Hi I have an old Antique Rifle that I would like to bring to the USA from El Salvador to sell in the USA. How can I bring it here and what procedures would I have to take? Thank you.
It depends on the rifle. An antique black powder muzzle loader will be easier than a WWI era bolt action. Check at atf.gov for information about importation.
First, you should be certain that what you call an antique is LEGALLY an antique. Under US law, a firearm that uses loose powder and ball (like a muzzleloader) is an antique regardless of age IF it does not readily convert to the use of fixed cartridges. All other firearms must have been made prior to 1-1-1896 to be considered an antique. Old does not mean antique. This is important, because laws differ for antique firearms.
Thank you mods for your response. I have a few specs on the gun here. Windchester made in 1860 model 1870 44 MAG What other info would I need about it? Sorry I don't deal with guns much, its my cousin's and it'll make more money selling in the USA. Thanks again.
That sounds like a replica of an old Winchester design and made in a modern chambering. It will not qualify as an antique and will need to be imported through a dealer with an import license. ($$$)
OK---several things wrong here. Winchester made in 1860? The Winchester Repeating Arms Company didn't EXIST in 1860. Why do you believe it was made in 1860? Model of 1870? Setting aside the improbability of a model 1870 ANYTHING being made in 1860 (10 years before)----there is no such thing as a Winchester model 1870. Closest you will come is a Model 1873. 44 magnum? The 44 magnum cartridge came on the scene in the mid 1950's. Not antique, not even really old. Good pictures would help, but at the minimum CAREFULLY make a list of every marking on the gun, and the marks location. If I were a guessing person, I might guess that you have a 1873 rifle. You might have mistaken a patent date (on the barrel) for the date of manufacture? And just MAYBE the brass shell lifter is stamped "44 cal"? If so---post the serial number. Someone will be along shortly and tell you pretty much to the day when it was made.
