Question about Serial numbers

[Spawn-Inc]

i've been doing some minor polishing on my norinco to personalize it if you will and am thinking about polishing either the barrel or frame. but either option may remove the calibre or serial number.

my question is, is either option legal?


here is what i've done so far with the gun and some 1500 grit wet/dry.
i've done the sides of the trigger, hammer, mag release, safety (ambi and beaver tail) and barrel bushing.

 

[mckutzy]

I think the SN is permanent, and in no way be altered, but can be duplicated(like if a scope mount may block it from being seen). I have seen polished and engraved frames with the work done around these areas.

 

[Spawn-Inc]

it just seems that it's very lightly put in the frame. like even a scratch would effect it.

what about the calibre?

 

[Spawn-Inc]

anyone?

 

[jsullivan]

Here's section 108 of the Criminal Code

Tampering with serial number

108. (1) Every person commits an offence who, without lawful excuse, the proof of which lies on the person,
(a) alters, defaces or removes a serial number on a firearm; or
(b) possesses a firearm knowing that the serial number on it has been altered, defaced or removed.
Punishment

(2) Every person who commits an offence under subsection (1)
(a) is guilty of an indictable offence and liable to imprisonment for a term not exceeding five years; or
(b) is guilty of an offence punishable on summary conviction.
Exception

(3) No person is guilty of an offence under paragraph (1)(b) by reason only of possessing a firearm the serial number on which has been altered, defaced or removed, where that serial number has been replaced and a registration certificate in respect of the firearm has been issued setting out a new serial number for the firearm.
Evidence

(4) In proceedings for an offence under subsection (1), evidence that a person possesses a firearm the serial number on which has been wholly or partially obliterated otherwise than through normal use over time is, in the absence of evidence to the contrary, proof that the person possesses the firearm knowing that the serial number on it has been altered, defaced or removed.

There's nothing I'm aware of in law about modifying the calibre marking. I've seen gunsmiths make a point of making sure the calibre is properly marked. For example if they change the calibre of a gun (barrel swap out etc) they will cover the old calibre marking and replace it with a new one.