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Wrong order, gyvel. The list was started first and intended to list the ONLY firearms granted C&R status. ATTD/ATD/ATF/BATF/BATFE did NOT initiate the list or put anything on it themselves. Someone, collector, dealer, or whatever, had to write them with a descripiton of the gun or guns that they wanted listed as a C&R. Often the request would come from an individual collector and address a specific gun. That is where the "XYZ Co., Model 999, Serial # 123456" listings come from.
In other cases a dealer or importer with a number of guns would make the application. That is where those "XYZ Co., 9mm Model 999 pistols, Slobovian contract, with picture of King Blotz engraved on slide" items come from.
Each applicant had to show that the gun(s) in question was odd, different from other guns of the same model, and that its main value was as a curio or relic, not as a gun. If the ATTD, etc., agreed, the gun or guns was put on the list.
Later the law gave the agency more leeway and they saved themselves a lot of time and trouble by putting in place the 50 year rule. They still have to follow the original procedure for later guns, and still accept applications. They still do NOT put guns on the list on their own initiative.
Jim
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