"HELP" replies

[JBAZ]

We were told that the golf ball cannon pictured could not be built and used because it was not a replica/reproduction of cannon made before 1895.
This leads to another "newb" question... can a model that existed before 1895, such as a breech loading field mortar be replicated as a muzzle loader? Confusion reigns. Thanks again for the patience and help.

[Double D]

If you are asking for a  legal opinion, then the board rules prohibit the discussion here and you are referred to ATF for the legally correct answer.    If you want the full explanation of the whys of that go to the forum rules and read this Read and heed! Board Rules

What we can discuss here is what we set down as the basis for discussion here.  Rest assured that we are not going to allow a discussion of something that appears to be illegal here. Further no debate on the validity of the law-leave that for the Supremes.

Now with all that garbage out of the way let me answer your question as it applies to this forum.

Taking it right from the board rules You can discuss Any firearm using fixed ammunition manufactured in or before 1898, for which ammunition is no longer manufactured in the United States and is not readily available in the ordinary channels of commercial trade.

If you are referencing the cannon that  you posted as seen on ebay, there is no reason that I can think of that it wouldn't be considered an antique.  Basically it has antique ignition therefore it should be exempt.

I think that is a pretty neat looking gun by the way., there is a great deal of work in that carriage.

Here are two ATF letters that explain this.  ATF Letter Stokes-fuse fire and Post 1898-breech loader antique ignition
 

Now if you are looking for small cannon let me suggest you visit our sponsors and see what they have offer.  They have some pretty nice stuff at very reasonable prices made to proper safety specs. 

[JBAZ]

Sir, my question was not a solicitation for a legal opinion. It was "design" definition question which I have resolved with the response from a builder. As an new enthusiast, I had been led to believe that an "interpretation" of an antique muzzle loading artillery piece rather than an exact identifiable replica could not be built for hobby purposes. I have read, understand, and believe, I am in compliance with both the spirit and letter of the forum rules as well as FAQs with which I acquainted myself before registering as a "newbie"forum participant. Since my newness to this avocation appears insufficient for acceptible participation, I will wait until I have more experience before venturing near again. In the meantime, could you direct me to any available forum sites where I can participate as a beginner? Thank you.
 
 

[Double D]

No one said you weren't welcome her, in fact the opposite is true, you are most welcome here.  We are always glad to have new  folks join us. 

We are especially glad have new folks come and ask questions first.  All to often folks come after they have bought some poorly designed and unsafe cannon wanting to show it off and

Your question was  simple enough but included a date and reference to a breech loader  built as a muzzle  loader and the statement"that the golf ball cannon pictured could not be built and used because it was not a replica/reproduction of cannon made before 1895" made me think your post was asking for a legal opinion...and thus my response.  I was trying clear the air for you.

So tossing out all the stuff that sounds like a request for an opinion on legality's, the answer to your question is  yes....yes  a model that existed before 1895, such as a breech loading field mortar be replicated as a muzzle loader? The correct date by the way is pre 1899.

And there is no reason that cannon you posted could not be built.
 
An "interpretation" can indeed be built. There is more than one criteria for the antique.   

 

[flagman1776]

JBAC,
Welcome!  It is good that you are asking questions now!  You do not want to run afoul of the ATF by accidentally building something which falls outside their rules.  If there is any question, I urge you to WRITE (they don't answer the phone & you need the answer in writing anyway.)   Members here have shared THEIR approval letters from BATF which shows generally that cannons DO need to have antique ignition systems but the guns do not need to be exact replicas. 
We, on this board, often get new cannon owners who purchased some decorator item already...  that is unsafe.  There are safety guidelines in the stickies at the top of this forum. 
Please read, enjoy & when you have a question, ask.   

[BoomLover]

JBAC, just to add my $0.02 worth...I really liked the pics you posted. Such a build would be a very nice addition to any of our "collections"...and I concur with Double D...it did seem like you may have been asking a legal question...sometimes, it is best to present your question, submit your pics and allow the discussion to proceed...if "Legality" should be raised, during the discussion period would be the proper time, before you either purchased or built something you might have a question with. And,  , Welcome to the Forum!...BoomLover