Re-stamping old serial number

scorpion_tyr · March 22, 2011, 12:44 PM

I'm aware that a gunsmith can re-stamp a serial number, but what if it's an old serial number and not the current one? Can I restamp it myself?

I have a Steyr M-95 that has a new and different serial number laser etched from the importer. The old serial number on the bolt matches the barrel, the chamber, the stock, and the stock band, but it's barely visible. Since this is no longer the current serial number can I re-stamp it myself or do I still need a gunsmith to do it?

James K · March 22, 2011, 01:12 PM

The law aside, since you won't be able to match the font and size of the original marking, I think trying to overstamp it would look worse than if you just leave it alone.

As to the law, I don't believe recutting or restamping the original number would be a violation; restorers do it all the time. Besides, believe it or not, BATFE has bigger concerns than searching every house in the country for century-old rifles so they can check the numbers.

Jim

scorpion_tyr · March 22, 2011, 01:17 PM

Thanks for the info. Just to clarify, I would first be taking the old serial number out completely. It's not deep at all and actually takes a long look to find it.

mete · March 22, 2011, 01:23 PM

Proper procedure is to stamp number , then remove old number !!

March 22, 2011, 12:44 PM	#1
scorpion_tyr Senior Member Join Date: November 10, 2008 Location: East Texas Posts: 1,326	Re-stamping old serial number I'm aware that a gunsmith can re-stamp a serial number, but what if it's an old serial number and not the current one? Can I restamp it myself? I have a Steyr M-95 that has a new and different serial number laser etched from the importer. The old serial number on the bolt matches the barrel, the chamber, the stock, and the stock band, but it's barely visible. Since this is no longer the current serial number can I re-stamp it myself or do I still need a gunsmith to do it? __________________ “Nature intended me for the tranquil pursuits of science, by rendering them my supreme delight.” - Thomas Jefferson

March 22, 2011, 01:17 PM	#3
scorpion_tyr Senior Member Join Date: November 10, 2008 Location: East Texas Posts: 1,326	Thanks for the info. Just to clarify, I would first be taking the old serial number out completely. It's not deep at all and actually takes a long look to find it. __________________ “Nature intended me for the tranquil pursuits of science, by rendering them my supreme delight.” - Thomas Jefferson

March 22, 2011, 01:23 PM	#4
mete Senior Member Join Date: June 14, 2004 Location: NY State Posts: 6,575	Proper procedure is to stamp number , then remove old number !! __________________ And Watson , bring your revolver !

March 22, 2011, 01:12 PM	#2
James K Member In Memoriam Join Date: March 17, 1999 Posts: 24,383	The law aside, since you won't be able to match the font and size of the original marking, I think trying to overstamp it would look worse than if you just leave it alone. As to the law, I don't believe recutting or restamping the original number would be a violation; restorers do it all the time. Besides, believe it or not, BATFE has bigger concerns than searching every house in the country for century-old rifles so they can check the numbers. Jim