The UK's Finest Independent Forum for Shooters and Gun Owners. Est 2010.

bradaz11 wrote:do they only need to be in proof if they are sold comercially? IE as a private sale it doesnt matter?

also, as someone that doesnt know a whole lot about firearm proof marks, are there any easy tips when looking for them? as i wouldnt know what a proof mark really looks like

Answer:.......

The Proof Acts lay down that no small arm may be sold, exchanged or exported, exposed or kept for sale or exchange or pawned unless and until it has been fully proved and duly marked.

Apologies if a stupid question, but do proof marks go out of date?

I might start a company testing barrels, then I'll say all current civilian tests are redundant and you all need to pay for my services. I'm sure a few well greased palms could get this into law...

Proof marks do not go out of date, but a gun can go out of proof due to wear or corosion or damage. If you get hold of a copy of the Birminham Proof House booklet on proof, you will find that there is little content on rifled arms---the whole thing is directed towards shotguns. Traditional shotguns are designed to be carried and brought into action quickly and so weight is important on a high quality gun. Tubes are thin and they do wear with use---incidentally the smaller calibre shotguns use higher pressures, especially the 410. The proof house does have failures---but on what type of firearm?---some 30 years ago on a visit, I asked if they had ever failed a Smith and Wesson revolver and they declined to answer.
Fred

Proof testing is a once only event until major work is done which may effect it's proof status - rebarrelling for instance or " setting back " a barrel to adjust headspace . If you do the work yourself there is no requirement in law to sent the gun for proof . However if you want to dispose of it by sale or gift the gun must first be proof tested and marked. If I hand a gun into a dealer I must inform him that the gun must be sent for proof before re-sale. Proof is not like an MOT , there is no requirement for annual or other re-testing , however any RFD worth his salt will service and inspect and check headspace if asked .