunsmith.
This would be some trouble, so if possible, leave the number alone.
 
I've seen examples of stippling, engraving, checkering, etc. on High Powers where the works done framed the SN and left it readable. The point is not to destroy or alter the number. It must be readable.

tipoc
 
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