Down thread I mentioned I am working on two letters to ATF for determination of status of certain cannons. I just finish one I started this morning. Here is what it looks like.
I post it here to show you how simple it is to write. When you write one of these letters you should already have some idea what ATF needs to know in order to make a decision. The key argument I have seen in the debate is that muzzle loaders are exempt. It is the crux of my letter.
As soon as I get a response, I will share the result here.
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November 4, 2011
Bureau of Alcohol, Tobacco, Firearms, and Explosives
Firearms Technology Branch
244 Needy Road
Martinsburg, West Virginia 25405 USA
Dear Sir or Madam,
I moderate an Internet discussion board for blackpowder cannon and mortar enthusiasts. We have a clear mandate that allows only the discussion of blackpowder muzzle loading cannons and mortars that were made before 1899 and replicas thereof. We do not allow nor offer interpretation of the GCA or NFA. We refer, anyone asking, to ATF for the proper interpretation of those laws.
One type of cannon that we frequently have inquiries about is a bowling ball mortar. People want to know if they are legal to build. We always refer those inquiries to ATF for an answer.
Most frequently the design inquired about replicates a Stokes mortar designed in 1914.
The mortar is constructed from a high pressure gas bottle. The bores size is 8.815 inches. The bottom end of the pressure bottle is cut off and a powder chamber is made to go in the neck of the bottle. The bottle is attached to a base plate and legs are attached to support the upper barrel like the Stokes. Base plates and legs can be actual surplus T&E equipment or fabricated. The gun is fired by loading from the muzzle, a blackpowder charge into the chamber, then lowering a bowling ball down the barrel from the muzzle over the charge in the chamber. The gun is fired by a standard cannon fuse.
Some argue that the bowling ball mortar made to replicate the Stokes design is exempt as it is a muzzle loaded mortar. To resolve this issue I am writing for a determination of the status of the Bowling ball mortar replicating a Stokes design. How is it classified under GCA/NFA?
Once I receive your response, with your permission, I will post the letter on our discussion forum for future guidance.
Sincerely yours,
Douglas B Dickens
Cut Bank, MT 59427