I originally posted this in the Legal section, but I think the scarcity of traffic there has let my question go unanswered. So I figured I'd try posting it here (slightly rephrased). So here goes...
Is it or is it not legal to remove importation marks that are stamped on all firearms imported into the United States?
I cannot find any reference to this particular subject.
All I can find is the GCA reference that requires all imported firearms to be stamped with an importation mark prior to sale (no reference to what happens afterwards), and a reference to the illegality of removing serial numbers from firearms (goes without saying).
But I can't find anything referring to removal of importer marks, specifically.
On CZ pistols, the importer mark is laser-engraved onto the right side of the dust cover of the frame. CZ pistols can come with a "polycoat" (spray and bake) finish (as well as others), and the importer mark is 'engraved' on top of and through the finish. If one were to strip the gun for refinishing, the importer's mark would most likely be completely obliterated.
If it was illegal to remove, wouldn't they have made it a bit more permanent than laser-drawing it on top of a coat of paint?
It is slightly confusing because the serial number, as everyone already knows, is illegal to remove. But any other manufacturer markings, such as the company's name and the pistol's model, can be removed. For example, you could mill off the "COLT M1911" on 1911 slide to make a 'slickside' pistol; there's no problem there.
But importation marks? For example, someone could mill off the manufacturer markings on the slide of an imported Sistema 1911. But could he also remove the importer markings?