Rifle markings and importation issues?

[Max Simmons]

I have a pre-64 Winchester Model 70 .375H&H that has been rebarrelled. The original serial number is in place on the receiver and has been hand etched into the bolt. The barrel, however, is unmarked except for caliber. I have been warned that the lack of original factory markings on the barrel may result in denial of importation into some African countries. Can anyone here comment on the accuracy of this?

Thanks in advance, and best regards.

 

[Graham Hunter]

Many rifles factory or otherwise only have the serial # stamped on the action.

 

[Max Simmons]

Many rifles factory or otherwise only have the serial # stamped on the action.

I think that's probably the case more often than not. I don't have reason to believe that Winchester ever serialized its barrels. I wouldn't think twice about it, except for the "TIA" bit that I keep hearing about -- and the warnings of a friend who has hunted there.

 

[Red Leg]

Most of my rifles have no serial number on the barrel. I would not sweat it at all.

Only exception are multi-barrel rifles like the Blaser that have different serial numbers for action and barrel.

 

[Hank2211]

All the customs people want to see is a serial number somewhere on the gun matching that on the permit. Really doesn’t matter where it is. Same with the caliber markings. As long as they can see them somewhere, you’ll be good to go.

 

[Max Simmons]

Most of my rifles have no serial number on the barrel. I would not sweat it at all.

Only exception are multi-barrel rifles like the Blaser that have different serial numbers for action and barrel.

I suspect my friend may have had something like this in mind when he cautioned me. He bow hunts in Africa and was likely going from a half-formed impression.

Thanks much to all who responded.

 

[Ryan]

The serial number on the action and caliber on the barrel is typical and you should have no issue as long as those correspond with the paperwork.

 

[CAustin]

Many rifles factory or otherwise only have the serial # stamped on the action.

Correct! All my Ruger 1s are in the action.

 

[Philip Glass]

Most of my rifles have no serial number on the barrel. I would not sweat it at all.

Only exception are multi-barrel rifles like the Blaser that have different serial numbers for action and barrel.

I’ve got my first Safari with the Blaser coming up and wondered how I will fare with different numbers on receiver and barrel. Does 4457 need both numbers? I don’t want to confuse them!

 

[Red Leg]

Yes, put both numbers. Our guys figure out. Plus the RSA and several other countries have a spot on their forms to list both numbers.