Posted: 3/18/2017 5:46:51 PM EDT
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I painted my lower (camo pattern) and didn't like how it turned out so I sanded everything down and repainted. However, after repainting the lower, 2 of the serial numbers are no longer visible. I'd like to know if it's possible to get my serial number re-engraved by PSA and how much it's going to cost.
From reading around, only the manufacturer can do this. ------- Problem solved, paint on serial removed. |
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In all honestly, I think you would be much better off finding a local gunsmith who has a set of number/letter stamps, or a laser etching machine. You could get them to emboss the missing numbers, or go over all of them to make it look uniform. I doubt they would charge you much. Another DIY option would be to take a sharp tipped punch and carefully embed the two numbers yourself. You could use a stencil of some kind to mark the numbers with a black Sharpe and follow the pattern with the punch. (Just a thought)
Also, I certainly can't speak for PSA, but I doubt very seriously they would offer such a service, but I could be wrong. However, I'm sure they'd sell you another lower. Good luck! |
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In all honestly, I think you would be much better off finding a local gunsmith who has a set of number/letter stamps, or a laser etching machine. You could get them to emboss the missing numbers, or go over all of them to make it look uniform. I doubt they would charge you much. Another DIY option would be to take a sharp tipped punch and carefully embed the two numbers yourself. You could use a stencil of some kind to mark the numbers with a black Sharpe and follow the pattern with the punch. (Just a thought) Also, I certainly can't speak for PSA, but I doubt very seriously they would offer such a service, but I could be wrong. However, I'm sure they'd sell you another lower. Good luck! I'll also be calling some gunsmiths but that must wait till Monday. |
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I might try a needle or small punch, like you said. I just hope it doesn't turn out looking stupid or making it worse somehow. I'll also be calling some gunsmiths but that must wait till Monday. It probably wouldn't take much Googling to find this out, but I remember reading that the BATF requires serial numbers to be etched/embossed/engraved a certain depth into the surface of the firearms receiver. I too have done some sanding and refinishing on one of my aluminum AR lowers, and it didn't come near removing the numbers. Your serial numbers on your receiver may not have been engraved deep enough to begin with. Just a thought... Good luck!! |
| Have you tried using paint remover? Unless you really sanded down the aluminum there is a good chance the numbers are still there, just filled with paint sanded level then painted over. Maybe try a dental pick and see if you can scrape the paint out of the numbers if you don't want to try paint remover. |
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Have you tried using paint remover? Unless you really sanded down the aluminum there is a good chance the numbers are still there, just filled with paint sanded level then painted over. Maybe try a dental pick and see if you can scrape the paint out of the numbers if you don't want to try paint remover. |
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From the ATF site:
Further, the serial number must be placed in a manner not susceptible of being readily obliterated, altered, or removed, and not duplicate any serial number placed by the licensed manufacturer, licensed importer, or maker on any other firearm. Under 18 U.S.C. 922(k) and 26 U.S.C. 5861(g), it is unlawful for any person to possess or receive any firearm which has had the serial number removed, obliterated, or altered. Seems you need to be more careful. |
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Can you strip the lower of all parts and let it soak overnight in a tub of thinner? Then pull it out and get after it with a stiff bristled toothbrush, or even a brass or stainless bristled brush. Another option might be to have it sand / bead blasted. |
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I know that already, that's why I'm asking PSA to re-engrave but apparently they don't. Also, in terms of re-stamping the same numbers on the receiver, I don't see that as tampering, merely correcting/replacing the same numbers. Plus, I'm sure you have other documentation as to the correct serial number on the receiver. I have a few SKSs that have very sloppy and ugly/misaligned hand-stamped numbers on the receiver (from the factory), but they still serve the purpose. I believe your receiver serial numbers can be re-stamped to show the correct number, which would not be altering a serial #; at least in my opinion. |
| Stamping/Engraving a SN is a very precise process. If re-stamping/re-engraving is attempted, and it's not "line up" perfectly, it could appear as though the SN was altered and that could open a can of beans with the ATF no one wants anything to do with. if enough pressure was used, while trying to remove paint, to actually remove enough metal to alter the SN, OP has bigger issues. |
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Stamping/Engraving a SN is a very precise process. If re-stamping/re-engraving is attempted, and it's not "line up" perfectly, it could appear as though the SN was altered and that could open a can of beans with the ATF no one wants anything to do with. if enough pressure was used, while trying to remove paint, to actually remove enough metal to alter the SN, OP has bigger issues. If all else fails, the prices on stripped AR lowers have come down recently. They can be had for about $50 (plus FFL transfer fee, if ordered online). Probably not what the OP wanted, but still an option. |